Countries with nuclear power rely on nuclear energy as part of their electricity generation portfolio, which has been increasingly recognized as a clean and stable energy source for addressing climate change. Here’s an overview of some key nations with substantial nuclear capabilities and their roles in the global nuclear landscape:
United States: The U.S. operates the most nuclear reactors globally, with 94 reactors in operation as of 2024, providing a major share of the nation’s electricity. The U.S. government is also investing in advanced reactors and small modular reactors (SMRs) to diversify its nuclear capabilities
France: Known for its heavy reliance on nuclear power, France operates 56 reactors, supplying approximately 70% of its electricity needs. This high dependence on nuclear energy positions France as a leader in the field, and the country is also exploring advanced reactor designs to maintain its energy security
China: Rapidly expanding its nuclear sector, China has 56 reactors with a strong emphasis on new reactor construction. China is building some of the world’s largest nuclear projects, aiming to reach a total nuclear capacity of about 70 gigawatts by the late 2020s, which is critical to its goal of carbon neutrality by 2060
Russia: Russia has 36 reactors in operation and is actively constructing additional units. It also exports reactor technology and expertise globally, especially to emerging markets in Asia and Africa. Russian reactors supply both domestic energy and contribute to the nation’s influence in nuclear technology internationally
Japan: After the Fukushima disaster in 2011, Japan’s nuclear program was significantly scaled back, but the country has been gradually restarting reactors that meet new safety standards. Japan currently operates 33 reactors, and nuclear energy remains a part of its strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
South Korea: Operating 26 reactors, South Korea generates around 30% of its electricity from nuclear power. The country is known for its reactor export business, having recently constructed plants in the UAE, and aims to expand its footprint in the global nuclear market
India: India has 23 operational reactors, with plans to expand its nuclear capacity to support growing energy demand. India's focus is on developing indigenous reactor technologies and increasing its nuclear contribution to national energy security
In total, there are about 440 nuclear reactors worldwide, and several countries, such as Egypt and Turkey, are building new reactors to meet energy demands and reduce carbon emissions. The International Atomic Energy Agency projects that nuclear energy could see major growth globally, potentially tripling capacity by 2050 if current expansion efforts continue