US approves Holtec to build nuclear reactors in India

In a major breakthrough for India-United States nuclear cooperation, the US Department of Energy (DoE) has granted Holtec International a critical regulatory approval, allowing the company to transfer Small Modular reactor (SMR) technology to India.The nod on 26th, Authorization clears a significant roadblock that had stalled the commercial implementation of the 2007 India-US civil nuclear agreement, according to a report in The Indian Express on Sunday.

- BY S VENKAT NARAYAN OUR SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT

This approval allows Holtec to share de-classified SMR technology with three Indian entities – Holtec Asia (its regional subsidiary), Tata Consulting Engineers Ltd, and Larsen & Toubro Ltd.The move is expected to deepen India’s nuclear expertise, localise SMR manufacturing and strengthen New Delhi’s position in the global SMR market.

While this regulatory approval opens up new avenues for nuclear collaborations, the era is certain conditional. The authorization is valid for 10 years, subject to review at the five-year mark.The technology must be used only for peaceful nuclear activities under International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards. Holtec is required to submit quarterly reports to the DoE detailing the transfer of technology and assistance provided.

Holtec International is a supplier of equipment and systems for the energy industry. Founded in Mount Laurel, New Jersey USA in 1986. Holtec International is a privately-held technology company with domestic operation centres in New Delhi, Florida, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Ukraine. It specializes in the design and manufacture of parts for nuclear reactors. The company sells equipment to manage spent nuclear fuel from nuclear reactors.