Nuclear as a baseload option

11 October 2016  

South Africa has committed to building new nuclear power plants in its bid to increasingly diversify its energy mix to lower carbon emissions as required under COP21 energy targets, and in order to generate cheaper electricity and thereby further stimulate economic growth.

Although there are a number of alternatives available, nuclear remains the best long-term option for the further development of South Africa’s energy mix that will ensure security of electricity supply whilst adhering to our various national and international objectives. Nuclear does require high initial capital expenditure for construction but, operationally, nuclear offers one of the cheapest sources of electricity that comes with zero greenhouse gas emissions.

Nuclear energy currently accounts for over 4% of the South Africa’s power supply. In order to fulfil this 9.6GW ambition, government has appointed the Department of Energy (DOE) as the procuring agent and Eskom as the owner-operator of new nuclear power plants.

The World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO), as the primary organisation for all nuclear power plant owners, has committed to support Eskom and the country in expanding nuclear power. The WANO commitment is no doubt due to Eskom’s extensive experience in nuclear power.

Eskom has, for more over 30 years, successfully operated Koeberg, the only commercial nuclear power station in Africa. During this period, Koeberg has consistently been ranked as one of the world’s top pressurised water reactors (PWR) of its type and has achieved NOSCAR status numerous times.

Eskom’s further achievements at Koeberg include having approached top quartile performance in the WANO ranking. The performance of the Koeberg power station has also consistently been one of the strongest within the Eskom fleet. It is also the cheapest energy provider in South Africa’s fleet.

Eskom has launched a programme to train 100 artisans, technicians and engineers as nuclear operators in preparation for the future build. On average, it takes six years to train a nuclear reactor operator. Eskom is also committed to enrolling 3 to 5 nuclear engineering PhD candidates every year. This further demonstrates Eskom’s determination to ensure that the relevant world-class capabilities are developed internally and to deepen knowledge in this key subject matter.

Eskom has taken up the challenge and is proactively gearing itself up to own and operate an expanded nuclear fleet. This will reduce the cost of electricity for everyday consumers and minimise our carbon footprint.

Issued by Eskom Media Desk, 11 October 2016