NPCIL extends bid deadline for Bharat Small Reactor (BSR) tender to Sept 30

New Delhi: State-run Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) has extended the bid submission deadline for its landmark tender inviting industrial partners to co-develop Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs) for captive electricity use. In a corrigendum issued on June 25, 2025, NPCIL said the last date for submission of proposals in response to its Request for Proposal (RFP No. NPCIL/BSR-220MWe/2024/01) has been revised from June 30 to September 30, 2025. The extension was granted following requests from prospective applicants, the company stated.

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Private sector invited to finance and co-develop nuclear reactors

The RFP invites industries/companies to propose sites for twin 220 MW pressurised heavy water reactors (PHWRs), referred to as Bharat Small Reactors (BSR), which will be constructed under NPCIL’s supervision and operated by the public sector utility. While NPCIL will retain operational control and asset ownership, the participating industry — termed the USER — will hold beneficial rights over the net electricity generated.

According to the RFP documents, the successful bidder must finance the entire project, including capital and operational expenditure, and will be required to reimburse NPCIL for all costs incurred across the lifecycle — from pre-project assessments to decommissioning. In return, they will gain assured long-term access to the full electricity output (net of auxiliary consumption) for captive use.

Eligibility, terms and strategic significance

To qualify, the USER must demonstrate a minimum net worth of ₹3,000 crore and an annual power requirement of at least 2,500 million units. The power plant may be granted Captive Generating Plant (CGP) status, subject to an amendment under the Electricity Rules.

NPCIL said the initiative aligns with the government’s vision to expand clean energy generation and reduce emissions by enabling private participation in nuclear infrastructure. The Union Finance Minister first announced the BSR initiative in July 2024 as part of India’s net-zero roadmap.

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