Global Nuclear Electricity Generation Reaches New Heights
In 2025, global nuclear electricity generation hit a record 2,702 terawatt-hours (TWh), marking a second consecutive year of growth as countries focus on enhancing energy security and resilience. The World Nuclear Association’s latest report indicates a 35 TWh increase from the previous year, with the global fleet achieving an impressive 83.7% capacity factor.
A Growing Support for Nuclear Energy
Political backing for nuclear energy is rising, with 38 countries endorsing the goal to triple global nuclear capacity by 2050, a commitment first established at COP 28.
Dr. Sama Bilbao y León, Director General of the World Nuclear Association, emphasized, “This is an extraordinary moment for nuclear energy. Governments recognize the need for more nuclear power to tackle challenges linked to energy security, affordability, and climate objectives.”
Future Capacity Projections
The Association forecasts that through existing projects and planned expansions, nearly 1,457 gigawatt-electric (GWe) of nuclear capacity could be achieved by 2050, surpassing the initial tripling target by over 200 GWe. However, significant gaps remain; over 550 GWe needed to meet government ambitions are not represented by active projects.
Dr. León pointed out, “Ambition alone will not deliver,” highlighting the necessity for tangible action alongside these goals. The Association advocates for maximizing the current reactor fleet while pushing forward with planned projects.
Increasing Construction Activity
Nuclear capacity under construction grew to 82 GWe in 2025, with 11 new reactors commencing development. There is also a projected 416 GWe of planned and proposed capacity, significantly bridging the gap between actual projects and government aspirations.
Importance of Existing Reactors
Lifetime extensions for operational reactors are identified as a rapid and cost-effective means of maintaining low-carbon electricity during the transition to new capacities. Currently, nuclear power supplies about 9% of global electricity from 440 reactors across 31 countries, contributing over one-fifth of low-carbon energy globally.
Since 1970, nuclear generation has prevented 43.6 billion tonnes of CO₂ emissions compared to gas and 97.2 billion tonnes versus coal.
With growing global policy support, the sector’s upcoming challenge lies in transforming established targets into viable and sustained project initiatives to meet the anticipated nuclear capacity by 2050.
