Global Nuclear Weekly Digest: January 25–31, 2026

nuclear Jan 31, 2026

1. Energy: Nuclear as a Stabilizing Force in a Decarbonizing Grid

Rising Demand from AI and Data Centers

The global push toward carbon-free energy sources has intensified as artificial intelligence (AI) and data centers escalate electricity consumption. Nuclear power, with its baseload capability, is emerging as a critical partner to renewable energy in stabilizing grids. According to industry analysts, the surge in AI-driven energy demand is prompting utilities and policymakers to reconsider nuclear as a reliable, low-emission alternative to fossil fuels [3].

Policy Backing and Grid Resilience

Governments and energy regulators are increasingly recognizing nuclear’s role in ensuring grid stability. In the U.S., the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act has accelerated nuclear projects, while the European Union’s REPowerEU initiative continues to emphasize nuclear as part of its clean energy transition strategy. The International Energy Agency (IEA) has also highlighted nuclear’s potential to fill the gap left by declining fossil fuel plants, particularly as renewable intermittency challenges persist [3].

2. Technology: Breakthroughs in SMRs and Fusion

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) Gain Momentum

Small modular reactors (SMRs) are advancing rapidly, with several projects nearing commercial deployment. TerraPower’s Natrium sodium fast reactor, for instance, has reported significant progress in its fifth round of procurement, signaling potential for deployment by the mid-2020s. These reactors offer scalability, reduced construction timelines, and lower capital costs compared to traditional large-scale reactors [8].

Another notable development is the Hualong One reactor, China’s indigenous pressurized water reactor (PWR), which is being deployed both domestically and internationally. The World Nuclear Association reports that construction is underway in 13 countries, though the number of reactors under construction has slightly declined from 2024, with China remaining the leader in new builds [11].

Fusion Milestones and Private Sector Investment

Fusion energy research continues to make strides, with private companies like Commonwealth Fusion Systems and TAE Technologies reporting breakthroughs in plasma confinement and magnetic fusion technologies. While commercial fusion remains years away, these advancements are generating optimism about the potential for near-term fusion pilot plants [1].

Additionally, the OECD’s Roadmaps to New Nuclear 2025 report underscores the importance of fusion as a long-term solution, with governments and private investors increasing funding to accelerate R&D [4].

3. Industry: Restarts and Reactor Restarts Revitalize the Sector

Reactor Restarts and Extended Lifespans

The nuclear industry is witnessing a resurgence in reactor restarts and lifespan extensions, particularly in regions where aging fleets were previously considered for decommissioning. In the U.S., several plants, including Oyster Creek and Kewaunee, have been restarted or are undergoing extended operation reviews, driven by economic incentives and grid reliability concerns [3].

Similarly, in Europe, countries like France and Germany are reconsidering reactor restarts as part of their energy security strategies, though public opposition remains a significant hurdle [3].

Global Construction Pipeline

Despite a slight decline in the number of reactors under construction (from 13 countries in 2024 to 12 in early 2026), China remains the dominant player, with three new reactors connected to the grid in 2024 alone. The Hualong One and APR1400 designs are particularly notable, with international orders from Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE [11].

In the U.S., the Vogtle 3 & 4 (Westinghouse AP1000) project continues to face delays but remains a critical example of large-scale nuclear construction. Meanwhile, SMRs are gaining traction in the UK, Canada, and the U.S., with NuScale’s VOYGR project in Idaho advancing toward commercial operation [7].

4. Economics: Investment and Market Shifts

Capital Flows to Nuclear Energy

The nuclear sector is attracting increasing investment, with both public and private funds flowing into SMRs, advanced reactors, and fusion startups. The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) FY 2026 budget request allocates significant funds to nuclear innovation, including advanced reactor technologies and stockpile stewardship [14].

Globally, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank have begun incorporating nuclear energy into their climate finance frameworks, recognizing its role in achieving net-zero targets. This shift is expected to unlock additional financing for nuclear projects, particularly in emerging markets [3].

Cost Competitiveness of Nuclear

A growing body of research suggests that nuclear energy is becoming more cost-competitive with renewables when considering grid stability and dispatchability. The MIT Technology Review highlights that next-gen reactors, with their compact designs and novel materials, are reducing construction costs and shortening timelines, making nuclear a more attractive option for utilities [7].

5. Environmental Protection: Nuclear as a Clean Energy Solution

Nuclear’s Role in Decarbonization

The nuclear industry is positioning itself as a cornerstone of global decarbonization efforts. At Abu Dhabi Finance Week 2025, officials emphasized the potential of advanced reactor technologies to support clean power, heat, and fuel production for industries like steel and cement, which are difficult to electrify [12].

The World Nuclear Association continues to advocate for nuclear as a carbon-free baseload energy source, arguing that it complements intermittent renewables and reduces reliance on fossil fuels. The association’s reports also highlight nuclear’s minimal land use and low lifecycle emissions compared to coal and gas [5].

