Global Nuclear
Policy

Track nuclear energy legislation, regulatory decisions, and international agreements shaping the future of nuclear power across 27 countries worldwide.

42Total Policies
27Countries
34Enacted
8Pending/Proposed

42 policies

North America

16
federalenactedUnited States
Jul 2024

ADVANCE Act (Accelerating Deployment of Versatile, Advanced Nuclear for Clean Energy)

Signed into law to accelerate the licensing and deployment of advanced nuclear reactors. Reduces NRC licensing fees, creates new licensing pathways, and establishes incentives for international nuclear cooperation.

Key Points

  • Reduces NRC licensing fees for advanced reactor applications
  • Creates a new prize for the first advanced reactor to generate electricity
  • Accelerates environmental review timelines
  • Establishes pathway for licensing nuclear facilities at retired fossil fuel sites
  • Directs NRC to develop licensing framework for micro-reactors and SMRs
Source ↗
federalenactedUnited States
Aug 2022

Inflation Reduction Act - Nuclear Production Tax Credit

Provides a production tax credit of up to $15/MWh for existing nuclear power plants at risk of closure, helping maintain the current fleet's operation through 2032.

Key Points

  • Up to $15/MWh production tax credit for existing nuclear plants
  • Credit available from 2024 through 2032
  • Plants must demonstrate financial need to qualify
  • Zero-emission nuclear production credit (45U)
  • Clean electricity production credit (45Y) extends to new nuclear
Source ↗
federalenactedUnited States
Mar 2024

Nuclear Fuel Security Act

Establishes a domestic nuclear fuel supply chain to reduce dependence on Russian uranium imports, authorizing $2.72 billion for uranium enrichment.

Key Points

  • $2.72 billion authorized for domestic uranium enrichment
  • Bans Russian uranium imports with limited waivers through 2027
  • Supports HALEU fuel production for advanced reactors
  • Strengthens domestic fuel cycle capabilities
  • Establishes strategic uranium reserve
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federalpendingUnited States
Jun 2025

Nuclear Energy Infrastructure Investment

Proposed legislation to fund nuclear infrastructure upgrades and new build projects, including $10 billion for SMR deployment support.

Key Points

  • Proposed $10 billion for SMR deployment support
  • Grid interconnection funding for new nuclear projects
  • Workforce development and training programs
  • Community benefit agreements for host communities
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stateenactedUnited States· California
Sep 2022

California SB 846 - Diablo Canyon Extension

Extended the operating life of Diablo Canyon nuclear plant through 2030, reversing the planned 2025 shutdown. Includes $1.4 billion in federal funding support.

Key Points

  • Extended Diablo Canyon operations through 2030
  • $1.4 billion in federal funding secured
  • Maintained 2,250 MWe of carbon-free generation
  • Subject to seismic safety reviews
Source ↗
stateenactedUnited States· Illinois
Sep 2021

Illinois Climate and Equitable Jobs Act

Provided $694 million in subsidies to keep Illinois nuclear plants operating, recognizing nuclear as essential clean energy for the state's carbon reduction goals.

Key Points

  • $694 million in subsidies for nuclear plants
  • Nuclear included in clean energy portfolio
  • Carbon-free energy credits for at-risk plants
  • Prevents premature closure of Byron and Dresden plants
Source ↗
regulatorypendingUnited States
Jan 2025

NRC Small Modular Reactor Licensing Framework

NRC is developing streamlined licensing pathways for SMRs and advanced reactors, with NuScale Power's VOYGR design receiving design certification in 2023.

Key Points

  • NuScale VOYGR SMR design certified by NRC (Jan 2023)
  • Kairos Power Hermes test reactor construction permit approved
  • TerraPower Natrium demonstration project in Wyoming advancing
  • X-energy Xe-100 pebble-bed reactor under NRC review
  • Streamlined licensing timeline targets under ADVANCE Act
Source ↗
regulatoryenactedUnited States
Apr 2024

Vogtle Units 3 & 4 - First New US Reactors in Decades

Vogtle Units 3 and 4 are the first new nuclear reactors built in the US in over 30 years. Unit 3 entered commercial operation July 2023, Unit 4 in April 2024. Both are Westinghouse AP1000 designs.

