(a)whether the electricity generated from the new atomic power plants is likely to be more expensive than the power generated from solar energy as reported in the media;
(b)if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor;
(c)whether the Government has launched/proposes to launch a public awareness campaign to allay the apprehension of the people in this regard; and
(d)if so, the details thereof and the progress made in this regard?
THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (Dr. JITENDRA SINGH):
(a) & (b) Nuclear power is a base load electricity generating technology available on round-the-clock throughout the year, whereas solar power is intermittent and hence cannot strictly be compared. The tariffs of electricity generated by new nuclear power plants are expected to be comparable to those of base load contemporary electricity generating technologies. Present nuclear power tariffs range from about Rs.0.97 to Rs.3.89 per unit, which are comparable to those of other sources.
(c) & (d) Yes, Sir. Public outreach programme based on a multipronged approach has been taken up to spread awareness about nuclear power and address the apprehensions of the people on all issues relevant to nuclear power including their tariffs.
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