Ecowatch: Nuclear numbers around the world

A February 2026 photo of a nuclear plant in France showing the image most associated with them: the tall cooling towers venting steam. More countries are building nuclear plants in their bid to reduce emissions from their fossil fuel-dependent electricity grid. — Reuters

WHILE the usual suspects in renewable energy, solar, wind, and hydro power, hog the headlines, a dark horse has been quietly racing alongside gaining favour even as controversy dogs its heels.

Nuclear power is not popular with environmentalists because it produces a long-lived radioactive waste that can remain hazardous for thousands of years. However, more and more countries are touting technological advances that reduce nuclear's environmental impact and risks and are turning to it as they transition away from fossil fuels. These are the latest numbers on nuclear energy use on the planet.