The Revival of Nuclear Energy Worldwide – 2024 Edition

This second edition of the Sfen global nuclear monitoring report confirms that the nuclear revival, initiated in 2022, has been reinforced. By the end of 2023, more than 20 countries announced at COP28 in Dubai their ambition to triple global nuclear capacity by 2050. This declaration was followed by a series of announcements, week after week, across the world—whether regarding the extension of the current nuclear fleet, new construction projects, or the development of current-generation small modular reactors (SMRs) and advanced modular reactors (AMRs).

This document highlights global trends that position nuclear energy at the heart of energy strategies to address decarbonization challenges, energy security, and economic competitiveness.

1. Nuclear: An Essential Pillar of Low-Carbon Electricity

Nuclear energy is emerging as a key component of low-carbon energy policies worldwide. In Europe, the Nuclear Alliance plans to build between 30 and 45 reactors to reach a capacity of 150 GW. In the United States, a capacity of 300 GW is being considered. Meanwhile, China has 54 ongoing construction projects, with build times of less than six years! Beyond new reactors, there is a strong ambition to operate existing plants in the long term while maintaining the highest safety standards.

2. Small Modular Reactors Adapted to All Needs

While interest in high-power reactors continues to grow, small modular reactors (SMRs/AMRs) are generating unprecedented enthusiasm. Their applications now extend beyond electricity production, particularly to urban and industrial heating. In China, for instance, one million people are heated using nuclear energy. In the United States, serial production of these small reactors is taking shape, with massive investments from Tech giants like Google and Amazon.

3. Securing Western Fuel Supply

The main Western uranium enrichment players, Urenco and Orano, along with fuel fabrication companies Framatome and Westinghouse, are mobilizing to provide an alternative for countries dependent on Russia. In France, enrichment capacity is set to increase by 30%. This shift marks a lasting break with Moscow, strengthening energy security in Europe and North America.