South Africa has unveiled plans to add 2,500 megawatts of new nuclear generation to address persistent power blackouts.
The country currently hosts Africa’s sole nuclear power station, the Koeberg plant near Cape Town, which is currently functioning at only half its capacity.
The Deputy Director General of Nuclear Power in the energy ministry, Zizamele Mbambo, provided insights into the ambitious plan during a press briefing.
He stated, “The first of the new units will probably come on stream in 2032 or 2033.” Mbambo also revealed that South Africa has already reached out to “different vendors” for proposals in this regard.
Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa emphasized the significance of the additional 2,500MW of nuclear power, referring to it as “a significant milestone.”
He stressed that this initiative is a crucial component of the government’s strategy to overcome the “existential challenge” posed by power shortages and ensure long-term energy security.
The frequent power cuts, with rotating outages lasting up to 12 hours a day over the past 15 years, have taken a toll on the South African economy and eroded public confidence in the government.
Eskom, the national power company, has faced challenges related to corruption and maintenance issues, contributing to the power supply crisis.
Ramokgopa acknowledged the urgency of addressing power challenges, especially as the country approaches an upcoming election.
He stated, “This is part of government’s action to ending the existential challenge that is confronting the country.”
To extend the operational life of the Koeberg plant by two decades, one unit underwent a nearly year-long closure, and the second unit was recently shut down for maintenance.
