Amid the debate over Indo-US civil nuclear deal, former President A P J Abdul Kalam has thrown his weight behind nuclear power, saying energy independence in the country can be achieved by adding more atomic power plants.

"Energy independence has to be realized by restructuring our energy resources by adding more nuclear power plants, a large number of solar power plants, wind energy-based power plants and hydel power plants and reduce emphasis on coal and oil-based power plants," Kalam said while addressing the foundation day lecture of the Indian Oil [Get Quote] Research and Development here on March 10.

Expressing his concern over the limited reserve of conventional forms of fuel, Kalam said "very soon, oil and gas will see its finiteness. It is high time that we realize this factor and work towards the fuel of the future".

Addressing the researchers of the Oil giant, Kalam said hydrogen fuel, emulsified fuels, solar energy, nano-technology, bio-fuel, high-octane synthetic diesel, seed processing, crushing and esterification plants are the imminent need of the hour and researchers of the Rs 50,000-crore company should take up this challenge to prepare the country for fuel and energy stability.

"Hydrogen holds the potential to provide a clean, efficient, reliable and affordable supply of energy for meeting the growing energy needs of India's economy while protecting the environment and ensuring energy security," Kalam said.