JSW Energy, headed by industrialist Sajjan Jindal, has announced its plans to construct its first nuclear power plant in India by 2030, signaling a new move into the nuclear power sector, apart from its conventional thermal, hydro, and renewable energy operations. The company made the announcement at the India Energy Week 2026 in Goa.
Key Project Details
JSW Energy’s nuclear initiative will include the following elements:
- Target commissioning year: 2030
- Exploration of multiple reactor technologies, including traditional large reactors and small modular reactors (SMRs)
- Pilot plant first: A smaller demonstration facility will be constructed to test technology and operations before full‑scale deployment
- Site selection underway: Several potential locations are under review, though final sites remain confidential
- Technology choice pending: Decision on nuclear technology and plant configuration will be finalized only after ensuring timely execution and cost control
Executive Statements on Technology and Execution
Speaking on behalf of the company, Neeraj Agarwal, President of Nuclear Energy at JSW Energy, said:
“A final decision on technology and plant configuration will be taken only after JSW Energy is assured of timely execution and cost control.”
He added:
“Once land acquisition and technology selection are completed, we will move to construction,” noting that construction timelines remain a key focus area.
Cost and Technology Evaluation
JSW Energy is also evaluating different reactor types and their costs. Preliminary estimates indicate that the cost of nuclear projects may vary between ₹16 crore and ₹20 crore per megawatt depending on the technology. This will enable the determination of the total investment size based on the technology mix.
Strategic Significance and Next Steps
The announcement of the nuclear power project by JSW Energy is a major strategic move for a company that has been concentrating on conventional and renewable energy sources. It is an indication that nuclear energy is a reliable clean energy source that can be used in conjunction with solar, wind, and hydro energy to satisfy the energy needs of India.
The planned pilot plant will serve as a foundational step for the nuclear programme, enabling JSW Energy to build operational expertise and confidence before moving to larger reactors. Site selection and technology decisions are expected to progress over the coming months, setting the stage for subsequent construction activity.
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