Norman Foster sees nuclear energy as a key pillar of the energy future
Architect Norman Foster has argued that nuclear energy will play a critical role in the emerging “electrical revolution”, highlighting its ability to generate large amounts of low-carbon electricity while requiring very little land. Speaking at the World Nuclear Symposium in London, Foster said micro-modular reactors should be manufactured at industrial scale, similar to jet engines, to provide autonomous energy solutions for communities, urban developments and future infrastructure.
Norman Foster believes micro-modular reactors should be mass-produced to lower costs and enable widespread deployment
Norman Foster warned at the World Nuclear Symposium organized by the World Nuclear Association that global climate goals remain unmet and that fossil fuels still dominate the energy mix. While stressing that renewable sources will be needed, he questioned excessive reliance on large-scale solar and wind projects, arguing that some developments can have a significant impact on landscapes and ecosystems. In his view, small modular nuclear technologies offer a low-carbon alternative with a much smaller physical footprint.
Foster describes himself as a relatively recent supporter of nuclear energy; his interest, he said, began after learning about micro-modular reactors capable of supplying electricity to entire communities from compact, container-sized installations. He suggested that such reactors could enable buildings or districts to operate independently from the grid and questioned why these systems are not yet being mass-produced to reduce costs and accelerate deployment.
Nuclear energy can provide large amounts of clean electricity with a very small land footprint
Drawing a parallel with the transformation of telecommunications, Foster suggested that electricity systems could also evolve beyond the traditional grid model. He argued that growing demand from data centres, electrified transport and access to clean water will require abundant sources of clean energy. Emerging economies, he added, may even be able to bypass conventional grid structures and adopt more decentralised solutions.
The famous British architect insisted that meeting future energy needs will require a combination of technologies, including solar and wind power deployed in appropriate locations. However, he believes industrialised nuclear energy will be essential to complement these sources and provide reliable, large-scale clean electricity.
More reliable low-carbon energy
The remarks were made during the World Nuclear Symposium 2026, organised by the World Nuclear Association in London. Norman Foster is the founder and Executive Chairman of Foster + Partners, and President of the Norman Foster Foundation.
Source: World Nuclear News
