An expansion of civil nuclear power offers the best hope of tackling global energy insecurity, the west’s energy watchdog is expected to show in a study that will strengthen the hand of governments looking to build new reactors.

The International Energy Agency, which represents 26 developed countries, is to support a study highly likely to make the case for greater reliance on nuclear power. The body is likely to conclude that nuclear power also offers the best solution for those governments wishing to meet emissions targets.