Nuclear energy to play key role in lessening SA's carbon footprint: Ramokgopa
The Ministry of Electricity and Energy plans to reset the country’s nuclear programme following years of controversy, to achieve a net-zero target by 2050.
Electricity and Energy Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa speaks to journalists on the sidelines of the G20 Energy Transitions Working Group meeting in Cape Town. Picture: Lindsay Dentlinger/EWN.
CAPE TOWN - Electricity and Energy Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa says nuclear energy will play a key role in the country lowering its carbon footprint.
After years of controversy, his department plans to reset the country’s nuclear programme to achieve a net-zero target by 2050.
The G20’s second energy transitions working group is meeting in Cape Town this week to discuss advancing sustainable methods to move towards greener economies.
As the only country on the continent with a working nuclear power plant, Ramokgopa says South Africa has a responsibility to help other nations develop nuclear capability.
Several African countries have built projects in the pipeline, with Egypt currently constructing the most advanced nuclear facility.
Ramakgopa says expanding South Africa’s nuclear capability will improve energy security and sustainability.
"We will work with other state-owned entities to finalise the strategic plan and business case to support investment for the re-establishment of South Africa’s full nuclear fuel cycle."
Ramokgopa says the government plans to capitalise on its superior knowledge of pebble bed reactor technology, which has been shelved for several years.
The Cabinet will soon be asked to approve the revival of the programme.