Kakrapar Atomic Power Project's Fourth Unit Achieves Criticality

On 17^th December, 2023, the Kakrapar Atomic Power Project (KAPP-4) in Gujarat achieved a significant milestone, as its fourth unit with a 700 MWe capacity initiated a controlled fission chain reaction, becoming critical.

Key Points

• Largest Indigenous Nuclear Power Reactors: KAPP-4 houses 700 MWe units, making them the largest indigenous nuclear power reactors constructed by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL).
• These pressurized heavy water reactors (PHWRs) utilize natural uranium as fuel and heavy water as a coolant and moderator.
• Commercial Operation of Unit-3: Preceding KAPP-4, the 700-MWe unit-3 of KAPP had commenced commercial electricity generation on August 30. ....