The IEA’s latest report anticipates a substantial increase in nuclear power plant output by approximately 3% in the current year and the next, projecting a staggering 2,915TWh. This surge is expected to surpass the previous peak recorded in 2021, signifying a pivotal moment in the resurgence of nuclear energy. Furthermore, a 1.5% growth is anticipated in 2026, propelled by the commissioning of new reactors in China and India.
The report underscores the collective impact of expanding nuclear power and the rapid growth of renewable sources. Wind, solar, and other clean energy sources are expected to contribute significantly, with renewables accounting for about a third of global electricity generation by early next year. This profound shift is poised to displace fossil fuels from the electricity system, with low-emission sources projected to meet the growing power demand over the next few years.
IEA’s Executive Director, Fatih Birol, emphasized the significance of these trends in reducing carbon dioxide emissions from the power sector. The positive developments are attributed to the substantial momentum behind renewables, particularly cost-effective solar energy, and the remarkable resurgence of nuclear power, which is set to achieve historic highs by 2025.
Between 2024 and 2026, the world is expected to witness an additional 29 GW of new nuclear capacity, with over half concentrated in China and India. Anticipated commercial operations in new nuclear plants, coupled with the recovery of the French nuclear sector and restarts in Japan, paint a promising outlook. The global nuclear generation is projected to experience a nearly 10% increase in 2026 compared to 2023.
Notably, the IEA’s updated Net Zero Roadmap indicates a more than 2x increase in nuclear energy by 2050, complementing the deployment of renewables and alleviating strain on critical mineral supplies. While some European countries are contemplating phasing out nuclear energy, emerging economies and several advanced nations are planning to introduce or expand nuclear energy generation.
China and India emerge as leaders, representing over half the anticipated 29 gigawatts of new nuclear capacity. China’s rapid growth in nuclear technology aims to increase its installed nuclear capacity from approximately 56 GW to 70 GW by 2025. The IEA notes that China and Russia are pivotal, providing technology for 70% of the reactors currently under construction.
The IEA’s projections signal a notable resurgence in nuclear power generation, reaching an unprecedented high in 2025. With a 3% increase in output, nuclear energy is set to play a crucial role in the global transition to a low-carbon economy, complementing the growth of renewables.
