10 Major Nuclear Energy Developments to Watch in 2025
The nuclear energy sector is poised for a transformative year in 2025, with key developments set to reshape the global energy landscape. According to the International Energy Agency, global nuclear power generation is expected to grow by nearly 3% annually through 2026, reaching a new all-time high by 2025. This surge will be driven by increased output from France, the restart of several plants in Japan, and the activation of new reactors across markets like China, India, South Korea, and Europe. Over the next few years, an additional 29 GW of nuclear capacity is anticipated to come online worldwide. As we look toward 2025, several groundbreaking advancements, strategic investments, and innovative projects will redefine the nuclear energy sector. Here’s a look at the top 10 nuclear energy developments set to make a significant impact in 2025.
1) Small Modular Reactors Leading the Way in 2025:
The Small Modular Reactor (SMR) landscape in 2025 showcases over 80 diverse designs, with NuScale’s VOYGR leading the pack, featuring 77 MW modules and certified by the US NRC. Other significant contenders include GE Hitachi’s BWRX-300, Rolls-Royce, and Westinghouse’s AP300, each focused on delivering cost-effective solutions. The landscape is further diversified with innovations from companies like Holtec, China’s HTR-PM, Oklo’s liquid-metal reactors, Seaborg’s molten salt reactors, and Russia’s RITM series. While development continues, licensing and deployment challenges remain. Operational pilots, such as Russia’s floating plant and China’s HTR-PM, offer initial insights, yet broader commercial adoption lags behind. Ongoing research and development efforts emphasize enhancing safety, reducing costs, and identifying new applications for these technologies. SMRs present a substantial opportunity for decarbonization, offering the flexibility to be deployed in remote locations or industrial settings while integrating with renewable energy systems. Key competitors in this space include NuScale, GE Hitachi, Rolls-Royce, and Rosatom. Investment decisions, especially from the UK, are anticipated in 2025, potentially accelerating deployment efforts. As more pilot projects emerge, regulatory frameworks may evolve, and funding in the sector could increase. However, public perception, regulatory hurdles, and supply chain challenges remain critical barriers to widespread adoption.
2) Nuclear Energy’s Role in Data Centers and AI:
The rapid expansion of data centers and AI is driving a re-evaluation of nuclear energy as a viable solution to meet soaring electricity demands. Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) have emerged as the ideal candidate due to their scalability, safety features, and ability to provide a reliable, carbon-neutral power source. Companies such as NuScale, Oklo, and Rolls-Royce are working on custom solutions for this growing market. Tech giants have already secured substantial agreements to support this transition: Amazon with Dominion Energy and X-energy for 5 GW, Google with Kairos Power for 500 MW, Microsoft in talks to revive the Three Mile Island site, Meta pursuing 4 GW, and Switch collaborating with Oklo to secure a power supply. As we enter 2025, the first operational SMRs dedicated to data centers may come online, potentially from Deep Fission or Endeavour with their innovative underground designs. It is anticipated that regulatory bodies will advance frameworks to support the inclusion of nuclear power within the tech industry, while novel financial models could emerge to ease the transition. The successful collaboration of tech firms, nuclear developers, and governments will be pivotal in overcoming public perception challenges and safety concerns. As the demand for sustainable energy solutions increases, the role of nuclear energy in enabling carbon neutrality will grow. Despite this, challenges such as public resistance, high initial costs, and waste management remain significant hurdles. By 2025, we may see whether nuclear power will firmly establish itself as a key player in the digital age's energy needs.
3) Financing the Future of Nuclear Energy:
In 2024, 14 major global banks, including Bank of America and Morgan Stanley, pledged their support for nuclear energy during the New York Climate Week, aligning with COP28’s objective to triple nuclear capacity by 2050. This commitment underscores the recognition of nuclear energy’s potential to provide stable, clean power in the face of growing demands from sectors such as AI and data centers. Looking ahead, the financial landscape for nuclear energy is poised for growth, with a strong focus on innovative financing mechanisms like green bonds and risk-sharing models. These financial institutions’ backing could have a profound influence on global policy, pushing nuclear energy to the forefront of clean energy strategies. By 2025, more concrete financial commitments are expected, with new models such as blended finance emerging to attract private investment. This support could stabilize nuclear-related stocks, thus stimulating private sector interest. However, challenges such as cost management, lengthy project timelines, and public acceptance still need to be addressed. Successfully overcoming these hurdles will be crucial in solidifying nuclear energy’s place in the global clean energy landscape by 2025.
