Economy · GS3.6, GS2.10 · 2026-10-24 · 3 min read · 2026-10-24-pm
UN Agency Projects Nuclear Power Capacity Could More Than Triple by 2060
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) projects that global nuclear power capacity could more than triple by 2060, driven by electrification and demand for reliable, carbon-free energy. This projection is important for UPSC aspirants as it relates to energy security, climate change mitigation, and international cooperation on nuclear energy.
The IAEA forecasts a significant increase in nuclear power capacity by 2060, highlighting its role in global energy security and climate goals.
Why is this in the news?
The UN's International Atomic Energy Agency released its annual report on October 23, 2026, projecting that nuclear power capacity could more than triple by 2060.
What are the IAEA's projections for nuclear power growth?
- Capacity increase forecast. The IAEA projects that nuclear power capacity could more than triple by 2060, driven by electrification and the demand for reliable, carbon-free power from technology companies.
- Current nuclear power status. In 2025, over 400 operating reactors in more than 30 countries produced 10% of global electricity and a quarter of its low-carbon electricity.
- New reactors under construction. More than 60 new nuclear reactors are currently under construction worldwide, indicating a significant upward shift in future nuclear capacity projections.
Why does nuclear power matter for energy security and climate change?
- Reliable and carbon-free energy. Nuclear energy is considered on par with solar energy and safer than other options, providing reliable, carbon-free power essential for electrification and data centers powered by artificial intelligence.
- Energy security. A growing number of countries view nuclear energy as key to improving their energy security, reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
What are the geopolitical and safety concerns related to nuclear energy?
- Nuclear non-proliferation challenges. The IAEA highlighted concerns about nuclear programmes in Iran and North Korea, with North Korea's programme lacking IAEA oversight and violating UN Security Council resolutions.
- Safety risks in conflict zones. The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine remains in a precarious position due to military activity, power losses, and limited backup supplies, posing risks to safety.
- Progress in Syria. The IAEA has made significant progress in clarifying Syria's nuclear activities after nearly two decades, following engagement with the interim government.
Key numbers
| Figure | What it measures | Source |
|---|---|---|
| more than triple by 2060 | Projected increase in global nuclear power capacity | |
| over 400 operating reactors in more than 30 countries | Nuclear reactors producing electricity in 2025 | |
| more than 60 new reactors under construction | Number of nuclear reactors being built worldwide | |
| 10% of global electricity and a quarter of low-carbon electricity | Share of electricity produced by nuclear power in 2025 |
Back to basics: Nuclear Power and Its Role in Energy
Nuclear power is generated by splitting atoms in a reactor to produce heat, which is then used to generate electricity. It is a low-carbon energy source that provides a stable and reliable supply of electricity, unlike some renewable sources that depend on weather conditions. Nuclear energy plays a role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing energy security by diversifying energy sources.
Practice: MCQ, Mains and revision
Prelims MCQ
Consider the following statements about the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) 2026 report on nuclear power: 1. In 2025, nuclear power produced 10% of global electricity and a quarter of low-carbon electricity. 2. More than 60 new nuclear reactors are under construction worldwide. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Answer and trap
Answer: (c). A trap could be confusing the share of nuclear power in global electricity with its share in low-carbon electricity; both figures are given but differ.
Mains question (15 marks)
Examine the role of nuclear power in achieving global energy security and climate change mitigation, with reference to recent projections by the International Atomic Energy Agency.
Examine: Analyze how nuclear power contributes to energy security and climate goals, supported by recent data and projections.
Intro: Introduce nuclear power as a low-carbon energy source with growing global importance.
- Discuss the IAEA's projection of nuclear power capacity tripling by 2060 and its implications.
- Explain nuclear power's advantages in providing reliable, carbon-free electricity and enhancing energy security.
- Highlight geopolitical and safety challenges related to nuclear energy, including non-proliferation and conflict zone risks.
- Conclude with the balance of opportunities and challenges for nuclear power in sustainable development.
Conclusion: Nuclear power is poised to play a significant role in future energy systems, balancing benefits with safety and geopolitical concerns.
Quick revision
- What is the projected increase in nuclear power capacity by 2060 according to the IAEA?
- Nuclear power capacity is projected to more than triple by 2060.
- How much of the global electricity did nuclear power produce in 2025?
- Nuclear power produced 10% of global electricity in 2025.
- How many new nuclear reactors are under construction worldwide?
- More than 60 new nuclear reactors are under construction worldwide.
Sources
- [1] The Hindu: Nuclear power could more than triple by 2060, UN agency says · 2026-10-24 · newspaper