Russia’s Rosatom State Atomic Energy Corporation has developed
Floating Nuclear
Power Plants (FNPPs) .
The Akademik Lomonosov , operational since 2019 in Pevek
, Arctic ,
serves as a
successful prototype.
FNPPs consist of small light water reactors (14-15% enriched
uranium
fuel),
generating 35 MW each .
Rosatom is building four more FNPPs of 50 MW capacity
for its use.
Plans for land-based Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) like
RITM-200
in
Russia’s Yakutia
region .
Relevance for India
India has a 7,500 km coastline and multiple islands , making
FNPPs a potential
energy solution.
FNPPs can power remote coastal towns and islands without
requiring land
acquisition.
Offers a 40-year lifespan , with an option for extension
.
Russia is open to collaborating with India on FNPP technology.
India could leverage shipbuilding expertise to build FNPP
structures, while Russia
provides reactors .
Floating Nuclear Power Plant (FNPP)
A Floating Nuclear Power Plant (FNPP) is a movable
and
self-contained nuclear
power station built on a ship or barge . It can be towed
to
coastal areas or islands
to provide electricity and heat without
requiring land-based infrastructure.
Advantages of FNPPs
No land requirement , making it easier to deploy.
Earthquake-resistant due to their floating nature.
Abundant water availability for cooling.
Easier decommissioning , as units can be removed and processed
safely.
Challenges and Considerations
High cost : Series production at identified shipyards could help
reduce costs.
Fuel procurement : India may need to import enriched
uranium
under IAEA safeguards .
Technical collaboration : Requires joint efforts
between India
and Russia, similar
to Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant .
Regulatory approvals : Must comply with India's Atomic
Energy
Regulatory Board
(AERB) guidelines.
Practice Questions for Prelims:
1. Consider the following statements regarding Floating Nuclear
Power Plants (FNPPs):
FNPPs require a dedicated land base for operation.
They are earthquake-resistant and have an abundant water supply for cooling.
Russia’s Akademik Lomonosov is the first operational FNPP.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
1 and 2 only
2 and 3 only
1 and 3 only
1, 2, and 3
Answer:
b) 2 and 3 only
2. India’s Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant is developed in
collaboration with:
