Eskom moves forward with Duynefontein nuclear power project amidst environmental concerns

ESKOM has announced plans to deploy Large Conventional Nuclear Power Reactor (PWR) units at the Duynefontein Nuclear Plant, a critical step forward following the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment's (DFFE) recent decision to allow this development.

- BANELE GININDZA

With the anticipated new Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) set to be released soon, Eskom stated its intention to maximise the capacity permitted under this new framework, potentially adding an extra 4 000 megawatts (MW) to the site.

This plan follows a tumultuous period surrounding previous nuclear procurement strategies, notably when Electricity and Energy Minister Kgosientso Ramokgopa withdrew a Ministerial determination to procure 2 500MW of new nuclear capacity after widespread public consultation concerns. The ensuing legal challenges led to the determination's revocation, highlighting the necessity for transparent dialogues around sensitive energy projects.