Renewed momentum behind nuclear energy has the potential to open a new era for the secure and clean power source as demand for electricity grows at an unprecedented rate, says IEA in the report published in mid-January 2025. The report, The Path to a New Era for Nuclear Energy, provides a comprehensive assessment of the current situation, identifying the major challenges facing nuclear sector.

The strong comeback for nuclear energy that the IEA predicted several years ago is well underway, with nuclear set to generate a record level of electricity in 2025,” highlighted IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol. “In addition to this, more than 70 gigawatts of new nuclear capacity is under construction globally, and more than 40 countries around the world have plans to expand nuclear’s role in their energy systems”, according to the study published on the international organisation's website.

According to the report, nuclear power today produces just under 10% of global electricity supply (ed. 24% in Europe). The increasing use of electricity – to power everything from industry and air conditioning to electric vehicles and data centres amid the rise of artificial intelligence – is accelerating the growth in power demand. New generation capacity from a range of technologies will be needed to keep pace with the rapid demand growth, including those that can provide firm and flexible output such as nuclear.

The study also points that the comeback of nuclear energy requires stable financing, reliable and diversified supply chains for building and fuelling. IEA highlights that the private sector is increasingly viewing nuclear energy as an investible energy source with the promise of firm, competitive, clean power that can serve energy-intensive operations 24/7.