World Nuclear Outlook Report

In News: The World Nuclear Association (WNA) has released the World Nuclear Outlook Report, projecting a major expansion of global nuclear power capacity as countries pursue decarbonisation and energy security.

Key Findings of the Report

1. Expansion of Global Nuclear Capacity

• Global nuclear power capacity is projected to rise to 1,446 gigawatt electric (GWe) by 2050.
• This exceeds the 1,200 GWe target set under the Declaration to Triple Nuclear Energy.

2. Declaration to Triple Nuclear Energy

• Launched during COP28 (Dubai, 2023).
• Aims to triple global nuclear power capacity by 2050 as part of climate mitigation strategies.

3. Concentration of Capacity

• Five countries are expected to dominate global nuclear capacity by 2050:

oChina, France, India, Russia, United States

• Together, they could account for ~980 GWe, highlighting continued technological and financial concentration.

Policy Recommendations by the Report

1. Role in Decarbonisation

• Nuclear energy should be integrated into long-term decarbonisation pathways due to:
• Low lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions,
• Reliable baseload power generation.

2. Energy Security

• Nuclear power reduces dependence on fossil fuel imports and volatile global energy markets.

3. Electricity Market Reforms

• Calls for reforming electricity markets to ensure:
• Equitable treatment of nuclear energy,
• Recognition of its long-term stability and system-level benefits compared to intermittent renewables.

Significance for India

1. India is identified as one of the five key contributors to future global nuclear capacity.
2. Supports India’s commitments under:

• Net Zero by 2070,
• Clean energy transition,
• Long-term energy security.

1. Reinforces the importance of expanding indigenous nuclear technology and international cooperation.