In a significant development, the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) has accorded permission for major equipment erection at Units 5 and 6 of the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project (KKNPP), the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) said in a statement on Saturday, 2 May.
“India’s nuclear energy programme achieves another decisive milestone. Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) has accorded permission for Major Equipment Erection at Units 5 & 6 of Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project (KKNPP),” the NPCIL said.
The approval enables NPCIL to proceed with installation of key reactor systems, including the Reactor Pressure Vessel, Steam Generators and Coolant Pumps, marking a critical construction milestone for the project.
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NPCIL stated that the clearance follows comprehensive multi-tier safety reviews conducted by AERB, covering design, safety systems and regulatory compliance.
“This enables Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) to move ahead with installation of critical systems including Reactor Pressure Vessel, Steam Generators and Coolant Pumps, bringing the project closer to realization. The approval followed from comprehensive multi-tier safety reviews by AERB, reaffirming adherence to stringent national regulations and global benchmarks, including IAEA standards,” the state-owned nuclear operator said.
Units 5 and 6 form part of the ongoing expansion of the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project in Tamil Nadu, which is being developed in phases with Russian VVER-1000 pressurised water reactors.
Each unit is planned with a capacity of 1,000 MW, adding 2,000 MW to India’s nuclear power generation capacity upon completion.
“Kudankulam Units 5 & 6 stand as a testament to India’s commitment to safe, clean and reliable nuclear power, driving energy security and sustainable growth,” the NPCIL said.
