UN Nuclear Agency Predicts Global Nuclear Power Could More Than Triple by 2060

NEW DELHI: The use of nuclear power worldwide could more than triple by the year 2060, according to projections shared by the head of the United Nations nuclear agency.

Rafael Grossi, Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), stated during his annual report to the UN General Assembly that future capacity expansions will primarily be driven by broader electrification, data centers powered by artificial intelligence, and the growing demand from technology companies for reliable and carbon-free energy sources.

Grossi noted that a rising number of countries view nuclear energy as a critical component for enhancing national energy security. He described nuclear energy as being on par with solar power and safer than alternative options.

According to the IAEA, over 400 operating reactors across more than 30 countries accounted for 10 percent of global electricity production and a quarter of low-carbon electricity in 2025. Furthermore, more than 60 new reactors are currently under construction, leading to a significant upward shift in future capacity projections.

Alongside peaceful energy expansion, Grossi addressed various global nuclear safety and security challenges, including programs in Iran and North Korea, ongoing risks linked to the war in Ukraine, and developments in Syria.

Regarding Iran, Grossi informed UN member nations that technical work required for a diplomatic agreement has been completed. He called on all parties to resume negotiations and allow IAEA inspectors to return expeditiously to ensure indispensable verification.

On North Korea, Grossi warned that the country's advancing nuclear program, which operates without IAEA oversight, violates UN Security Council resolutions. He also highlighted the ongoing vulnerability of Europe's largest nuclear facility, the Zaporizhzhia plant in Ukraine, citing frequent power losses, limited backup supplies, and threats from nearby military activity.

On a positive note, the IAEA reported progress in resolving long-standing questions regarding Syria's historical nuclear activities following engagement with the government of interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa. The agency had previously reported that the ousted Bashar Assad-era administration was constructing a reactor configured to produce fissile material.

"The projected tripling of nuclear power by 2060 highlights a fundamental shift in global energy infrastructure, heavily influenced by the power demands of artificial intelligence data centers and tech enterprises seeking carbon-free alternatives. For businesses and investors, this trend signals long-term capital allocation toward reliable, clean baseload power sources. Energy security is no longer just a macroeconomic policy discussion; it is becoming a core operational prerequisite for scaling next-generation digital and industrial technologies." — Dr. Shishir Gupta, Founder & CEO, StartupLanes