India's Draft Nuclear Framework Raises Concerns for Foreign Reactor Technology and Investment

A new draft framework in India, designed to attract foreign technology and investment into the nuclear sector, risks imposing additional approval requirements on foreign reactors. Experts suggest this could steer companies toward domestic technology, potentially limiting capital and expertise flow. India aims to increase its nuclear power capacity to 100 gigawatts (GW) over the next two decades, requiring an estimated $210 billion in investments.

Under the proposed framework, companies seeking to deploy imported reactors would need operational and licensing certifications from the country of origin, alongside separate design approval from India's atomic energy regulator before construction. This process could particularly affect Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology, as most designs are only beginning commercial deployment globally, potentially limiting their eligibility.

The draft rules also leave several investment-related questions unresolved, including tariff determination, expected returns for investors, and minimum financial and technical qualifications for prospective operators. These ambiguities could delay investment decisions and project development. Companies have until September 4 to provide feedback on the draft regulations.

Founder Energy Secures Subcontract for 29.99MWac Solar Project in Kedah

Project Scope and Responsibilities

Founder Energy Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Founder Group Limited, will serve as a subcontractor for a 29.99MWac solar photovoltaic project. The project is located in Kuala Muda, Kedah, and falls under Malaysia’s Corporate Green Power Programme (CGPP). The subcontract is valued at RM6.05 million, which is approximately USD 1.5 million.

The scope of work for Founder Energy includes procurement, electrical and mechanical installation, testing, and commissioning of the solar facility. These activities will extend up to the interconnection point of the project. Major equipment for the project will be procured directly by the main contractor, and is therefore excluded from Founder Energy's responsibilities.

In addition to the installation and commissioning tasks, Founder Energy is responsible for securing and maintaining all necessary approvals, licenses, clearances, and permits required for both the construction and subsequent operation of the solar facility. The company must also ensure that all work adheres to Prudent Utility Practices and meets the requirements set by Tenaga Nasional Berhad.

India Proposes NPCIL Consulting Subsidiary for Private Nuclear Sector Entry

The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) has drafted a cabinet note for a new consulting subsidiary of Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd. (NPCIL). This fully-owned NPCIL unit will support private companies looking to enter India's nuclear sector. Services will include design, engineering, operational and management assistance, and regulatory guidance for building pressurized heavy water reactor (PHWR) units, which are currently operated by NPCIL.

This initiative aligns with India's goal of achieving 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047. The government recently enacted the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Act, 2025, which opened nuclear energy generation to private entities. The DAE has also released draft rules enabling private companies to apply for licenses to construct, own, operate, and decommission nuclear power plants. The proposed subsidiary will address the need for techno-commercial support for new entrants navigating the regulated sector, leveraging NPCIL's expertise in nuclear power generation.