New Delhi, Jan 15 (NationPress) Startups have the potential to significantly contribute to a self-sufficient nuclear program by focusing on technology development, stated Dr. Anil Kakodkar, former chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, on Thursday.

Kakodkar conveyed to IANS that India’s nuclear initiative has always been built on the foundation of self-reliance.

In spite of past technology embargoes, India has successfully developed advanced reactor systems that now operate with impressive efficiency.

Kakodkar elaborated that nuclear reactors are substantial constructs. A 1,000-megawatt nuclear power plant demands an enormous financial commitment. With costs around Rs 20 crore per megawatt, a plant of this size necessitates an investment of approximately Rs 20,000 crore. Such a scale of funding is evidently beyond the capacity of a startup. However, a diverse range of contributors is essential.

“Startups can still play a crucial role, especially in technology development,” Kakodkar remarked.

“They can concentrate on smaller proof-of-principle systems, like micro-reactors with a capacity of about one megawatt. These systems are vital, provided they are exceptionally safe. Designs that are considered ‘walk-away safe’ can help eliminate the risk of devastating failures, akin to Chernobyl. This is an area where startups can make a significant impact,” the expert told IANS.

“Though these reactors won't resolve large grid-related challenges, they can cater to the energy demands of remote areas,” he noted.

Moreover, once their safety is validated, it will enhance public trust, which can facilitate other applications. “For instance, a large residential complex could require a couple of megawatts, which could be supplied by these systems,” Kakodkar added.

Another opportunity for startups lies in nuclear power projects that necessitate numerous components, which these companies can produce and provide.

“Thus, we require an ecosystem comprising extensive system-level initiatives and numerous startups that together can realize the envisioned self-sufficient program,” Kakodkar asserted, emphasizing the importance of developing fast reactors, thorium-based reactors, and molten salt reactors. There remains considerable advancement needed in all these sectors, and startups can play a pivotal role in this journey,” the expert concluded.