NTPC, DAE Advance Thorium Fuel Development

India Explores Thorium Fuel for Nuclear Reactors

New Delhi: NTPC Ltd. and Clean Core Thorium Energy (CCTE) are exploring the use of thorium-based fuel in India’s existing nuclear power plants.

• Partnership: NTPC, an Indian state-owned enterprise, is collaborating with CCTE, a U.S. firm.
• Fuel Type: CCTE’s ANEEL fuel, blending thorium with enriched uranium, could be deployed in Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs).
• SHANTI Act: The recent legislation allows private sector involvement in India’s nuclear operations.
• Advantages: Thorium is abundant in India, reduces waste, enhances energy security, and may improve safety.
• Next Steps: Implementation hinges on regulatory approvals.

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