Small nuclear reactors offer India a transformative solution
Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are poised to unlock a potential US$20 billion opportunity in India’s nuclear segment over the next decade, backed by indigenous R&D, global OEM interest, and a push for industrial decarbonization, according to an industry report.
“SMRs could play a transformative role in India’s energy mix,” said the report, “Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in India – Mapping the US$20 billion Market Opportunity” which has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com‘s offering since 17 July 2025.
As of 2025, the SMRs have emerged as a viable, scalable, and policy-aligned option to complement large reactors and intermittent renewables, serving both grid and off-grid applications.
“Offering passive safety features, modular construction, and greater siting flexibility, SMRs are poised to fill a critical gap in India’s clean energy transition by enabling faster, decentralized nuclear deployment across industrial and remote regions,” said the report.
SMRs would be critical for India
SMRs offer India a transformative solution to meet its clean energy and energy security goals. With their compact size, modular design, and enhanced safety features, SMRs can be rapidly deployed in remote, island, and industrial regions where large reactors are unfeasible.
They address the limitations of conventional nuclear plants, reducing capital intensity, construction delays, and siting challenges – while providing stable, low-carbon baseload power. As India accelerates its Net Zero trajectory, SMRs emerge as a vital tool to decarbonize sectors, support grid resilience, and localize nuclear manufacturing under “Make in India.”
A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes, but is not limited to:
Larsen & Toubro (L&T)
Walchandnagar Industries Ltd (WIL)
Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL)
Hindustan Construction Company (HCC)
DAE (Department of Atomic Energy)
AERB (Atomic Energy Regulatory Board)
Power Finance Corporation (PFC). Fiinews.com
