In response to severe power outages, South Africa has unveiled intentions to incorporate an additional 2,500 megawatts of nuclear generation, the government confirmed on Tuesday.
Although Africa’s sole nuclear power station, the Koeberg plant situated near Cape Town, currently operates at only half its capacity.
Zizamele Mbambo, the energy ministry’s deputy director general of nuclear power, indicated that the first of the new units is expected to commence operation by 2032 or 2033 during a press briefing.
Mbambo mentioned that South Africa has already solicited proposals from different vendors for this initiative.
Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa described the addition of 2,500MW of nuclear power as a “significant milestone.” He emphasized its pivotal role in addressing the country’s pressing power shortages and ensuring long-term energy security.
South Africa has grappled with extensive power cuts lasting up to 12 hours a day over the past 15 years, inflicting considerable damage on the economy and the government’s credibility, particularly with elections looming next year.
Eskom, the national power utility, has been marred by corruption allegations and operational issues contributing to these power cuts.
To prolong the Koeberg plant’s lifespan by 20 years, one unit was recently shut down for nearly a year, and the second unit was temporarily closed for maintenance this week.
