Global SMR capacity to surge sixfold by 2030 on energy security push

Major tech companies are increasingly partnering with SMR developers.

The global small modular reactors (SMR) capacity is forecast to increase by roughly sixfold from 2025 to 2030 as regions favour the technology, according to GlobalData.

For instance, China is advancing light-water SMRs, high-temperature gas reactors, and molten-salt prototypes, whilst South Korea is focusing on integral pressurised water reactors and desalination-capable reactors.

“The substantial growth forecast is being driven by surging demand for zero-carbon firm power, industrial cleantech uses, and greater emphasis by policymakers on energy security,” Attaurrahman Ojindaram Saibasan, power analyst at GlobalData, said.

Moreover, major tech companies are increasingly partnering with SMR developers to secure long-term, high-availability electricity to support the growing digital economy.

Currently, more than 90% of proposed SMR capacity remains in the early permitting phases as very few projects have reached full construction or commercial operation.

GlobalData noted that the success of early movers will be necessary to prove deployment metrics, schedule reliability, cost containment, and regulatory compliance.

Whilst market potential is immense, challenges such as regulatory harmonisation, supply chain readiness, and public acceptance remain.