Adani Group Incorporates “Adani Atomic Energy” Subsidiary

February 12, 2026 – In a move set to redefine India’s energy landscape, the Adani Group has officially signaled its entry into the nuclear power sector. The conglomerate’s flagship power arm, Adani Power Limited (APL), announced the incorporation of a new wholly owned subsidiary, Adani Atomic Energy Limited (AAEL), marking a historic pivot toward atomic energy.

The subsidiary was formally incorporated on February 11, 2026, following the receipt of the Certificate of Incorporation from the Registrar of Companies. This development follows years of state-led dominance in the sector and aligns with the Indian government’s recent legislative reforms aimed at privatizing nuclear power generation.

Key Details of the New Venture

The new entity, Adani Atomic Energy Limited, has been established with the primary objective of generating, transmitting, and distributing electric power derived from nuclear and atomic sources.

Policy Shift: The SHANTI Bill Catalyst

The timing of this launch is inextricably linked to the landmark Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Bill, 2025. Passed by Parliament in late 2025, the SHANTI Act dismantled the 60-year government monopoly held by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL).

By modernizing the Atomic Energy Act of 1962, the new legislation allows private players to:

1. Build and operate nuclear power plants for civilian use.
2. Invest in Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), which are safer and more cost-effective.
3. Collaborate with international technology partners under a revised liability framework.

Strategic Vision: 30 GW and the AI Connection

Industry insiders suggest that Adani Power aims to build a massive 30 GW nuclear capacity over the next two decades. The long-term vision involves gradually replacing the group’s existing thermal (coal-based) capacity with clean, baseload nuclear energy.

This transition is fueled by the surging demand from AI Data Centers. The Adani Group is currently scaling up gigawatt-scale data center parks in cities like Vizag and Noida. Unlike solar or wind, which are intermittent, nuclear power provides the 24/7 “always-on” electricity required to run hyperscale AI infrastructure.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

While the entry into nuclear is a significant milestone, it is not without hurdles. Nuclear projects are capital-intensive, with SMRs costing upwards of $5 billion per gigawatt. Additionally, Adani Atomic Energy will need to navigate:

• Technological Partnerships: Seeking tie-ups with global leaders for Gen-4 reactor technology.
• Regulatory Rigor: Adhering to the strict safety standards set by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB).
• Public Perception: Managing the safety and environmental narratives surrounding atomic power.

With the government also proposing extended customs duty exemptions for nuclear equipment in the Budget 2026-27, the stage is set for a competitive race as other giants like Tata Power and Reliance Industries are also expected to explore the atomic arena.