The World Nuclear Industry Status Report 2026 indicates that solar power has surpassed nuclear generation for the first time globally. Wind power also exceeded nuclear generation starting in March 2025. From March 2025 to June 2026, both solar and wind consistently outperformed nuclear in monthly electricity generation. Solar capacity grew by 27% in 2025, while nuclear capacity saw minimal growth. The report highlights the challenges facing the nuclear industry, including long construction times and limited expansion.
Key facts
- Global solar capacity increased by 510 GW to 2,383 GW in 2025.
- Wind power capacity rose by 159 GW to 1,291 GW in 2025.
- Installed nuclear capacity grew by 1.5 GW to 399.5 GW.
- As of July 1, 2026, there were 411 operating reactors worldwide.
- The share of nuclear in global electricity generation fell to 8.8%.
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