Global nuclear power capacity needs to double by mid-century to meet net zero emissions targets and help ensure energy security as governments seek to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels, the International Energy Agency said on Thursday. 
 
 
 
Some countries are aiming for net zero emissions by mid-century, a goal that scientists say could keep global temperatures within 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. 
 
 
 
In the current global energy crisis, governments are also seeking to reduce their dependence on imported fossil fuels to ensure their energy security. 
 
 
 
In a report, the IEA said nuclear capacity would need to double to 812 gigawatts by 2050 from 413 gigawatts at the start of this year to go zero. 
 
 
By the 2030s, 27gw of new nuclear capacity a year is needed. 
 
Currently, about 260 gigawatts (63 percent) of the world's nuclear plants are more than 30 years old and their initial operating licenses are about to expire. 
  
Despite efforts over the past three years to extend the life of about 10 percent of the world's nuclear plants, nuclear power plants in advanced economies could shrink by a third by 2030, the report said. 
 
"Against the backdrop of today's global energy crisis, soaring fossil fuel prices, energy security challenges and ambitious climate commitments, I believe nuclear has a unique opportunity to make a comeback," IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol said.  "However, a new era of nuclear energy is not guaranteed.  It will be up to governments to put in place strong policies to ensure that nuclear plants operate safely and sustainably for years to come." 
 
Advanced economies have nearly 70 per cent of the world's nuclear capacity, but that equipment is ageing.  Investment in new nuclear power projects has stalled, with the latest new projects already well over budget and behind schedule, the report said. 
 
Of the 31 reactors that began construction in early 2017, 27 were Russian or Chinese designs