The much-awaited power generation from the Rs.14,000-crore Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant is likely to begin in June. The trial run of the first unit (1,000 MW), after loading the reactor with fuel (enriched uranium), will begin on June 10.
“The dummy fuel has been removed; now, we are waiting for the clearance of the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) for loading the real fuel. The AERB's nod is expected in another three or four days, and in all probability, the trial run may begin on June 10,” Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office V. Narayanasamy told The Hindu on Thursday.
The trial run would go on for 15 days, and in stages, the reactor would reach criticality. “In all probability, we can start getting power… in June itself,” he said.
Asked whether a formal function would be organised for the inauguration of the project, Mr. Narayanasamy said nothing had been decided so far. The work was apace on the second unit (also of 1,000 MW), and it could be commissioned in the next few months, he said.
