JOHANNESBURG: South Africa, grappling with persistent power blackouts, has unveiled plans to add 2,500 megawatts of new nuclear generation to address its energy challenges.
The country currently hosts Africa’s sole nuclear power station, the Koeberg plant near Cape Town, but it operates at only half capacity.
The announcement came during a press briefing where Zizamele Mbambo, the deputy director-general of nuclear power in the energy ministry, revealed that the first of the new nuclear units is anticipated to become operational in 2032 or 2033. Mbambo mentioned that South Africa has already reached out to “different vendors” for proposals, indicating the initial steps toward the implementation of the nuclear expansion plan.
Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa emphasized the significance of the additional 2,500 megawatts of nuclear power, considering it a “significant milestone” in the government’s efforts to address the existential challenge posed by power shortages and ensure long-term energy security. South Africa has been plagued by rotating power cuts, lasting up to 12 hours a day over the past 15 years, adversely impacting the economy and eroding public confidence.
The move to augment the country’s nuclear capacity comes as part of the government’s broader strategy to mitigate power challenges and enhance overall energy resilience. The 2,500-megawatt addition is expected to play a pivotal role in meeting the growing energy demands and ensuring a stable power supply for the nation.
South Africa’s national power company, Eskom, has faced challenges, including corruption allegations and maintenance issues, leading to disruptions in power supply. The proposed nuclear expansion aligns with efforts to counter these challenges and contribute to the rejuvenation of the energy sector.
To extend the operational life of the Koeberg plant by two decades, recent measures involved the temporary closure of one unit for nearly a year, and the shutdown of the second unit for maintenance this week. The government’s decision to invest in nuclear power underscores its commitment to diversifying the energy mix and addressing the chronic power shortages that have persisted for an extended period.
As South Africa aims to bolster its energy infrastructure and overcome power supply constraints, the introduction of new nuclear capacity represents a strategic step toward achieving sustainable and reliable energy for the nation’s future.
