Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Minister Dr Dion George has upheld the 2017 decision to grant State-owned power utility Eskom environmental authorisation to build and operate a new nuclear power station in Duynefontein, in the Western Cape, following appeals made by environmental organisations.

“My decision was made in respect of the principles of the National Environmental Management Act (Nema), and with full appreciation of the environmental, social and economic considerations involved,” he says.

“In considering the appeals, I carefully reviewed the environmental-impact assessment report, as well as the independent peer review conducted in respect of the project,” he adds.

However, his decision to dismiss the appeals and uphold the environmental authorisation does not automatically grant Eskom permission to begin with the construction or operation of the nuclear power station, he emphasises.

Eskom must still obtain several additional statutory authorisations in accordance with Nema before proceeding, including a nuclear installation licence from the National Nuclear Regulator, approval from the National Energy Regulator of South Africa, water-use licences from the Department of Water and Sanitation, and any other relevant approvals, including those from the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources.

“The granting of an environmental authorisation does not exempt an applicant from complying with any other applicable legal requirements or obtaining permits from other competent authorities,” George adds.

He emphasises that the protection and preservation of South Africa’s environment is non-negotiable.

“The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment supports South Africa’s transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future where inclusive growth, job creation and poverty reduction are central,” he says.