NECSA says new nuclear power station in WC will strengthen SA's energy security
It’s welcomed the environmental approval for a 4,000 megawatt station following an appeal against the original decision in 2017.
Koeberg power station, near Cape Town. Picture: Eskom
CAPE TOWN - The South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (NECSA) said that a new nuclear power station in the Western Cape is what’s needed to strengthen the country’s energy security.
It’s welcomed the environmental approval for a 4,000 megawatt station following an appeal against the original decision in 2017.
But there’s still several hoops for Eskom to jump through before the project can proceed.
On Friday, Environment Minister Dion George gave the go-ahead for another nuclear facility at the Duynefontein site, on the outskirts of Cape Town, where the Koeberg nuclear power station is located.
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But Eskom will still have to obtain a nuclear installation licence from the national nuclear regulator, and approval from the national energy regulator before proceeding to apply for water licences and other requirements from the mineral and petroleum resources department.
NECSA CEO Loyiso Tyabashe said that the environmental approval marked an important milestone for the nuclear industry and the journey towards a balanced energy mix that enabled socio-economic development and was climate-friendly.
"The minister’s decision shows rigour of the process that was followed to choose appropriate site for nuclear new build and reflects confidence in nuclear technology as a safe, clean, and reliable energy solution," said Tyabashe.
NECSA said it will continue to work with the department of electricity and energy, as well as Eskom, to contribute technical expertise to maximise the benefits of nuclear energy.