The global nuclear energy industry looks back on a truly record-breaking year. In 2024, the international reactor fleet delivered more electricity than ever before. The World Nuclear Performance Report 2025 documents this record high and highlights the importance of nuclear power for a stable energy future.
Record year with strong results in electricity generation and CO2 reduction
Global electricity generation from nuclear power reached a total of 2,667 terawatt hours in 2024. This record year surpassed the previous peak of 2,660 terawatt hours from 2006 for the first time. At the same time, the use of nuclear energy achieved a massive reduction in CO2 emissions: 2.1 billion tons of carbon dioxide were eliminated, which is almost twice the offsetting of aviation emissions.
Over 60 percent of all reactors achieved a capacity factor of over 80 percent. With a global average of 83 percent, nuclear power was significantly ahead of all other power sources. This reliability underscores the technology’s strength for a secure energy future.
Expansion in Asia Shapes Nuclear Energy
A key growth area is Asia. Of the 68 reactors that came online in the past ten years, 56 were built in this region. This trend will continue: 59 of the 70 plants currently under construction are located there. This momentum confirms Asia’s central role in global power generation.
Seven new reactors were added in the record year of 2024. Three plants were built in China, while France, India, the United Arab Emirates, and the USA each commissioned one reactor.
Perspectives for the Energy Future
Although capacity is increasing, global energy demand is rising even faster. The World Nuclear Association therefore emphasizes: Only a tripling of nuclear energy will ensure long-term security of supply and effective CO2 reduction.
Nine new projects began in 2024 alone. Six of these were launched in China, with additional sites in Pakistan, Egypt, and Russia. This strengthens the role of nuclear energy as a central pillar of electricity generation.
Comments on the Record Year
Dr. Sama Bilbao y León, Director General of the World Nuclear Association, underscored the significance of the success: “The new record for electricity production from nuclear energy in 2024 demonstrates the strength of the industry. To meet global energy and climate goals, this result must be exceeded every year – and on an increasing scale.”
In conclusion, she stated: “This record year marks a turning point and a clear call to action. With bold industry leaders, determined governments, and an engaged public, tripling capacity is within reach. This will create an energy future that is clean, safe, and reliable.”
Background to the Report
The World Nuclear Association’s Performance Report has been published annually since 2016. It is based on data from the International Atomic Energy Agency and other institutions. It provides a comprehensive overview of new construction, production figures, and developments in global nuclear energy.
The 50th World Nuclear Symposium will take place in London in September. Under the motto “Energizing the Future Now,” leading representatives from the energy industry, politics, finance, and technology will meet. The goal is to set the course for electricity generation in the coming decades and strengthen the role of nuclear energy in a sustainable energy future.