Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has praised India’s growing nuclear energy capabilities, particularly its small nuclear reactor initiative.
In an interview The Times of India, Grossi highlighted India’s shift from relying on Western nuclear technology to developing indigenous reactors, which he described as ‘very good’, with 20 of them currently operating flawlessly.
However, Grossi pointed out that nuclear power still accounts for a small fraction of India’s national electricity production.
He expressed optimism about the country’s future nuclear goals, noting that the government’s ambition to achieve 100 gigawatts of nuclear capacity is realistic.
“I see India as a country with enormous internal potential,” he said, adding that India could also become a significant player in the global nuclear market.
“Nuclear technology is being exported, and I don’t see why India should not join the family of vendors active in the global market.”
Public-Private Partnerships Key To Nuclear Growth
Grossi also addressed the recent announcement by the Indian government to explore small modular reactors (SMRs).
He emphasized that nuclear energy is capital-intensive and noted that funding everything through public utilities is impractical.
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Grossi believes that India should consider public-private partnerships or even private ownership of nuclear plants, especially SMRs, to meet its growing energy needs.
“I see this shift in India’s legal and policy approach as a huge step in the right direction,” he said.
Concerns Over Iran’s Nuclear Program
On the topic of Iran, Grossi acknowledged that the country does not yet possess nuclear weapons but is enriching uranium to levels close to weapons-grade.
He note that Iran’s nuclear program is highly advance and ambitious, and the country must provide answers regarding its intentions.
“We see movement around this issue,” Grossi said, referencing a recent meeting in Beijing between Russia, China, and Iran.
He described this as a positive development, adding that US President Donald Trump had also sent a letter to Iran’s Supreme Leader, signaling the need for further engagement.
While Grossi sees a potential resolution to the issue, he stressed that time is running out.
“There must be a sense of finality,” he emphasized, underlining the importance of a diplomatic, non-violent resolution that would provide the international community with necessary assurances.
Concerns Over Ukraine’s Nuclear Vulnerabilities
Grossi also spoke about the ongoing situation in Ukraine, where the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant remains highly vulnerable due to the ongoing conflict.
The plant, located on the front line, has been repeatedly targeted and has suffered multiple blackouts, with power supplies to and from the station frequently interrupted.
“One of the cooling towers caught fire last summer. It is clearly a target,” Grossi noted.
While the presence of the IAEA has helped mitigate some risks, Grossi acknowledged that the threat of a nuclear accident persists.
“Until there is a ceasefire and peace, our primary concern remains preventing a nuclear accident,” he said, echoing the IAEA’s commitment to ensuring the safety of Ukraine’s nuclear facilities amid the conflict.
Grossi concluded by emphasizing the hope for dialogue and negotiations leading to a resolution and lasting peace.
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