Koeberg life extension ‘essential’ for energy security
Eskom nuclear support manager Keith Featherstone told MPs on Wednesday that the country has no choice but to extend the design life of the Koeberg nuclear power station.
He said the extension is critical for continued energy security.
Featherstone addressed the Portfolio Committee on Electricity and Energy, on the Koeberg Nuclear Power Plant Long-Term Operation programme.
In July, the National Nuclear Regulator confirmed that Eskom’s operating licence for unit 1 of Koeberg had been extended for another 20 years, making it valid until July 2044.
Unit 1 provides 930MW to the national grid.
The Cape Town-based nuclear plant is the only nuclear power station in Africa and has been operational since 1984.
“The commissioning of Koeberg, at the end of its original design life, was recommended as we are aware it was one of the best-performing plants with low operating costs,” Featherstone said.
“It was very clear that for this to happen, we had to follow all the necessary regulatory approvals. The advantages of LTO for Eskom include strategic location, reliable operations, low water consumption, which is one of the ways to reduce the emission targets.
“Over the last two outages at Koeberg, we dedicated them to performing plant inspections, maintenance activities and refurbishments that have been identified as being required as part of the long-term operation assessments.”
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