NECSA backs Eskom's Duynefontein nuclear power station for energy security

THE South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa) has voiced robust support for Eskom's plans to initiate the construction of a new nuclear power station in Duynefontein, situated adjacent to the Koeberg facility.

- BANELE GININDZA

This initiative signifies a critical move towards enhancing South Africa's energy security and is set to adhere to the highest standards of safety, environmental protection, and regulatory compliance, as previously demonstrated by Eskom at the Koeberg nuclear power plant.

Necsa is keen on expanding its role in nuclear fuel manufacturing and, in April, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC).

In this context, the organisation on Monday welcomed the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), Dion George's announcement that Eskom has received environmental authorisation to proceed with the construction of the 4 000 megawatt (MW) power station in Duynefontein, following a successful appeal against an earlier decision issued in 2017.