Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa has welcomed the environmental approval for a new nuclear facility near Cape Town. This decision, announced by Environment Minister Dion George on Friday, marks the culmination of an eight-year journey filled with appeals and deliberations, allowing Eskom to advance the project neighbouring its existing Koeberg station.
Ramokgopa expressed that the new nuclear site is pivotal for ensuring a reliable baseload electricity supply for generations to come. He believes that nuclear power will play a central role in diversifying the country’s energy mix, alongside clean coal, renewable sources, and gas. “As we confront the dual imperatives of meeting growing electricity demand and achieving our climate change objectives, nuclear power offers a proven pathway to diversify the energy mix, enhance system stability and support inclusive economic growth,” he said.
The minister further noted that the project is expected to create high-quality jobs, advance local industrial capabilities, and foster essential skills development. He reaffirmed, however, that the environmental approval was not without its implications, as it overturned prior appeals against authorisation that were lodged back in 2015. Ramokgopa highlighted that this decision underscores the country’s commitment to a rules-based and science-driven approach to energy development.
Earlier this year, Ramokgopa indicated that amidst years of controversy surrounding nuclear expansion, his department was resetting the programme. He insisted on the importance of establishing nuclear energy as a fundamental component of South Africa’s long-term energy security strategy.
With the Koeberg nuclear power facility having served the national grid efficiently for over 40 years, the government feels confident about expanding nuclear energy capabilities. “South Africa has a proud record of operating nuclear facilities safely and efficiently,” Ramokgopa stated, advocating for the inclusion of nuclear energy in future planning as a key strategy in reducing the country’s carbon footprint.
Despite facing criticism regarding flawed procurement processes in the past, Ramokgopa remains adamant about the potential nuclear energy holds for South Africa. “Nuclear will be the cornerstone of our energy mix,” he affirmed, suggesting a progressive outlook towards a sustainable energy future.