Strategic outlook Advanced nuclear technologies By Dubai Future Foundation Advanced nuclear technologies, particularly SMRs and gas-cooled reactors, offer a promising path to clean, reliable power. These technologies combine flexible siting with enhanced safety compared to traditional nuclear plants, positioning them as key enablers of a sustainable energy future. By 2030, SMRs could redefine how power is delivered. These factory-built units are capable of serving remote communities or being added to existing industrial sites, expanding access to steady, zero-carbon electricity. This flexibility helps support the integration of variable renewable energy sources, and their modular design boosts grid stability. SMRs extend nuclear technology’s reach to areas previously unreachable for traditional large-scale plants.38 In parallel with SMRs, gas-cooled reactors could redefine how power is delivered. They represent a significant opportunity to drive industrial decarbonization by providing high-temperature process heat (600-950°C) for challenging applications like hydrogen production and heavy industry. With these sectors contributing approximately 15% of global CO2 emissions,39,40 nuclear technology could help address emissions considered among the most difficult to abate. Looking further ahead, global nuclear capacity could double between 2020 and 2050 to support net-zero emissions goals.41 While high initial capital costs remain a challenge, the push for standardized reactor designs and economies of scale 42 offers a pathway to more affordable deployment.For advanced nuclear technologies to scale effectively, addressing supply chain and workforce challenges will be pivotal. Stable, sustainable access to specialized materials like radiation-resistant alloys, combined with overcoming the decline in nuclear engineering talent – highlighted by a 25% decline in nuclear engineering graduates from 2012 to 202243 – will be essential for maintaining momentum in reactor development and deployment. Widespread adoption of advanced nuclear technology will hinge on rebuilding public trust through transparent communication and demonstrating the safety of next-gen reactors. Additionally, as plants become more digitalized, strong cybersecurity will be crucial to protecting infrastructure and ensuring secure, resilient power generation. Countries leading in SMR deployment, including China, the UK and the US, are positioning themselves at the forefront of a new technological paradigm.44 Leadership in nuclear is now a marker of strategic technology capability. Advanced nuclear technologies will likely follow distinct adoption pathways based on specific use cases rather than a single deployment model. SMRs may first serve remote communities and industrial facilities requiring reliable power independent of grid infrastructure, while advanced reactor designs may integrate into existing power grids as replacements for retiring conventional plants. The greatest value lies where nuclear intersects with renewables, hydrogen and industrial decarbonization. Related DFF megatrends: Materials and Energy Boundaries45 Top 10 Emerging Technologies of 2025 17