Key Points

  • Unit 3: commercial operation July 31, 2023 (1,117 MWe)
  • Unit 4: commercial operation April 29, 2024 (1,117 MWe)
  • First AP1000 reactors in the Western Hemisphere
  • Adds 2,234 MWe of carbon-free generation capacity
  • Total project cost approximately $35 billion
Source ↗
stateenactedUnited States· New York
Aug 2016

New York Zero-Emissions Credit Program

New York's ZEC program provides subsidies to nuclear plants to recognize their zero-emission value, helping preserve the state's nuclear fleet.

Key Points

  • Zero-emissions credits valued at ~$17.48/MWh
  • Supports FitzPatrick, Ginna, and Nine Mile Point plants
  • Renewed through Clean Energy Standard
  • Recognizes nuclear as zero-emission generation
Source ↗
stateenactedUnited States· New Jersey
Apr 2019

New Jersey Zero Emission Certificate Program

New Jersey established ZEC program to support nuclear plants, providing approximately $300 million annually to keep Salem and Hope Creek operating.

Key Points

  • ~$300 million annually in nuclear subsidies
  • Supports Salem Units 1 & 2 and Hope Creek
  • Prevents closure of 3,400+ MWe of nuclear capacity
  • Renewed for additional 3-year terms
Source ↗
federalenactedUnited States
Jul 2024

ADVANCE Act (Accelerating Deployment of Versatile, Advanced Nuclear for Clean Energy)

Bipartisan legislation signed into law to accelerate nuclear energy deployment by streamlining NRC licensing, reducing regulatory fees, and establishing new programs to support advanced reactor technologies.

Key Points

  • Reduces NRC licensing fees for advanced reactor applicants
  • Establishes prize for first advanced reactor licensed
  • Requires NRC to develop regulatory framework for fusion energy
  • Directs study on nuclear regulatory harmonization with allies
  • Creates Nuclear Energy Voucher Program for university research
Source ↗
federalenactedUnited States
Aug 2022

Inflation Reduction Act — Nuclear Production Tax Credits

The IRA includes $30B+ in production and investment tax credits for existing and new nuclear plants, providing up to $15/MWh for existing reactors and technology-neutral credits for new clean energy generation starting 2025.

Key Points

  • Production tax credit of $15/MWh for existing nuclear plants (through 2032)
  • Technology-neutral clean electricity PTC for new reactors from 2025
  • Investment tax credit option available for advanced reactors
  • Zero-emission nuclear power qualifies alongside renewables
  • Saved multiple at-risk plants from early retirement
Source ↗
regulatoryenactedUnited States
Jan 2023

NRC Advanced Reactor and SMR Licensing Modernization

NRC has developed a modernized licensing framework (10 CFR Part 53) for advanced reactors and small modular reactors, enabling technology-inclusive, risk-informed reviews for non-light-water reactor designs.

Key Points

  • Part 53 framework for advanced reactor licensing
  • NuScale SMR design certification completed (first-ever SMR)
  • Pre-application reviews ongoing for multiple advanced designs
  • Kairos Power, X-energy, and TerraPower in active review
  • Reduced review timelines targeted for proven technologies
Source ↗
federalenactedUnited States
May 2024

Nuclear Fuel Security Act & HALEU Availability Program

Bans Russian uranium imports and funds $2.7B for domestic uranium enrichment capacity, including HALEU production critical for next-generation reactors.

Key Points

  • Bans import of Russian-origin enriched uranium by 2028
  • $2.72 billion for domestic uranium enrichment facilities
  • Establishes HALEU (High-Assay Low-Enriched Uranium) supply chain
  • Centrus Energy receives contract for domestic HALEU production
  • Supports national security and energy independence goals
Source ↗
federalenactedCanada
Mar 2022

Canada SMR Action Plan & SMR Roadmap

Canada's comprehensive strategy to develop and deploy small modular reactors, with Ontario Power Generation leading construction of the BWRX-300 at Darlington and multiple provinces pursuing SMR projects.

