Eskom has announced that the National Nuclear Regulator (NNR) has approved a 20-year licence extension for Koeberg Nuclear Power Station Unit 2, allowing it to continue operating until November 2045. The decision follows Eskom’s successful long-term operation application, which included detailed safety and technical assessments, infrastructure upgrades, and regulatory reviews.
The approval marks a major milestone in strengthening South Africa’s energy security and maintaining high nuclear safety standards. Unit 2 currently contributes 946 megawatts to the national grid and has achieved a 100% Energy Availability Factor for 241 consecutive days this year. The extension follows a comprehensive refurbishment programme, including the replacement of steam generators and extensive safety inspections.
With this approval, both of Koeberg’s units are now licensed for long-term operation. Unit 1 received its extension in July 2024, ensuring continued operation until 2044. Together, the two units will continue providing 1,860 megawatts of reliable baseload power for the next two decades.
Eskom’s Chief Nuclear Officer, Velaphi Ntuli, said the milestone was the result of years of dedicated work by skilled teams across the company and the broader nuclear sector. “The rigorous safety assessments demonstrate the depth of nuclear engineering talent in South Africa,” Ntuli said, noting Eskom’s ongoing investment in STEM education to support future nuclear development.
Group Executive for Generation, Bheki Nxumalo, said the extension highlights South Africa’s capability to manage complex infrastructure responsibly while advancing a low-carbon future. “It aligns with national planning priorities to diversify and stabilise the electricity supply,” he added.
Eskom Group Chief Executive Dan Marokane said the decision was a strategic step toward long-term energy security. “This ensures that assets invested in by the nation continue to serve the country, supporting socio-economic growth,” Marokane said. He added that Koeberg’s reliable baseload generation will complement South Africa’s renewable energy expansion by stabilising the grid.
The licence renewal aligns with the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP2025), which recognises the importance of nuclear energy in providing dependable and low-carbon power. By extending Koeberg’s lifespan, Eskom preserves nuclear expertise, reduces carbon emissions, and avoids the need for immediate large-scale replacements.
Koeberg, located in the Western Cape, celebrates 40 years of safe operation this month and has received NOSCAR safety status from the National Occupational Safety Association more than 14 times. The power station is surrounded by a 3,000-hectare nature reserve, reflecting Eskom’s environmental commitment.
Marokane described the extension as “a strategic win for South Africa,” underscoring Eskom’s ability to operate complex infrastructure safely while supporting the transition to a cleaner, more resilient energy mix.
Eskom expressed gratitude to stakeholders and the local community for their continued support as Koeberg enters its next chapter of providing clean, dependable power for decades to come.
The approval marks a major milestone in strengthening South Africa’s energy security and maintaining high nuclear safety standards. Unit 2 currently contributes 946 megawatts to the national grid and has achieved a 100% Energy Availability Factor for 241 consecutive days this year. The extension follows a comprehensive refurbishment programme, including the replacement of steam generators and extensive safety inspections.
With this approval, both of Koeberg’s units are now licensed for long-term operation. Unit 1 received its extension in July 2024, ensuring continued operation until 2044. Together, the two units will continue providing 1,860 megawatts of reliable baseload power for the next two decades.
Eskom’s Chief Nuclear Officer, Velaphi Ntuli, said the milestone was the result of years of dedicated work by skilled teams across the company and the broader nuclear sector. “The rigorous safety assessments demonstrate the depth of nuclear engineering talent in South Africa,” Ntuli said, noting Eskom’s ongoing investment in STEM education to support future nuclear development.
Group Executive for Generation, Bheki Nxumalo, said the extension highlights South Africa’s capability to manage complex infrastructure responsibly while advancing a low-carbon future. “It aligns with national planning priorities to diversify and stabilise the electricity supply,” he added.
Eskom Group Chief Executive Dan Marokane said the decision was a strategic step toward long-term energy security. “This ensures that assets invested in by the nation continue to serve the country, supporting socio-economic growth,” Marokane said. He added that Koeberg’s reliable baseload generation will complement South Africa’s renewable energy expansion by stabilising the grid.
The licence renewal aligns with the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP2025), which recognises the importance of nuclear energy in providing dependable and low-carbon power. By extending Koeberg’s lifespan, Eskom preserves nuclear expertise, reduces carbon emissions, and avoids the need for immediate large-scale replacements.
Koeberg, located in the Western Cape, celebrates 40 years of safe operation this month and has received NOSCAR safety status from the National Occupational Safety Association more than 14 times. The power station is surrounded by a 3,000-hectare nature reserve, reflecting Eskom’s environmental commitment.
Marokane described the extension as “a strategic win for South Africa,” underscoring Eskom’s ability to operate complex infrastructure safely while supporting the transition to a cleaner, more resilient energy mix.
Eskom expressed gratitude to stakeholders and the local community for their continued support as Koeberg enters its next chapter of providing clean, dependable power for decades to come.