4) Innovations in Nuclear Reactor Technology:
Nuclear reactor technology is evolving rapidly, with key innovations that could significantly impact the future of energy production. Notable developments include Molten Salt Reactors (MSRs) from companies such as Kairos Power and Terrestrial Energy, which are focused on increasing safety and efficiency, with commercial applications expected by the mid-2030s. High-Temperature Gas Reactors (HTGRs), with China’s HTR-PM already operational, offer impressive efficiency, while US-based X-energy is advancing similar technologies. Fast reactors, such as TerraPower’s Natrium, are exploring the potential for sustainable nuclear power. These designs feature passive safety systems and modular construction, enhancing both safety and cost-effectiveness. These advanced reactors are not only well-suited to generate electricity but also provide industrial heat, aiding in decarbonization efforts and integrating seamlessly with renewable energy sources for stable power generation. Some designs also focus on addressing nuclear waste management. By 2025, regulatory approvals for these cutting-edge reactor designs may progress, bringing us closer to commercial demonstrations in industrial applications. As investment in these technologies increases, we anticipate new pilot projects to demonstrate real-world applications, with several countries expected to initiate or expand their nuclear programs. Technological refinement will continue, with an increasing emphasis on digital management to enhance operational efficiency. However, fully integrating these reactors into the global energy mix will require overcoming existing challenges and navigating complex regulatory landscapes.
5) Advances in Nuclear Fuel Technology:
By 2025, nuclear fuel technology is poised for significant advancements. Accident Tolerant Fuels (ATFs), which offer enhanced safety features, are set to enter commercial trials, marking a major step forward in reactor safety. High-Assay Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) is expected to become more readily available, providing a crucial component for the next generation of reactors. TRISO fuel, recognized for its safety and performance, will be commercially produced, with X-energy taking the lead in its deployment. Additionally, thorium fuels are under exploration, particularly in India, for their potential advantages in terms of waste reduction and proliferation resistance. Efforts are also underway to advance nuclear fuel recycling technologies, with new facilities potentially coming online in the coming years. Innovations such as 3D printing for intricate fuel designs and advanced modeling techniques for performance predictions will further enhance the efficiency and safety of nuclear operations. However, key challenges remain, including regulatory clarity, cost considerations, and securing public acceptance. By 2025, we anticipate progress toward the integration of these advanced fuels into both existing and future nuclear systems, which could transform the nuclear energy landscape and drive further efficiency and sustainability in the sector.
6) Newcomers to the Nuclear Energy Landscape:
Several countries are actively working to diversify their energy portfolios by pursuing nuclear energy. Indonesia is advancing its nuclear power plans with a goal of contributing 5.3 GW by 2032, with construction expected to begin in the same year. Malaysia, in late 2024, announced its intent to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels by developing nuclear power capabilities. Kazakhstan is set to make key decisions regarding the construction of up to three nuclear plants, with 2025 earmarked for site selection and international technology partnerships. Poland’s first commercial nuclear power plant is slated to begin operations in 2036, with the first concrete pour expected in 2028 as part of an updated nuclear energy strategy. Ghana aims to commission its nuclear plant by 2030, signaling a commitment to clean energy. Each of these countries is driven by goals of energy security, sustainability, and climate change mitigation, all while navigating challenges related to public acceptance and securing the necessary financial backing.
7) Nuclear-Powered Clean Hydrogen Production:
The production of clean hydrogen via nuclear energy is progressing, with nuclear reactors providing both the electricity and heat necessary for efficient electrolysis. Notable projects driving this effort include Constellation’s Nine Mile Point in the US, EDF’s initiatives in France, and Japan’s HTTR. Policy support, such as US tax credits, is designed to capitalize on existing nuclear infrastructure to produce hydrogen efficiently. Despite this, challenges remain, including high costs, regulatory clarity, and public concerns surrounding safety. The next few years promise technological breakthroughs that could drive down hydrogen production costs, with the potential to expand its applications across industries, transportation, and energy storage. Upcoming reactor designs will likely optimize hydrogen generation, and by 2025, more pilot projects should be operational. A clearer policy framework could stimulate investment, while advancements in electrolysis technology and efforts to address public concerns will be key. Integration with renewable energy could also bolster hydrogen’s role in the global clean energy mix. While nuclear hydrogen is not yet widespread, 2025 could be a transformative year in establishing its place in sustainable energy strategies.
