Gujarat Plans Large Nuclear Power Project at Dhuvaran

The Gujarat state government is in discussions with the central government of India to build a large nuclear power project at Dhuvaran in Anand district. The project is proposed to be developed through a joint venture with 50% equity participation from each side, with a planned installed capacity of either 4,200 MW or 7,000 MW, with the final configuration still under high-level deliberation.

Based on an estimated investment of approximately 35 million rupees per MW, the total project investment could range between 1.25 trillion rupees and 2.25 trillion rupees. If approved and implemented, the project would become one of the larger investments in Gujarat's power sector.

Local government officials stated that approximately 1,100 hectares of land have been secured for the project, and a central government team has conducted a site visit, including assessment of the proposed co-located nuclear fuel fabrication facility. Preliminary evaluations indicate that the Khambhat area of Anand district is suitable for developing a large-scale nuclear power project.

The proposed joint venture would be formed between Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) and Gujarat State Electricity Corporation Limited (GSECL) to develop, construct, and operate civil nuclear power assets. Currently, site characterization studies are underway, evaluating factors including seismic conditions, geotechnical conditions, and cooling water availability.

On the technology front, the project is evaluating the use of established indigenous Indian Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) technology, Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) technology, as well as certified and regulatory-compliant foreign reactor technologies. Relevant discussions are being held with India's Department of Atomic Energy (DAE).

Gujarat has established a high-level committee and an executive committee to oversee project feasibility assessment and policy and administrative coordination. Government officials stated that the executive committee has held two meetings to review multiple key aspects of the project.

Gujarat's existing nuclear power assets include the Kakrapar Atomic Power Station in Tapi district. The station currently operates 4 units, including two 220 MW units and two 700 MW units indigenously developed by India, with a total installed capacity of 1,840 MW.