World Energy Outlook 2025: a new revival of nuclear energy and future growth
Nuclear energy is experiencing a strong revival, with rising investment in both conventional reactors and new designs such as small modular reactors (SMRs). According to the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) World Energy Outlook 2025, global capacity could grow by at least one third—and potentially up to 70%—by 2035.
The IEA reports that more than 40 countries now include nuclear power in their energy strategies. After over two decades of stagnation, its Net Zero Emissions by 2050 scenario shows nuclear capacity expanding by as much as 70%, while less ambitious scenarios still anticipate substantial growth.
More than 4 countries now include nuclear power in their energy strategies
More than 70 GW of new capacity is currently under construction worldwide, one of the highest levels in 30 years. At the same time, technology companies are driving demand for SMRs, with around 30 GW of interest linked mainly to powering data centres.
Several recent announcements focus on extending the life of existing plants. Google and Kairos Power, for example, have signed the first power purchase agreement for a demonstration SMR to supply a data centre. In the IEA’s Stated Policies Scenario, nuclear energy generates an additional 190 TWh for data centres by 2035.
Currently there is more than 70 GW of new capacity under construction worldwide
Despite growth, the report notes that large projects in Europe and the US have faced delays and cost overruns, typically finishing years late and at much higher costs. By contrast, countries such as China, Russia and South Korea have delivered new reactors closer to planned schedules and budgets.
The IEA also highlights rising energy security concerns and growing geopolitical tensions, which are elevating energy policy as a key national priority. At the same time, emerging economies—led by India and Southeast Asia and joined by regions such as the Middle East, Africa and Latin America—are becoming increasingly influential in global energy dynamics, taking over the momentum once dominated by China.
Source: NucNet
Emerging economies led by India and Southeast Asia are becoming increasingly influential in global energy dynamics
