Eskom has marked a significant achievement in its power generation efforts with the successful return to service of Koeberg Unit 2 on Sunday.
The unit was taken offline due to an unexpected steam leak in the reheat system, prompting an unplanned outage. Eskom swiftly implemented its nuclear safety protocols, ensuring that all safety measures were upheld throughout the process.
Currently, Koeberg Unit 2 is operating at 646MW output, with plans to gradually increase production to its full capacity of 930MW in line with operational protocols.
“This restart reinforces Eskom’s commitment to providing reliable baseload power and contributes to stabilising the country’s electricity supply amid ongoing energy challenges,” the power utility stated.
Koeberg’s Role in Energy Security
Bheki Nxumalo, Eskom’s Group Executive for Generation, emphasised Koeberg’s crucial role in South Africa’s energy landscape.
“Koeberg is a key contributor to Eskom’s energy generation mix, helping to close our national energy supply gap and moving us closer to delivering a cleaner energy portfolio,” he said.
Koeberg Nuclear Power Station, which has been operational for over 40 years, continues to adhere to global safety standards and regulatory requirements. The recent life extension of Koeberg Unit 1, licensed to operate until 21 July 2044, underscores Eskom’s strategy to maximise efficiency and investment in its nuclear assets.
Meanwhile, Koeberg Unit 1 is currently undergoing maintenance and refuelling as part of its life extension programme. Eskom has also submitted a request to the National Nuclear Regulator (NNR) to extend Koeberg Unit 2’s operational lifespan by 20 years beyond its current licence expiry in November 2025.
A Long-Term Nuclear Energy Strategy
Eskom’s long-term plan for Koeberg aligns with South Africa’s transition to a greener economy. The recent Long-Term Operation (LTO) programme for Unit 2 included:
- The replacement of three steam generators
- Comprehensive inspections
- Refuelling operations
These efforts reinforce Eskom’s commitment to nuclear safety, efficiency, and sustainability.
The response to the Unit 2 outage showcased Eskom’s expertise in nuclear operations, highlighting its commitment to safety and reliable energy generation.
As South Africa moves away from fossil fuels, Koeberg remains a cornerstone of the country’s energy strategy, delivering clean, cost-effective baseload power to support a stable and sustainable energy future.
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