Key Points

  • OPG constructing first grid-scale SMR (BWRX-300) at Darlington
  • New Brunswick pursuing ARC Clean Technology SMR
  • Saskatchewan and Alberta evaluating SMR deployments
  • CNSC providing pre-licensing vendor design reviews
  • Federal investment of C$1.2B+ in nuclear innovation
Source ↗
federalenactedCanada
Jan 2023

Ontario Nuclear Refurbishment & Expansion Program

Ontario is executing a C$26B refurbishment of Bruce and Darlington nuclear stations to extend operations to 2064, while also pursuing new build capacity at Bruce Power.

Key Points

  • Bruce Power: 6 units undergoing Major Component Replacement (C$13B)
  • Darlington: 4 units refurbishment extending life to 2055+
  • Bruce Power Site C: new large reactor site under consideration
  • Nuclear provides ~60% of Ontario's electricity
  • Largest nuclear infrastructure investment in Canadian history
Source ↗

Europe

9
federalenactedFrance
Jun 2023

France Nuclear Renaissance: New EPR2 Construction Program

France passed legislation to accelerate new nuclear construction, authorizing 6 new EPR2 reactors (with option for 8 more) and removing the cap on nuclear share of electricity. Flamanville 3 EPR connected to grid in December 2024.

Key Points

  • 6 new EPR2 reactors authorized at 3 existing sites
  • Up to 14 total new reactors under consideration
  • Removed 50% cap on nuclear share of electricity
  • Streamlined planning and permitting procedures
  • Flamanville 3 EPR achieved grid connection December 2024
Source ↗
federalenactedUnited Kingdom
Jul 2023

Great British Nuclear (GBN) — SMR Competition & Sizewell C

UK established Great British Nuclear to deliver 24 GW of new nuclear capacity by 2050. Sizewell C EPR received Final Investment Decision in July 2025. GBN is running an SMR technology selection process.

Key Points

  • Sizewell C: FID signed July 2025, twin EPR (~3.2 GW)
  • Hinkley Point C: 2 x 1.6 GW EPR units under construction
  • GBN SMR competition: 4 designs shortlisted for UK deployment
  • Target: 24 GW nuclear capacity by 2050 (from ~6 GW today)
  • Nuclear classified as environmentally sustainable in UK taxonomy
Source ↗
internationalenactedEuropean Union
Jul 2022

EU Taxonomy: Nuclear Included as Sustainable (Green Classification)

The European Commission included nuclear energy in the EU Taxonomy for Sustainable Finance, classifying it as a transitional green activity that contributes to climate change mitigation, enabling green bond financing for nuclear projects.

Key Points

  • Nuclear classified as transitional activity contributing to climate goals
  • New nuclear plants must use best available technology (Gen III+)
  • Must have plans for high-level waste disposal by 2050
  • Construction permits must be granted before 2045
  • Enables access to green bonds and sustainable finance for nuclear
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federalenactedGermany
Apr 2023

Germany Nuclear Phase-Out (Atomausstieg) Completed

Germany shut down its last three operating nuclear reactors on April 15, 2023, completing a phase-out originally decided in 2011 after Fukushima. The decision remains controversial as Germany increased coal and gas generation.

Key Points

  • Emsland, Isar 2, and Neckarwestheim 2 shut down April 15, 2023
  • Ended 60+ years of German nuclear power generation
  • Coal and gas generation increased to fill the gap
  • German electricity prices among highest in Europe
  • Political debate continues over reversing the decision
Source ↗
federalenactedSweden
Nov 2023

Sweden Reverses Nuclear Phase-Out: New Build Authorization

Sweden's government reversed decades of nuclear phase-out policy, removing the cap on reactors and actively pursuing new nuclear construction with a target of at least 2,500 MW new capacity by 2035.

Key Points

  • Removed cap of 10 reactors and ban on new construction
  • Target: at least 2,500 MW new nuclear by 2035
  • Government created new authority for nuclear permitting
  • Vattenfall studying new build at Ringhals site
  • SMR deployments being actively explored
Source ↗
federalenactedPoland
Sep 2023

Poland's First Nuclear Power Plant Program

Poland selected Westinghouse AP1000 technology for its first nuclear power plant at Choczewo (Pomerania), targeting 6-9 GW of nuclear capacity. First unit expected to be online by the early 2030s.

