In 2024, global electricity demand surged more than anticipated, prompting an urgent need for increased energy supply and generation.

This uptick is influencing the future of nuclear energy in Europe, as evidenced by reports indicating that some European countries previously opposed to nuclear power or lacking nuclear facilities are now contemplating nuclear projects.

Nuclear energy, among various energy sources, is recognized for its capacity to generate large quantities of electricity continuously and without carbon emissions.

There is a gradual easing of distrust towards nuclear technology in Europe, rooted in past nuclear accidents.

However, concerns remain primarily focused on the management and final disposal of radioactive waste.

Nevertheless, the overall outlook for nuclear energy in Europe appears to be improving.

The renewed interest in nuclear energy reflects a significant shift in energy policy.

Countries that had historically rejected nuclear power or lacked nuclear infrastructure are now reassessing their options.

Germany, in particular, is witnessing a change in its previously dismissive official stance on nuclear energy.

Additionally, discussions are underway in multiple countries about extending the operational lifetimes of aging nuclear facilities rather than decommissioning them.

There is also a focus on building new, albeit generally smaller-scale, nuclear plants.

Despite these developments, the progress towards a nuclear renaissance in Europe remains limited, with few concrete actions taken.

In 2023, worldwide, the construction of nine nuclear reactors commenced—50 percent more than the forecasted nine for 2024. However, none of these projects are located in Europe.

The international projects are predominantly based on Chinese and Russian designs, as reported by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

The total capacity of the nine reactors is 11 gigawatts, comprised of six reactors in China, one in Pakistan (also of Chinese design), and one each in Egypt and Russia, both following Russian designs.

As of February 2025, a total of 62 nuclear reactors, representing nearly 7 gigawatts of capacity, are under construction in 15 countries worldwide.

China alone accounts for nearly half of the global nuclear capacity under construction, while projects in Egypt, India, and Turkey contribute approximately 5 gigawatts collectively.

In developed economies, a total of 9.5 gigawatts of reactors are being built, including two each in Japan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom, as well as one in Slovakia.

Currently, only these two nations from Europe are engaged in nuclear construction.

Despite this, a substantial shift in nuclear energy development is imminent, as global nuclear advancements continue.

The IAEA published its outlook on the global energy sector in its World Energy Outlook 2024 report at the end of 2024, offering detailed analyses of future challenges and trends in global energy.

The report notes an increase in political support for nuclear energy over recent years.