Recently, India and France have agreed to collaborate on matters related to nuclear energy by signing a partnership to develop advanced small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs). The Indian foreign ministry made the announcement during Modi’s visit to France.
SMRs are small-sized nuclear fission reactors that have the capability of being built in factories and then transported to be installed at different locations. Their capacity is often less than 300 Megawatts, which is considerably lower than normal nuclear reactors’ capacity. This methodology shortens the time frame for construction and the overall expenditure, making it a favorable solution for nations seeking to improve their energy security and move towards low carbon economies.
France and India’s partnership gives clarity and focus on nuclear energy as one of the priorities for both the nations. They have chosen to underline the point that nuclear energy is pivotal in the area of energy security and assists in moving towards a low carbon economy. This partnership is especially positioned towards the mid research and development and use of Small and Advanced Modular Reactors (AMRs) by both countries.
This matches India’s broader objectives which is to boost its nuclear power portfolio. For the SMRs operational capacity, the target for the country is to achieve 20 gigawatts of capacity from 8 gigawatts capacity on Nuclear Power. Prime Minister Modi’s nation visits after he took to his office has given way to significant changes to India’s foreign relations, with strengthening ties to the EU and the United States, the sun is high in the skies of India’s technical future. The Prime Minister has ensured investments from US based firms for the SRMs which will ensure an inflow of foreign exchange which will likely affect India’s GDP in the long run. The Indian government has recently decided to change its strict nuclear liability laws.
