NEW DELHI: India's goal of reaching 500 Gigawatts (GW) of non-fossil fuel energy by 2030 as part of its strategy to achieve a low-carbon economy touched a new milestone with a new unit of the Rajasthan Atomic Power Project achieving criticality. 'This achievement is notable as India continues to balance its growing energy needs with its commitments to reducing carbon emissions,' the Indian Department of Atomic Energy announced today. Reaching criticality in a nuclear reactor marks the transition from its construction phase to the operational phase. It refers to the beginning of nuclear fission chain reaction resulting in a stable level of power output. 'With this milestone, India takes another leap forward in enhancing its domestic power generation capabilities while reducing its carbon footprint,' the announcement said. 'India's nuclear energy programme is a vital component of its strategy to achieve a low-carbon economy.' The Rajasthan Atomic Power Project has a total planned capacity of 1400 MW. Its un it which has now begun operation is the seventh. Its eighth unit is slated for electricity generation next year. Source: Emirates News Agency