Global nuclear energy consumption 2023, by leading country

In 2023, the United States was the leading country worldwide in terms of nuclear power consumption. At 7.32 exajoules, this was more than runners-up China and France combined. 

Growing consumption

While the United States is by far the biggest consumer of nuclear energy, its consumption did not change when compared to the previous year. In comparison, China experienced an increase in nuclear consumption of approximately four percent in the same year. Global nuclear energy consumption increased by almost two percent in 2023 to approximately 24.6 exajoules. 

Increased number of reactors

With 94 operable nuclear reactors as of May 2024, it is no surprise that the United States is the leading nation in the consumption of nuclear energy. France and China follow, with 56 operable reactors each. At that same time, there were 25 nuclear reactors under construction in China.