India and France have discussed the proposed deployment of European Pressurised Reactor (EPR) technology in India, along with the localisation of the nuclear supply chain and cooperation in pumped hydro storage projects.
The discussions took place in New Delhi on September 25, 2026, between Power Secretary Pankaj Agarwal and Bernard Fontana, Chairman and CEO of French energy company EDF. The meeting reviewed ongoing engagement between India and EDF on the proposed deployment of EPR reactors in the country.
The talks covered EPR technology, regulatory reforms in India’s nuclear sector, pumped hydro storage and the future direction of cooperation between the two sides.
EDF Highlights Nuclear Supply Chain Localisation
EDF briefed the Indian side on its efforts to develop an ecosystem and supply chain within India to support large-scale localisation of nuclear projects.
The French company also emphasised that a sizeable programme involving multiple nuclear reactors could provide greater confidence to suppliers and help achieve economies of scale by making use of the capabilities of Indian industry.
The discussions therefore included not only the proposed reactor deployment but also the development of a domestic supply network to support future nuclear projects.
India Updates France on SHANTI Regulatory Framework
During the meeting, Pankaj Agarwal also shared an update on progress towards finalising India’s regulatory framework for nuclear power.
The discussions included the Draft SHANTI (Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India) Rules and Regulations, which have been placed in the public domain by the Department of Atomic Energy for stakeholder consultation.
According to the Ministry of Power, the proposed rules are intended to provide a streamlined and time-bound licensing framework while enabling private and foreign participation in India’s nuclear power programme.
Pumped Hydro Storage Cooperation Also Discussed
India and France also examined cooperation in pumped hydro storage projects. The discussions build on the proposed NTPC-EDF joint venture in this area.
Officials from the Ministry of Power, Ministry of External Affairs, Central Electricity Authority, NTPC Limited and NPCIL participated in the meeting from the Indian side. EDF and the Embassy of France in India represented the French side.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information released by the Ministry of Power. The proposals and discussions mentioned above reflect the status of engagement as reported by the ministry and should not be interpreted as confirmation of final project approvals, reactor deployment decisions or completed agreements unless formally announced by the concerned authorities.