Nuclear Generation Sets New Record, Fueling Expansion Plans
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2024 output reaches 2,667 TWh, eclipsing 2006 high Nuclear reactors worldwide produced 2,667 terawatt‑hours of electricity in 2024, surpassing the previous record of 2,660 TWh set in 2006, according to the World Nuclear Performance Report 2025 [1].
Average capacity factor climbs to 83 % The latest report shows the global fleet operated at an average capacity factor of 83 %, meaning plants generated 83 % of their maximum possible output over the year [1].
Aging reactors maintain performance More than 60 % of reactors achieved a capacity factor above 80 %, and analysis found no decline in output for plants that have operated for 50 years or more [1].
Asia drives new builds and construction The region accounted for 56 of the 68 reactors commissioned in the past decade and hosts 59 of the 70 reactors currently under construction [1].
Seven reactors connected, nine started, four shut In 2024, units such as Zhangzhou 1 (China) and Vogtle 4 (USA) entered service; construction began on sites including Chashma 5 (Pakistan); and four plants—Kursk 2 (Russia), Pickering 1 and 4 (Canada), and Maanshan 2 (Taiwan)—were permanently closed [1].
Industry leaders expect further growth Director General Sama Bilbao y León called the record “a testament to the industry” and urged tripling capacity, while report author Jonathan Cobb said the coming‑online of under‑construction reactors should push generation higher in the next five to six years [1].
- Sama Bilbao y León, Director General of the World Nuclear Association – “The new record electricity generation from nuclear energy in 2024 is a testament to the industry… the path to tripling nuclear capacity is not only achievable, it is necessary.”
- Jonathan Cobb, senior programme lead, climate, World Nuclear Association – “As the reactors currently under construction are grid‑connected over the next five to six years, we should see global nuclear capacity and total nuclear generation continuing to rise… there is no decline in reactor performance related to age.”