The Global Nuclear Divide: Which Countries Are Expanding, Maintaining, or Phasing Out Nuclear Power?
Nuclear energy is one of the most divisive energy sources in the global transition to net zero. Some countries see it as a reliable, low-carbon solution that can complement renewables like wind and solar by providing stable, 24/7 power. Others view it as costly, politically challenging, and overshadowed by the rapid growth of renewables and battery storage.
For nations prioritizing energy security and emissions reductions, nuclear is making a strong comeback, with governments investing in new large-scale reactors and small modular reactors (SMRs). Meanwhile, some countries remain undecided, maintaining existing plants while considering future alternatives. At the other end of the spectrum, a few nations are phasing out nuclear entirely, either due to public opposition, economic concerns, or a policy shift toward full renewable dependence.
🌍 Expanding Nuclear Energy
Countries actively increasing their nuclear capacity to boost energy security and decarbonization:
China: The world’s leader in nuclear expansion, with 29 reactors under construction and plans for 150 more by 2050.
India: Developing new reactors to meet growing energy demand while reducing coal dependence.
United States: Investing in next-generation nuclear, including small modular reactors (SMRs) and life extensions for existing plants.
France: Historically reliant on nuclear, now reversing past phase-out plans with at least six new reactors planned.
United Kingdom: Increasing investment in nuclear, including Hinkley Point C, Sizewell C, and a push for SMRs.
Russia: A major nuclear player, expanding domestic capacity and exporting reactors worldwide.
South Korea: Returning to nuclear expansion after previous government efforts to phase it down.
⚖️ Maintaining Nuclear Capacity
Countries keeping nuclear power in their energy mix without major expansion:
Canada: Keeping existing plants operational while considering SMRs for future projects.
Sweden: Extending reactor lifetimes but not committing to major new builds.
Japan: Restarting reactors post-Fukushima but facing public hesitation over expansion.
Finland: Recently completed Olkiluoto 3 but has no immediate plans for further expansion.
Czech Republic & Poland: Exploring nuclear as part of long-term energy security strategies.
đźš« Phasing Out Nuclear Power
Countries moving away from nuclear, shifting toward renewables or imported energy:
Germany: Shut down its last reactors in 2023, prioritizing wind and solar despite energy security concerns.
Belgium: Initially planned a phase-out but postponed it due to the energy crisis; long-term future remains uncertain.
Switzerland: Voted to phase out nuclear but will operate existing plants as long as they remain safe.
Spain: Planning to close nuclear plants by the 2030s, shifting toward renewables.
The global nuclear landscape is shifting, with some nations doubling down on nuclear to meet climate goals and ensure reliable energy, while others phase it out due to policy choices or public pressure. As energy demand grows and net-zero deadlines approach, nuclear’s role in the clean energy transition remains a key debate.
