As we settle into 2025, it’s clear that the global momentum for nuclear energy isn’t slowing down. Looking back, 2024 proved to be a pivotal year for the nuclear energy industry, with key developments across the globe. Countries ramped up nuclear projects and commitments, not just to meet growing energy demand but to strengthen energy security and achieve clean energy goals. Here’s how 2024 set the tone for another big year ahead.
Europe: Leading the Charge
Europe continued to be a hub of nuclear activity in 2024. France added its first nuclear reactor in 25 years to the grid while the UK secured funding and regulatory approvals for both large-scale reactors and SMRs—progress toward its goal of 24 GW of new nuclear by 2050.
Eastern Europe was especially active. Poland began site work on its first nuclear plant, while Romania reached a key milestone in its SMR project. A new agreement between Fluor Corporation and RoPower will drive Romania’s SMR project toward investment and construction. Bulgaria and Lithuania signed intergovernmental agreements with the U.S., for four AP1000 reactors and for SMR collaboration respectively.
Even historically anti-nuclear countries shifted course. Serbia lifted a 35-year ban, Estonia approved nuclear power adoption, and Italy reconsidered its plans decades after shutting down its last reactor. This trend has continued in 2025 with countries like Spain, Scotland, and Belgium moving to reconsider their nuclear phaseout policies.
Asia: Rapid Expansion Continues
Asia maintained its growth trajectory in 2024. China brought several reactors online, India took steps to accelerate its nuclear expansion, and South Korea reversed its policy to enable nuclear revival. Japan also saw a huge shift in public opinion, with 70% of respondents supporting the restart of nuclear plants according to a recent poll.
Several new nations emerged in the nuclear energy conversation. Singapore and the Philippines signed nuclear cooperation agreements with the United States. Vietnam approved the restart of its nuclear power program with aims to build two nuclear power plants by 2030. Meanwhile, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand explored options for adding nuclear to the energy mix.
Africa: Building Momentum
Africa took major steps toward nuclear power. Egypt’s El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant moved steadily forward, bringing the country closer to operating its first reactor. Elsewhere, countries like Ghana advanced the groundwork for their future nuclear programs by focusing on regulatory readiness and international cooperation. To this end, the United States and Ghana formally launched Africa’s first regional Clean Energy Training Center to support the development of civil nuclear energy programs across the continent. As Africa’s energy demand rises, nuclear is increasingly seen as a viable solution for reliable and sustainable power.
Latin America: Slow but Steady Progress
While Latin America didn’t see as many headline-grabbing announcements in 2024, progress was steady. Brazil approved a 20-year life extension for one of its reactors while continuing to weigh their options for completing a third unit. As the region seeks stable, clean energy, nuclear is becoming an increasingly attractive option. The growing interest is largely driven by SMRs, which many countries view as a viable solution for remote, off-grid areas. El Salvador, which is embarking on a nuclear energy program, joined Jamaica in signing on to the Declaration to Triple Nuclear Energy by 2050 at COP29. Argentina, Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Mexico, Paraguay, and Peru actively engaged in discussions on integrating nuclear power into their national energy strategies.
What Lies Ahead
It is evident that demand for nuclear energy skyrocketed in 2024, and this trend is set to continue. Momentum is stronger than ever as countries around the world are realizing the unique role nuclear energy plays in securing their climate, energy, and economic future. Between large-scale reactors and emerging SMR technologies, the nuclear sector is poised for massive expansion. The question is no longer whether nuclear energy will grow, it’s how fast. Stay tuned because 2025 promises to be another important year for the nuclear industry, and it’s stretching to all corners of the globe.
