Development of nuclear energy in Asia and Central and Eastern Europe

Currently, approximately 440 nuclear reactors are operating in 32 countries and Taiwan with a total capacity of approximately 390 GWe. In 2022 they provided 2,545 TWh, or approximately 10% of global electricity. Approximately 60 nuclear reactors are currently being built worldwide, and another 110 are planned. Most new projects are located in Asia – most in China (26) and India (7). Over the last 20 years, 107 reactors have been decommissioned, and 100 have started operation. In addition, approximately 30 countries are considering, planning or starting nuclear energy programs.

According to BloombergNEF, China is developing 36 reactors and is expected to overtake France and the United States to become the world’s largest producer of nuclear energy in this decade. China can build reactors at a fraction of the cost of other countries thanks to low interest rates on loans granted by state banks and an intelligent construction strategy.

In Central and Eastern Europe, nuclear energy is making significant strides. Among others, Romania is planning a small modular power plant (SMR) in Doicești, using NuScale technology. Bulgaria, on the other hand, is eagerly awaiting fuel rods developed in the USA to become independent from nuclear fuel supplies from Russia after years of dependency. Ukraine, in cooperation with the American Westinghouse Electric Company, is set to expand the Khmelnytsky Nuclear Power Plant. Once six units are operational, it will be the largest nuclear power plant in Europe. These developments in Central and Eastern Europe are a clear indication of the growing global interest and potential of nuclear energy.