Bihar: Centre Nod for Nuclear Plant, 1000 MW Battery Storage Unit
Inion Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar in Patna on Tuesday!(Image credit Manohar Lal, X)_
Union Power Minister lauds Bihar’s energy reforms; additional 500 MW sanctioned for summer needs
By AMIT KUMAR
PATNA, June 24, 2025 – In a major boost to Bihar’s energy infrastructure, the Centre has given the green signal for the establishment of a nuclear power plant in the state, along with a 1000 MW battery storage capacity unit, Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar announced on Tuesday.
The move is part of a broader strategy to ensure long-term energy security and sustainability for the eastern region. The announcement came amid rising political heat in Bihar over the upcoming Assembly elections. The announcement came during the Eastern Region Power Ministers’ Conference held in Patna, attended by ministers from Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Khattar was joined by Union Minister of State for Power Shripad Yesso Naik, Bihar Energy Minister Bijendra Prasad Yadav, and senior officials from the power sector.
“Khattar revealed that the Centre has in principle agreed to Bihar’s demand for setting up a nuclear power facility, though details regarding location and capacity are yet to be finalised,” a media statement issued by the Bihar government said.
Khattar was quoted having said that the Centre “encouraged all states to host at least one nuclear power plant. Bihar requested one, and the Centre will fully support it.” This marks a strategic shift in Bihar’s energy landscape, as the state prepares to enter the era of nuclear-powered electricity generation for the first time, added the state government.
Battery Storage to Support Renewables
Additionally, Khattar announced the approval of a 1000 MW battery storage system in Bihar, designed to support renewable energy integration. The project will receive a Viability Gap Funding (VGF) of ₹18 lakh per MW from the central government.
“The battery storage system will help balance power supply, especially as Bihar ramps up its renewable capacity,” he added.
The Union Minister lauded Bihar’s achievements in the power sector, particularly its efforts in reducing Aggregate Technical & Commercial (AT&C) losses, installing 80 lakh smart meters, and enhancing the overall distribution network. “Bihar was once lagging in the power sector, but now it has set an example for others,” Khattar remarked.
Acknowledging Bihar’s increased demand during peak summer months, the Centre has approved an additional allocation of 500 MW for the next six months. “We are committed to providing power to every state from the central pool in case of shortages,” Khattar assured.
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