South Africa Sets Sights on Reviving Pebble Bed Modular Reactor

South Africa aims to revive its Pebble Bed Modular Reactor (PBMR) by lifting its care and maintenance status by early next year. Previously a leader in nuclear technology, the PBMR project stopped in 2010 after major investments. The country is now exploring new partnerships in nuclear energy.

South Africa expects to lift the care and maintenance status of its Pebble Bed Modular Reactor (PBMR) early next year, according to electricity and energy minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa. The nation was once at the forefront of small modular nuclear reactor development but halted the PBMR project in 2010 after spending over 10 billion rand ($577 million) without building an expected demonstration model.

At a media briefing, Ramokgopa stated, "We are far advanced in (our) internal processes to make the case to lift the care and maintenance on the PBMR." The initiative could revitalize South Africa's nuclear ambitions and create new opportunities as countries like Egypt and Namibia explore nuclear options. South Africa's current and planned investments could see partnerships with global leaders in small modular reactors.

The upcoming 2025 Integrated Resource Plan highlights a diversified approach to new energy capacity, targeting 105 gigawatts by 2039, with a significant role for renewable energy sources. The country's nuclear aspirations are supported by potential partnerships with nations such as China, South Korea, the U.S., and Russia, as it seeks to stimulate an industry once at the cutting edge of nuclear innovation.

(With inputs from agencies.)