Koeberg revamp: Race against time as nuclear regulator wants more work on safety case

The National Nuclear Regulator has asked Eskom to undertake additional engineering studies on the Koeberg power station before it can deliberate on its application to extend the long-term operation licence for another 20 years.  Speaking at a briefing to editors in Johannesburg on Thursday, Eskom's senior manager in its outage centre, Thabiso Moirapula, said that Eskom did not know yet if the licence for the 40-year old plant will be extended before it runs out in July 2024. The utility has also asked the NNR to split the licence into two and extend it for Unit 2, enabling Eskom to run it for a while longer, and allowing for more flexibility in the refurbishment process. "There is ongoing engagement with NNR. The safety case was presented by Koeberg, and the NNR has asked for additional engineering studies to be completed. We think our application has a prospect of success, although the NNR is not saying when it will decide," he said. The NNR cancelled a scheduled press briefing on the licence two weeks ago until further notice without explanation. Koeberg plays an important role in the power system, with its two units delivering 900MW, the equivalent of two loadshedding stages. Eskom is engaged in a major operation to extend the plant's life through the replacement of the steam generators, of which there are three in each unit.