Expert Panel To Advise On South Africa's Plan To Procure 2,500MW Of Nuclear Energy

Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa said a panel of experts will be formed to advise on the government's plan to add 2,500MW of nuclear energy to the grid.

During a media briefing at the Nuclear Seminar in Gauteng on Thursday, the minister announced this expert panel idea, saying it will help his department "to the pace and scale that we can afford," SA News reported.

"Once we answer that question then we will be able to articulate on the public consultation process, what the timelines are, and then simultaneously we'll begin to work out a procurement framework," he added.

The minister explained that the procurement framework will be presented to the Cabinet for initial approval. The details of how the procurement will be carried out will be announced later.

Ramokgopa emphasized that the government has the right to choose its energy sources while taking care of its people. The minister said that the country has the right to decide which technologies and fuel sources to use, adding that this is a sovereign right.

He acknowledged that there are different opinions about various technologies, explaining that if the department can show that a technology is in the country's best interest, then it can pursue it.

The minister stressed that the department is open to having honest discussions about the country's energy sources. The discussions will be democratic and transparent, covering all technologies and fuel sources.

This approach aims to address the country's energy needs and achieve energy independence, as well as explore other peaceful uses beyond just powering the economy.

Ramokgopa noted that no options are off the table and that the department will consider and pursue all identified opportunities in the country's interest.

Last month, Ramokgopa announced that Eskom, an energy company responsible for providing electricity across South Africa, is expected to generate an extra 2,500MW as the power grid will be strengthened with generating units expected to return by the end of August.

The minister highlighted improvements at Tutuka, Kendal, and Kriel power stations. However, he cautioned that despite feeling positive about Eskom's performance, load shedding is still not over.