R60 Billion Nuclear Ambition: South Africa's Bold Energy Plan

South Africa is set to embark on a massive R60 billion nuclear build program, with plans to generate at least 10GW of nuclear capacity. Electricity and Energy Minister Kgosientsho Ramokopa revealed that the country is seeking nuclear experts from around the world to assist in building nuclear capacity at scale.

The program aims to restore South Africa's nuclear build program, which has been plagued by procurement and administration concerns in recent years. Ramokopa emphasized that the program's credibility depends on its scale, with a minimum capacity of 10GW required to meet the country's energy needs.

Ramokopa said South Africa would consult experts from the US, China, Russia, France, and South Korea to find a suitable partner for the program. A potential partnership with China has been hinted at, given the country's experience in nuclear energy and its existing partnership with South Africa. China accounts for 27% of all nuclear reactors under construction and plans to bring 70GW of nuclear capacity online over the next two years.

The minister revealed that the R60 billion required for the program will not come from the fiscus. Instead, the government will likely seek funding from external sources, including potential investors and partners.

In addition to building new nuclear capacity, Ramokopa emphasized the importance of extending the life of South Africa's existing nuclear plant, Koeberg. The department has successfully extended the operation of Koeberg Unit 1 by 20 years and hopes to achieve the same for Unit 2.

However, energy expert Chris Yelland expressed skepticism about the feasibility of the nuclear program, citing the unavailability and high cost of nuclear technologies. Yelland argued that wind and solar power generation are more efficient and cost-effective ways to address South Africa's capacity shortage.

A recent report by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) found that the cost of procuring renewable energy has decreased dramatically since the first bid window. Solar energy costs have dropped from R2.75 per kWh to R0.50 per kWh, while wind energy costs have decreased from R1 to R0.50 per kWh.

As South Africa embarks on its nuclear build program, the country will need to balance its energy needs with the challenges and costs associated with nuclear energy. The success of the program will depend on careful planning, execution, and collaboration with global partners.