Five reasons why the clean energy transition needs nuclear power
Nuclear energy is essential to a global clean energy transition because it provides clean, reliable, and affordable electricity that emits virtually no greenhouse gases at the point of generation. It currently generates around 9 % of the world’s electricity and about 25 % of all low-carbon electricity, helping to reduce carbon emissions significantly.
The International Atomic Energy Association (IAEA) has listed the five major reasons a clean energy transition must include nuclear power alongside renewables.
Nuclear technologies can accelerate the clean energy transition
1. Large-scale, low-carbon power
Nuclear plants produce large amounts of electricity without emitting greenhouse gases during operation, making them a vital source of clean energy to support climate goals and complement other low-carbon technologies.
2. Reliable baseload power
Unlike solar and wind, which depend on weather conditions, nuclear provides consistent baseload power that can meet growing energy demand 24/7. This reliability strengthens energy security and grid stability as economies electrify and phase out fossil fuels.
3. Energy security and affordability
Stable, predictable electricity from nuclear energy reduces dependence on fossil fuel imports and volatile fuel markets, helping countries maintain affordable energy supplies while pursuing decarbonization.
4. Financing and policy momentum
There is increasing global momentum to finance and expand nuclear energy, including cooperation between the IAEA and international financial institutions to unlock investment and build regulatory capacity for new nuclear projects.
Innovation strengthens nuclear power’s role in clean energy transitions
5. Innovation and future technologies
Advanced nuclear technologies — such as small modular reactors (SMRs) — can lower costs, shorten construction times and offer more flexible deployment. Innovation in nuclear energy will further support its integration with renewables and broader clean energy systems.
Source: IAEA
