NTPC, India’s leading power company, is planning to establish a nuclear power project in Bihar, which will enhance its non-fossil fuel energy portfolio. Gurdeep Singh, Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of NTPC, shared this development at the 'Bihar Business Connect 2024' summit. NTPC has approached the Bihar government for a land parcel at a suitable location to advance its nuclear energy plans. Singh emphasised the growing importance of nuclear energy for the energy sector in the next 20-30 years and confirmed that NTPC is now venturing into nuclear energy. However, he did not provide additional details, noting that a study will be conducted before moving forward with the project. In September 2024, the Indian government approved the joint venture Anushakti Vidhyut Nigam Ltd (ASHVINI), a collaboration between Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL) and NTPC, to build, own, and operate nuclear power plants in line with the Atomic Energy Act. Singh also highlighted NTPC’s interest in expanding its renewable energy initiatives in Bihar, including rooftop solar, ground-mounted solar, floating solar, pumped storage, and battery energy storage projects. The company aims to achieve a significant portion of its 60,000 MW renewable energy capacity target in Bihar by 2032. NTPC’s current installed capacity in Bihar stands at 8,850 MW, with investments totalling approximately Rs 800 billion. The company is also exploring the possibility of setting up 3,000–4,000 MWh of battery storage solutions in the state. Additionally, Singh noted that Nabinagar Power Generating Company Ltd (NPGCL) has started work on a 2,400 MW power project in Bihar. NTPC’s total installed capacity is 76,531 MW, encompassing thermal, solar, wind, and other energy sources. (Business Standard)