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

December 9, 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 reducing carbon emissions. The plan involves a multi-faceted approach, including extending the life of existing plants, restarting retired reactors, and deploying new reactor technologies.

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.
Federal investments through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act are crucial to achieving these goals.

Powering the Future with Nuclear Energy

Nuclear power is currently the largest source of clean electricity in the United States, preventing over 470 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually. To meet future energy demands and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, the U.S. Department of Energy estimates a need for an additional 200 gigawatts (GW) of new nuclear capacity. This ambitious target was recently announced at the U.N. climate summit (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Strategies for Expanding Nuclear Capacity

The path to achieving these deployment targets involves building new reactors at a pace not seen since the 1970s. Key strategies include:

Design Standardization and New Manufacturing: Utilizing standardized designs and advanced manufacturing techniques will be essential for efficient deployment.
Diverse Reactor Technologies: The plan incorporates large-scale light-water reactors, as well as new small modular and microreactor designs, to meet varied energy needs.
Leveraging Existing Infrastructure: Preliminary research indicates that many existing nuclear power plant sites could host up to 60 GW of new capacity. Furthermore, sites near former coal plants could potentially accommodate an additional 128 to 174 GW, utilizing existing infrastructure and local workforces.
Streamlining Regulations: Legislation like the ADVANCE Act is being implemented to expedite regulatory processes.
Workforce and Supply Chain Development: Rebuilding the domestic workforce and supply chains is a critical component, ensuring reliable fuel sources and operational expertise.

Economic and Security Benefits

The expansion of nuclear energy is expected to create thousands of new jobs across the country, revitalizing communities. By extending the operational life of plants like Diablo Canyon in California, which was previously slated for closure, the U.S. is demonstrating a commitment to preserving skilled jobs and ensuring energy reliability. The initiative also aims to secure a nuclear fuel supply chain free from foreign influence, particularly Russia, enhancing national security.