Power utility Eskom on November 9 celebrated the 40-year anniversary of Unit 2 at the Koeberg nuclear power station.

Koeberg Unit 2 entered commercial operation on November 9, 1985, with Eskom saying it has been a cornerstone of the country’s energy system.

This follows after Koeberg Unit 1 celebrated its 40-year anniversary on July 21, 2024.

It also follows the approval, on November 6, of a 20-year licence extension for Unit 2 until 2045. Unit 1’s licence has also previously been extended by 20 years to 2044.

Eskom says both units will, together, supply about 1 860 MW of clean, reliable and affordable power to the national grid for the next two decades – supporting the goals of the Integrated Resource Plan 2025 (IRP 2025) and South Africa’s just energy transition.

“Koeberg’s 40-year milestone is a proud moment for South Africa and proof of our ability to operate complex infrastructure safely and sustainably. With both units now licensed for another 20 years, Koeberg remains a cornerstone of our energy security and a key contributor to the clean energy transition under IRP 2025,” says Eskom group CE Dan Marokane.

“Koeberg’s success over the past four decades is driven by the exceptional dedication, professionalism and expertise of its employees; men and women whose commitment ensures safe, reliable operations every day. Their work keeps the lights on for millions of South Africans.

“Koeberg’s consistent performance continues to demonstrate operational excellence, environmental stewardship and the value of investing in South African skills and capability,” adds group executive for generation Bheki Nxumalo.

Koeberg Unit 2, which currently contributes 946 MW to the grid, achieved a 100% energy availability factor (EAF) for 244 consecutive days in the year to date, which Eskom says reflects “world-class reliability”.

The station has also received more than 14 NOSCAR safety awards from the National Occupational Safety Association (Nosa), which the utility says underscores its culture of safety and discipline.

Located near Cape Town, Eskom notes that Koeberg reduces transmission losses, supports regional energy needs and operates within a 3 000 ha nature reserve, which Eskom says highlights its commitment to sustainability and environmental preservation.

NECSA

Meanwhile, the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa) has applauded the announcement by the National Nuclear Regulator (NNR) granting a long-term operation (LTO) licence extension for Koeberg Unit 2 to operate for an additional 20 years.

Necsa describes this as a bold step towards securing a balanced energy mix and securing a more stable and reliable national power supply, emphasising nuclear as one of the most dependable and carbon-free source of energy.

Necsa says it commends the NNR for its diligence in the process, ensuring that proper public consultations are done and all due diligence is followed.

It notes that the decision reinforces confidence in South Africa’s nuclear capability, regulatory oversight, and prioritisation of rigorous safety operations.

“This announcement comes at a crucial time just after Electricity and Energy Minister Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa released the IRP 2025, which reflects an increased allocation of nuclear energy.

“The life extension of Koeberg’s Unit 2 is another green light for the nuclear industry in South Africa. Necsa continues to offer the expertise and work collaboratively with Eskom, government, industry stakeholders and nuclear community at large to support South Africa’s strategic energy objectives,” says Necsa group CEO Loyiso Tyabashe.

Necsa has congratulated Eskom on this announcement, noting that this demonstrates the state of readiness of the nuclear industry as it prepares for the 5 200 MW nuclear build, announced by the Minister, in the IRP 2025.

“The future of South Africa’s energy security requires bold and reliable solutions. With this extension, we move closer to an energy secure, low carbon future powered South Africa.

“Necsa stands ready to continue driving innovation, developing required skills and advancing the nation’s nuclear future for generations to come,” it adds.