Government Kicks Off New Nuclear Power Procurement | Business
The South African government has announced plans to procure 2,500MW of new nuclear energy as part of its long-term energy strategy. Minister of Electricity Kgosientsho Ramokgopa revealed that the new nuclear power is expected to be operational by 2032 or 2033. The government is currently evaluating whether to build large conventional reactors or opt for small modular reactors, which have gained traction in recent years.
According to Ramokgopa, the need for additional generation capacity, coupled with an aging Eskom fleet, makes a strong case for expanding nuclear power. He believes that nuclear energy is the cheapest and cleanest option, providing the baseload power necessary for renewable energy stability. Ramokgopa emphasized that the decision to procure 2,500MW of nuclear energy had already been included in the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) 2019 and will also be part of the upcoming IRP 2023.
Addressing previous controversies surrounding nuclear procurement under the previous administration of President Jacob Zuma, Ramokgopa stated that the government has clarified the procurement process with the National Energy Regulator of South Africa, ensuring an open, transparent, and cost-effective approach. Zizamele Mbambo, deputy director general of nuclear energy in the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE), echoed this commitment, affirming that the procurement would align with the Constitution and prioritize fairness.
Notably, the previous attempt to secure nuclear energy involved a closed tender process aimed at establishing an exclusive arrangement with Russian state-owned company Rosatom. However, the agreement was nullified by a court ruling due to legal challenges from environmental activists. The government aims to avoid such controversies this time around and ensure a fair and transparent process.
The procurement of new nuclear power is expected to take between 10 and 15 years in terms of construction and implementation. The government’s focus on nuclear energy aligns with its ambition to diversify its energy mix and ensure long-term energy security.
As South Africa moves forward with its plans for nuclear power expansion, concerns over costs and environmental impact continue to be raised. However, proponents argue that the benefits far outweigh the potential drawbacks, given the pressing need for additional power generation capacity.
The government’s decision to kick off the procurement process marks an important step toward securing the future of South Africa’s energy sector. As the country strives to meet its energy demands and embrace cleaner sources of power, the successful implementation of nuclear energy will play a crucial role in shaping the nation’s energy landscape for years to come.
In conclusion, the South African government has announced its intention to procure 2,500MW of new nuclear energy, aiming to address the country’s need for additional power generation capacity. With a focus on transparency and adherence to legal protocols, the government seeks to avoid the controversies that have marred previous attempts at nuclear procurement. As the process unfolds, the government must strike a balance between the economic benefits of nuclear power and the concerns surrounding its cost and environmental impact.
