IAEA and IDB Signed Nuclear Cooperation Agreement
The organizations partnered to advance nuclear energy, health, and food security across Latin America and the Caribbean.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Nuclear
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The International Atomic Energy Agency and the Inter-American Development Bank signed a memorandum of understanding to facilitate technical cooperation on nuclear energy. This partnership aims to bolster electricity demand, energy security, and climate goals across the Latin American and Caribbean region.
Why it matters
By providing technical assistance and infrastructure planning, the partnership supports regional countries in evaluating nuclear power as a viable energy source. It bridges the gap between current nuclear use and long-term electrification needs to meet climate objectives.
In 2025, nuclear power provided 1.8% of the electricity in Latin America and the Caribbean compared to 8.4% globally. Projections suggest regional nuclear capacity will more than double by 2050 and increase 2.5-fold by 2060, with small modular reactors providing 40% of new capacity.
The players
International Atomic Energy Agency
This is the world's central intergovernmental forum for scientific and technical cooperation in the nuclear field.
Inter-American Development Bank
This is a major source of long-term financing for economic, social, and institutional development in Latin America and the Caribbean.
The details
The agreement was finalized in New York on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly to foster dialogue and knowledge sharing. Cooperation will extend beyond energy to include essential applications in health, food security, and water management for countries like Argentina, Brazil, and Mexico.
Timeline
Nuclear power accounted for 1.8% of regional electricity generation in 2025.
The memorandum of understanding was signed on September 24, 2026.
Regional nuclear generating capacity is projected to more than double by 2050.
Regional nuclear generating capacity is projected to rise 2.5-fold by 2060.
Deeper Dive
This partnership formalizes institutional support for the region within the framework of the IAEA's Atoms for Development initiative. It marks a shift toward integrating nuclear science into regional development projects that were previously focused on conventional infrastructure.
The expansion of nuclear capacity, particularly through small modular reactors, could lead to more stable electricity prices and increased energy security for residents in the region. These developments may eventually reduce reliance on fossil fuels, shifting the long-term energy landscape for local households and industries.
The takeaway
The move signals a growing regional interest in nuclear power as a component of future energy independence and climate policy. Nations can look toward adopting modular reactor technology to scale energy production efficiently while meeting environmental targets.
Further reading
For broader context on current initiatives, visit the Nuclear section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
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Should your region prioritize nuclear energy to meet future electricity and climate goals?