Key Points

  • 3 x AP1000 units planned at Choczewo/Lubiatowo-Kopalino site
  • Environmental decision issued September 2023
  • First concrete expected ~2026, first unit online early 2030s
  • KHNP (South Korea) also selected for 2nd nuclear plant
  • Total program: 6-9 GW to replace coal generation
Source ↗
federalenactedSlovakia
Jan 2023

Slovakia Mochovce 3 & 4 Completion Program

Slovakia completed Mochovce Unit 3 in January 2023 after decades of delay, with Unit 4 in final commissioning. Nuclear provides ~55% of Slovakia's electricity.

Key Points

  • Mochovce 3 entered commercial operation January 2023
  • Mochovce 4 in final commissioning, expected online 2026
  • Nuclear provides ~55% of Slovak electricity
  • VVER-440 upgraded with modern safety systems
  • Strategic importance for EU energy security
Source ↗
federalpendingCzech Republic
Jul 2024

Czech Republic: Dukovany 5 New Reactor Tender

Czech Republic selected KHNP (South Korea) to build a new APR1000/EU-APR reactor at Dukovany, with an option for up to 4 additional units. The project represents central Europe's largest energy infrastructure investment.

Key Points

  • KHNP selected as preferred bidder for Dukovany 5
  • 1,200+ MWe APR reactor planned
  • Option for up to 4 more units at Dukovany and Temelin
  • Target commercial operation: early 2030s
  • Estimated cost: €15-20 billion for first unit
Source ↗
federalpendingHungary
Aug 2024

Hungary Paks II Expansion Project

Hungary is pursuing construction of 2 new VVER-1200 reactors at the Paks site with Rosatom, despite EU scrutiny over Russian energy dependence. Construction license issued 2024.

Key Points

  • 2 x VVER-1200 units planned (2,400 MWe total)
  • Rosatom as contractor, Russian financing
  • Construction license issued August 2024
  • Repeatedly delayed due to regulatory and geopolitical factors
  • Nuclear currently provides ~46% of Hungarian electricity
Source ↗

Asia

9
federalenactedChina
Mar 2021

China 14th Five-Year Plan: Massive Nuclear Expansion

China's 14th Five-Year Plan targets 70 GWe operational nuclear capacity by 2025 and approves 6-8 new reactor units per year. China has the world's largest construction program with 33+ units under construction.

Key Points

  • Target: 70 GWe operational nuclear by 2025, 120+ GWe by 2035
  • Approving 6-10 new units annually (10 approved in 2024)
  • Flagship designs: Hualong One (HPR1000), CAP1000, CAP1400
  • World's first commercial SMR (ACP100 Linglong One) under construction
  • 33+ reactors under construction — half the global total
Source ↗
federalenactedChina
Jan 2023

China Nuclear Export Strategy (Hualong One Global Deployment)

China is actively exporting its indigenous Hualong One (HPR1000) reactor design, with units operating in Pakistan and under construction in Pakistan. Additional export deals pursued with Argentina, Saudi Arabia, and others.

Key Points

  • Karachi K-2 and K-3 (Pakistan) operational with Hualong One
  • Chashma-5 (Pakistan) under construction since December 2024
  • Export discussions with Argentina, Saudi Arabia, Turkey
  • Competing with Russian VVER and Korean APR1400 globally
  • CNNC and CGN lead international marketing efforts
Source ↗
federalenactedIndia
Jan 2023

India Nuclear Expansion: 22 GW Target by 2031

India targets 22.48 GWe nuclear capacity by 2031-32, with 6 reactors under construction and 10+ more sanctioned. India's indigenous IPHWR-700 design is being deployed in fleet mode.

Key Points

  • Current: ~7.5 GWe operational, target 22.48 GWe by 2031
  • 6 reactors under construction (VVER, PHWR, FBR)
  • 10 x IPHWR-700 units sanctioned for fleet deployment
  • Indigenous PFBR fast breeder reactor in commissioning
  • Jaitapur 6 x EPR project with France under negotiation
Source ↗
federalenactedJapan
Feb 2023

Japan GX Transformation: Nuclear Restart & New Build Policy

Japan reversed its post-Fukushima nuclear phase-out stance with the GX (Green Transformation) policy, allowing reactor life extension beyond 60 years and pursuing next-generation reactor development.

