Top 10 Nuclear Power Countries in the World

Top 10 Nuclear Power Countries in the World

Nuclear power is playing a bigger role in shaping the world's energy systems in 2025, providing clean and reliable electricity to billions. With growing concerns about climate change and the importance of energy security, it's more important than ever to know which countries are leading in nuclear power generation.

This guide looks at the top 10 nuclear power countries, the types of reactors they use, their growth plans, and how nuclear energy fits into their national energy strategies. Whether you're interested in energy policy, investment opportunities, or just want to know more about global power generation, this article has the key information you need.

10. India – Emerging Nuclear Power

India operates 23 reactors with ambitious expansion plans driven by growing electricity demand and climate commitments. The country develops indigenous nuclear technology despite international restrictions.

Growth trajectory:

• 23 operational reactors

• 6,885 MW capacity

• 47 TWh annual generation

• Target: 22,480 MW by 2031

Why #10: India's nuclear program combines domestic technology development with rapid expansion plans. The country's three-stage nuclear program aims to utilize its thorium resources for long-term energy security.
Strategic importance: Nuclear power supports India's economic growth while reducing carbon emissions from coal-dependent electricity generation.

9. Canada – CANDU Technology Leader

Canada operates 19 reactors using its indigenous CANDU technology, which can use natural uranium and supports nuclear fuel cycle flexibility.

Technical leadership:

• 19 operational reactors

• 13,554 MW capacity

• 94 TWh annual generation

• CANDU technology exports

Why #9: Canada's CANDU reactors offer unique capabilities, and the country maintains strong nuclear expertise. Ontario generates about 60% of its electricity from nuclear power.
International role: Canadian nuclear technology and uranium exports support global nuclear power development, while domestic reactors provide clean electricity.

8. United Kingdom – Nuclear Renaissance

The UK operates 9 reactors while planning significant nuclear expansion to meet net-zero commitments. British nuclear policy emphasizes both large plants and small modular reactors.

Expansion plans:

• 9 operational reactors

• 5,883 MW current capacity

• 45 TWh annual generation

• 8+ new reactors planned by 2050

Why #8: The UK's nuclear renaissance reflects ambitious climate goals and energy security concerns. Government support for new nuclear includes financial guarantees and streamlined approval processes.
Innovation focus: Britain leads in SMR development and nuclear fusion research, positioning itself for next-generation nuclear technologies.

7. Ukraine – Nuclear Under Pressure

• Ukraine operates 15 reactors that historically provided about half the country's electricity. Despite ongoing conflict, Ukrainian nuclear plants continue operating with international support.

Resilience metrics:

• 15 operational reactors

• 13,107 MW capacity

• Variable generation due to conflict

• International safety support programs

Why #7: Ukraine demonstrates nuclear power's strategic importance and resilience. The country's nuclear expertise and uranium resources make it a significant regional player despite current challenges.
Current situation: International organizations provide safety support while Ukrainian operators maintain professional standards under difficult conditions.

6. South Korea – Advanced Technology Pioneer

South Korea operates 25 reactors providing about 27% of national electricity. The country has developed indigenous reactor technology and exports nuclear plants internationally.

Technology achievements:

• 25 operational reactors

• 24,698 MW capacity

• 158 TWh annual generation

• APR1400 advanced reactor exports

Why #6: South Korea combines energy security needs with technological innovation. The country has successfully exported reactor technology to the UAE and continues developing advanced reactor designs.
Domestic impact: Nuclear power helps South Korea reduce fossil fuel imports while meeting growing electricity demand from advanced manufacturing and technology sectors.

5. Japan – Rebuilding Nuclear Leadership

Despite challenges following Fukushima, Japan operates 33 reactors and remains a nuclear technology powerhouse. The country is gradually restarting reactors while developing advanced technologies.

Recovery indicators:

• 33 operational reactors (10 currently online)

• 31,679 MW total capacity

• 65 TWh current annual generation

• Advanced reactor research programs

Why #5: Japan's nuclear industry combines decades of experience with cutting-edge technology development. Companies like Mitsubishi and Toshiba remain global nuclear technology leaders despite domestic challenges.
Future strategy: Japan plans to restart additional reactors while developing next-generation technologies, including small modular reactors and fusion research.

