Global Nuclear Power Set for Record High of 2,900 TWh in 2025, Driven by China

Jan 16, 2025, 05:24 AM

Global nuclear power generation is set to reach a record high in 2025, with an estimated production of 2,900 terawatt-hours, representing nearly 10% of the world's electricity, according to a report by the International Energy Agency (IEA). This surge is driven by the increasing demand for electricity from various sectors including industry, electric vehicles, data centers, and the rise of artificial intelligence. More than 70 gigawatts of new nuclear capacity are currently under construction worldwide, marking one of the highest levels in the last 30 years. China is leading this expansion, with 25 out of 52 reactors started since 2017 being of Chinese design, and is poised to overtake both the US and Europe in installed nuclear capacity by 2030. However, the IEA warns of risks due to the concentration of nuclear technology supply chains, with Russia holding a significant share in uranium enrichment capacity.