India's Atomic Energy Commission chairman reviewed the 500 MW Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam on June 27, 2026, focusing on low-power physics experiments and turbine generator overhauling needed before grid synchronization. The reactor achieved first criticality on April 6, 2026, and is a key part of India's three-stage nuclear program aimed at long-term fuel self-sufficiency and thorium utilization. The PFBR uses sodium-heated steam generators to drive a 500 MW turbine, with steam at 493 degrees Celsius and 177 kg/cm2 pressure. The turbine overhaul is being handled by BHEL. BHAVINI, the operator, plans to move from this prototype to commercial fleet deployment, with pre-project work starting on a twin-unit fast breeder project next to the current site. This technology breeds more fissile fuel than it consumes, supporting India's net-zero carbon goals by providing reliable low-carbon base load power. The phased nationwide deployment of additional fast reactors is in early planning stages, with site identification underway.