Waste Management and Innovation

Decommissioning and waste management remain critical challenges, but innovations in recycling spent fuel and geological disposal are progressing. The OECD’s Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) has published updated guidelines on advanced fuel cycles, which could significantly reduce long-term waste volumes [4].

6. Defense: Nuclear for National Security and Energy Independence

U.S. and Global Nuclear Security Initiatives

The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) FY 2026 budget prioritizes maintaining a safe, secure, and effective nuclear weapons stockpile while advancing civilian nuclear energy. The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) is investing in advanced manufacturing and AI-driven nuclear safety systems to enhance both defense and civilian applications [14].

Internationally, the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) is reviewing export controls to balance nuclear energy cooperation with non-proliferation concerns, particularly as more countries, including India and Saudi Arabia, expand their nuclear programs [3].

7. Market: Supply Chain and Geopolitical Dynamics

Supply Chain Resilience and Geopolitical Shifts

The nuclear market is navigating supply chain challenges, particularly in uranium enrichment and reactor component manufacturing. The U.S.-EU-UK Trilateral Partnership on Critical Minerals includes nuclear fuel as a priority, aiming to reduce reliance on Russia and China for uranium supplies [3].

Meanwhile, Russia’s nuclear industry, though historically robust, faces sanctions and market exclusion, limiting its ability to compete in global reactor exports. However, Russia remains a key player in uranium enrichment and fuel fabrication, with its TVEL state corporation supplying fuel to plants worldwide [10].

Emerging Markets and New Entrants

Countries like Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Bangladesh are entering the nuclear market, driven by energy security concerns and climate commitments. The Saudi Arabia-Nuclear Cooperation Agreement (SANCA) with the U.S. and France signals a shift toward civilian nuclear energy, though progress remains slow due to political and financial hurdles [3].

8. Decommissioning: Progress and Challenges

Decommissioning Projects Advance

Decommissioning efforts are progressing, particularly in Japan, where the Fukushima Daiichi site continues to face challenges in removing spent fuel and contaminated materials. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is providing technical assistance to ensure safe and efficient decommissioning [9].

In the U.S., the DOE’s Nuclear Energy University Programs (NEUP) are funding research into robotics and AI for decommissioning, aiming to reduce costs and improve safety [14].

Economic Incentives for Decommissioning

Some countries are offering financial incentives to accelerate decommissioning, such as France’s "Grand Défi" program, which provides grants for early decommissioning of older reactors. These initiatives aim to free up land for renewable energy projects and reduce long-term liability costs [3].

9. Restarts: Reviving Aging Fleets

U.S. and European Reactor Restarts

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has approved extensions for several reactors, including Oyster Creek (NJ) and Kewaunee (WI), which were previously slated for shutdown. These restarts are driven by economic viability and grid reliability concerns, particularly as natural gas prices remain volatile [3].

In Europe, France’s Flamanville 3 (EPR) and Finland’s Olkiluoto 3 projects continue to face delays, but the restart of older reactors, such as Belgium’s Doel 1 and Tihange 1, demonstrates the industry’s adaptability [3].

10. New Constructions: Global Pipeline and Innovations

China Leads in New Builds

China remains the global leader in nuclear construction, with 15 reactors under construction as of early 2026. The Hualong One and CAP1400 designs are being deployed domestically and internationally, with orders from Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE [11].

U.S. and International SMR Developments

The U.S. is making strides in SMR technology, with NuScale’s VOYGR project in Idaho expected to begin commercial operation soon. Meanwhile, Canada’s Bruce Power is advancing its SMR demonstration project, while the UK’s Rolls-Royce SMR is progressing toward deployment [7].

Fusion and Advanced Reactor Projects

While commercial fusion remains years away, private companies like Commonwealth Fusion Systems and TAE Technologies are making progress in plasma confinement and magnetic fusion technologies. These advancements are generating optimism about near-term fusion pilot plants [1].

Conclusion: A Year of Renewed Momentum for Nuclear Energy

The nuclear sector in early 2026 is at a pivotal juncture, with technological innovations, policy support, and economic incentives driving a resurgence in interest. Small modular reactors (SMRs), fusion research, and reactor restarts are reshaping the industry’s trajectory, while global demand for stable, carbon-free energy is reinforcing nuclear’s role in the transition to a low-carbon future.

As governments and utilities increasingly recognize nuclear’s unique advantages—baseload capacity, minimal emissions, and grid stability—the sector is poised for a period of sustained growth. However, challenges remain, including public perception, supply chain resilience, and the need for continued investment in advanced technologies.

The coming year will be critical in determining whether nuclear energy can reclaim its position as a cornerstone of global energy security and climate action. With 15 new reactors under construction and a pipeline of innovative projects, the nuclear industry is well-positioned to meet the challenges ahead.

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Henkypenky

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