Energy crisis: Pinarayi Vijayan warns state to opt for nuclear power projects

Leader of Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan

Leader of Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan on Wednesday advised caution in implementing nuclear projects in Kerala.

As nuclear power projects to meet the immediate need could have serious implications for the state in the future, Mr. Vijayan said in the Kerala Legislative Assembly after the opposition Left Democratic Front moved an adjournment motion seeking a discussion on the energy crisis.

Recent central changes in nuclear power laws have removed the strict terms of liability for damages that previously applied to operators, he said in an apparent reference to the provisions of the centre’s Sustainable Use and Development of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Act 2025.

Mr Vijayan’s warning came at a time when nuclear power is back in the news, with the Center opening up the sector to private players and announcing plans to research and develop the Bharat Small Modular Reactor.

While the Kerala government has not announced any policy decisions on setting up nuclear power plants, the White Paper on the Fiscal Health of Kerala released by the United Democratic Front government when it came to power urged the state to substantially increase power generation by exploring options including nuclear power.

“Significant growth requires a substantial increase in electricity generation capacity, 6,000 MW through solar power. 8,000 MW through pumped hydro projects and even more through closed-loop reactors developed by the Bhabha Atomic Research Agency (BARC) and through small modular reactors,” the paper said.

Published – 14 Oct 2026 20:33 IST