U.S. Aims to Triple Nuclear Energy Capacity by 2050 to Combat Climate Change

November 25, 2025

The United States has set ambitious new targets to significantly expand its nuclear energy capacity, aiming to triple it by 2050. This strategic move is designed to bolster energy security, drive economic growth, and crucially, combat climate change by providing a substantial source of clean power.

Key Takeaways

The U.S. aims to add 35 GW of new nuclear capacity by 2035 and achieve a sustained pace of 15 GW per year by 2040.
This initiative aligns with global efforts to triple nuclear capacity by 2050 and secure a nuclear fuel supply chain independent of Russia.
Investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act are crucial for this expansion.

The Role of Nuclear Power in a Clean Energy Future

Nuclear energy currently stands as the nation’s largest source of clean power, preventing over 470 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually – equivalent to taking 100 million cars off the road. The Department of Energy estimates that an additional 200 gigawatts (GW) of new nuclear capacity will be necessary to meet future power demands and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. This expansion is seen as vital for both domestic energy security and that of allies and partners.

New Deployment Targets and Strategies

Announced at the U.N. climate summit (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, the new framework outlines over 30 actions for the U.S. government, industry, and power customers to facilitate the expansion of domestic nuclear capacity. The plan includes adding 35 GW of new capacity by 2035 and reaching a sustained pace of 15 GW annually by 2040. This framework is the first of its kind for the U.S. nuclear sector and supports global pledges to triple nuclear capacity by 2050.

Building New Capacity and Leveraging Existing Infrastructure

Achieving these targets will require building new reactors at a pace not seen since the 1970s, emphasizing design standardization and new manufacturing techniques. Both large-scale light-water reactors and new small modular and microreactor designs are expected to contribute to meeting diverse energy needs. Preliminary research suggests that existing nuclear power plant sites could host up to 60 GW of new capacity with large-scale reactors, and potentially 95 GW with small modular reactors. Furthermore, sites near former U.S. coal plants could accommodate an additional 128 to 174 GW of new capacity, particularly with smaller, less capital-intensive reactors that can utilize existing infrastructure and local workforces.

Momentum and Future Outlook

Recent legislation, including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Inflation Reduction Act, and the ADVANCE Act, has created significant momentum for the domestic nuclear sector. Efforts are underway to restart retired reactors, demonstrate new technologies, and secure a reliable supply chain for high-assay low-enriched uranium, reducing dependence on foreign entities. The success of projects like the new AP1000 reactors in Georgia and the planned restarts in Michigan and Pennsylvania highlight the renewed focus on expanding nuclear power as a cornerstone of the nation’s clean energy strategy.