India’s nuclear energy law boosts scope for cooperation with France

India's recent overhaul of its nuclear energy sector through the SHANTI (Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India) Act has significantly broadened the scope for international collaboration, particularly with France. The new legislation paves the way for France's state-run multinational EDF to engage with India's private sector in developing nuclear power plants.

This legislative change is expected to accelerate discussions between EDF and major Indian companies interested in entering the nuclear energy market. People familiar with the matter indicated that EDF is in "active discussions with all big Indian players wanting to enter the sector." They anticipate a clearer picture of potential projects by the end of the year, marking a new phase of engagement.

“

We are beginning a new phase of discussions and hope to have a clear picture by the end of the year

The SHANTI Act addresses previous challenges in civil nuclear energy cooperation between India and France, such as financing and electricity costs. By opening doors for private sector participation, the act aims to boost India's ambitious goal of increasing its nuclear power generation capacity from the current 8.78 GW to 100 GW by 2047. Discussions are also extending to advanced technologies like small modular reactors (SMRs) and advanced modular reactors (AMRs).

This enhanced cooperation in civil nuclear energy is a significant component of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to France. The agenda also includes discussions on defense, technology, critical materials, and managing the economic and geopolitical consequences of the West Asia conflict. The visit, which includes attending the G7 Summit outreach sessions, underscores the strategic importance of the India-France partnership.

“

civil nuclear energy is an area of strategic cooperation with France and with the passing of the SHANTI Act, both sides are discussing greater opportunities for the private sector, including in small modular reactors (SMRs) and advanced modular reactors (AMRs)