BHAVINI is currently commissioning a 500 MWe Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor and as per the present progress the expected timeline for achieving criticality of PFBR is by March 2026 and the expected timeline for full power generation is by December 2026.

Upon attaining full power generation, PFBR will add 500 MWe capacity in the country’s nuclear energy contribution in the National Grid. PFBR follows a closed fuel cycle regime to optimally utilize India’s limited uranium resources and to exploit its large thorium reserves for long term energy security. It involves the recovery and recycling of fissile and fertile material from Spent Nuclear Fuel (SNF), rather than disposing it of as waste. This approach enables enhanced utilization of nuclear material resources, improves energy security, and minimizes high-level radioactive waste volumes.

PFBR technology is completely indigenous and hence no foreign collaborative research or international knowledge exchange efforts were envisaged.

This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, MoS Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Department of Atomic Energy and Department of Space, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

 ***

NKR/PSM

 

(Release ID: 2159290)