10,000Mw nuclear power by 2012

"We will increase it to 4,000-4,500 Mw by the end of the Tenth Plan, which will be further increased to 10,000 Mw by 2012," Shahi said.

Speaking at a seminar on the sidelines of the 'International Infrastructure Summit', organised by the India Tech Foundation, Shahi said the power ministry had drawn up plans to add another 100,000 Mw of generating capacity by 2012.

"The requirements are so huge that there is enough room to expand thermal, hydro, nuclear and gas-based capacities. Globally, there is now a recognition that coal-based stations will continue to dominate for some time. The problem here is emission of carbon dioxide, which needs to be addressed," Shahi said.

Shahi pointed out that there was now a thrust on modernising power plants. "There are many power plants in the country which are operating at a plant load factor ranging between 30-50 per cent. This can be improved by undertaking renovation and modernisation programmes. The government has decided to grant loans for such programmes at interest rates 3-4 per cent below the market rates," Shahi added.

Earlier, Hajimu Maeda, chairman, World Association of Nuclear Operators, said nuclear power could constitute a stable source of energy.

"Especially so, as a large amount of power can be generated by utilising a small amount of Uranium. Nuclear plants can operate for one to one a half years without refuelling", he added.

Yogendra Prasad, chairman and managing director, National Hydro Corporation, emphasised the need for stepping up power capacity, if the country was to meet the 8 per cent growth target.