New Delhi, Sept 1

The Unit-3 of Kakrapar Atomic Power Project (KAPP 3- 700 MWe) at Kakrapar in Gujarat started operating at its full capacity of 700 MWe on August 30, 2023. 

This first of a kind Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) unit, designed by Indian scientists and engineers, has advanced safety features which are comparable to the best in the world. With the design, construction, commissioning and operation of the reactor by Indian Engineers & Scientists and supply of equipment and execution of works by Indian industry, it is a shining example of the proud spirit of "Atma Nirbhar Bharat". 

It is a front runner in a series of 16 indigenous 700 MWe PHWRS which are at various stages of implementation. This unit had started commercial operation since June 30,2023. Its twin unit,  KAPP-4 is at advanced stage of commissioning. 

NPCIL presently operates 23 reactors with a total capacity of 7480 MWe. In addition, 15 reactors of indigenous 700 MWe PHWR technology are at different stages of implementation. 4 reactors of Light Water Reactor (LWR) technology, each of 1000 MWe capacity are also under construction at Kudankulam with Russian cooperation. 

These reactors are expected to be completed progressively by 2031-32, taking the installed nuclear power capacity to 22480 MWe from 7480 MWe at present. 

Nuclear power is a clean and environment friendly source of base load electricity generation which is available 24X7. Nuclear power plants in the country have so far generated about 833 billion units of clean electricity, saving about 716 million tons of Carbon-di-oxide equivalent emissions. Nuclear power will play an important role in achieving the goal of net zero by 2070.