KSEB pushes for nuclear power to achieve 10,000 MW target

Kerala’s power utility has urged the state government to consider nuclear energy as a central plank of its plan to add 10,000 megawatts of capacity within five years, arguing that the current mix of hydropower and renewables cannot meet rising demand on its own. In a recent briefing, the utility outlined a pathway that prioritizes small modular reactors (SMRs) as a safer, scalable option, while noting that any decision will ultimately be taken by the government.

Why nuclear is back on the table

The state’s electricity demand is climbing steadily, driven by urbanization, electrification of transport and cooking, and expanding commercial activity. Hydropower—long Kerala’s backbone—faces limits from changing monsoon patterns, environmental sensitivities, and the finite potential for new large dams. Solar and wind are growing, but land constraints, variability, and the need for firm power during evenings and monsoon troughs complicate the path to a fully renewable grid without extensive storage. Meanwhile, coal-based imports are expected to decline over the coming years due to climate and air-quality imperatives.

Against this backdrop, the utility’s assessment frames nuclear as a zero-direct-emission baseload option that could stabilize the grid as renewable penetration rises. The recommendation follows a government request for technical inputs after a consultancy expressed interest in partnering on nuclear development within the state.

Small modular reactors as a pathway

The report highlights SMRs—compact, factory-fabricated reactors designed for enhanced safety and staged deployment. Advocates point to their smaller land footprint, passive safety features, and the ability to add modules in line with demand growth. For a coastal, densely populated state with limited space for large plants, SMRs are seen as an avenue to bring firm, low-carbon capacity online without multi-gigawatt megaprojects.

However, the utility also acknowledges hurdles: licensing timelines, supply-chain readiness, long-term waste management, and the need for robust public consultation. Costs for first-of-a-kind projects can be high, and careful financial structuring would be required to protect consumers and the state budget.

Politics and public consent

Earlier discussions about nuclear development stirred controversy, prompting a pause in public engagement. The power department has since emphasized the importance of building trust—seeking support from labor unions and employee associations, and suggesting a broader campaign to explain risks, benefits, and safety protocols. With assembly elections approaching, some in government have signaled a preference to temper the debate until the political calendar is less charged.

Thorium ambition, uranium reality

Kerala’s coastline is known for monazite-rich sands that contain thorium, and the state has indicated readiness to collaborate on thorium-based nuclear technology in the long term. But thorium cannot directly fuel a reactor; it must be converted to uranium-233 through a multi-stage process. While research on thorium fuel cycles continues globally, commercial maturity remains some distance away. In practical terms, the near-term option would be reactors fueled by uranium-235, with the possibility of transitioning to thorium once the technology and regulatory frameworks are ready.

What 10,000 MW means for Kerala

Adding 10 GW in five years is an ambitious goal that would reshape Kerala’s energy system. Beyond new generation, it implies parallel investments in grid modernization, storage, and demand-side efficiency. Even with nuclear in the mix, the utility stresses that solar—especially rooftop and agrivoltaic formats—alongside wind, biomass, and small hydro must continue to expand. Storage solutions such as pumped hydro and battery systems will be needed to smooth variability and capture midday solar output. Efficiency upgrades in buildings and industry could reduce the size and cost of new capacity needed.

Next steps

If the state advances nuclear planning, the process would include site selection, environmental and social impact assessments, detailed hazard and evacuation studies, and central regulatory approvals. Coastal resilience—accounting for sea-level rise, storm surges, and extreme rainfall—will be a critical criterion for any proposed site. Procurement strategies, workforce training, and partnerships with national agencies would shape timelines and costs.

Kerala’s energy crossroads are clear: the state can push hard on renewables and efficiency while adding firm, low-carbon capacity to secure reliability. Nuclear—particularly SMRs—features prominently in the utility’s proposal as that firm backbone. Whether the plan proceeds will depend on political timing, public acceptance, and the ability to align technology choices with Kerala’s unique geography and environmental priorities.