Global Nuclear Power Capacity Projected to Grow by 44% by 2036 Driven by China and India

The global nuclear power industry is poised for substantial growth over the next decade, with total capacity expected to rise by 44% to reach 535 gigawatts (GW) by 2036. This projection, outlined in a recent BloombergNEF report, underscores a major shift in the composition of nuclear energy leadership. China is forecasted to nearly double its nuclear capacity, expanding from 59 GW to 102 GW, overtaking the United States as the nation with the largest nuclear power fleet.

Several factors converge to drive this surge in nuclear capacity, including growing energy security concerns, increasing electricity demand fueled by the expansion of artificial intelligence data centers, and mounting pressure to meet global decarbonization targets. These combine to make nuclear energy a key component of several countries’ strategies to secure reliable and low-carbon power sources.

China’s commitment to a diversified energy portfolio involves aggressive development not only of nuclear power but also solar, wind, and coal. It plans to bring seven new nuclear reactors online within the year, solidifying its position at the forefront of the sector. Meanwhile, India is charting an ambitious course to expand its nuclear capacity dramatically—from just 8.8 GW today to a proposed 100 GW by 2047. Achieving this goal will require a substantial financial investment estimated at over $200 billion, according to a government panel.

The Indian Nuclear Energy Mission aims to employ a mix of established and advanced nuclear technologies, combining domestic innovation with international collaboration to meet the country’s escalating energy needs. This expansion is critical to supporting India’s electrification efforts and strengthening its energy security in the coming decades.

This global resurgence of nuclear power reflects a broader trend among governments and technology companies to secure stable, clean energy amid growing demand and climate commitments. The next decade will likely see nuclear energy reclaim a central role alongside renewables in the evolving global energy mix.