The Council for Geoscience (CGS) supports the extension of Koeberg Nuclear Plant’s license to 2044, marking a pivotal step towards South Africa’s energy security.
By Sello Masilo
The Council for Geoscience (CGS) has thrown its full support behind Eskom following the successful approval to extend the life of the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station until 2044. This significant milestone marks a pivotal achievement in South Africa’s ongoing journey towards energy security.
Support from CGS
In recent years, the CGS has diligently executed the Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Assessment (PSHA) on behalf of Eskom. This crucial work supported submissions to the National Nuclear Regulator, enabling the extension of Koeberg’s operating license to 2044. The research highlights the pivotal role of science in critical decision-making processes for future planning. As the CGS, we affirm that geosciences play a vital role in energy security, mineral development, infrastructure, and land-use planning.
Significance of the PSHA
The PSHA was further enhanced by extensive site characterisation and data collection activities, providing essential geoscientific information for potential new nuclear developments at Duynefontein. Mr Mosa Mabuza, CEO of CGS, states, “The extension of the Koeberg Nuclear Power Plant license is a testament to the collaborative efforts between Eskom and the CGS. This achievement underscores the importance of leveraging scientific expertise for informed decision-making in our energy sector.”
Acknowledgement of Efforts
Mabuza continues, “We acknowledge the work of our dedicated team of scientists and technical support staff for their unwavering commitment to this project. We are also grateful to Eskom management for entrusting the CGS with this critical task, contributing significantly to South Africa’s energy future.”
Future Support and Commitment
“The CGS stands ready to support future nuclear programs, offering geoscientific insights to guide balanced and scientifically sound decisions. Our mandate remains to provide geoscience information to advise the state and the public, reinforcing the importance of science in our national development,” concludes Mabuza.
Ministerial Support
Electricity and Energy Minister, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, has expressed his support for the recent decision by the National Nuclear Regulator (NNR) to extend the operating license of Koeberg Nuclear Power Station Unit 1. This extension allows the unit to continue operations for another 20 years, until 21 July 2044.
Eskom’s Announcement
Eskom, South Africa’s primary electricity supplier, announced on Monday that the NNR had granted the license extension. Dr Ramokgopa highlighted the importance of this decision in ensuring a stable and sustainable energy supply for the country.
Minister Ramokgopa’s Statement
“The extension of the operating life of Koeberg Nuclear Power Station Unit 1 will not only ensure the continued supply of electricity to meet the growing demand but also contribute to our efforts in transitioning towards a cleaner, more affordable and sustainable energy future. We look forward to the continued safe and reliable operation of Koeberg Nuclear Power Station Unit 1 as we work towards meeting our energy needs,” stated Dr Ramokgopa.
Praising NNR’s Decision
Eskom’s Chief Nuclear Officer, Keith Featherstone, also praised the NNR’s decision, describing it as “a testament to the hard work and continued commitment of our teams to nuclear safety and Eskom’s generation recovery plan”. He added that Koeberg has significantly improved its safety standards over the years by incorporating lessons from both French and US nuclear experiences. These improvements have reduced risks to levels comparable with those of new, modern nuclear power plants.
Scheduled Maintenance
Eskom further explained that Unit 1 will remain operational until January 2025, when it will be shut down for its next scheduled refueling and maintenance outage. This planned outage is part of the regular maintenance schedule to ensure the unit’s continued efficiency and safety.
Unit 2 License Status
Regarding Unit 2 of the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station, Eskom noted that its current license will expire on 9 November 2025. Preparations for the long-term operation of Unit 2 are already underway, and once the current outage is complete, Unit 2 will be returned to service. The NNR has indicated that a decision regarding the long-term operation of Unit 2 will be made prior to the expiry date in November 2025.
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