The licence extension of Koeberg Nuclear Power Station Unit 2 ensures a critical bridge in skills, technology, and infrastructure to support South Africa's next phase of nuclear development.
South Africa's energy security and efforts to reduce carbon emissions have advanced with the approval to extend Koeberg Unit 2’s operating licence by 20 years, allowing safe operation until 2044. This extension aligns with the country’s Just Energy Transition (JET) Plan and the upcoming Integrated Resource Plan (IRP2025), both of which highlight nuclear power as a key component of a balanced and low-carbon electricity system.
In a podcast, Nicolette Pombo-van Zyl interviews Necsa Group CEO Loyiso Tyabashe about the role and future of nuclear energy in South Africa, emphasizing its importance in energy transition plans.
The National Nuclear Regulator (NNR) confirmed that Koeberg Unit 2 satisfied all technical, safety, and regulatory criteria required for licence renewal. This endorsement followed an in-depth review based on International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Safety Standards and global best practices.
The decision guarantees that South Africa will maintain access to clean, reliable baseload power during the transition period as renewable energy capacity continues to expand.
Author’s summary: Extending Koeberg Unit 2’s licence strengthens South Africa’s energy security by maintaining a safe, reliable nuclear power source essential for a balanced, low-carbon electricity future.