Odisha Explores Nuclear Power to Strengthen Clean Energy Roadmap
Talks with NTPC and NPCIL, Major Renewable Expansion, and Green Hydrogen Hubs Mark State’s Push Toward an Advanced Energy Future
Bhubaneswar: Odisha is taking significant strides to advance its long-term energy strategy, initiating formal discussions with NTPC and the Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL) to set up nuclear power plants in the state. The move signals Odisha’s intent to diversify its energy portfolio while reinforcing its commitment to clean, reliable and sustainable power.
Senior state officials confirmed that talks are progressing for potential joint ventures with both NTPC and NPCIL. These projects are expected to tap into Odisha’s rich natural resource base, including its substantial thorium reserves—an asset poised to play a key role in India’s second-stage nuclear energy programme. Authorities emphasised that any nuclear installations would prioritise safety, environmental protection and adherence to stringent regulatory standards.
Deputy Chief Minister for Energy, Agriculture and Farmer Empowerment, Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, said Odisha is “open for nuclear energy,” highlighting that the state holds deposits of critical minerals that can bolster India’s nuclear ambitions. He underscored that central government support will be essential to harness these reserves effectively, paving the way for Odisha to contribute more meaningfully to the country’s evolving clean-energy architecture.
Beyond nuclear power, the state is pursuing an aggressive renewable energy expansion plan, targeting the addition of around 11 GW of green capacity by 2030. Studies indicate Odisha has the potential to generate nearly 33 GW through pumped storage projects and over 50 GW from solar energy, giving it one of the strongest renewable resource profiles in eastern India. Officials said that pumped hydro, floating solar and other scalable technologies will form a major part of the state’s future energy mix.
Parallel to these efforts, Odisha is also accelerating its green hydrogen agenda. The state is establishing two major hydrogen hubs—one in Paradip and another in Gopalpur—with a combined investment pipeline of approximately Rs 1.25 lakh crore. The first hydrogen unit is expected to be commissioned by early 2028. These hubs are expected to serve as anchors for clean industrial growth, enabling decarbonisation for steel, chemicals and other heavy industries, while also creating new employment and innovation ecosystems.
Energy leaders in the state note that Odisha’s resource strengths, strategic policies and readiness for large-scale investment position it to play a central role in India’s energy transition. With nuclear negotiations underway, renewable energy capacity expanding and green hydrogen infrastructure accelerating, Odisha aims to emerge as a national model for integrated, future-ready power development.
As discussions with NTPC and NPCIL continue, the state’s evolving energy roadmap reflects a balanced approach that blends advanced technology, sustainability ambitions and long-term economic resilience—placing Odisha at the forefront of India’s clean-energy future.
