Episode Transcript
[00:00:00] Hi everyone.
[00:00:02] Welcome to this ESI podcast where we discuss crucial topics in electricity, energy and sustainability.
[00:00:11] Today we're diving into the importance of nuclear energy in South Africa's electricity energy mix.
[00:00:19] This is your favorite power and energy guru, Professor Vali Pariachi. Here once again.
[00:00:26] As the country faces challenges related to grid stability, reliability, congestion and resilience, the incorporation of nuclear power, particularly small modular reactors or SMRs for short, becomes increasingly vital for achieving our sustainability targets by 2050.
[00:00:53] Number one, the current energy landscape.
[00:00:57] South Africa's electricity grid is under significant strain partly due to an outdated infrastructure that struggles to cope with increased generation and demand peaks.
[00:01:11] There's a pressing need for reliable energy sources that can provide inter area stable baseload power.
[00:01:20] Nuclear energy, the second greenest energy to hydro, stands out in this regard, presenting a safe and sustainable option that can help mitigate the ongoing power crisis.
[00:01:38] The current draft integrated resource plan IRP 2023 outlines a commitment to to include approximately 5,000 megawatts of nuclear power in our energy mix.
[00:01:54] This is crucial for securing a diversified energy portfolio that can deliver consistent electricity supply whilst supporting economic growth.
[00:02:10] Number two, nuclear power and sustainability targets.
[00:02:16] The South African government, as I understand it, is dedicated to pursuing a diversified energy future and incorporating nuclear energy is essential to meet the 2050 net zero sustainability targets.
[00:02:37] Nuclear Smart in particular offer the flexibility to be deployed in various locations across the country.
[00:02:46] They can be positioned in areas with existing grid congestion, thus alleviating pressure on the transmission and distribution delivery networks.
[00:03:00] This strategic placement not only ensures that energy is produced closer to where it is needed, but also minimizes transmission losses, enhancing overall efficiency.
[00:03:16] It allows South Africa to leverage its rich nuclear potential whilst addressing environmental and economic considerations.
[00:03:30] Number three, Government commitment and regulatory framework.
[00:03:35] The South African government, as again I understand it, is currently proceeding with due process to incorporate nuclear energy into our electricity supply.
[00:03:49] A few days ago, the Forestry, Fisheries and The environmental minister, Dr.
[00:03:57] Leon George, upheld the decision to grant ESKOM environmental authorization to construct a new nuclear power station in Du Fontein in the Western Cape, in addition to the Quebec Power Station that was built in 1980.
[00:04:21] This decision, whilst contested by environmental organizations, indicates a robust commitment to advancing our nuclear agenda.
[00:04:34] Importantly, the government has made it clear that the rollout of nuclear power will occur at a pace and scale that the country and the FISCUS can afford.
[00:04:48] This prudent approach enables us to manage our resources effectively and efficiently whilst ensuring that the transition to nuclear power is safe, sustainable and economically viable.
[00:05:04] The government anticipates significant economic benefits from this transition, including localization of the supply chain, which could stimulate local manufacturing and create numerous job opportunities across various sectors.
[00:05:25] 4.
[00:05:26] Valuable component of a repowering strategy as South Africa continues to phase out older coal fired power stations, nuclear SMRs could prove to be a valuable component of a repowering strategy at these power station sites.
[00:05:51] Their ability to provide reliable, dispatchable baseload power makes them an excellent alternative as we seek to replace the capacity lost through decommissioned coal plants. Additionally, the design approvals and nuclear licensing processes for nuclear SMRs will likely be far more straightforward than those associated with larger traditional nuclear facilities.
[00:06:25] This streamlined approach facilitates a quicker transition to nuclear energy and supports the urgent need of to stabilize Our electricity supply number 5 Flexibility and economic viability of nuclear SMRs One of the standard or standout characteristics of nuclear SMRs is their adaptability.
[00:06:57] Unlike traditional large scale nuclear plants, SMRs can be installed in situations where grid capacity where electricity grid capacity is limited, making them a practical solution for many regions.
[00:07:17] Furthermore, the South African government does not have to own the nuclear assets directly.
[00:07:26] They can choose to purchase only the output, which allows for a more financially sustainable approach to energy procurement, that is the economic output, the electrons.
[00:07:45] This flexibility can significantly reduce the burden on the national grid, supporting a more reliable electricity supply whilst also contributing to job creation and economic development in local communities.
[00:08:05] 6.
[00:08:06] Conclusion Moving forward with nuclear Energy in conclusion, the integration of nuclear energy into South Africa's electricity energy mix is not just a strategic move, it's a necessary step towards grid decongestion, grid stability, reliability and resilience.
[00:08:32] The government's commitment, highlighted by recent environmental approvals, shows a pathway forward, but it is crucial to navigate the regulatory landscape very carefully as we move towards our sustainability goals for 2050.
[00:08:52] We must embrace nuclear energy as a cornerstone of our electricity mix, thus ensuring that we provide stable, clean and affordable energy for all South Africans.
[00:09:11] Thank you for joining us on this episode of the ESI Podcast.
[00:09:16] Stay tuned for our next discussion on innovative energy solutions and their impact on our future.
[00:09:26] This is your power and energy host and guru, Professor Valley Padiati, signing off. Ciao for now.
