NTPC Limited, India’s largest integrated power company, has teamed up with Clean Core Thorium Energy (CCTE), a U.S.-based organization, to explore the development and use of “ANEEL™️” (Advanced Nuclear Energy for Enriched Life). This innovative Thorium-based fuel is designed for Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) and will require approval from the respective governments to proceed. A Maharatna company under the Indian government, NTPC is actively working towards India’s net carbon zero goal. While focusing on renewable energy, NTPC is also expanding into nuclear energy, which provides a reliable and clean power source. This collaboration highlights NTPC’s commitment to sustainability, energy security, and advancing nuclear technology through partnerships and indigenous fuel development.
Clean Core Thorium Energy (CCTE) is at the forefront of developing innovative thorium-based nuclear fuel technologies. Its flagship product, ANEEL™️ (Advanced Nuclear Energy for Enriched Life), combines thorium with small amounts of enriched uranium. ANEEL™️ fuel is designed to be used in existing Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) and offers several advantages. It enables the use of domestically available thorium, reduces nuclear waste, enhances energy security, and improves reactor safety and resistance to proliferation. Additionally, ANEEL™️ fuel provides cost savings by delivering more energy output within current safety standards and reducing operating costs for existing reactors.
NTPC Limited and Clean Core Thorium Energy (CCTE) are set to collaborate on several initiatives, subject to government approvals in accordance with national laws. Their joint efforts will focus on developing and deploying ANEEL™️ fuel in India, exploring the possibility of manufacturing it locally, and establishing a domestic supply chain. Additionally, they aim to create a supply chain for HALEU (High-Assay Low-Enriched Uranium) and ensure the supply of uranium to India with sovereign guarantees. Speaking on this partnership, Shri A. P. Samal, General Manager of NTPC’s Nuclear Cell, and Shri Mehul Shah, Founder & CEO of CCTE, highlighted that this collaboration reflects a shared commitment to advancing nuclear energy innovation by leveraging the potential of ANEEL™️ fuel technology.
