Eskom advances 5,200MW nuclear expansion as government prepares procurement process

Ask AI 1minEskom has submitted its feasibility programme for a proposed 5,200MW nuclear power expansion, as government prepares to open the plans for public consultation

Minister of Electricity and Energy Kgosientsho Ramokgopa confirmed that Eskom submitted its feasibility programme for a proposed 5,200MW nuclear power expansion, bringing South Africa a step closer to plans to increase its nuclear energy capacity.

The programme forms part of the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) 2025, which provides for new nuclear power as government looks to secure the country’s electricity supply and support economic growth.

Speaking at the South African Nuclear and Clean Energy Conference on Tuesday, Ramokgopa said the department was preparing a proposed determination that would be opened for public comment.

He said the public consultation process would be based on facts and scientific evidence.

“We will put the case for additional capacity before the public and consider submissions on their merits,” he said.

The publication of the determination will trigger the procurement process, while the National Nuclear Regulator will remain responsible for safety and licensing.

Ramokgopa said government had learnt lessons from the construction of the Medupi and Kusile power stations and wanted to avoid repeating the mistakes made during those projects.

“It’s a template on how not to do things. We are going to learn from that and unlearn from those experiences so that this nuclear build programme is not a casualty of poor planning,” he said.

The minister also raised concerns about the shortage of local skills needed to build nuclear power stations, saying South Africa had not built one in about 50 years.

He said government would work with international partners to train engineers and develop local skills.

On coal, Ramokgopa said nuclear power and coal could operate alongside each other, with decisions on whether power stations should remain open based on their condition, costs and environmental requirements.

“Some stations may have a case for longer operation, and others will retire,” he said.