UN Agency Projects Nuclear Power Will More Than Triple by 2060

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, October 28, 2026

The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency forecasted that global nuclear power capacity could more than triple by 2060, driven by rising electricity demand and the need for carbon-free energy. This expansion highlights nuclear energy’s growing role in climate goals and energy security, even as the agency warns of ongoing proliferation and safety concerns amid geopolitical tensions.

The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) projected a significant increase in the use of nuclear power globally by 2060, forecasting that capacity could more than triple over the coming decades. Rafael Grossi presented the agency's annual report to the United Nations General Assembly on October 27, outlining key factors driving this growth, including rising electrification, the expansion of data centers fueled by artificial intelligence, and the growing demand from technology companies for reliable, carbon-free energy.

Grossi highlighted that nuclear energy is increasingly viewed by many countries as a crucial component of their energy security strategies. He emphasized that nuclear power is comparable to solar energy in terms of its potential to reduce carbon emissions and regarded it as safer than most other energy options. According to the IAEA director-general, as of 2025, more than 400 nuclear reactors across more than 30 countries generated approximately 10% of the world’s electricity, accounting for about one-quarter of global low-carbon electricity production.

The report also noted that over 60 new reactors are currently under construction worldwide, signaling a marked upward revision in projections for future nuclear capacity. This growth is seen in the context of increasing global efforts to transition toward cleaner energy sources amid climate change concerns.

In addition to peaceful nuclear energy developments, Grossi addressed ongoing nuclear non-proliferation and security challenges. He raised concerns about Iran’s nuclear program, noting that technical work necessary for a diplomatic agreement has been completed, amid heightened tensions following last year’s US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites and a subsequent war initiated on February 28 involving the US and Israel. Grossi also referred to North Korea’s nuclear activities and highlighted the unprecedented risks to nuclear safety posed by the conflict in Ukraine.

The IAEA chief further expressed apprehension regarding reports—without specifying the involved nations—that other countries might be contemplating acquiring nuclear weapons, underscoring ongoing global challenges in nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation efforts.

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