Here are key insights from **"GCR on Nuclear Energy Theme"**: ### **Global Nuclear Energy Trends** - Nuclear energy accounts for ~10% of global electricity production, with countries like India, China, and the US expanding capacity. - Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and advanced technologies are driving cost efficiency and scalability. - 63 new nuclear reactors (70+ GW capacity) under construction worldwide in 2024. - China leads the global nuclear expansion, aiming for **118 GW capacity** in the coming years. ### **India’s Nuclear Energy Growth Strategy** - **Target:** Expand nuclear power capacity from **8.18 GW to 100 GW by 2047**. - **Short-term goal:** Reach **22,480 MW by 2031-32** with 10 new reactors. - **Investment:** **₹20,000 crore ($2.4 billion)** allocated for SMR development. - **Private sector participation** encouraged, with **$26 billion** expected in investments. ### **Technological Advancements & Global Collaborations** - **Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs)**, **Molten Salt Reactors (MSRs)**, and **High-Temperature Gas-Cooled Reactors (HTGRs)** are being explored. - Collaboration with **USA, France, and Russia** for next-gen nuclear tech. - **Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs)** and SMRs expected to modernize India’s nuclear power deployment. ### **Investment & Market Opportunities** - **Institutional investors, hedge funds, and sovereign wealth funds** are showing growing interest. - **Nuclear infrastructure bonds & SEZs** planned for manufacturing components. - India’s **7% CAGR growth in power demand** makes nuclear energy an essential part of energy security. ### **Challenges & Risks** - **Regulatory bottlenecks**, **public opposition**, and **land acquisition issues** can delay projects. - **Uranium supply chain risks**, as India imports from Russia, Kazakhstan, and Canada. - **Safety concerns** remain due to historical nuclear disasters. - **High capital costs** for SMRs (~$5-7 billion per GW) and project delays pose financial risks. ### **Future Outlook** - India’s **nuclear power to complement renewable energy**, ensuring grid stability. - Potential to **replace old coal plants** with SMRs to reduce carbon emissions. - **Strong government support, private investments, and global partnerships** make India's nuclear sector a major investment opportunity.