Source: BS
Context: Maharashtra signed an MoU with Russia’s ROSATOM to jointly develop a thorium-based Small Modular Reactor (SMR) — a first-of-its-kind initiative by an Indian state in nuclear energy.
About Thorium-Based Small Modular Reactor (SMR):
- What is it?
- A Small Modular Reactor (SMR) is a compact, scalable nuclear reactor designed for safe, efficient, and flexible power generation.
- Thorium-based SMRs utilise Thorium-232, a fertile material, to generate Uranium-233 fuel through transmutation.
- Institutions Involved: MAHAGENCO (Maharashtra State Power Generation Company Ltd) and ROSATOM (Russia’s State Atomic Energy Corporation).
- Key Features of Thorium-Based Small Modular Reactor (SMR):
- Fuel Type – Thorium-232 → Uranium-233: Uses thorium, which converts into Uranium-233 through nuclear reaction for clean energy.
- Modular Design: SMRs are built in small units, allowing phased and cost-effective deployment.
- Compact Size: Suitable for remote and smaller regions due to its small footprint and setup ease.
- Passive Safety Systems: Designed to shut down automatically in emergencies, reducing accident risks.
- Regulatory Compliance: Follows Indian nuclear safety norms under AERB and Central guidelines.
- Significance:
- Thorium Abundance: India has 25% of world’s thorium, mainly in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, offering energy independence.
- Energy Security: Reduces dependency on imported uranium and enhances long-term fuel security.
- Eco-Friendly Option: Produces less nuclear waste compared to conventional uranium reactors.
- Decentralised Clean Power: Can provide electricity to off-grid or underserved areas in a clean and reliable way.
- State-Level Innovation: Maharashtra becomes the first state to enter nuclear space, supporting ‘Make in India’.
- Limitations:
- No Operational Reactor Yet: Thorium-based SMRs are still in testing phase with no active deployment worldwide.
- Needs Central Approval: Nuclear energy is under Central domain; states can’t implement it independently.
- High Setup Cost: Building reactors and safety infrastructure needs large investment and time.
- Weak Fuel Cycle Infra: India lacks full reprocessing systems for thorium; tech is still under development.
- Public Fear of Nuclear: Safety concerns and nuclear accidents in the past may affect public acceptance.
