Nuclear power plants are the second largest source of low-emission energy in the world, and their importance is constantly growing. At the beginning of 2026, there were 437 nuclear reactors operating in more than 30 countries around the world. Interestingly, in 2022, 411 nuclear reactors were operating and this was 18 fewer than a decade earlier
Nuclear energy has been a key element of the energy mix of many countries for years. Today, however, its importance is decreasing, and political and social decisions may affect energy security and the fight against climate change.
Nuclear powers. Which countries have the most nuclear power plants?
As the World Atomic Energy Association explains, nuclear energy is one of the main sources of low-emission energy, which is of great importance in the fight against climate change. Part of the world's clean energy production comes from nuclear energy. Thanks to international cooperation, nuclear technology is developing dynamically and is available to an increasing number of countries.
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Where are the most nuclear power plants? Which countries have nuclear power plants? At that time, the United States had the most operating nuclear reactors – 94 units. The term “operating nuclear reactors” refers to those that are connected to the power grid.
Nuclear power plants in the world
According to data from the World Atomic Energy Association, France operates 57 reactors. The country is largely dependent on nuclear energy, which accounts for approximately 70 percent of its total energy consumption. total electricity production in the country.
In turn, China has the fastest-growing nuclear sector in the world, operating 60 reactors and numerous new power plant projects under construction.
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Russia operates approximately 37 reactors and is the world's main exporter of nuclear technology and reactor components. Japan has 33 reactors in operation, South Korea uses 26 reactors, and much of the country's power grid relies on nuclear energy.
In Europe, there are 15 reactors in operation in Ukraine, 9 in the UK, 7 in Spain, 6 in the Czech Republic and Sweden, and 5 in Slovakia.
Nuclear technology is not only about producing electricity. Research reactors support medicine, industry and science, including: in diagnostics, disease treatment and space research.
