- Japan’s plant restarts and China’s first commercial SMR will shape nuclear developments in 2026.
- India and Vietnam are advancing long-term nuclear projects, supporting 2026 atomic developments.
The global nuclear energy sector will see significant activity in 2026, driven by Japan’s plant restarts and China’s deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs). Consequently, these 2026 nuclear developments are expected to transform the global energy landscape. According to a Wood Mackenzie report, countries could reactivate nearly 27 gigawatts of retired atomic capacity in the coming years, with two major restarts planned for 2026. Notably, Japan’s Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power plant, the world’s largest, will restart operations after being offline since 2012. Regulators approved the restart of two units in November 2025, adding 2.7 GW to Japan’s grid.
Meanwhile, China plans to launch the ACP100 (Linglong One) SMR in the first half of 2026. This reactor will become the first land-based commercial SMR worldwide. This step reflects China’s strategic push into advanced nuclear technology. Moreover, China continues to build large conventional reactors, including the Lianjiang and Zhaoyuan units. Together, these projects highlight China’s efforts to diversify its energy mix and provide low-carbon electricity.
India also progresses with large-scale nuclear projects such as Jaitapur and Mahi Banswara. However, India advances gradually because nuclear construction takes several years. In Southeast Asia, early-stage nuclear planning is also underway. Vietnam is evaluating options for conventional reactors and SMRs, although it has not set any construction schedules or investment plans.
Experts emphasise that 2026 nuclear developments will depend on technology deployment, regulatory approvals, financing, and supply chain readiness. Therefore, successful restarts and new builds could strengthen regional energy security and accelerate the global low-carbon transition.
In conclusion, Japan’s Kashiwazaki-Kariwa restart, China’s SMR launch, and India and Vietnam’s projects demonstrate that nuclear energy remains essential to the global electricity mix. Consequently, the 2026 atomic developments will support climate goals, diversify energy supplies, and reinforce sustainable power generation across Asia.