Bhubaneswar, Sept. 24 (UDN): Odisha has taken its first major step towards exploring nuclear power generation, granting in-principle approval to NTPC and Adani Power to conduct feasibility studies at multiple potential sites across the state.

Odisha Approves Nuclear Power Feasibility Studies for NTPC, Adani Power

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The development was disclosed by Deputy Chief Minister and Energy Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo in the Odisha Assembly. However, the proposed projects remain at a preliminary stage, with site surveys and technical assessments yet to be completed. No nuclear power plant has been sanctioned in Odisha so far.

NTPC Picks Deogarh Site

NTPC has been permitted to undertake feasibility studies at four locations in Odisha, including sites in Cuttack, Nayagarh and Nabarangpur districts. The company has now selected a location near Deogarh for further assessment.

The final capacity, reactor technology and investment requirement for the proposed NTPC project are yet to be determined. Officials said detailed studies will establish whether the identified locations are suitable for nuclear facilities.

The state government’s move comes as NTPC expands its plans to enter the nuclear power sector. The company has been assessing potential sites in several states as part of a broader plan to develop nuclear projects with a combined capacity of 30 GW.

Adani Eyes Balimela, Manjore

Adani Power has received in-principle approval to examine two sites — near the Balimela Dam in Malkangiri district and the Manjore Dam in Angul district.

The company has proposed two nuclear power plants in Odisha. Earlier proposals indicated a large-scale investment in the state’s energy sector, alongside plans for thermal and pumped-storage power projects.

Balimela already has significant power infrastructure, including a 510-MW hydroelectric station operated by Odisha Hydro Power Corporation. The availability of large water bodies can be an important consideration for conventional nuclear plants because of their cooling-water requirements. However, final site selection would depend on detailed assessments covering geology, seismic conditions, hydrology, environmental factors, population density and safety requirements.

Nuclear Power Enters Odisha’s Energy Roadmap

The proposals would potentially add nuclear generation to Odisha’s existing mix of thermal, hydro and renewable energy. Tata Power has also expressed interest in developing a nuclear power project in the state, though its proposal has not received the same in-principle approval for feasibility studies.

The development comes against the backdrop of India’s national push to expand nuclear generation. The Union government’s Nuclear Energy Mission targets 100 GW of nuclear capacity by 2047, with greater participation from public-sector and private entities.

For Odisha, however, the immediate focus remains on feasibility and site assessment. Any decision to proceed with a nuclear project would require further technical evaluation, regulatory clearances and other statutory approvals.