Interview on PowerFM

South Africa's 2500MW Nuclear Reactor

I recently had an interview with PowerFM discussing the South African Government's decision to acquire another nuclear reactor. According to the 2019 Integrated Resources Plan, the government has earmarked 2500MW for a new twin reactor “at a pace and scale that the country can afford, because it is a no-regret option”. In my opinion, this is a prudent decision. When Koeberg reaches the end of its life extension, the skilled workforce involved in its operation can seamlessly transition to a new power station. Additionally, numerous South Africans with experience in nuclear startups worldwide, such as X Energy and Seaborg, as well as those who advised China's PBMR, could potentially be brought back.

It's worth noting that over 150 South Africans contributed to the successful construction of a nuclear power station in the UAE. This project, completed on budget and on time, stands as a remarkable achievement.

As South Africa grapples with ongoing blackouts, it is essential for those who opposed the 2015 nuclear procurement, based on the misinformation that Jacob Zuma signed a deal with Vladimir Putin, to reflect on whether or not they were misled.

If we had initiated the construction of a power station back then, we might not be facing rolling blackouts today. Our engineers wouldn't have had to seek opportunities abroad, and the government wouldn't be struggling to maintain a stable power supply.

Below is my conversation with PowerFM.

SA can, and should, build another Nuclear Power Plant.

Koeberg needs a little brother.