Daijiworld Media Network- Panaji
Panaji, May 13: In a significant development, Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Monday stated that the Centre is considering the possibility of establishing a nuclear power plant in Goa to address the state’s growing energy needs. The announcement came after a comprehensive review meeting with Goa Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant and other senior ministers in Panaji.
While clarifying that the idea is still in its preliminary, recommendation stage, Khattar said that the state’s geographical and climatic limitations make it unsuitable for large-scale thermal, hydro, or solar power generation, thus warranting alternative solutions like nuclear energy.
"There is a suggestion to set up a nuclear plant in Goa. The state currently lacks its own power generation plant, and due to monsoon constraints, other sources have limitations. We are evaluating the feasibility. If needed, this option will be considered in the future," said the minister.
Khattar also mentioned that India aims to significantly increase its nuclear power generation capacity from the current 8 gigawatts to 100 gigawatts by 2047, in line with the country’s long-term energy vision. The central government has instructed each region to explore the possibility of setting up nuclear plants to support this goal.
During his visit, Khattar assured central support for Goa’s flagship 'Drink from Tap' 24x7 water supply project, which is expected to cost around Rs 652 crore. He said the Centre will provide Rs 113 crore under the Swachh Bharat Mission and assist in procuring 50 electric buses for the state.
The minister added that smart metering across Goa is also being prioritized, and the tendering process has already begun. On the renewable energy front, he announced a plan to increase rooftop solar installations to 22,000 connections by 2026-27. Additionally, sewage treatment plants (STPs) in Mormugao (25 MLD), Sanquelim (3 MLD), and Ponda (8 MLD) will be supported with central funding.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant noted that Goa currently generates only 99 megawatts of solar power and acknowledged that several new ideas are being explored to enhance the state’s energy self-sufficiency.
Reacting sharply to the announcement, Goa Congress President Amit Patkar condemned the suggestion of setting up a nuclear plant in what he termed a "peaceful and eco-sensitive region."
"Goa is not a laboratory for BJP’s dangerous experiments. The very idea of a nuclear plant here is absurd," Patkar said, vowing to oppose any move that could compromise the state’s environment and public safety.
While the proposal remains in the exploratory stage, it has already stirred public discourse, with many calling for greater transparency and environmental safeguards before such a step is considered.