Energy Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has confirmed on August 15th that South Africa will continue with nuclear procurement. In an answer to a parliamentary question on August 14th, Kubayi highlighted that nuclear plans formed part of government’s national development plan.
Specifically, Kubayi noted that nuclear procurement would continue in South Africa as a means of addressing ongoing socio-economic issues as well and as an added means of job creation.
The decision also follows an announcement by Eskom itself stating that it was currently generating surplus power to the current requirements and a report from the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) which suggested completely scrapping nuclear in South Africa due to the high cost.
Note: The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, commonly known as the CSIR, is a world-class African research and development organisation established through an Act of Parliament in 1945. The CSIR undertakes directed, multidisciplinary research and technological innovation that contributes to the improved quality of life of South Africans. The organisation plays a key role in supporting government’s programmes through directed research that is aligned with the country’s priorities, the organisation’s mandate and its science, engineering and technology competences.
Key issues that the CSIR seeks to address through various interventions include: creating a vibrant economy and employment opportunities; building a capable state that is able to consistently deliver high-quality services for all South Africans; contributing to the development of economic and social infrastructure like transport, energy, water resources and ICT networks.
The CSIR’s shareholder is the South African Parliament, held in proxy by the Minister of Science and Technology.
