SA ready for major nuclear energy push, says Ramokgopa

Zuko Komisa

Minister of Electricity update — Image | GCIS

South Africa is set to announce major nuclear energy expansion plans post-Cabinet, targeting an initial 5,000 MW capacity build to drive industrialisation and skills development.
Minister Ramokgopa advocated for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) due to their rapid deployment and potential to power next-generation AI data centres.
The government is seeking global partners to refresh its existing reactor while promoting Africa’s nuclear future, given the continent’s large uranium reserves and growing energy demand.

South Africa is poised to make a significant announcement next week regarding its plans to expand its nuclear energy programme, according to Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, Minister of Electricity and Energy.

Speaking at the G20 Nuclear Energy Ministerial Conference in Durban, the Minister indicated that post-Cabinet, the government is close to unveiling a plan that initially aims to build 5,000 megawatts (MW) of new nuclear capacity.

“[We] will be making big announcements next week, post-Cabinet. We are close to that.” said Ramokgopa,

This ambitious programme is expected to boost industrialisation and lead to an exponential increase in the required skills base.

Ramokgopa confirmed that the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa) will play a central role.

He noted that the 60-year-old research reactor requires a refresh, with the country actively seeking international partners to help “take it to another level,” citing an “insatiable appetite” for global collaboration.

The Minister also championed Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as a “pristine opportunity” for future expansion, highlighting their advantages: rapid deployment, standardised production to reduce long lead times, and their potential to power the requirements of the artificial intelligence (AI) complex.

He believes SMRs will be crucial for locating new data centres across various geographical areas

Turning to the continent, Ramokgopa stressed that Africa’s time is “now” in the nuclear space.

He pointed out that the continent is already a key producer of uranium, accounting for 14% of global production, with further reserves yet to be tapped.