New trends in the peaceful use of the nuclear energy are reviewed. A comprehensive introduction with a historical retrospective of the physics of nuclear energy, including the achievements of the Kharkov school, opens the review. Progress in the fission theory, the Strutinski theory as well as the use of "nonstandard" fission materials are presented. The conceptual evolution of nuclear reactors, the advantages and shortcomings of various designs used worldwide are discussed. A detailed characteristics of the nuclear power stations operating in Ukraine as well as their (large!) share in the production of electricity relative to other countries is reviewed. Environmental aspects of the energy production and the consequences of the Chernobyl disaster are highlighted. Lessons from Chernobyl, the features of the shelter ("Sarkofag") covering the remaining of the 4th block of the power station are summarized; calculations (by present authors) of the radioactive evolution of the fuel-containing masses are included in the review. A special section deals with future reactors: the evolution of the traditional designs as well as the new ones, such as subcritical assemblies (ADS), controlled by an external beam of particles (neutrons and protons), are presented. Among the new ideas, the so-called Feoktistov reactor and the possibility of its realization are discussed.

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