In a compelling address at a security conference in Warsaw on September 29, 2025, Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), articulated a vision of nuclear energy’s evolving role in addressing global energy demands. Far from framing the renewed interest in nuclear power as a “renaissance,” Grossi described it as a “return to realism,” emphasizing its practical contributions to energy security, diversification, and sustainability. His remarks underscored nuclear energy’s growing relevance, not only in Europe but across the globe, driven by technological advancements, shifting financial landscapes, and unprecedented industry demand. However, Grossi also addressed pressing challenges, particularly the precarious situation at Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, where ongoing conflict threatens nuclear safety. Below is an in-depth exploration of Grossi’s remarks, the global nuclear landscape, and the critical issues surrounding nuclear energy in 2025.
Nuclear Energy’s Return to Realism
Grossi’s characterization of nuclear energy’s resurgence as a “return to realism” reflects a pragmatic acknowledgment of its role in meeting the world’s escalating energy needs. Unlike the romanticized notion of a “nuclear renaissance,” which implies a dramatic revival, Grossi’s framing highlights a grounded response to real-world challenges, including energy security, climate change, and economic pressures. He pointed out that nuclear power is not a speculative or futuristic solution but a proven, operational cornerstone of energy systems in many parts of the world.
In Europe, nuclear energy is a significant contributor to the energy mix. Grossi noted that 100 nuclear power reactors are currently operating across 12 of the 27 European Union member states. Collectively, these reactors produce approximately one-quarter of the continent’s total energy and half of its clean energy. This substantial contribution underscores nuclear power’s role as a reliable, low-carbon energy source, particularly in the context of Europe’s ambitious climate goals and efforts to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
Grossi highlighted several European nations that are doubling down on nuclear energy. France, a long-standing leader in nuclear power, is advancing its next-generation European Pressurised Reactors (EPRs). These third-generation pressurized water reactors are designed to improve efficiency and incorporate advanced safety systems, building on decades of experience with earlier models. The United Kingdom is also expanding its nuclear capacity, with projects like Hinkley Point C and Sizewell C moving forward. Meanwhile, countries like Belgium and Switzerland, which had previously committed to phasing out nuclear power, have reversed their decisions, recognizing the need for stable, low-carbon energy sources. The Czech Republic and other nations are similarly investing in nuclear expansion, reflecting a broader trend of renewed commitment to the technology.
This shift in Europe is not merely a reaction to energy crises but a strategic move to ensure energy security and resilience. The volatility of global energy markets, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions, has prompted governments to reassess their energy portfolios. Nuclear power, with its ability to provide consistent baseload electricity, is increasingly seen as a critical component of diversified energy systems.
Global Interest in Nuclear Power
Beyond Europe, Grossi emphasized that nuclear energy is gaining traction worldwide, particularly in regions that have historically been less associated with the technology. He noted that energy ministers from African, Latin American, and even Central American countries are increasingly engaging with the IAEA to explore nuclear options. This growing interest reflects a recognition of nuclear power’s potential to address energy access, economic development, and environmental goals in diverse contexts.
In Africa, for instance, countries are looking to nuclear energy to meet rising electricity demands driven by population growth and industrialization. Small modular reactors (SMRs), which are smaller, more flexible, and potentially more affordable than traditional reactors, are particularly appealing to nations with limited infrastructure. Latin American countries, too, are exploring nuclear power as a means of reducing reliance on fossil fuels and enhancing energy independence. Even in Central America, where energy systems are smaller and less developed, governments are considering nuclear options to diversify their energy mix.
A significant breakthrough in the global nuclear landscape, according to Grossi, is the shift in financing attitudes. For decades, multilateral institutions like the World Bank imposed policies that effectively banned funding for nuclear projects, viewing them as risky or controversial. However, in 2025, the IAEA signed a landmark agreement with the World Bank, overturning this decades-long prohibition. This policy shift has opened the door for other development banks, including the African Development Bank, the Islamic Development Bank, and the Inter-American Development Bank, to support nuclear projects. This change is a game-changer, as access to financing is often a major barrier to nuclear development, particularly in developing nations.
Grossi also highlighted an unprecedented driver of nuclear expansion: demand from major industries. For the first time, the private sector is playing a leading role in pushing nuclear energy forward. Tech giants such as Microsoft, OpenAI, and Google are signing ambitious contracts with nuclear vendors to power their energy-intensive operations, particularly data centers that support artificial intelligence and cloud computing. This demand-driven approach marks a significant shift from traditional government-led nuclear programs, signaling a new era of market-driven nuclear development.
Complementarity with Renewables
Grossi was careful to position nuclear energy not as a competitor to renewable sources like solar and wind but as a complementary technology. He described nuclear power as a “base load” energy source, meaning it provides a steady, reliable supply of electricity that can operate continuously, regardless of weather or time of day. This stability makes nuclear an ideal foundation for energy systems, allowing renewables to “top up” the grid with variable generation.
“We don't think it's one or the other. It's a matter of complementarity,” Grossi said. “We believe that nuclear is base load. So, we are very good with whatever you put on top of us.” This perspective aligns with the broader push for hybrid energy systems that combine the reliability of nuclear power with the flexibility and environmental benefits of renewables. By integrating these technologies, countries can achieve greater energy security while advancing their decarbonization goals.
The complementarity argument is particularly relevant in the context of global efforts to combat climate change. Nuclear power produces virtually no greenhouse gas emissions during operation, making it a critical tool for reducing carbon footprints. At the same time, its ability to provide consistent power addresses the intermittency challenges associated with renewables, ensuring a stable energy supply even when the sun isn’t shining or the wind isn’t blowing.
