Government Policy Creates Perfect Storm
Recent policy developments have created unprecedented support for nuclear energy expansion. Nuclear stocks surge after Trump signs orders to boost industry, with the administration prioritizing nuclear energy alongside traditional fossil fuels.
In a February secretarial order aimed at supporting recent presidential executive orders on energy, Energy Secretary Chris Wright said his department's research and development efforts will prioritize advanced nuclear energy efforts alongside fossil fuels, geothermal and hydropower. This policy support, combined with the urgent need for AI-ready power infrastructure, creates an ideal environment for nuclear companies to thrive.
The Market Is Already Responding
Nuclear stocks have begun their ascent as investors recognize the sector's potential. Nano Nuclear Energy (NNE) led the gains for companies involved in developing new nuclear technology, with its shares surging more than 30%. Sam Altman-backed nuclear startup Oklo (OKLO) gained 23.1%, while NuScale Power (SMR) soared 19.6%.
The sector's fundamentals continue to strengthen, with the global nuclear power market valued at $38.84 billion in 2024 and projected to reach $44.71 billion by 2029, fueled by significant investments, including $7 billion in nuclear fusion in 2024. This represents just the beginning of what could be a massive revaluation of nuclear energy assets.
$44.71B
Projected nuclear power market value by 2029
Three Companies Leading the Nuclear Renaissance
The nuclear sector offers several compelling investment opportunities, each addressing different aspects of the AI power challenge. Constellation Energy (CEG) operates the largest fleet of nuclear plants in the United States and is the largest position in major nuclear ETFs with a 7.9% weighting.
NuScale Power (SMR), Constellation Energy (CEG), and Cameco (CCJ) stand out as nuclear energy stocks that could benefit from the industry's renaissance. These companies represent different parts of the nuclear value chain – from uranium production to advanced reactor technology to existing nuclear generation.
What This Could Mean for Investors
The convergence of AI power demands, government support, and nuclear technology advancement creates what may be a once-in-a-generation investment opportunity. With data center electricity consumption potentially tripling by 2028 and nuclear being the only viable 24/7 carbon-free solution, early investors in the right nuclear companies could see outsized returns as the market recognizes their critical role in powering the AI revolution.
The sector's long underperformance relative to its fundamental value may be coming to an end, as institutional capital begins flowing toward the energy sources that can actually meet tomorrow's power demands.