世界核能发电创新高 铀供应缺口隐忧凸显

Core Insights - The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has raised its nuclear power capacity forecasts for 2050 for the fifth consecutive year, projecting a capacity of 561 GW in a low scenario and 992 GW in a high scenario [1] - The World Nuclear Association reported a 2.5% increase in global nuclear power generation last year, reaching a record high of 2667 TWh, surpassing the previous record set in 2006 [1] - The growth in nuclear power is primarily driven by the accelerated deployment of small modular reactor technology, although a potential uranium supply gap may hinder nuclear revival due to resource depletion in existing mines over the next decade [1] Nuclear Power Capacity Growth - As of the end of last year, there were 440 operational nuclear reactors globally, an increase of 3 from the previous year, with total nuclear power capacity rising to 398 GW [2] - The number of reactors under construction globally stands at 62, with 9 new reactors started and 7 connected to the grid last year [2] - Over 60% of nuclear power plants maintain a capacity factor above 80%, with the average capacity factor rising to 83%, indicating strong operational performance [2] Regional Growth Trends - The growth in global nuclear power generation over the past decade has been largely driven by developments in Asia, with 5 out of 7 new reactors connected last year located in the region [4] - France has significantly contributed to global nuclear power capacity growth, particularly with the restart of previously offline reactors [4] - The U.S. operates the most reactors globally, with a total capacity of 97 GW, and aims to increase its nuclear capacity to 400 GW by 2050 [4] Uranium Supply Challenges - The World Nuclear Association forecasts a 33% increase in uranium demand by 2030, reaching 86,000 tons, and 150,000 tons by 2040, while existing uranium production is expected to halve during the same period [6] - The IAEA and the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency indicate that current uranium resources can support nuclear power until 2050 and beyond, but significant investment in exploration and mining is required to meet rising demand [6] - The uranium market is facing challenges due to aging mines and lengthy production cycles for new projects, leading to a potential supply-demand imbalance [7] Price Outlook - Current uranium spot prices are around $80 per pound, with expectations for prices to rise to $87 per pound by Q4 of this year and potentially reach $100 per pound by 2026 [7]