Thursday, 06 November 2025: Eskom is pleased to announce that the National Nuclear Regulator (NNR) has approved a 20-year licence extension for Koeberg Nuclear Power Station Unit 2, enabling continued operation until 9 November 2045. This follows Eskom’s successful and comprehensive application, which included detailed safety assessments, technical reviews, and infrastructure upgrades as part of the station’s Long-Term Operation (LTO) programme.
The approval marks a significant step in strengthening South Africa’s long-term energy security and reflects Eskom’s commitment to maintaining world-class nuclear safety standards.
Koeberg Nuclear Power Station Unit 2, currently contributing 946MW to the national grid, has demonstrated exceptional reliability by operating at 100% Energy Availability Factor (EAF) for 241 consecutive days this year. This consistent performance underscores the station’s critical role in supporting South Africa’s electricity supply. The licence extension follows the successful completion of an extensive refurbishment and life-extension programme, which included the replacement of three steam generators, thorough safety inspections, and refuelling activities to ensure the unit’s continued safe and efficient operation.
With this approval, Unit 2 joins Unit 1, which received its long-term operating licence on 15 July 2024, extending its operational life until 21 July 2044. Together, both units are now part of a global cohort of more than 120 nuclear reactors that have safely extended their service beyond the original 40-year design life—affirming Koeberg’s place among the world’s most resilient and well-managed nuclear facilities.
“The granting of the 20-year life extension to Koeberg Unit 2, following on from last year’s similar extension for Unit 1, is a result of the hard work, focus and dedication of our highly skilled and competent employees at Koeberg, supported by colleagues across the company and throughout the nuclear value chain in this country,” said Velaphi Ntuli, Eskom Chief Nuclear Officer.
“The rigorous safety assessments and regulatory requirements Eskom had to meet to achieve the long-term operation demonstrate the depth and pipeline of nuclear engineering talent available in South Africa that delivers high-quality jobs. We continue to maintain and develop this talent through investing in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education as we look to build new nuclear capacity in the coming years in line with the integrated resource plan recently published,” Ntuli continued.
The licence extension reflects South Africa’s capability to manage complex energy infrastructure with excellence. It strengthens our commitment to a low-carbon, secure energy future and aligns with national planning priorities to diversify and stabilise the electricity supply,” said Bheki Nxumalo, Eskom Group Executive for Generation.
“This is another step in Eskom delivering energy security for South Africa through the rigorous execution of our generation recovery plan. We have ensured that assets the nation has invested in are looked after and continue to serve the country to support socio-economic growth,” Eskom’s Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane stated.
“Koeberg and Eskom’s nuclear power expertise will play a key role as we move aggressively into delivering a cleaner energy portfolio and moving from high carbon to low-carbon sources of electricity generation. With Koeberg providing more vital baseload power it further forms the backbone for renewable energy growth and integration into the grid to maintain grid stability and supply,” Marokane continued.
This achievement supports South Africa’s broader energy planning objectives, including the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP2025), which recognises the role of nuclear energy in delivering low-carbon, cost-effective, and dependable baseload power. By extending Koeberg’s lifespan, Eskom avoids the need for immediate large-scale infrastructure replacement, preserves critical nuclear skills, and contributes to reducing carbon emissions.
Koeberg celebrates 40 years of safe operation of Unit 2 on 9 November 2025, having consistently delivered clean and affordable electricity. It has earned NOSCAR safety status from the National Occupational Safety Association (NOSA) more than 14 times, reflecting its world-class safety culture.
Located in the Western Cape, Koeberg plays a vital role in stabilising the regional grid and reducing transmission losses. It is also surrounded by a 3,000-hectare nature reserve, showcasing Eskom’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
“This licence extension is a strategic win for South Africa. It demonstrates our ability to operate complex infrastructure safely and supports our transition to a cleaner, more resilient energy future,” added Marokane.
Eskom extends its gratitude to the community, stakeholders, and partners for their continued support. As Koeberg enters its next chapter, Eskom remains committed to strengthening governance, future-proofing operations, and ensuring long-term sustainability for the benefit of South Africa and the region.
ENDS
