Fact Check: "Nuclear energy accounts for about 10% of global electricity generation."
What We Know
The claim that nuclear energy accounts for about 10% of global electricity generation is inaccurate. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), nuclear energy's contribution to global electricity generation was approximately 8% in 2024, which is a slight decrease from previous years (IEA). Furthermore, recent data indicates that nuclear energy generation has grown from 2,541.1 terawatt-hours (TWh) in 2014 to 2,817.5 TWh in 2024, reflecting a growth of 10.9% in total generation, but not in its share of the overall electricity generation (Global Energy Demand).
Analysis
The assertion that nuclear energy constitutes about 10% of global electricity generation may stem from outdated or misinterpreted data. The most recent reports from the IEA and other energy analysis organizations indicate that while nuclear power generation has increased in absolute terms, its percentage share of total electricity generation has not reached 10%. The IEA's report for 2025 notes that nuclear's share is around 8%, which is consistent with trends observed in recent years (IEA, Global Electricity Review).
Moreover, the growth in nuclear energy generation does not translate to a proportional increase in its share of total electricity generation, primarily due to the rapid expansion of renewable energy sources, which now account for a larger share of the electricity mix (IEA). This indicates that while nuclear energy is growing, it is being outpaced by the growth of renewables, leading to a decrease in its relative share.
The reliability of the sources used in this analysis is high, as they come from reputable organizations such as the IEA, which is known for its comprehensive and authoritative data on global energy trends. The IEA's reports are widely recognized in the energy sector and provide a reliable basis for understanding current energy dynamics (IEA, Global Energy Demand).
Conclusion
Verdict: False. The claim that nuclear energy accounts for about 10% of global electricity generation is incorrect. Current data indicates that nuclear energy's share is approximately 8%, not 10%. This discrepancy highlights the importance of relying on up-to-date and accurate data when discussing energy contributions.
