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The global nuclear industry is entering a phase of rapid expansion with total capacity expected to more than triple by 2050, and India is set to emerge as one of its most important growth markets, according to Sama Bilbao y León, Director General, World Nuclear Association (WNA).
Speaking at India Energy Week 2026 in Goa on Wednesday, León described India’s recent passage of the SHANTI Bill as a “watershed moment” that opens the door for private and international participation in the country’s nuclear sector.
“India is moving from roughly 8 GW of nuclear capacity today to 100 GW by 2047. That is a 10-fold increase, an ambition far greater than the global average,” she said.
Globally, WNA estimates that over 1,400 GW of new nuclear capacity could be added by 2050, driven by life extensions of existing reactors, 70 reactors currently under construction, and fresh commitments from over 50 countries. “Most existing reactors will operate for 60 to 80 years, meaning over 400 GW of today’s fleet will still be online in 2050,” she added.
“The SHANTI Bill is a huge positive signal, but implementation will be key,” she said, calling for clarity on financing mechanisms, electricity market reforms that value nuclear’s grid stability, and recognition of nuclear energy within green finance and sustainable taxonomy frameworks.
She also highlighted the scale of industrial rebuilding required. “This expansion will need massive investments in supply chains, workforce and industrial capabilities,” she said, adding that India is well positioned to play a global role.
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