Adani Power expands nuclear presence through new step-down subsidiary
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Adani Power has stepped up its presence in the nuclear energy space with the incorporation of a new step-down subsidiary focussed on power generation from atomic sources.
In a regulatory filing, the company said its wholly-owned subsidiary, Adani Atomic Energy Ltd (AAEL), has set up another wholly-owned arm, Rawatbhata-Raj Atomic Energy Ltd (RRAEL), on Monday (April 20). The new entity will be engaged in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity derived from nuclear and atomic energy.
The move is in line with the government’s target to reach 100 GW of nuclear energy capacity by 2047. It has introduced key legislative changes to open up the sector to private players.
India stands at just 8–9 GW capacity now
Currently, India’s nuclear power capacity remains relatively low at 8–9 GW, leaving significant room for expansion over the next two decades.
Adani Power’s latest step signals growing interest from private companies in this segment.
Other large corporations, including Tata Power and the Naveen Jindal Group, have also indicated plans to invest in nuclear energy, aligning with the government’s long-term clean energy roadmap.
What is SHANTI Act?
The rising investment by the private sector in the nuclear energy sector is primarily enabled by the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Act, which aims to update and consolidate India’s nuclear energy framework.
A key feature of the Act is that it allows limited private sector participation in areas such as power generation and equipment manufacturing while keeping sensitive parts of the nuclear fuel cycle under strict government control.
It also strengthens regulation by giving statutory backing to the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board, along with clearer licensing, safety, and liability rules. At the same time, it focusses on maintaining high standards of safety, security, and accountability.
The broader aim of the Act is to support India’s clean energy transition and long-term energy security. By creating a more flexible and investment-friendly environment, it intends to accelerate the expansion of nuclear power capacity, including new technologies like small modular reactors.