Coal to Nuclear: Supporting a Clean Energy Transition

The global energy landscape is undergoing rapid changes, and in many countries, this requires policies that align economic development priorities with objectives of secure, reliable and clean energy. Nuclear energy stands as an essential pillar for delivering affordable, low-carbon, and firm power. Worldwide, several initiatives are identifying nuclear as a viable option to replace aging coal plants while maintaining grid stability and reliability, safeguarding jobs, reducing emissions, and utilizing existing infrastructure, water resources, and skilled labour. The IAEA’s Coal to Nuclear report, developed in partnership with the South African 2025 G20 Presidency, offers a comprehensive overview of how nuclear energy can provide a sustainable alternative to coal, generate local economic and environmental benefits, and guide relevant policy decisions. With a focus on South Africa but enriched with case studies from around the world, the publication informs governments, policymakers, financiers, and stakeholders on nuclear energy’s potential as a clean technology to secure energy supply and advance industrialization and economic development.