World Power Plants

Kaiga Atomic Power Station..880 MW Nuclear

NuclearVerified: Feb 2026

The Kaiga Atomic Power Station is a pivotal nuclear power facility located in India, contributing significantly to the country's energy generation landscape. With a capacity of 880 MW, this power plant plays an essential role in India's goal to enhance its energy security while reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Operated by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India, Kaiga leverages advanced nuclear technology to produce clean and efficient energy, which is crucial in a country facing increasing electricity demands driven by population growth and industrialization. Situated at coordinates 14.8667, 74.4389, in the southern state of Karnataka, the Kaiga Atomic Power Station is strategically positioned to support the regional grid. This area is known for its rich natural resources, and the power station not only aids local energy needs but also contributes to the broader national grid, helping to stabilize energy supply across the region. The Indian government has been actively promoting nuclear energy as a key component of its energy policy, aiming to ramp up the share of nuclear power in the national energy mix. This aligns with global trends toward cleaner energy sources, as nuclear power plants like Kaiga offer a reliable alternative to carbon-emitting fossil fuels. The operation of the Kaiga facility is governed by strict safety and environmental regulations, ensuring that it meets international standards while providing a substantial amount of electricity to millions of consumers. As India continues to invest in its nuclear infrastructure, Kaiga Atomic Power Station stands out as a cornerstone of the country's energy future.

Capacity
880 MW
Commissioning Year
2000

26 years old

Owner
Nuclear Power Corporation of India
Location
14.8667°, 74.4389°

India, Asia

Context & rankings
  • 201. largest of 1,805 plants in India
  • #2,753 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #355 of 514 Nuclear plants worldwide
  • 0.17% of the installed capacity of India
Age & fleet comparison

26 years in operation

Nuclear fleet average: 38.1 years

Operator portfolio

Nuclear Power Corporation of India operates 9 plants totalling 16,840 MW

Regional density

17 plants within 100 km, 3,862 MW combined

Nearest plant: KADRA (5.7 km)

Data provenance

Source: Wikidata

Location

Coordinates:: 14.866667, 74.438889
Open in Google Maps
Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Kaiga Atomic Power Station.. is a nuclear power plant producing approximately 6552 GWh of clean electricity per year with zero direct CO₂ emissions during operation.

Lifecycle emissions: ~12 g CO₂/kWh (manufacturing, transport, decommissioning)

Technical Details

Primary Fuel Type
Nuclear
Energy Source
Non-Renewable
Country
India
Continent
Asia
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

Kaiga Atomic Power Station: A Key Player in India's Nuclear Energy Landscape

The Kaiga Atomic Power Station, located in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, India, is an essential component of the country's nuclear energy infrastructure. Owned and operated by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL), the facility has a total installed capacity of 880 megawatts (MW) and plays a significant role in meeting India's growing energy demands. The power plant contributes to the national grid, providing a stable and reliable supply of electricity while also promoting energy security within the region and the country as a whole.

The Kaiga Atomic Power Station utilizes nuclear fuel, specifically enriched uranium, to generate electricity. The plant primarily employs pressurized heavy water reactors (PHWR), which use heavy water (deuterium oxide) as both a coolant and a neutron moderator. This type of reactor is particularly advantageous as it allows the use of natural uranium as fuel, which is abundant and can be sourced domestically. The choice of nuclear power as a fuel type is in line with India's strategy to diversify its energy portfolio and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, thereby enhancing energy sustainability and security.

In terms of environmental impact, the Kaiga Atomic Power Station is designed to operate within strict regulatory standards to minimize its ecological footprint. Nuclear power generation produces significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel-based power plants, contributing to India's commitment to combating climate change. However, the management of nuclear waste remains a critical concern. The NPCIL has implemented comprehensive safety protocols and waste management strategies to ensure the responsible handling and disposal of radioactive materials. Ongoing monitoring and research are also conducted to address potential environmental risks associated with nuclear energy production.

Regionally, the Kaiga Atomic Power Station holds considerable significance. It not only bolsters Karnataka's energy supply but also supports industrial growth and economic development in the surrounding areas. The presence of the facility has led to the creation of jobs and has stimulated local infrastructure improvements. Furthermore, the station serves as a model for future nuclear projects in India, showcasing advancements in technology and safety measures.

In conclusion, the Kaiga Atomic Power Station stands as a vital asset in India's energy sector, exemplifying the country's commitment to harnessing nuclear power as a key component of its energy mix. With its advanced technology, sustainable fuel source, and regional economic contributions, Kaiga continues to play a pivotal role in shaping India's energy landscape while addressing the pressing challenges of energy security and environmental sustainability.

IndiaEnergy Profile

1,805
Total Plants
513.9 GW
Total Capacity
CoalGasHydroSolar
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