The World Nuclear Association (WNA) estimates that meeting government ambitions for nuclear energy will require US$6 trillion ($8.5 trillion) in cumulative investment by 2050.
Its investment guide says annual financing must average more than US$250 billion, with requirements accelerating from the mid-2030s.
Most of the capital would fund new generating capacity, although investment would also be required across uranium mining, fuel processing, waste management, and other parts of the nuclear supply chain.
The WNA’s latest outlook estimates global nuclear capacity could reach 1,467 gigawatts electric by 2050 if governments deliver their targets and existing reactors remain operational.
However, construction remains below the pace required. Construction began on 11 reactors in 2025, while the WNA estimates build rates must eventually increase to around six times current levels.
For uranium producers, an OECD Nuclear Energy Agency and International Atomic Energy Agency report projects annual reactor requirements could rise from about 64,500 tonnes of uranium in 2025 to 84,800–143,900 tonnes by 2050.
The agencies conclude that identified uranium resources are sufficient to meet projected demand, but warn that mines typically require 15–20 years to develop. Sustained exploration and development investment will therefore be needed to bring resources into production.
The US$6 trillion figure represents estimated financing required under the WNA’s growth scenario, rather than committed investment.
The WNA is an industry association representing companies across uranium mining, fuel processing, reactor development, power generation, and other parts of the nuclear value chain.
Write to France Pinzon at Mining.com.au
Main image: World Nuclear Association