Addressing Security Concerns
Grossi also tackled concerns about the safety and security of nuclear infrastructure, particularly in light of ongoing conflicts. He rejected the notion that nuclear power plants are inherently vulnerable, arguing that their safety depends on the broader context of conflict rather than the technology itself. “Nuclear infrastructure is as much a target as military decision-makers decide it to be,” he said. “So, the problem is the war, not nuclear energy.”
This perspective is particularly relevant in the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine, where the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant has become a focal point of global concern. Grossi emphasized that the IAEA’s role is to provide independent, technical expertise to mitigate risks and ensure the safety of nuclear facilities, even in conflict zones. By maintaining open lines of communication with all parties involved, the IAEA aims to prevent catastrophic incidents and promote stability.
The Crisis at Zaporizhzhia
The situation at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, Europe’s largest nuclear facility, remains a critical concern. Grossi provided a sobering update on the plant’s status, noting that it has been disconnected from Ukraine’s power grid for five days following a large-scale Russian airstrike on September 28, 2025. This marks the tenth blackout at the facility since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, raising serious risks to nuclear and radiation safety.
The loss of offsite power is a significant issue for nuclear power plants, as they rely on external electricity to operate cooling systems and other critical safety mechanisms, even when reactors are shut down. At Zaporizhzhia, the prolonged disconnection has heightened fears of a potential nuclear incident, as backup systems like diesel generators are not designed for long-term use. Grossi stressed that the IAEA is actively working to address this crisis, with experts on the ground monitoring the situation and collaborating with both Ukrainian and Russian authorities to ensure safety.
Grossi’s approach to the Zaporizhzhia crisis underscores the IAEA’s commitment to impartiality and dialogue. Despite criticism for engaging with Russian officials, he defended the necessity of maintaining communication with all parties. “If I don't talk to people, who do I talk to?” he asked. “This is essential … What is the purpose of the IAEA if I stay, you know, complaining together with Ukraine … and I do not have the opportunity to influence things in the right direction?”
This pragmatic stance has allowed the IAEA to play a unique role in mitigating risks at Zaporizhzhia. By relying on the assessments of independent experts, Grossi can engage in informed discussions with both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin, advocating for solutions that prioritize nuclear safety. The IAEA’s presence at the plant has been instrumental in preventing a disaster, particularly during periods of intense fighting.
The broader context of the Zaporizhzhia crisis is deeply tied to the ongoing war in Ukraine. The Russian airstrike that triggered the latest blackout was part of a larger assault that killed four people and injured over 70 in Kyiv, while in the Zaporizhzhia region, at least 38 people were injured in an overnight attack. These incidents highlight the intersection of energy infrastructure and geopolitical conflict, underscoring the need for international cooperation to protect critical facilities.
The Broader Implications of Nuclear Energy’s Resurgence
Grossi’s remarks at the Warsaw conference paint a picture of a world at a pivotal moment in its energy transition. Nuclear power, once sidelined by concerns over safety, cost, and public perception, is experiencing a resurgence driven by practical considerations. The convergence of technological advancements, changing financial policies, and industry demand has created a unique opportunity for nuclear energy to play a central role in the global energy mix.
However, this resurgence is not without challenges. The situation at Zaporizhzhia serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with operating nuclear facilities in conflict zones. Ensuring the safety and security of these plants requires robust international frameworks, effective diplomacy, and continuous monitoring by organizations like the IAEA.
Moreover, the expansion of nuclear power must be accompanied by efforts to address public concerns about safety, waste management, and proliferation risks. Advances in reactor design, such as EPRs and SMRs, offer improved safety features and greater flexibility, but public acceptance remains a critical factor. Governments and industry leaders must engage in transparent communication to build trust and demonstrate the benefits of nuclear energy.
The financing breakthrough highlighted by Grossi is another key factor in nuclear power’s future. By unlocking support from multilateral institutions, countries with limited resources can now explore nuclear options, potentially transforming energy access in regions like Africa and Latin America. This shift could have far-reaching implications for global development, helping to bridge the energy gap in underserved areas while supporting climate goals.
Finally, the demand-driven nature of the current nuclear expansion signals a shift in the energy paradigm. As tech giants and other industries invest in nuclear power to meet their energy needs, the private sector is becoming a powerful force in shaping the future of energy. This trend could accelerate the deployment of new reactors and drive innovation in nuclear technology, further enhancing its role in the global energy landscape.
Conclusion
Mariano Grossi’s address in Warsaw encapsulates the complex and dynamic role of nuclear energy in 2025. Far from a romanticized “renaissance,” the resurgence of nuclear power is a pragmatic response to the world’s energy challenges. In Europe, nuclear reactors are a cornerstone of clean energy production, while globally, interest is growing in regions as diverse as Africa, Latin America, and Central America. The shift in financing policies, coupled with unprecedented industry demand, is creating new opportunities for nuclear expansion, while technological advancements are enhancing safety and efficiency.
At the same time, the crisis at Zaporizhzhia underscores the challenges of operating nuclear facilities in conflict zones. The IAEA’s role in navigating these challenges highlights the importance of international cooperation and impartiality in ensuring nuclear safety. As the world grapples with the dual imperatives of energy security and climate change, nuclear power’s “return to realism” offers a path forward—one that complements renewables, leverages private sector investment, and addresses global energy needs with pragmatism and foresight.
