Ramokgopa Reveals Plans to Procure Nuclear Energy

Minister of Electricity Kgosientsho Ramokgopa states that plans are underway to procure nuclear energy. He noted that the government is acquiring more energy sources, including nuclear and gas, to ensure supply security. Ramokgopa outlined that this year, the procurement process for 2,500MW of atomic energy would commence, converting diesel open gas turbines to gas and installing solar Photovoltaic (PV) with battery storage. IOL reports these projects will meet the country’s energy needs and align with the 2019 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP).

Ramokgopa responded to a parliamentary question: “Based on the 2019 IRP, the government will commence the procurement of 2,500MW nuclear energy in 2024.” He detailed further plans, including converting Gourikwa and Ankerlig to gas, yielding 2,000MW, and another 1,000MW conversion into Closed Cycle Gas Turbine. In addition, an additional 3,000MW is approved in Richards Bay, with plans for solar PV coupled with battery energy storage systems yielding 4,000MW currently in progress.

Also read: Ramokgopa Seeks Legal Clarity on the Constitutionality of Load Shedding

Highlighting the integral nature of these plans to ensure long-term energy security supply, Ramokgopa emphasised the government’s commitment to expanding transmission lines and encouraging private sector investment in renewable energy projects. He assured that billions of rands would be invested in expanding 14,000km of transmission lines nationwide. While the financing details are finalised, Ramokgopa pledged to provide more information in the coming weeks.

Ramokgopa addressed past challenges, noting the concentration of the grid network in certain provinces, hindering renewable energy project connections in coastal areas like the Eastern, Western, and Northern Cape. Minister Mantashe had previously raised concerns about these regions’ lack of grid capacity, impacting renewable energy projects. Efforts are underway to address these challenges and enhance grid capacity to facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources nationwide.

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Ramokgopa Reports Significant Improvement in Load Shedding Situation

Picture: X / Kgosientsho_R

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