Koeberg Nuclear Power Station
Koeberg Nuclear Power Station, located at Duynefontein, Melkbosstrand is Africa’s only nuclear power plant, and it plays a vital part in South Africa’s electricity generation. Construction began in 1976. Unit 1 was connected to the national grid in April 1984, followed by Unit 2 in July 1985.
Koeberg uses Pressurised Water Reactor (PWR) technology, one of the safest and most widely used reactor designs in the world. It supports the Western Cape by delivering stable, low-carbon electricity to the grid. Koeberg has consistently ranked as Eskom’s most reliable power station. It also features the largest turbine generators in the Southern Hemisphere and is the most southerly nuclear power station in the world.
It is operated under strict safety regulations overseen by the National Nuclear Regulator (NNR). The plant has received the NOSCAR safety award from the National Occupational Safety Association (NOSA) more than 14 times – a record in South Africa’s energy sector. The facility has been in operation for over 40 years and is currently undergoing upgrades to extend its lifespan by an additional 20 years, potentially remaining operational until 2045.
Waste Management challenges
- Low and intermediate-level waste is securely transported to the Vaalputs disposal site in the Northern Cape, 600 km away.
- Spent fuel (high-level waste) is safely stored on site in cooled storage pools with high-density racks. Dry cask storage is being considered for the future.
Nature reserve
Koeberg Nuclear Power Station is surrounded by a 3,000-hectare nature reserve owned by Eskom. This protected area is home to over 150 bird species, small mammals, reptiles, and coastal vegetation, contributing to local conservation and offering environmental education opportunities.
Geolocation -33° 40′ 36.8037″, 18° 26′ 0.963″
Koeberg Nuclear Power Station
