Top 10 Leading Nuclear Power Nations 

As the global energy demand grows and the need to address climate change becomes more urgent, many countries are turning to nuclear power. This shift helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels and supports more sustainable energy production.

Nigeria, for instance, is moving away from fossil fuels like natural gas and oil, embracing nuclear energy to diversify its energy sources

Here’s a look at the top 10 countries leading in nuclear power generation around the world:

United States: 97 GW of Nuclear Generation 

The United States is at the forefront, producing over 30% of the world’s nuclear energy. With 97 gigawatts (GW) generated by 93 reactors across 30 states, nuclear power accounts for about 20% of the country’s total electricity output.

France: 61.3 GW of Nuclear Generation 

France stands out with the highest share of electricity from nuclear energy globally, at nearly 70%. The country’s 56 reactors contribute a total of approximately 61.3 GW to its national grid, making it the second-largest nuclear producer.

China: 57 GW of Nuclear Generation 

Ranking third, China’s nuclear capacity is about 57 GW from 55 operational reactors, accounting for roughly 5% of its total electricity production.

Japan: 31.7 GW of Nuclear Generation 

Japan operates 33 nuclear reactors, which together have a capacity of 31.7 GW. An additional 2.6 GW is under construction, highlighting ongoing growth in the sector.

Russia: 29.6 GW of Nuclear Generation 

Nuclear energy is a significant part of Russia’s power mix, producing about 20% of the country’s electricity. Russia’s 37 reactors total approximately 29.6 GW.

South Korea: 31.65 GW of Nuclear Generation 

South Korea’s 27 nuclear reactors generate almost 30% of the nation’s electricity. With a total capacity of about 31.65 GW, nuclear energy is a vital component of South Korea’s energy strategy.

Canada: 13.5 GW of Nuclear Generation 

Canada’s nuclear power capacity stands at 13.5 GW, primarily from CANDU reactors known for their efficiency and safety. Nuclear energy produces 15% of Ontario’s electricity, contributing significantly to Canada’s overall energy production.

Ukraine: 13.1 GW of Nuclear Generation

Ukraine hosts 15 reactors across four power plants, mostly located in the Chernihiv, Kharkiv, and Mykolaiv regions. With a total capacity of 13.1 GW and more under construction, Ukraine continues to invest in nuclear power.

United Kingdom: 8.9 GW of Nuclear Generation

The UK’s nuclear sector includes 15 reactors that generate approximately 8.9 GW, making up about 15% of the country’s total electricity generation.

Spain: 7.1 GW of Nuclear Generation 

Spain has a smaller nuclear footprint compared to other top countries, with seven reactors producing a total of 7.1 GW. Nuclear power accounts for around 20% of Spain’s electricity supply.