South Africa’s plans for Africa’s second nuclear power plant, at Duynefontein near Cape Town, are still alive. The proposed project, with a planned capacity of 4,000 MW, aims to diversify the country’s electricity generation mix and enhance energy security. Environmental authorization for the site has been upheld, and regulatory processes are ongoing as the government and Eskom move toward final approvals and project implementation.
In contrasting development, South Africa’s Supreme Court of Appeal annuls Eskom’s permit to build a 3 GW gas power plant. The Sept 17, 2025 ruling cites inadequate public consultation as a major reason for the pull on permit. The latest new energy plan supports South Africa’s nuclear reactor project as it injects a $128 billion in energy infrastructure. South Africa has revived its nuclear reactor project and expand gas-fired power generation in its latest $128 billion new energy plan. The new national energy blueprint signals a major shift in its electricity strategy.
The updated Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) was unveiled by Electricity and Energy Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa. Moreover, he noted that the country expects to invest 2.23 trillion rand ($128 billion) in energy infrastructure by 2042. The revised plan envisions nuclear and gas contributing 16% of total generation capacity within 14 years, up from the current 3%. Other than Africa’s second nuclear plant, South Africa is making strides in improving energy transmission as it rolls out South Africa’s $25 billion grid expansion project, a move that has attracted global interest from various energy companies.
Reported August 12, 2025 – State-owned South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa) welcomes the upholding of approval plans for Africa’s second nuclear power plant. The entity seconded the upholding of the decision to grant Eskom environmental authorization to build the plant.
The 2017 decision to grant environmental authorization to build Africa’s second nuclear power plant was upheld after environmental groups raised concerns and appealed against the project. Forestry, Fisheries and Environment (DFFE) Minister, Dr Dion George, also upheld the decision following the appeal.
South Africa seeks to advance its nuclear power fleet as it remains integral in the country’s baseload energy mix. Furthermore, it is part of the government’s strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Necsa also supports initiatives that reinforce the use of nuclear technology and its applications for power. It also seeks to use the technology in peaceful ways and progress the country’s development.
Also read: Kenya to Build East Africa’s First Nuclear Power Plant by 2034 Amid Local Opposition
Project Factsheet
Location: Duynefontein, Western Cape, South Africa
Developer: Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd
Capacity: 4 GW
Proposed Technology Use: Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR), Generation III design
Status: Environmental authorization upheld. Awaits further regulatory approvals
Environmental Authorization: Granted in 2017. Upheld in August 2025 after appeals
Site License Applications: Submitted in 2016
Regulatory Oversight: National Nuclear Regulator (NNR), National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA), Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE)
The Significance of Africa’s Second Nuclear Power Plant in South Africa
Construction of Africa’s second nuclear power plant in South Africa is expected to be of immense significance. Its development is also integral in strengthening South Africa’s energy security.
Additionally, the plant will be built while upholding the highest standards of environmental protection and regulatory compliance. Necsa also notes that these standards will be upheld as demonstrated by Eskom over the years in their operation of the Koeberge nuclear power plant.
Necsa Group CEO, Loyiso Tyabashe, celebrated the milestone, stating:
“This approval marks an important milestone for the nuclear industry and South Africa’s journey towards implementing a balanced energy mix.”
Tyabashe also noted that the decision by the Minister shows the rigor of the process. The CEO went on to highlight confidence in nuclear technology as a safe, clean, and reliable energy option.
Necsa continues to work with the Department of Electricity and Energy and Eskom as a partner. It will also contribute its technical expertise to maximize the benefits of nuclear energy.
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