Green growth and role of nuclear power: A perspective from India

Considering growth in demand for modern energy services, renewable energy sources alone cannot meet future energy demand in India. The Government of India has, after examination of various options for green growth, reiterated the importance of accelerated development of nuclear energy along with other clean energy technologies. Several studies have indicated that nuclear technology stands out when compared to other electricity generating technologies on the basis of protection of climate and ecosystem, sustainability of fuel sources and reliability of supplies. India has set up necessary infrastructure to support growth of nuclear power and as a result of domestic research and development, and recent policy initiative, a range of reactor choices is available for deployment. India has also in place a sound domestic legal framework for governance of nuclear power and has signed various conventions including Convention on Nuclear Safety. The overall vision is to increase nuclear electricity generation to about 25% of total electricity generation by the middle of the century.

► Electricity demand in India is growing rapidly to meet the requirements of growth of economy.
► Availability of modern energy services is essential for green growth of Indian economy.
► Both nuclear energy and renewable energy sources are necessary to meet India's energy requirements.
► Growth of nuclear power based on closed fuel cycle is a part of the strategy adopted by India to meet energy demand.