Nuclear power has been a critical component of the global energy mix for decades, providing a significant share of electricity generation in many countries. As of 2025, over 30 nations utilise nuclear energy for electricity generation, with varying degrees of reliance. Nuclear power plants harness nuclear fission to produce electricity, offering a low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels.

1. United States

The United States is the global leader in nuclear power production, accounting for roughly 20% of its total electricity from nuclear energy. In 2023, the country generated 779,186 GWh of nuclear electricity. The U.S. is home to the largest number of operational nuclear reactors, with 93 reactors spread across 56 nuclear power plants. The country’s nuclear power generation is instrumental in reducing its carbon footprint and supporting the national grid’s stability.

The U.S. has invested heavily in nuclear technology, with ongoing research in next-generation reactors, such as small modular reactors (SMRs). Despite challenges, including political opposition and the decommissioning of older plants, nuclear power remains a cornerstone of the country’s energy policy.

2. China

China has emerged as a major player in the nuclear energy sector. In 2023, the country produced 406,484 GWh of nuclear electricity, which accounts for around 4.9% of its total electricity generation. China currently has 53 operational nuclear reactors, and the government has ambitious plans to expand this number rapidly.

The country is heavily investing in nuclear technology, focusing on indigenous reactor designs, such as the Hualong One. China’s nuclear growth strategy aims to reduce its reliance on coal and meet its climate goals. The government is also investing in advanced technologies like thorium reactors and nuclear fusion to diversify its nuclear energy portfolio.

3. France

France stands out as the world’s leader in terms of the percentage of electricity generated from nuclear power. In 2023, 64.8% of France’s electricity was derived from nuclear energy, amounting to 323,773 GWh. The country operates 56 nuclear reactors, the highest in Europe, making nuclear power a cornerstone of its energy policy.

France relies on nuclear power due to its limited domestic fossil fuel resources, which drive its energy independence strategy. The French nuclear industry is highly integrated, with a robust nuclear supply chain, including the state-owned company EDF, which operates most of the reactors. France is also a leader in nuclear waste management and research in advanced reactors.

4. Russia

Russia is one of the world’s most significant producers of nuclear power, generating 203,957 GWh in 2023, which constitutes around 18.4% of its total electricity production. Russia operates 38 nuclear reactors and is a leader in the development of nuclear reactors for export. The country is developing advanced reactors, including the VVER-1200, which is being used in several countries, and has ambitious plans for nuclear energy expansion, especially in the Arctic region.

Russia is also heavily involved in the international nuclear market, supplying reactors to countries like India, Turkey, and Hungary. Nuclear energy plays a central role in Russia’s energy policy, with long-term plans for an increased share of nuclear in its electricity grid.

5. South Korea

South Korea generates 171,640 GWh of electricity from nuclear power, accounting for about 31.5% of its total electricity consumption. The country has 24 operational nuclear reactors, and nuclear energy plays a crucial role in providing a stable, low-carbon energy source for its industrialized economy.

South Korea is also a leader in nuclear technology, with advanced reactor designs such as the APR-1400, which is being exported to the United Arab Emirates. Despite some domestic opposition, South Korea plans to maintain a robust nuclear energy program and is actively involved in nuclear power exports and cooperation with international organizations.

6. Canada

Canada, a country with rich natural resources, generates 83,465 GWh from nuclear energy, which accounts for about 13.7% of its total electricity production. The country operates 19 nuclear reactors, mostly in Ontario, where they provide a substantial portion of the province’s electricity.

Canada’s nuclear industry is also significant in the international market, with the CANDU reactor design, known for its use of natural uranium, being widely used and exported. Canada is dedicated to expanding its nuclear energy capabilities while prioritizing sustainability and innovation. This includes the development of small modular reactors (SMRs) as a safer and more flexible nuclear option.

7. Japan

The Fukushima disaster in 2011 had a significant impact on Japan’s nuclear energy programme and forced the shutdown of almost all of its reactors. However, Japan is slowly returning to nuclear power as a critical part of its energy strategy. In 2023, Japan generated 77,539 GWh from nuclear power, accounting for about 5.6% of its electricity production.

Japan currently operates 10 reactors and is considering further expansion of nuclear power to reduce its reliance on imported fossil fuels and meet its carbon reduction goals. The Japanese government has been actively enhancing nuclear safety protocols and advancing the technology utilized in its reactors.

8. Spain

Spain generates 54,371 GWh of electricity from nuclear power, which constitutes about 20.3% of its total electricity supply. Spain operates seven nuclear reactors and is part of the European Union’s strategy for reducing carbon emissions.

Despite ongoing debates about the future of nuclear energy in Spain, including calls for phase-out by some political movements, nuclear power continues to be a critical component of the country’s energy mix. Spain is also a part of the European nuclear safety and research frameworks, collaborating on advanced reactor designs.

9. Sweden

Sweden generates 46,648 GWh from nuclear power, which accounts for around 28.6% of its total electricity generation. With 6 reactors in operation, nuclear power plays an essential role in Sweden’s low-carbon energy strategy.

Sweden’s nuclear power program is focused on sustainability and safety, with the country investing in modern reactor designs. Despite political discussions on the future of nuclear power, Sweden continues to rely on nuclear energy as a stable, low-carbon source of electricity.

10. India

India, with a rapidly expanding population and economy, has placed significant emphasis on nuclear power to meet its energy demands and reduce carbon emissions. In 2023, India generated 44,646 GWh of electricity from nuclear energy, which constitutes around 3.1% of its total electricity production.

India operates 22 nuclear reactors and is rapidly expanding its nuclear program with new plants under construction. India is also at the forefront of developing advanced reactor technologies, particularly in the realm of thorium-based reactors, which have the potential to revolutionize the nuclear energy landscape.

Nuclear power plays an essential role in the global energy landscape. Countries like the United States, China, and France lead the world in nuclear electricity generation, while others like Russia, South Korea, and Japan are pushing forward with nuclear expansion or recovery. As the world seeks to reduce carbon emissions and transition to cleaner energy sources, nuclear power remains a key player in providing reliable, low-carbon electricity.

The ability of nations to strike a balance between the advantages of nuclear energy and worries about safety, waste management, and public opinion will determine the future of nuclear energy. Advanced reactor designs, like small modular reactors, and innovations in nuclear fusion could further redefine the role of nuclear power in the global energy mix.