Author: Rajiv Iyer (Sustainability Panel)
Catalysing low-carbon supply chains
The Jaitapur Nuclear Power Plant (JNPP) in Maharashtra, India, will be the world’s largest nuclear power station, with a projected capacity of 10 GW - enough to power approximately 70 million homes. Beyond its scale, JNPP presents a transformative opportunity to integrate carbon-conscious decision-making into material supply chains, setting new sustainability benchmarks for large-scale infrastructure projects.
Developed by NPCIL in collaboration with EDF, both the Indian and French governments are working together to enhance the cost efficiency and competitiveness of the project. One of the key strategies being explored is the localisation of the supply chain. To support this, a special task force has been established and is actively working on the localisation aspects, while techno-commercial discussions continue.
With over nine million cubic meters of concrete and nearly 700,000 tonnes of steel, JNPP’s material choices are expected to result in a significant carbon footprint, an estimate extrapolated from Hinkley Point C data. By prioritising sustainability in its supply chain, JNPP has the potential to set new industry standards, driving policy shifts and shaping future low-carbon mega-projects worldwide.
The procurement challenge: Balancing centralisation and decentralisation
For the JNPP project, EDF would oversee the engineering and procurement package, while NPCIL would undertake construction and commissioning. Given the scale of the project, which spans continents, striking the right balance between centralised and decentralsed procurement will be crucial for minimising emissions and fostering sustainability.
Centralised procurement (EDF-led)
- Would enable standardisation of carbon measurement and sustainability practices
- Would leverage global expertise and economies of scale
- Would ensure high-quality, safety-compliant nuclear components
- Could potentially limit flexibility for localised, low-carbon innovations
Decentralised procurement (NPCIL-led)
- Would encourage engagement with local suppliers, reducing transportation emissions
- Could support India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative, fostering industrial growth
- Would enhance adaptability to local regulatory frameworks and supply chain disruptions
A hybrid approach, leveraging EDF’s technological expertise while integrating low-carbon local solutions, could optimise both sustainability and efficiency.
Building a green supply chain
To establish a sustainable supply chain for JNPP, carbon-conscious decision-making must be integrated at every stage, setting a benchmark for future nuclear and large-scale infrastructure projects. The following steps ensure a structured approach to reducing the project's carbon footprint:
Pre-qualification stage: Sustainability as a prerequisite
- Mandatory carbon reporting: Suppliers must provide verifiable carbon footprint data (ISO 14067, GHG Protocol)
- Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs): Materials like cement and steel must disclose embedded carbon and lifecycle emissions
- Circular economy: Preference for suppliers using recycled materials or offering take-back schemes
- Sustainable sourcing: Quarries must follow best practices for land rehabilitation and emissions control
Tender stage: Carbon as a key evaluation criterion
- Carbon reduction plans: Bidders must submit emissions reduction plans
- Emissions-weighted carbon price (ECP): Sustainability should comprise 20-30% of the tender evaluation
- Prevent Greenwashing: Third-party verification of sustainability claims
Contract award: Enforcing sustainability
- Carbon-linked performance clauses: Contracts should require suppliers to meet emissions reduction targets
- Incentives for low-carbon innovations: Reward suppliers exceeding carbon reduction goals
- Real-time monitoring: Implement systems to track carbon compliance
Project execution: Embedding sustainability in operations
- Carbon task force: Oversee emissions tracking and best practices
- Carbon audits: Regular independent audits of emissions
- Low-carbon logistics: Prioritise rail and maritime transport
- Modular and prefabricated construction: Minimise onsite waste
- Energy-efficient workforce housing: Use solar power and energy-efficient appliances
Measuring success: Lifecycle sustainability monitoring
- Building Information Modelling (BIM): Optimise material use and minimise waste
- AI and blockchain: Optimise emissions and provide transparent carbon tracking
- Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs): Conduct regular LCAs to refine sustainability strategies
This approach will not only reduce JNPP's carbon footprint but also set a high standard for future projects.
Harmonising global and local regulatory frameworks
JNPP must align sustainability goals with both Indian and French regulations, ensuring best practices are upheld across jurisdictions.
French Influence:
- EDF brings expertise in EU carbon reporting standards and lifecycle assessment methodologies
- Stringent nuclear safety and waste management protocols set high sustainability standards
Indian considerations:
- NPCIL’s alignment with Make in India fosters local innovation in sustainable manufacturing
- India’s ambitious climate policies create a favourable environment for carbon reduction initiatives
A joint task force between EDF and NPCIL should oversee carbon reduction compliance, ensuring transparency and accountability.
JNPP: A blueprint for future green mega-projects
If realised, JNPP could serve as a case study in integrating sustainability into large-scale infrastructure development. Key takeaways would include:
- Effective collaboration between global and local supply chains
- Systematic integration of carbon reduction strategies
- Innovative procurement and technology-driven sustainability practices
- The role of low-carbon materials in shaping future mega-projects
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