With regulatory approval from the U.S. Department of Energy in hand, Indian multinational conglomerate Larsen & Toubro (L&T) is accelerating its plans to manufacture Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), positioning itself at the forefront of India’s nuclear energy transition. The company aims to play a pivotal role in the commercialisation of next-generation nuclear technology, which is increasingly seen as a vital component of the global clean energy mix.
“Nuclear by nature involves long gestation. The global trend is now shifting from these large-scale reactors to compact, modular ones. That technology is available, but success will depend on forming the right partnerships,” said Subramanian Sarma, Deputy Managing Director & President, L&T.
He noted that L&T is actively engaging with potential technology partners in the United States and Europe to bring advanced SMR capabilities to India. These partnerships will be critical in localising design, manufacturing, and deployment processes to suit India’s energy needs and regulatory environment.
Small Modular Reactors represent a new frontier in nuclear innovation. Unlike traditional large-scale nuclear plants, SMRs are factory-fabricated, scalable units that offer lower upfront capital costs, enhanced safety features, and flexible deployment—especially in remote or grid-constrained areas. They are seen as a viable solution for decarbonising industrial sectors and providing reliable baseload power while supporting renewable integration.
L&T’s move comes at a time when India is ramping up its energy infrastructure to meet growing demand while striving to achieve its climate commitments. With its proven track record in nuclear engineering and infrastructure, L&T’s entry into SMR manufacturing could significantly boost India’s nuclear capabilities and global standing in advanced reactor technologies.