Date: 29 September 2021
The South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa) supports the decision recently made by the National Energy Regulator of SA (Nersa) Board of approving the 34 Determination of 2500MW nuclear energy. Nersa’s approval is a step in the right direction in ensuring that nuclear energy forms part of the energy mix as per the Integrated Resource Plan IRP20. This is also in line with government’s plan to build nuclear installation on a scale and pace the country can afford.
Nuclear Energy currently plays, and will continue to do so, a major role in resolving the energy crisis in the country, as it is one of the reliable sources of energy and it has a high availability. Going ahead with this plan, will mean some relief on the national grid. “The approval of the 2500MW comes at a critical time when the South African economy needs resuscitation following the devastation of the Covid-19 pandemic. This will play a role in job creation which will assist in the dire state of unemployment in the country”, said Mr David Nicholls, Chairperson of Necsa Board. “If South Africa builds a second nuclear energy power station then it will continue to be in the lead in Africa, with countries such as Egypt and Nigeria following suit”, Mr Nicholls added. Therefore the benefit is not only for SA but for the continent as a whole.
The announcement by the Nersa Board follows the public hearings, which were conducted in January 2021 according to section 34 of the Electricity Regulation Act, 2006. The public participation process was a critical phase in ensuring that Nersa considered diverse views before approval. Necsa as the government entity that has a better understanding of the Nuclear Energy Act, will give the Minister all the necessary support required to ensure that the process runs smoothly and all the requirements are met.
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Issued by: The Group South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Group Necsa)
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
GM: Corporate Communication & Stakeholder Relations: Ms Nikelwa Tengimfene Cell: 0825745495
E-mail: nikelwa.tengimfene@necsa.co.za
