Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant Gains Approval for New Units

In a significant development for India’s energy sector, the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has approved the allocation of 50 megawatts (MW) of unallocated power from Unit 1 of the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KKNPP). This decision supports the start-up and commissioning activities for the plant’s new Units 3 and 4, which are expected to enhance the region’s electricity supply.

The revised allocation came into effect at midnight on October 19, 2025, and will remain valid until further notice, according to the Southern Regional Power Committee (SRPC). This move follows a formal request from the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL), which is responsible for the implementation of two additional 1,000 MW Light Water Reactors (LWRs) at the Kudankulam site located in Tirunelveli district.

The Union Ministry of Power, in its order dated September 2, 2024, has authorized NPCIL to draw up to 50 MW from Units 1 and 2 strictly for start-up purposes, adhering to the Indian Electricity Grid Code (IEGC) Regulations, 2023. To facilitate this process, Units 3 and 4 must be registered as beneficiaries of Unit 1, with the Southern Regional Load Despatch Centre (SRLDC) overseeing the scheduling and accounting of the power drawal.

NPCIL has reported steady progress in commissioning work. The 63 MVA Common Station Auxiliary Transformer (CSAT) is already operational, supplying auxiliary power to the site. Officials indicated that the initial power draw will be minimal during the stabilization phase, gradually increasing as testing and system checks progress.

To accommodate any additional start-up requirements exceeding 50 MW or potential outages at Unit 1, the Ministry of Power has instructed NPCIL to explore alternative power arrangements through the Tamil Nadu transmission network. NPCIL anticipates that peak start-up demand could rise to 60 MW by December 2025 and 65 MW by January 2026.

As of August 2025, construction of Units 3 and 4 is notably advanced, with completion reaching 78 percent. Unit 3 has achieved major milestones, including the concreting of the inner and outer containment domes and the welding of the main coolant pipeline. Meanwhile, Unit 4 has successfully erected its Nuclear Steam Supply System.

Currently, Units 1 and 2 together generate 1,125 MW of electricity for Tamil Nadu. The state has requested a full allocation of the 2,000 MW that will be produced by Units 3 and 4, though a final decision from the central government will be made at a later date.

This allocation and the ongoing development at Kudankulam reflect India’s commitment to expanding its nuclear energy capabilities and addressing the growing power needs of the region.