4. Russia – Nuclear Technology Export Leader

Russia operates 38 reactors domestically while building nuclear plants worldwide. Rosatom, the state nuclear corporation, has the largest international construction portfolio of any nuclear vendor.

Global influence metrics:

• 38 operational reactors

• 29,674 MW domestic capacity

• 215 TWh annual generation

• 36 international projects in 12 countries

Why #4: Russia's strength lies in technology export and international project management. The country offers competitive financing and comprehensive nuclear services, from uranium supply to waste management.
International presence: Russian-designed reactors operate across Eastern Europe, Asia, and increasingly in developing markets seeking nuclear power capabilities.

3. France – The Nuclear Energy Champion

No country relies more heavily on nuclear power than France, which generates approximately 70% of its electricity from 56 reactors. French nuclear expertise has made it a global technology leader and major electricity exporter.

Nuclear dominance indicators:

• 56 operational reactors

• 61,370 MW total capacity

• 379 TWh annual generation

• €50+ billion annual nuclear industry revenue

Why #3: France proves nuclear power can be a primary electricity source. The country's standardized reactor program and fuel cycle expertise make it highly efficient. Électricité de France (EDF) operates globally and exports nuclear technology worldwide.

Current challenges: Aging reactor fleet requires significant investment, but France remains committed to nuclear power with plans for new EPR reactors and SMR development.

2. China – The Rising Nuclear Giant

China operates 55 reactors with ambitious expansion plans that could see it challenge U.S. leadership within the decade. Chinese nuclear capacity has tripled since 2015, representing the world's fastest nuclear expansion.

Impressive growth metrics:

• 55 operational reactors with 22 under construction

• 53,320 MW current capacity

• 366 TWh annual generation

• Target: 70 GW by 2025, 150 GW by 2030

Why #2: China's combination of domestic manufacturing, standardized designs, and government support enables rapid, cost-effective deployment. The country has developed indigenous reactor technologies and exports nuclear technology globally.

Strategic importance: Nuclear power is central to China's carbon neutrality goals and energy security strategy. The nation leads in advanced reactor research, including thorium-based systems and high-temperature gas-cooled reactors.

1. United States – The Nuclear Superpower

Leading the world with 94 operational reactors generating over 850 TWh annually, the United States maintains its position as the global nuclear powerhouse. American nuclear plants provide approximately 20% of the nation's electricity and over half of its clean energy.

Key Statistics:

• 94 operational reactors across 28 states

• 95,492 MW total nuclear capacity

• $60+ billion annual nuclear industry value

• 2-4 new reactors under construction

Why #1: The U.S. combines massive scale with technological innovation. Beyond the current generation, America leads in small modular reactor (SMR) development and next-generation technologies. The recent Inflation Reduction Act provides significant support for existing plants and new construction.

Future outlook: The U.S. plans to extend existing reactor lifespans to 80 years while developing advanced reactors. Major tech companies are signing nuclear power agreements to support AI and data center operations, driving renewed interest in nuclear expansion.

Frequently Asked Questions- FAQs

Which country leads the world in nuclear power?

The United States leads the world in nuclear power, with 94 operational reactors generating over 850 TWh annually, providing about 20% of its electricity.

How many nuclear reactors does China have?

As of 2025, China operates 55 nuclear reactors with 22 more under construction. China’s nuclear capacity is rapidly expanding, aiming for 150 GW by 2030.

What is France's role in global nuclear energy?

France is the world leader in nuclear energy reliance, generating approximately 70% of its electricity from 56 reactors. France’s nuclear expertise also allows it to export nuclear technology globally.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. The rankings and data related to nuclear power countries are based on publicly available resources and estimates for the year 2025.

Due to the ever-evolving nature of nuclear energy policies, technological advancements, and international relations, some information may change. Please refer to official sources and reports for the most up-to-date information.