South Africa’s Minister of Forests, Fisheries and Environment has backed the 2017 decision to grant Eskom environmental clearance to build and operate a new nuclear power plant in Duinfontein, Western Cape province.
Approval of Eskom’s final environmental impact statement for the new Duynfontein nuclear power plant was originally granted by the South African Department of Environment, but was the subject of objections from various environmental groups. These appeals have now been dismissed.
Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment Dion George announced the decision on August 8, upholding the 2017 decision.
“In considering these appeals, I have carefully considered the Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAr) and the independent peer review conducted on this project,” Mr George said.
“Ultimately, my decision was taken with due regard to environmental, social and economic considerations, respecting the principles of the National Environmental Management Act 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998).”
The granting of an environmental permit “does not exempt the applicant from complying with other applicable legal requirements or obtaining permits from other competent authorities,” George said.
Eskom will need to obtain additional legal approvals, including a nuclear installation permit from the National Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNR), before proceeding with the project. Approval from the South African National Energy Regulatory Authority. Water use permit from the Department of Water and Sanitation. and other approvals.
Duynfontein is located next to Eskom’s existing Köberg nuclear power station. In March 2016, the state-owned power company submitted a site license application to the NNR for Duynfontein and another site, Tispant, to construct and operate “multiple nuclear facilities (power reactors) and associated auxiliary nuclear facilities.” In 2017, the Ministry of the Environment approved the construction of 4,000 MWe of nuclear power capacity at either site.
Loyiso Chabashe, group chief executive officer of the South African Nuclear Authority (Necsa), today welcomed the ministerial decision.
“This approval is an important milestone for the nuclear industry and marks South Africa’s progress towards implementing a balanced energy mix that enables socio-economic development and is climate friendly.The Minister’s decision demonstrates the rigor of the process followed to select suitable locations for new nuclear installations. “Reflecting our confidence in nuclear technology as a safe, clean and reliable energy solution, Necsa remains committed to working as a partner with the Department of Electricity and Energy and Eskom and contributing its technical expertise to maximize the benefits of nuclear energy,” he said.
In January 2024, the South African government announced plans to procure 2.5 GWe of new nuclear capacity. However, in August 2024, the government suspended the procurement process to allow for further public consultation.
