Brian Molefe questions need to extend Koeberg lifespan
Former Eskom CEO Brian Molefe has raised concerns about Eskom's plan to extend the operational life of the Koeberg nuclear plant near Cape Town
On Wednesday, the power utility presented its plan to the Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Electricity and Energy, explaining the measures to maintain the nuclear power station's operations.
The utility was recently granted permission by the nuclear regulator to extend the operating life of Koeberg Unit 1 by 20 years until July 2044.
Molefe, now a member of parliament for the MK Party, questioned the power station's environmental impact and energy availability factor compared to renewable energy sources.
He previously led Eskom from 2015 to 2016.
He resigned amid claims of corruption and would later appear before the State Capture Commission to explain his alleged links to the Gupta brothers.
“What is our nuclear liability model, especially relating to the new build?,” Moleke asked.
“In the case of an accident, who will pay for the disaster? Is it to be fully covered by the government? Is it recognised as a contingent liability, or are we able to ensure disaster in South Africa because it will bankrupt us?”
Molefe also challenged Eskom to explain the need for a nuclear power station in the renewable energy age.
“A comment has been made that there is going to be more renewables in the future, so why do we build nuclear? So, can you explain the difference between the energy availability factor of nuclear and renewables? Please also explain the environmental friendliness of nuclear.”
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