From Thermal Giant To Nuclear Contender: NTPC's Rs 25,000 Crore Bihar Bet Could Rewrite India's Energy Future

India's energy ambitions just got a radioactive boost. NTPC Limited, the country's largest state-owned electricity generator long associated with coal and thermal power is now firmly eyeing the nuclear sector as part of a sweeping energy diversification strategy. The company has initiated its first feasibility study for two 700 MW nuclear units in the Banka district of Bihar, a milestone that signals NTPC's entry into clean baseload nuclear energy at scale.

What's On The Drawing Board

The proposed project entails two pressurised heavy-water reactors (PHWRs) totalling 1,400 MW of capacity, to be located approximately 250 km from Patna. Initial land estimates suggest that around 1,000 acres will be needed to house the twin units. Upon completion of the feasibility assessment, NTPC will prepare a detailed project report (DPR) before applying to the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) for formal site and construction approvals.

Bihar's Role In The Equation

The Bihar government has proactively assured NTPC of full support including land allocation and water availability for the project. Banka district's geography, proximity to water sources, and low seismic activity make it a viable candidate for nuclear siting under AERB's guidelines. This would also be a major economic milestone for the relatively underdeveloped Banka region, potentially bringing infrastructure investment, skilled jobs, and energy security to the state.

NTPC's Bigger Nuclear Ambition

The Bihar project is one piece of a much larger puzzle. NTPC is targeting 30 GW of nuclear capacity by 2047, aligned with India's national goal of achieving 100 GW of nuclear power. The company has already been scoping at least 30 sites across five to six states, including Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Odisha. NTPC is also exploring international collaborations with Rosatom, EDF, and Holtec International for large pressurised water reactors and small modular reactors (SMRs). Additionally, through its joint venture Anushakti Vidhyut Nigam Ltd (Ashvini) with NPCIL, NTPC is already developing the Mahi Banswara Rajasthan Atomic Power Project.

Nuclear Power Project Highlights

• NTPC is conducting a feasibility study for two 700 MW nuclear units in Banka, Bihar — its first independent nuclear project
• Total projected investment stands at approximately Rs 25,000 crore (around USD 3 billion)
• Around 1,000 acres of land will be required; Bihar government has assured full logistical support
• A detailed project report (DPR) will follow the feasibility study before AERB approval is sought
• NTPC targets 30 GW of nuclear capacity as part of India's 100 GW nuclear ambition by 2047
• International collaborations being explored with Rosatom, EDF, and Holtec International for advanced reactor technologies
• NTPC is already developing the Mahi Banswara Atomic Power Project in Rajasthan via its NPCIL joint venture, Ashvini

Sources: Moneycontrol