Uttarakhand Approves 1,320 MW Power Procurement from Adani Power

The Uttarakhand Cabinet has given its approval for Uttarakhand Power Corporation Limited (UPCL) to procure 1,320 MW of coal-based power from Adani Power Limited. The agreement is set for a 25-year period at a tariff of Rs 5.746 per unit. Adani Power Limited was selected as the lowest bidder in the procurement process.

This procurement is intended to bolster energy security and provide a consistent base-load power supply within the state. The Cabinet has authorized UPCL to proceed with signing the power supply agreement and other necessary documentation with Adani Power Limited. Additionally, UPCL is tasked with fulfilling all contractual conditions and securing the required statutory approvals from the Uttarakhand Electricity Regulatory Commission.

India Faces Transmission Infrastructure Shortfall Amidst Renewable Energy Growth

Despite adding a record 38 GW of solar capacity in 2025, pushing non-fossil sources past 50% of installed generation, India is curtailing a growing share of its solar power. Between April and June 2026, 8,133 GWh of solar power was curtailed, highlighting that transmission, not generation, is the primary constraint on India's energy transition. The country built only 8,830 circuit kilometers of new lines in FY25, falling 42% short of its 15,253 km target.

The Central Electricity Authority estimates that India requires ₹9.15 lakh crore in transmission investment and 191,000 circuit kilometers of new lines by 2032. Current 25-year fixed-price Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) are deemed unsuitable for the dynamic nature of renewable energy, leading to grid inflexibility. Reforms are proposed, including establishing a unified authority for transmission projects, evolving PPA structures towards shorter-tenure and flexible contracts, mandating co-located battery storage, implementing interconnection reforms, and incentivizing large consumers to locate near renewable hubs.

National Laboratories Partner on 3D-Printed Nuclear Pressure Vessels

Collaboration Focuses on Advanced Manufacturing

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and Idaho National Laboratory (INL) have announced a joint effort to assist industry in developing wire arc 3D printing processes for industrial pressure vessels. These vessels are critical components in both nuclear energy and chemical processing applications.

The collaboration seeks to demonstrate, validate, and qualify advanced manufacturing technologies. This strategic approach is intended to mitigate risks associated with new manufacturing methods, expedite their adoption, and bolster domestic supply chains. The ultimate goal is to support America's energy future through enhanced manufacturing capabilities.

Impact on Nuclear Supply Chains

The development and qualification of 3D printing for pressure vessels could significantly impact the nuclear supply chain. By enabling the domestic production of these complex components through advanced manufacturing, the initiative aims to reduce reliance on traditional manufacturing methods and potentially shorten lead times.

This partnership between national laboratories and industry is designed to foster innovation in manufacturing, which is essential for the deployment of new nuclear technologies and the maintenance of existing infrastructure. The focus on validating these technologies is crucial for ensuring they meet the stringent safety and performance standards required for nuclear applications.