Nuclear energy: One industry, many reactors

Lynelle Huskey

September 2026

As power demand grows, nuclear has returned to the forefront of the energy conversation. Yet the industry is far from one-size-fits-all, encompassing a range of reactor technologies designed to serve different markets, applications and deployment models.
Nuclear power is evolving beyond traditional large-scale reactors. While proven designs continue to anchor utility-scale generation, small modular reactors (SMRs) and microreactors are being developed to serve a broader range of applications through more flexible, modular deployment models, though most remain in the demonstration phase today.
The future of nuclear deployment will depend on more than reactor design alone. Supply chains, skilled labor, fuel availability and regulatory approvals remain critical challenges, though recent policy initiatives are intended to support licensing, fuel production and broader industry growth.

Read our full analysis for a more in-depth look at these trends.

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