COP28’s Bold Nuclear Pact Shocks World

Nuclear power plant with domed structures beside a water body and mountains in the background

The momentum of a nuclear energy revival is reshaping the global energy landscape, heralding both triumphs and challenges for the United States.

Story Highlights

Record electricity generation from nuclear reactors in 2024, with more on the horizon.
Key nations, including the United States, are implementing major nuclear policy reforms.
Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are attracting significant attention as a solution to energy needs.
Challenges persist, including public acceptance and regulatory hurdles.

Nuclear Energy’s Resurgence and Its Global Implications

In 2025, nuclear energy is experiencing a significant global revival, driven by climate imperatives, energy security concerns, and technological advances. This resurgence comes after years of stagnation influenced by past accidents and public opposition. As electricity demand surges, countries like the United States, China, and Türkiye are at the forefront of this nuclear renaissance, pushing forward with new reactor constructions and policy reforms to secure a cleaner energy future.

One of the pivotal moments in this revival was at COP28 in 2023, where over 20 countries committed to tripling global nuclear capacity by 2050. This commitment has translated into tangible actions, with 2024 witnessing nuclear reactors supplying a record 2,667 TWh of electricity globally. These developments underscore nuclear energy’s role as a cornerstone of clean, reliable power in the face of climate change challenges.

The Role of Innovation and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)

Technological innovation is at the heart of this nuclear resurgence. Traditional large reactors are being complemented by Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), which promise more flexibility and reduced costs. SMRs are gaining traction due to their potential to provide reliable baseload power while addressing the limitations of larger reactors. This shift is evidenced by a surge in SMR pilot projects and advanced fuel trials aimed at enhancing safety and efficiency.

While technological advances offer promising solutions, challenges such as public acceptance, financing, and regulatory hurdles persist. These issues require careful consideration and strategic action to ensure the sustainable growth of nuclear energy.

Policy Reforms and Global Leadership

Countries leading this nuclear revival are implementing significant policy reforms to streamline nuclear deployment. The United States, for instance, has seen Congress pass the ADVANCE Act, designed to facilitate the deployment of next-generation reactors. Globally, 416 reactors are operational, with 70 under construction, highlighting Asia’s leadership in new builds. However, despite the strong policy momentum, the path forward for nuclear energy requires addressing persistent hurdles, such as waste management and public perception.

The nuclear revival presents opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and enhanced energy security. However, its success depends on overcoming challenges and aligning regulatory frameworks with technological innovations.