Another nail in the coffin for load shedding in South Africa

Eskom has successfully synchronised Unit 2 of the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station in Cape Town to the national grid following its extensive Long-Term Operation (LTO) programme.

The programme was designed to extend Unit 2’s operational lifespan by an additional 20 years.

The maintenance programme for Unit 2 included the replacement of three steam generators, comprehensive inspections, and refuelling activities to ensure the reactor’s continued safe and
efficient performance.

With a 930MW contribution, Unit 2 plays a significant role in Eskom’s goal to increase its capacity by 2,500MW by March 2025.

The National Nuclear Regulator (NNR) is anticipated to decide on the extension of Unit 2’s operational license in 2025. This comes after the successful renewal of Unit 1’s license, which extends its operation until 2044.

“Unit 1, contributing 930MW to the grid, has shown exceptional reliability since its return to service. Combined, Units 1 and 2 will supply 1,860MW—approximately 5% of South Africa’s total electricity playing a vital role in reducing load shedding and stabilising the grid,” Eskom said.

Load shedding has all but disappeared in South Africa, with Eskom not needing to pull the trigger on scheduled national blackouts for over nine months.

The country has had more than 275 consecutive days without implementing load shedding since 26 March 2024.

Eskom is using the December summer break to increase planned maintenance activities to further improve the reliability of its generation fleet as many industries have shut down for this period, with maintenance averaging at ~8,000MW.

Eskom said that Koeberg Unit 1 has consistently delivered high levels of performance, and Unit 2 is expected to match or exceed these achievements.

“By forming strategic collaborations with international designers, suppliers, and industry leaders, Koeberg has established itself as a hub for nuclear innovation. These partnerships are anticipated to be crucial as South Africa explores advanced nuclear technologies, such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).

“This could position the country as a leader in cutting-edge nuclear solutions while continuing to build and maintain a skilled nuclear workforce,” said the Group Executive for Generation, Bheki Nxumalo.

“As South Africa phases out some of the aging coal-fired power plants by 2030, nuclear energy is poised to provide a reliable and stable baseload supply. Unlike intermittent renewable sources, nuclear power ensures continuous electricity generation, meeting the needs of both residential and industrial users.”

Eskom anticipates Koeberg’s enhanced performance will be fully realised in FY26, with Unit 2’s record of 498 consecutive days of operation and a 93% energy availability factor serving as a benchmark for future reliability.

“While projects like the LTO programme necessitate a higher initial upfront investment, the long-term benefits—including decades of affordable, low-carbon energy—make them indispensable,” the group said.

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