India has taken a big step towards expanding its clean energy sector by opening the nuclear power industry to private investment. The government plans to invest around $210 billion to increase the country’s nuclear power capacity from the current 9 gigawatts (GW) to 100 GW by 2047.
This major change comes after the passing of the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Act in December 2025. The new law replaces the old system under the Atomic Energy Act of 1962, which gave the government complete control over the nuclear sector. Now, Indian private companies can build, own, operate, and even decommission nuclear power plants. Foreign companies will be able to participate through partnerships with Indian firms.
Industry experts say this move is necessary because such a massive increase in nuclear capacity cannot be achieved by the government alone. Private investment will help attract more funding, technology, and expertise to accelerate the development of new projects. However, the government will continue to manage sensitive activities such as uranium and thorium mining, fuel reprocessing, heavy water production, and radioactive waste management.
The SHANTI Act also introduces a clearer liability framework by limiting the financial responsibility of plant operators and suppliers, making the sector more attractive to investors and global technology companies. According to a report by YCP, the reforms could create new business opportunities in nuclear power generation, engineering, equipment manufacturing, maintenance services, financing, and advanced reactor technologies.
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At the same time, the report points out that changing the law is only the first step. India will still need to address challenges such as affordable electricity tariffs, easy access to finance, a strong supply chain, clear regulations, insurance support, and public confidence in nuclear energy. If these issues are addressed, the reforms could play a key role in helping India meet its long-term clean energy and energy security goals.
