What Progress Has Manohar Lal Made on the Strategic Nuclear Power Project?

Synopsis
Union Power Minister Manohar Lal's recent visit to the Gorakhpur Haryana Anu Vidyut Pariyojana highlights significant advancements in India's nuclear power sector. With a commitment to clean energy, this project could shape the future of energy generation in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Strategic nuclear energy project in Gorakhpur aims to enhance Haryana's energy capacity.
- NPCIL is implementing 4x700 MWe PHWRs.
- 50% of generated electricity will serve Haryana.
- Investment of Rs 75 crore in community development.
- Target of 100 gigawatts of nuclear power by 2047.
New Delhi, June 14 (NationPress) Union Power Minister Manohar Lal visited the Gorakhpur Haryana Anu Vidyut Pariyojana (GHAVP) on Saturday to assess the advancements of the nuclear power initiative led by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) under the auspices of the Department of Atomic Energy.
This ambitious project includes the installation of 4x700 MWe Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs).
Upon completion, a substantial 50 percent of the electricity produced will be dedicated to Haryana, thereby significantly enhancing the state’s energy capacity, as stated by the Power Ministry.
The plant is projected to commence commercial operations by March 2031.
During the visit, the minister was informed about NPCIL’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts. An investment of Rs 75 crore has been made towards community development projects, including the building of roads, schools, the provision of medical vans, and the creation of an Astro Turf Hockey Ground.
Furthermore, skill development programs and public awareness campaigns have been carried out in schools, NCC camps, and civil service training sessions. The “Atom on Wheels” mobile exhibition van was underscored as a pivotal outreach effort to educate the public about nuclear energy and its safety.
Manohar Lal commended NPCIL’s contributions and reiterated the critical role of nuclear energy in ensuring a clean, safe, and reliable energy future for the nation.
Last month, he also indicated that the Centre has urged state governments to consider the feasibility of establishing nuclear power plants.
Additionally, the Centre has tasked Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant with investigating the potential for a nuclear power facility as a long-term strategy for energy security and sustainability in the coastal region.
The Union Minister noted that India currently generates eight gigawatts of nuclear power, with a target of reaching 100 gigawatts by 2047.
Emphasizing the need for operational efficiency, the Minister encouraged Goa to minimize utility losses and incorporate more Renewable Energy into the grid, which could lower power supply costs and improve overall performance.