The State-owned South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa) Group welcomes the upholding of the decision to grant State-owned Eskom environmental authorisation to build a 4 000 MW nuclear power station in Duynefontein, in the Western Cape.

The 2017 decision to grant environmental authorisation was confirmed by Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) Minister Dr Dion George last week following an appeal against the original decision, Necsa says.

Nuclear power remains a crucial component of South Africa’s baseload energy mix and part of government’s strategy to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions.

Necsa supports initiatives that reinforce the use of nuclear technology and its applications for power and beyond power for peaceful means and development.

A new nuclear power plant is required to strengthen South Africa’s energy security and will be built while upholding the highest standards of safety, environmental protection and regulatory compliance as has been demonstrated by Eskom at Koeberg nuclear power plant, Necsa says.

“This approval marks an important milestone for the nuclear industry and South Africa’s journey towards implementing a balanced energy mix that enables socioeconomic development and is climate-friendly,” Necsa Group CEO Loyiso Tyabashe says.

“The Minister’s decision shows the rigour of the process that was followed to choose an appropriate site for a nuclear new build, and reflects confidence in nuclear technology as a safe, clean and reliable energy solution,” he says.

Necsa continues to work with the Department of Electricity and Energy and Eskom as a partner, and will contribute its technical expertise to maximise the benefits of nuclear energy, he adds.