South Africas Integrated Resource Plan 2025 IRP 2025, approved by Cabinet last week , includes 5,2 GW of new nuclear capacity by 2039 as part of the countrys future generation mix. This is the first time since the 2010 IRP that a specific new nuclear build target has been included in South Africas official electricity plan.
According to the updated plan, unpacked by Electricity and Energy Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa on Sunday, October 19, new nuclear generation will be added in stages over the next 15 years to provide firm, low-carbon baseload capacity as ageing coal-fired plants are decommissioned and renewable generation expands. The Department of Electricity and Energy will develop a procurement framework for the programme with site selection, permitting and environmental processes expected to begin during the current planning period.
The plan also confirms that Koeberg Nuclear Power Station will continue operating beyond its original 40-year design life extending its contribution to system stability during the transition period.