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By Aayushi Sharma
As India promotes the Lakshadweep islands as a substitute for the widely visited Maldives, infrastructure issues have emerged, notably in providing electricity for the proposed expansion. The Lakshadweep Tourism Policy points out that 90% of the electricity is currently generated using diesel generators, posing both financial inefficiency and environmental risks to the coral island ecosystem.
Is energy generation using nuclear micro reactors feasible in Lakshadweep?
Generating environmentally friendly power isn’t exclusive to Lakshadweep; it’s a nationwide challenge in India. Most renewable energy sources offer relatively low power output, and the complexity of establishing nuclear plants makes them impractical for rapid implementation. However, there’s a promising alternative: microreactors. These compact nuclear reactors are safer, more portable, and scalable, capable of efficiently powering extensive areas. Placing a single nuclear microreactor in Lakshadweep could fulfill the entire island’s power needs. The Indian Youth Nuclear Society is actively developing India’s inaugural indigenous microreactor, aligning with initiatives like Make in India and Atma Nirbhar Bharat.
About Microreactors: With a 10 MWe capacity and no radiological risk, the microreactor’s construction takes about two years and can be transported by rail or road. Operating for up to 15 years before refueling, it serves not only as a power source but also for captive power, green hydrogen generation, and desalination.
India’s reliance on nuclear energy for electricity generation remains limited, constituting only 3.1% of the country’s total energy output, as reported by the International Atomic Energy Agency. This figure stands in stark contrast to other nations, with France leading at 62.6%, followed by Slovakia at 59.2%, Russia at 19.6%, the US at 18.2%, and China at five per cent.
Experts’ Opinion
Nitendra Singh, the founder and president of the Indian Youth Nuclear Society said, “Large reactors cost around Rs 17 crore per MWe, while microreactors cost around Rs 20 crore per MWe. The lower cost of conventional large-size reactors is due to the economics of size. However, this difference can be reduced by using the economics of volume for microreactors, i.e., huge orders of microreactors can reduce their cost.
In addition, the initial investment in microreactors is lower, thereby attracting many investors for early deployment. Also, microreactors can be fabricated and connected to the grid within two to three years, thus having an early return on investment for investors, compared to 10-15 years in the case of conventional large reactors.”
Sumedha Basu, Research fellow, University of Leeds, United Kingdom told CFC India that, “For a small vulnerable island such as the Lakshadweep, nuclear energy will be a disaster. Decentralized solar technologies such as rooftop or floating solar should be the way forward. In general, the government should prioritize the ecological conservation of the islands and the surrounding ocean before Lakshadweep is proposed as a mainstream tourist destination.”
What is the scope of solar energy generation in Lakshadweep?
Recently, Prime Minister Modi launched Lakshadweep’s inaugural solar power facility in Kavaratti and Agatti, aiming to tap into untapped natural energy sources. This pioneering on-grid solar project, equipped with cutting-edge Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) technology, is a venture by the Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI). The combined solar capacity of these installations is 1.7 MW, accompanied by an advanced 1.4 MWh battery storage facility.
The introduction of the solar power plant aims to diminish reliance on the Diesel-based Power Generation plant, fostering a shift towards sustainable energy solutions in the region. Lakshadweep Energy Development Agency (LEDA) will now source power from these solar facilities, marking a significant move from diesel-based to an environmentally friendly energy source.
Over the anticipated technical lifespan, the project is projected to result in commercial savings of around Rs 250 crores. This involves a substantial cut in diesel consumption by up to 190 lakh liters and the offsetting of 58,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions. Additionally, the Engineering, Procurement & Construction (EPC) has been enlisted to contribute its expertise to the project.
During his recent visit to the tropical archipelago, the PM inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for development projects totaling Rs 1,150 crore in Lakshadweep. These projects span diverse sectors, including technology, energy, water resources, healthcare, and education.
Kavaratti, the capital of Lakshadweep, proudly unveils its inaugural on-grid solar power plant featuring an advanced battery energy storage system. Anticipated to result in significant savings of approximately Rs 2.50 billion, this solar facility, seamlessly integrated with a state-of-the-art 1.4 MWh battery storage system, marks a substantial stride towards sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions.
How efficient is the proposed Kavaratti Island Solar Power Plant project?
The strategically designed on-grid solar power plant efficiently harnesses solar energy, reinforced by a cutting-edge battery storage system that enhances the reliability and stability of the power supply. This initiative aligns with Kavaratti’s commitment to adopting renewable energy sources, reducing reliance on conventional power, and contributing to a greener and more sustainable energy landscape.
A notable feature is the integration of battery storage, allowing excess energy generated during peak sunlight hours to be stored and utilized during periods of lower solar output or high electricity demand. This optimization not only enhances energy utilization but also fortifies the resilience of the power grid in Kavaratti.
The debut of Kavaratti’s on-grid solar power plant with advanced battery storage underscores the island’s dedication to adopting innovative and eco-friendly energy solutions. This project positions Kavaratti as a leader in sustainable energy adoption and serves as a testament to the economic viability and long-term benefits of investing in renewable energy infrastructure.
What is the status of wind power generation in Lakshadweep?
According to The Department of Electricity, Union Territory Lakshadweep, “ 3 Nos of 250/220 kW Wind Electric Generators are proposed to be installed at Kavaratti island. During windy monsoon season these WEG in operation will replace one of the 400 kW DG set from operation, thereby reducing the consumption of the Diesel for generation of electricity. Center for Wind Energy Technology (C-WET) Chennai is entrusted with the preparation of the Bid Documents for the projects. The projects will be installed on turn key basis with the operation & maintenance entrusted to the supplier for five/ten years. Wind monitoring stations of 50 M mast height are being installed at 6 islands to study the wind parameters to explore the viability of installing WEGs at other islands.”
References:
https://lakshadweep.gov.in/departments/electricity/
Image Source:
https://unsplash.com/photos/aerial-view-of-island-during-daytime-dNEB_IfFyVk
Photo by Anuj Chauhan on Unsplash https://unsplash.com/photos/aerial-photography-of-grass-field-with-blue-solar-panels-Ilpf2eUPpUE