Key Points

  • Extends reactor operating life beyond 60 years
  • Supports development and construction of next-generation reactors
  • 12 reactors restarted as of 2025, more in approval pipeline
  • Target: nuclear as 20-22% of electricity mix by 2030
  • JAEA developing high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR)
Source ↗
federalenactedSouth Korea
Jul 2022

South Korea Nuclear Phase-In: Reversing Phase-Out Policy

South Korea reversed the previous administration's nuclear phase-out under the Yoon government, restarting suspended reactor construction at Shin Hanul 3&4 and targeting nuclear exports as a strategic industry.

Key Points

  • Reversed Moon-era nuclear phase-out policy
  • Shin Hanul 3 & 4 (APR1400) construction resumed/approved
  • Nuclear export declared strategic national priority
  • Won Dukovany tender in Czech Republic (KHNP)
  • Target: 30%+ nuclear share of electricity by 2030
Source ↗
federalenactedUnited Arab Emirates
Mar 2024

UAE Barakah Nuclear Energy Program (All 4 Units Operational)

The UAE became the first new nuclear energy nation in the Arab world with all 4 Barakah APR1400 units now operational, providing 25% of the country's electricity. A model for newcomer nuclear nations.

Key Points

  • All 4 x APR1400 units operational (5,600 MWe total)
  • Provides ~25% of UAE electricity
  • First Arab nation with commercial nuclear power
  • Achieved construction in record time for newcomer country
  • FANR regulatory framework recognized as international benchmark
Source ↗
federalenactedTurkey
Apr 2023

Turkey Akkuyu Nuclear Power Project (BOO Model)

Turkey's first nuclear plant at Akkuyu (4 x VVER-1200) is under construction by Rosatom under a Build-Own-Operate model. Fuel was loaded into Unit 1 in 2024. Turkey plans up to 3 nuclear sites.

Key Points

  • 4 x VVER-1200 units under construction (4,456 MWe total)
  • Build-Own-Operate (BOO) model with Rosatom
  • Unit 1 fuel loaded 2024, expected online 2026
  • Turkey's first nuclear plant — newcomer country
  • Second and third nuclear plant sites under consideration
Source ↗
federalenactedBangladesh
Jan 2023

Bangladesh Rooppur Nuclear Power Project

Bangladesh is building its first nuclear power plant at Rooppur with 2 Russian VVER-1200 units. Unit 1 is in advanced commissioning with fuel delivered. Part of Bangladesh's target of 7.2 GWe nuclear by 2050.

Key Points

  • 2 x VVER-1200 units (2,160 MWe total)
  • Unit 1 fuel delivered 2023, commissioning underway
  • Russian financing and construction under intergovernmental agreement
  • Target: 7.2 GWe nuclear capacity by 2050
  • Bangladesh's first nuclear power plant
Source ↗
federalproposedSaudi Arabia
Jan 2024

Saudi Arabia National Nuclear Energy Program (KACARE)

Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy (KACARE) is developing plans for 17.6 GW of nuclear capacity by 2040, with vendor selection ongoing between Chinese, Korean, and French designs.

Key Points

  • Target: 17.6 GW nuclear capacity by 2040
  • Vendor evaluation: KHNP, CNNC, EDF in competition
  • First reactor site selection underway
  • Part of Vision 2030 energy diversification strategy
  • Uranium exploration and fuel cycle development programs
Source ↗

Africa

4
federalenactedEgypt
Jul 2022

Egypt El Dabaa Nuclear Power Program

Egypt is building its first nuclear power plant at El Dabaa with 4 Russian VVER-1200 reactors. The $30B project will add 4.8 GWe of capacity. Construction on all 4 units is underway.

Key Points

  • 4 x VVER-1200 units at El Dabaa (4,776 MWe total)
  • $30B project with Rosatom, Russian financing
  • All 4 units under construction (first started July 2022)
  • First unit expected online 2028-2029
  • Egypt's first nuclear power plant — Africa's newest nuclear nation
Source ↗
federalpendingSouth Africa
Jan 2024

South Africa Nuclear Expansion Consideration (IRP 2019)

South Africa's Integrated Resource Plan includes 2,500 MW of new nuclear capacity, though procurement has been delayed. Koeberg life extension to 2044 approved. South Africa is the only African country with operating nuclear power.

