The market that Russia dominates globally through the giant Rosatom

Rosatom, Russia’s state-owned nuclear company, is building 28 of the 73 nuclear reactors under construction worldwide, according to the World Nuclear Industry Status Report, presented Tuesday in Berlin. Of the Russian company’s projects, 21 are being developed outside Russia, strengthening its position as a global leader in supplying nuclear technology.

Rosatom or its subsidiaries are involved in projects in Bangladesh, China, Egypt, Hungary, India, Iran, Turkey and Uzbekistan. Revenue from international operations declined after Western sanctions were imposed following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, but the company has maintained ties with some Western firms, particularly in France.

The report shows that, as of July 1, 411 reactors were operating worldwide, with a total capacity of 374.7 gigawatts. China remains the main driver of nuclear power expansion, while the average age of reactors in the five leading nuclear countries exceeds 32 years.

Nuclear power accounted for 8.8% of global electricity generation last year, below coal and natural gas. Renewable sources provided more than one-third of generation, while solar and wind power together reached a level comparable to nuclear power. Germany’s Environment Minister said the data justify the country’s decision to phase out nuclear power in 2023 and warned about dependence on Russia.