The investment case for nuclear energy is shifting from a zero-carbon play to a fundamental story of operational superiority. As the U.S. grid faces increasing strain, new data from 2025 confirms that nuclear power remains the most reliable baseload energy source. Nuclear has maintained a capacity factor significantly above both fossil fuel and renewable energy sources.
Capacity factor – the measure of how often a power plant runs at maximum output – has become a key metric for evaluating the stability of power generation. According to the Department of Energy (DOE), nuclear plants produced power more than 92% of the time in 2024.
This reliability highlights a stark contrast between nuclear and other power sources. Coal plants operated at a 42% capacity factor, while natural gas trailed at nearly 60%, according to the DOE. The gap is even wider when compared to weather-dependent sources; nuclear outperformed wind (34%) and solar (23%) by nearly a three-to-one margin.
Recent announcements from major utilities highlight the record-breaking 2025 for nuclear. Duke Energy (DUK), which operates 11 nuclear units across the Carolinas, reported an all-time high systemwide capacity factor of nearly 97%.
This performance provided carbon-free electricity to over 8 million homes and resulted in roughly $600 million in value for customers via federal tax credits.
Simultaneously, Constellation Energy (CEG) reported that its Fitzpatrick Clean Energy Center achieved a 100% capacity factor for the full year. This means the facility ran nonstop for 365 days, proving the sector’s ability to provide a constant baseload power supply regardless of seasonal conditions.
Capitalizing on the Superior Capacity Factor of Nuclear
U.S. nuclear capacity reached a milestone of 99 gigawatts in 2023, representing 8% of the nation’s total capacity but providing 18% of its total electricity due to these high rates. For investors seeking diversified exposure to this long-term trend, the Range Nuclear Renaissance ETF (NUKZ) tracks the VettaFi Nuclear Renaissance Index (NUKZX).
Furthermore, the ETF provides a targeted approach to the full nuclear ecosystem, including advanced reactors, utilities, construction and services, and fuel providers.
To stay current on developments in this sector, be sure to join our upcoming 30-minute discussion “Nuclear Power is on the Rise. Is Your Portfolio Ready?” on Thursday, March 19, 2026 at 12:30 pm ET. Follow the link here to register.
Looking for nuclear insights in your inbox? Subscribe here to keep a pulse on nuclear investing through our weekly research.
For more news, information, and analysis, visit the Nuclear Energy Content Hub.
vettafi.com is owned by VettaFi LLC (“VettaFi”). VettaFi is the index provider for NUKZ, for which it receives an index licensing fee. However, NUKZ is not issued, sponsored, endorsed, or sold by VettaFi. VettaFi has no obligation or liability in connection with the issuance, administration, marketing, or trading of NUKZ.