Archive · 21 Sep 2026
NPCIL Begins Fuel Loading at RAPP-8, Advancing Nuclear Power
NPCIL has started putting fuel into a new nuclear reactor in Rajasthan.
The reactor is called Unit 8 of the Rajasthan Atomic Power Project.
It can produce 700 megawatts of electricity.
The reactor uses a design developed in India called a pressurised heavy water reactor.
Fuel loading is an important step before the reactor can begin regular operations.
More testing and preparation will still be needed.
This process usually takes about six to eight months.
NPCIL expects the reactor to start commercial operation during the current financial year.
NPCIL began initial fuel loading at Unit 8 of the Rajasthan Atomic Power Project on September 19, 2026.
The 700-megawatt-electric reactor is located in Rawatbhata, Rajasthan.
RAPP-8 is an indigenous pressurised heavy water reactor.
Initial fuel loading is a key step toward commissioning the unit.
Commercial operation is expected during the current financial year, typically six to eight months after fuel loading begins.
- Who
- Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited began the process, with senior NPCIL officials present.
- What
- Initial fuel loading began at Unit 8 of the Rajasthan Atomic Power Project, a 700 MWe reactor.
- When
- Initial fuel loading commenced at 15:18 on September 19, 2026.
- Where
- Rawatbhata, Rajasthan, India.
- Why
- The fuel loading advances commissioning of the reactor, which is expected to enter commercial operation during the current financial year.
- Project
- Unit 8 of the Rajasthan Atomic Power Project
- Operator
- Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited
- Reactor capacity
- 700 megawatts-electric
- Reactor type
- Indigenous pressurised heavy water reactor
- Fuel loading time
- 15:18 on September 19, 2026
- Expected commercial operation
- During the current financial year
- Typical transition period
- About six to eight months from initial fuel loading to commercial operation