Operations and maintenance
The eVinci microreactor has reached zero-power high-temperature criticality at 663 degrees Celsius and a subcritical reactivity measurement at 1,011 degrees Celsius, setting a new record for reactivity measurements at the National Criticality Experiments Research Center (NCERC). These tests, conducted in partnership with Los Alamos National Laboratory and the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS), aim to strengthen analytical models and accelerate prototype design for the heat pipe-cooled microreactor.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has increased its projections for global nuclear energy capacity, forecasting a more than threefold increase by 2060. This growth is anticipated to be significantly supported by small modular reactors (SMRs) and the extension of operating licenses for existing reactors. The IAEA's high-case scenario projects nuclear generating capacity to reach 1,284 GWe by 2060, up from 377.1 GWe at the end of 2025.
BNC Power Projects Limited has been awarded two engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contracts totaling over Rs 2.8 billion by Maharashtra State Electricity Transmission Company Limited (MSETCL). These contracts aim to modernize and strengthen Maharashtra's extra high voltage (EHV) transmission network by converting existing air-insulated substations (AIS) into gas-insulated substations (GIS). The projects are slated for completion within 15 months and are expected to enhance operational efficiency in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region and Konkan region.
A new Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) between Fortum and Google will cover the life extension period of the Loviisa nuclear power plant in Finland. The agreement, set to begin in 2028, will cover 50% of the plant's capacity from 2030 to 2049 and is expected to enable significant investments in extending the plant's operational life until 2050. The companies also signed a memorandum of understanding to explore further collaboration in new nuclear power development and other energy solutions.
The Department of Energy has finalized a loan to NextEra Energy for the restart of the Duane Arnold nuclear power plant in Iowa. The plant, a single-unit boiling water reactor, ceased operations in 2020 but is now slated to return to service by early 2029, backed by a 25-year power purchase agreement with Google.
Changjiang Unit 4 has successfully completed cold functional tests, a critical step before fuel loading and grid connection. These tests verify the integrity and operational readiness of the reactor's primary circuit and associated systems. The Changjiang site is also developing a demonstration ACP100 small modular reactor.
Argentina is progressing with its RA-10 multipurpose nuclear research reactor project, aiming for commissioning by late 2024 and full operation by 2027. The reactor, designed to produce medical radioisotopes and support scientific research, is currently 96% complete. The project involves private capital for its associated production plant and is expected to generate foreign exchange through exports in a specialized global market.
Three generating units at the NTPC Korba power plant in Chhattisgarh have been restored following an electrical fault that caused all seven units to trip. The incident led to a blackout at the facility, which has an installed capacity of approximately 2,600 MW.
Inox Wind has been awarded a 100 MW turnkey wind project by Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL), valued at approximately ₹755 crore. This repeat order includes comprehensive project execution, from turbine supply to long-term operations and maintenance.
A new pilot project for a First Nations-owned Transportable Nuclear Power Plant (TNPP) is set to validate logistics and operational requirements in New Brunswick, Canada. The project aims to establish a commercial blueprint for a fleet of TNPPs across Canada's North and for global export. The provincial government of New Brunswick has committed to purchasing the generated electricity, and the project has been advanced to Canada's federal Major Projects Office.
The nuclear industry is undergoing a significant transformation, marked by the extension of existing plant operating lives, the progression of new reactor technologies from concept to construction, and increased investment in domestic manufacturing and fuel production. Utilities are also focusing on strengthening supply chains to support future operations.
A full-scope control room simulator has been commissioned at the Xudabao nuclear plant in China, enabling operator training for the first two units before their entry into service.