Archive · 24 Sep 2026
Odisha Studies Six Sites for Potential Nuclear Power Projects
Odisha is considering whether to build nuclear power plants in the state.
The government has allowed NTPC and Adani Power to study several possible locations.
One location is near Deogarh, and others are near Balimela Dam and Manjore Dam.
Adani Power has suggested two large projects that could produce 5,600 megawatts of electricity.
Tata Power has also shown interest in building a plant in Malkangiri.
The projects have not been finally approved.
Experts say the sites must be checked for water supply, geology, earthquakes, environmental effects and population safety.
The studies are part of a wider effort to consider nuclear power alongside coal, hydropower and renewable energy.
Odisha has given in-principle approval for NTPC and Adani Power to study six locations for possible nuclear projects.
NTPC has selected a site near Deogarh, while sites near Balimela Dam and Manjore Dam are also under examination.
Adani Power has proposed two 2,800-MW nuclear projects with a combined capacity of 5,600 MW.
Tata Power has proposed a nuclear plant in Malkangiri, but its proposal remains under consideration.
All proposals remain preliminary and require technical, environmental, geological and nuclear-safety assessments before approval.
- Who
- The Odisha government, NTPC, Adani Power and Tata Power are involved; Deputy Chief Minister and Energy Minister K.V. Singh Deo announced the approvals.
- What
- Feasibility studies are being considered for six locations for possible nuclear power projects.
- When
- The update was given in the Odisha Assembly on Wednesday; an Adani Power delegation met the energy minister on July 30.
- Where
- The proposed locations are in Odisha, including areas near Deogarh, Balimela Dam in Malkangiri district and Manjore Dam in Angul district.
- Why
- Odisha is exploring nuclear power as part of its long-term energy strategy and India’s broader plan to expand nuclear generation.
Nuclear Expansion Advocates
Assessment and Safety Caution
Energy strategy
Nuclear Expansion Advocates
Supporters see nuclear power as a potential addition to Odisha’s thermal, hydropower and renewable-energy capacity.
Assessment and Safety Caution
Cautioning experts emphasize that the proposals are preliminary and that no location should be cleared before detailed technical, environmental and safety reviews.
Reservoir locations
Nuclear Expansion Advocates
Large water bodies near Balimela and Manjore could support conventional reactors because they require substantial cooling water.
Assessment and Safety Caution
Water availability alone is insufficient; geological conditions, seismic vulnerability, hydrology, population density, environmental impacts and emergency preparedness must also be assessed.
- Companies involved
- NTPC, Adani Power and Tata Power
- Proposed Adani capacity
- Two projects totaling 5,600 MW
- NTPC location
- A site near Deogarh has been selected for further action
- Other study areas
- Balimela Dam in Malkangiri district and Manjore Dam in Angul district
- Approval status
- No site has received final approval for a nuclear plant
- Required assessments
- Technical, environmental, geological, hydrological and nuclear-safety studies
- Existing national capacity
- India has 24 commercially operating nuclear reactors with a combined capacity of 8,780 MW