Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) releases draft rules to attract private and foreign investment, targeting 100 GW nuclear capacity

Key facts

• The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) has released draft rules to allow private companies to develop and operate nuclear power projects.
• The draft rules propose a single unified license covering construction, ownership, operation, and decommissioning of nuclear projects.
• Foreign-designed reactors must receive approval from their origin country's nuclear regulator and have a proven operational track record.
• India aims to increase its nuclear power capacity to 100 gigawatts over the next two decades, nearly 12 times current levels.
• Major Indian companies including Adani Green, Tata Power, and Reliance Industries are expected to explore opportunities in the nuclear sector.
• Changes in nuclear liability rules are expected to attract global firms such as General Electric, Westinghouse Electric, and EDF.
• Under the SHANTI Act draft rules, nuclear plant operators must maintain insurance or financial security for possible nuclear damage.
• The government will review the maximum liability limit for nuclear damage every five years through an expert committee.