Key Points

  • IRP 2019 includes 2,500 MW new nuclear by 2030s
  • Koeberg 1 & 2 life extension approved to 2044/2045
  • Nuclear provides ~5% of South African electricity
  • Procurement process repeatedly delayed
  • Exploring both large reactors and SMR options
Source ↗
federalproposedKenya
Jan 2024

Kenya Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA) Program

Kenya's Nuclear Power and Energy Agency is pursuing the country's first nuclear plant with a target of 1,000 MW by 2034. Site studies completed. Kenya signed nuclear cooperation agreements with South Korea and China.

Key Points

  • Target: 1,000 MW first nuclear plant by 2034
  • Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA) established
  • Site studies completed at multiple candidate locations
  • Nuclear cooperation agreements with South Korea, China, Russia
  • Regulatory framework under development
Source ↗
federalproposedGhana
Jan 2024

Ghana Nuclear Power Programme Organization (GNPPO)

Ghana is pursuing nuclear power with IAEA support, having completed Phase 1 of the IAEA Milestones approach. Site evaluation ongoing. Ghana aims to have first nuclear plant operational by 2030s.

Key Points

  • Completed IAEA Milestones Phase 1 assessment
  • Ghana Nuclear Power Programme Organisation established
  • Candidate sites under evaluation
  • Nuclear cooperation agreements with Russia, China, South Korea
  • Target first reactor in 2030s
Source ↗

South America

2
federalenactedBrazil
Jan 2023

Brazil Angra 3 Construction Revival & Nuclear Expansion

Brazil restarted construction on the long-delayed Angra 3 reactor (1,340 MWe PWR) and is developing plans for additional nuclear capacity. Angra 3 is 65% complete with expected operation by 2029.

Key Points

  • Angra 3 construction restarted after years of suspension
  • 1,340 MWe KWU/Siemens Konvoi design, 65% complete
  • Expected commercial operation by 2029
  • New energy policy includes additional nuclear capacity
  • Brazil exploring SMR options for remote Amazon regions
Source ↗
federalenactedArgentina
Jan 2023

Argentina CAREM-25 SMR Project & Nuclear Strategy

Argentina is building the CAREM-25, one of the world's first small modular reactors (25 MWe), with expected completion by 2027. Argentina also had plans for a Chinese Hualong One (Atucha 3) but this was cancelled.

Key Points

  • CAREM-25: Argentina's indigenous SMR design (25 MWe)
  • Under construction since 2014, ~70% complete
  • Integral PWR design with natural circulation cooling
  • Atucha 3 (Hualong One) project cancelled in 2024
  • Argentina exploring nuclear-hydrogen production
Source ↗

International

2
internationalenacted25+ countries
Dec 2023

COP28 Declaration to Triple Nuclear Energy Capacity by 2050

At COP28 in Dubai, 25+ countries signed a declaration to triple global nuclear energy capacity by 2050. This was the first time nuclear energy was formally recognized in a UN climate conference declaration.

Key Points

  • 25+ countries signed (US, UK, France, Japan, Canada, UAE, etc.)
  • Target: triple nuclear capacity from ~370 GW to ~1,100 GW by 2050
  • First formal recognition of nuclear at a UN climate conference
  • Calls for financial institutions to include nuclear in clean energy funding
  • Supported by IEA and IAEA analysis on net-zero pathways
Source ↗
internationalenactedIAEA
Jan 2024

IAEA Nuclear Harmonization and Standardization Initiative (NHSI)

The IAEA launched the Nuclear Harmonization and Standardization Initiative to facilitate global deployment of SMRs by harmonizing regulatory approaches across countries, enabling faster licensing of proven designs.

Key Points

  • Harmonizes regulatory frameworks for SMR licensing across nations
  • Pre-licensing design reviews shared between national regulators
  • Supports newcomer countries in developing nuclear programs
  • Reduces time and cost for SMR deployment globally
  • Key to enabling the COP28 tripling pledge
Source ↗