By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
State owned power utility Eskom has successfully synchronised Unit 2 of the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station to the national grid following its extensive Long-Term Operation (LTO) programme.
Koeberg’s Unit 2 was taken offline in December last year for a comprehensive maintenance programme that included replacing its three steam generators, compliance checks, and refuelling.
The operation is part of Eskom’s programme to extend the lifespan of Koeberg’s two nuclear units by 20 years.
Koeberg Unit 1 was first commissioned in July 1984, and Unit 2 was commissioned in November 1985.
While Eskom had hoped to have Unit 2 operational by the middle of the year, the project was hit by delays caused by welding problems which the power utility acknowledged had caught it “unawares”.
Unit 1 has already been granted a licence extension by the National Nuclear Regulator (NNR) to operate for another 20 years – until July 2044.
Eskom will now take its case to extend the life of Unit 2 to the NNR. The unit’s current operating licence expires in November 2025.
Combined, Units 1 and 2 supply 1 860 MW to the national grid — about 5% of South Africa’s total electricity supply.
Eskom Group Executive for Generation, Bheki Nxumalo said Koeberg Unit 1 has consistently delivered high levels of performance, and Unit 2 is expected to match or exceed these achievements.
“By forming strategic collaborations with international designers, suppliers, and industry leaders, Koeberg has established itself as a hub for nuclear innovation.
“These partnerships are anticipated to be crucial as South Africa explores advanced nuclear technologies, such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). This could position the country as a leader in cutting-edge nuclear solutions while continuing to build and maintain a skilled nuclear workforce,” said Nxumalo.
The country has had more than 275 consecutive days without implementing load shedding since 26 March 2024.
Eskom anticipates Koeberg’s enhanced performance will be fully realised in FY26, with Unit 2’s record of 498 consecutive days of operation and a 93% energy availability factor serving as a benchmark for future reliability.