South Africa, grappling with one of its worst energy crises, has announced plans to introduce 2,500 megawatts (MW) of new nuclear power generation. This marks a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to stabilize its energy supply and ensure long-term energy security, officials disclosed on Tuesday.
South Africa currently operates the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station near Cape Town, the only nuclear facility on the African continent. However, the plant is functioning at half capacity due to ongoing maintenance work aimed at extending its operational life by another 20 years. One reactor was recently offline for nearly a year, while the second unit was shut down this week for maintenance.
Zizamele Mbambo, Deputy Director General for Nuclear Power in the Department of Energy, stated that the first new nuclear units would likely come online by 2032 or 2033. The government has already approached several international vendors for proposals as part of the procurement process.
Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa emphasized the urgency of this initiative, calling the additional 2,500 MW a “significant milestone” in addressing the country’s persistent power shortages. “The case is compelling,” Ramokgopa said during a press briefing. “Part of the reasons we are here with regards to the energy crisis is that the generation capacity cannot meet demand. Eskom’s fleet is aging, and additional generation capacity is critical.”
The announcement comes as South Africa continues to experience rolling blackouts, locally referred to as load shedding. The blackouts, lasting up to 12 hours a day, have persisted for 15 years, severely impacting the economy and public confidence in the government.
Eskom, the state utility, has faced allegations of corruption and mismanagement, further compounding its struggles to maintain the power grid. With national elections on the horizon, addressing the energy crisis has become a priority for the government, with nuclear energy forming a cornerstone of its long-term strategy.
South Africa’s commitment to nuclear power reflects its broader objective of diversifying energy sources to include cleaner and more reliable options. If successful, the 2,500 MW addition could play a pivotal role in revitalizing the economy and restoring confidence in the country’s energy infrastructure.
The journey to expand nuclear capacity underscores the critical need for sustainable energy solutions as South Africa charts a path toward energy security and economic stability.
