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Educating the Leaders
for Our Clean and Efficient Energy Future
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As nations work to decarbonize and meet growing energy needs, nuclear power is gaining attention as a reliable, low-emissions energy source. The U.S. operates the world’s largest fleet of nuclear reactors, though new construction has slowed. China, by contrast, is rapidly expanding its nuclear capacity, with over 30 reactors under construction and major investments in advanced nuclear technology. This program examines the place of nuclear energy in U.S. and Chinese energy strategies, the challenges and opportunities in developing new strategies, and the impact of geopolitics, industrial policy, and public-private cooperation.
In a discussion recorded on September 18, 2025, Jane Nakano and Nick Touran, in conversation with Darrin Magee, explore how these dynamics influence global climate goals, energy security, and technological leadership.
Watch: How the U.S. and China Are Shaping the Future of Nuclear Energy
Speaker Series
Testimonials
"I chose to pursue a minor in Energy Policy after I came to the realization that energy production and consumption are two of the greatest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions worldwide. We can’t expect to improve the environment without a significant shift towards energy efficiency, carbon pricing, and renewable technologies."
Stefanie Neale
Class of 2017
"Energy plays a critical role in most of the economic, environmental, and political policy challenges facing the world in the twenty-first century. Western’s Institute for Energy Studies is exciting to me because its goal is to equip students and help researchers to understand how energy-related issues affect these challenges."
Phil Thompson
Associate Professor, Economics