8) India’s Bharat Small Reactors:
Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs) are positioned to revolutionize nuclear energy deployment in India, focusing on decentralizing energy production for energy-intensive industries such as steel and cement while supporting the country’s broader decarbonization goals. This initiative, highlighted in the 2024-25 Union Budget, marks a strategic partnership between the Indian government and private industry to develop BSRs, with the target of increasing nuclear capacity from 8,180 MW to 22,480 MW by 2031-32 and 100 GW by 2047. These BSRs are based on India’s 220 MW PHWR technology, adapted to produce smaller, more flexible units. The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre is leading research into this promising new technology. The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL) has issued Requests for Proposals (RFPs) to engage the private sector in financing and constructing BSRs, with NPCIL retaining operational control. The RFP submission deadline of March 31, 2025, signals the urgency of moving forward with this initiative. By 2025, agreements may be finalized, paving the way for construction or detailed planning of BSR projects. This ambitious move will contribute to India’s energy security, decarbonization efforts, and regional energy independence.
9) Türkiye’s Growing Nuclear Ambitions:
Türkiye has set its sights on reaching 20 GW of nuclear capacity by 2050. Central to this initiative is the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant in Mersin, which features four VVER-1200 reactors designed to deliver a total capacity of 4,800 MW. This flagship project is being developed under a Build-Own-Operate (BOO) model by Russia’s state-owned Rosatom. Originally slated to begin operations in 2023, the first reactor is now set to come online in 2025, with full operational capacity expected by 2028.
Beyond Akkuyu, Türkiye has outlined ambitious plans for additional nuclear power plants. The Sinop project on the Black Sea is set to continue the collaboration with Rosatom, following the successful partnership on Akkuyu. Furthermore, Türkiye is exploring another plant in Thrace, where talks with China are ongoing. China’s State Power Investment Corporation (SPIC) has emerged as the leading bidder for this project.
In 2025, Türkiye expects the first unit of Akkuyu to enter trial operations, marking the country’s entry into nuclear energy production. This year will also witness further advancements in Türkiye’s nuclear regulatory framework, which will prioritize safety and emergency response protocols. Furthermore, negotiations regarding the Sinop and Thrace projects are expected to progress, potentially resulting in new partnerships and funding agreements.
10) Africa’s Nuclear Energy Expansion:
Africa is rapidly increasing its focus on nuclear energy to drive economic development and reduce its dependence on fossil fuels. Several African nations are moving forward with nuclear power projects, Rwanda demonstrated its commitment to advanced nuclear technology through agreements with Nano Nuclear Energy and Dual Fluid Energy, aiming to introduce both small modular reactors and an experimental reactor. In South Africa, the development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) gained significant momentum with the HTMR-100 project, which secured a ZAR9 billion (USD 480 million) financing deal between Koya Capital and Stratek Global.
Ghana established itself as a leader in nuclear education by launching Africa's first Regional Clean Energy Training Centre, developed in collaboration with the US Department of Energy and the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC). This center is dedicated to training a workforce adept at managing nuclear energy projects throughout Africa. Additionally, at the 26th World Energy Congress in Rotterdam, Nuclear Power Ghana and CNNC Overseas Limited formalized a cooperation agreement for deploying a Hualong One (HPR-1000) nuclear power project. Meanwhile, in Egypt, Rosatom reported substantial progress at the El-Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant, with approximately 30% of the project completed by the end of 2024, signaling a significant step forward in North Africa's nuclear ambitions. These developments collectively underscore a year of considerable advancement and strategic partnerships in the African nuclear energy landscape.
This year will witness for major developments in this regard, the continent has the potential to achieve 15 GW of operational nuclear capacity by 2035, demonstrating the pivotal role of nuclear energy in fostering economic growth and advancing climate action. Leading this transformative effort are nations such as Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, and Morocco, which have made significant strides in their nuclear energy programs.
In short, the year 2025 promises to be a transformative period for the nuclear energy sector, driven by advancements in technology, regulatory reforms, and international collaborations. With growing support for clean energy solutions and a heightened focus on energy security, nuclear power is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future energy landscape. As these developments unfold, businesses and governments must stay agile and proactive, capitalizing on opportunities to harness the full potential of nuclear energy for a sustainable and prosperous future.
