Nuclear Power Must Play Key Role in Meeting Global Electricity Demand Amid AI Growth

Strategic Insights -

As the world witnesses a significant surge in electricity demand driven by the proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI) data centers and digital transformation, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) emphasized the crucial role of nuclear power in meeting this increasing demand. IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi highlighted that the rapid growth of AI has intensified global power consumption, creating both challenges and opportunities for clean energy.

Key Takeaways:

  • The rapid growth of AI has intensified global power consumption, with data centers using 1.5% of global electricity and growing by over 10% annually.
  • Nuclear energy offers a scalable, reliable, and low-carbon solution that can complement renewable energy, providing stable power.
  • More than two dozen countries are working towards tripling global nuclear capacity by mid-century, with about 30 newcomer countries developing civilian nuclear programs with IAEA assistance.
  • Many advanced designs, including small modular reactors (SMRs) and next-generation systems, are being developed in APEC regions, offering improved safety and efficiency.
  • AI and nuclear energy can "grow together," with the two sectors becoming increasingly connected as economies become more digital and industrial operations electrify.
  • The opportunities for expanding nuclear power to support AI-driven innovation are clear, with electricity demand expected to rise and climate pressures intensifying.

Statistics:

  • Data centers already use 1.5% of global electricity and this share is growing by more than 10% every year.
  • More than two dozen countries are working towards tripling global nuclear capacity by mid-century.
  • About 30 newcomer countries are developing civilian nuclear programs with the IAEA's assistance.
  • The IAEA estimates that the rapid growth of AI is driving a significant increase in global power consumption.

Sources:

  • Yonhap News Agency, "IAEA chief highlights importance of nuclear energy in strengthening global energy security," October 31, 2025.