NuclearEnergy – Adani Group Seen as Key Player in India’s Expanding Power Sector

NuclearEnergy –  India’s push to strengthen its long-term energy security could receive a major boost from the renewed participation of the Adani Group in the country’s developing nuclear sector, according to global energy industry expert Dr Kris Singh. The veteran entrepreneur said the company’s experience in handling large infrastructure projects makes it well-equipped to support India’s future nuclear expansion plans.

Support for India’s Nuclear Expansion

Speaking during an interview with IANS, Singh welcomed the resolution of the Adani Group’s legal matters in the United States and said the development clears the way for the conglomerate to take part in India’s evolving nuclear programme. He noted that the country has recently started opening opportunities in the sector, creating space for major industrial players to contribute.

Singh, who founded US-based clean energy company Holtec International, described the Adani Group as one of India’s most significant business organisations. He highlighted the conglomerate’s track record in developing ports and other large-scale infrastructure projects, saying such expertise could prove valuable for nuclear power development.

According to Singh, India requires dependable energy sources to meet rising industrial and economic demands, especially as electricity consumption continues to grow across urban and rural regions.

Need for Stable Energy Supply

While acknowledging India’s rapid progress in solar energy deployment, Singh said renewable energy systems alone may not be enough to maintain uninterrupted electricity supply for a heavily industrialised economy. He explained that nuclear power remains one of the few options capable of delivering consistent base-load energy throughout the day.

Singh also raised concerns over the limitations of battery-based storage systems linked to renewable power projects. He pointed out that battery technology still faces challenges related to lifespan and safety, which can affect long-term reliability.

He further stated that countries relying heavily on intermittent energy sources such as wind and solar often encounter difficulties in maintaining grid stability. In his view, nuclear power offers a more dependable solution because reactors can generate electricity continuously without fluctuations in output.

Focus on Small Modular Reactors

Singh strongly supported the introduction of Small Modular Reactors, commonly known as SMRs, across different parts of India. He said decentralised nuclear generation could reduce pressure on massive transmission systems and lower the need for expensive high-voltage power infrastructure.

According to him, deploying smaller reactors at regional or district levels would allow electricity to be generated closer to where it is consumed. This approach, he explained, could improve efficiency and reduce the financial burden associated with transporting electricity across long distances.

Industry observers have increasingly discussed SMRs as a practical option for countries seeking cleaner and more flexible energy systems. The compact reactors are considered easier to deploy than traditional large-scale nuclear plants and are designed with enhanced safety features.

Holtec Engaging With Indian Authorities

Singh confirmed that Holtec International has already begun discussions with Indian government officials regarding opportunities in the country’s nuclear sector. He said representatives from the company’s India operations were expected to hold meetings with policymakers during the week.

The energy executive also suggested that India should continue moving toward a more open investment environment in nuclear energy. He said foreign companies with the capability to build reactors should be encouraged to participate in the country’s energy development plans.

Singh believes broader international involvement could accelerate technological growth, increase competition, and help India strengthen its clean energy capacity over the coming decades.

Originally from Bihar, Singh established Holtec International in 1986. Since then, the company has expanded into a global nuclear and clean energy business with operations across several countries.