7 September 2026
The annual Nuclear Technology Review has been released, estimating that global nuclear operational capacity will more than double by 2050, reaching 2.6 times the 2024 level at nearly 1000 GW(e).
For the fifth year in a row, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has revised upwards its projections for the expansion of nuclear power, demonstrating the continued global momentum behind nuclear energy.
“Nuclear technology is a critical tool that is being developed and deployed to power economies with affordable energy, deliver lifesaving medicines and improve health outcomes, and support food security worldwide,” Founder of Nuclear for Australia Will Shackel said.
“The latest Technology Review demonstrates the breadth of positive impact that is being delivered by nuclear technologies, and the strength of global confidence in the technology.”
The report confirms 60 countries are either exploring nuclear energy or have committed to incorporating it into their national energy policies to advance socioeconomic development.
In APAC, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia are all considering nuclear energy, with Philippines and Vietnam both committing to building their first power plants.
Some 42 countries are currently engaged in pre-feasibility assessments, infrastructure development or first nuclear power plant construction, with approximately 20 more expressing interest in incorporating nuclear power into their future energy strategies.
“A new report from the UN Environment Program last week found that global temperature rise is set to push past 1.5°C, so we must take action to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels,” Mr Shackel said.
“Australia’s needs are only growing, and when we add in our vision to be the AI and data centre investment capital of the world, we will require far more power than wind and solar alone can provide.
“If the Government wants a truly clean energy mix, they would be looking to nuclear not gas.”
Australia could also play a greater role in supplying the global nuclear industry with the uranium it needs to power this low-emissions energy source.
“Uranium requirements are set to double but the Review identified that production from existing mines is forecast to decrease by at least 50% by 2040. Australia already signed an agreement with India this year to lift our uranium exports, so why aren’t we looking to do more?” Mr Shackel said.
“The very simple answer is that we can’t. Because outdated bans restrict our governments from having these conversations, and investors and operators from contemplating if a market could exist.
“We need to lift the legislative bans on nuclear energy in Australia and have all energy options on the table.
“Ruling out nuclear power puts Australia out of step with the rest of the world and limits access to emerging technologies.”
***Nuclear for Australia experts are available for comment***
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