Advancements in African Nuclear Energy: A Comprehensive Overview of 2024 Developments
The year 2023 proved to be a remarkable period for nuclear energy in Africa, witnessing substantial progress in tackling energy crises, advancing sustainable development goals, and making significant contributions to global initiatives aimed at combating climate change. In this article, we aim to comprehensively explore the noteworthy recent developments unfolding in the nuclear landscape of African countries throughout the preceding years. Moreover, we will turn our gaze toward the horizon of 2024, a year poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of nuclear expansion across the continent. As we navigate the unfolding narrative, it becomes evident that 2024 holds substantial significance for the African nuclear landscape, with key expectations and milestones set to mark this critical juncture.
South Africa
The sole nuclear power plant in Africa is operated by South Africa. The Koeberg Nuclear Power Station (KNPS) consists of twin unit pressurized water reactors (PWR), contributing approximately 1860MW of electricity to the South African grid. This power is generated at a cost of 44 cents per unit, representing the lowest electricity cost in the country. Commissioned in 1984 and 1985, the twin units of KNPS, situated in the Western Cape, were originally designed with a 40-year operational lifespan. As the two units approach the end of their projected operational life in 2024 and 2025, Eskom, supported by the government for this long-term initiative, has undertaken the Koeberg Long Term Operation (LTO) project. South Africa is addressing its energy crisis by announcing plans to construct new nuclear power stations. The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy assures transparency in the tender process, aiming to complete the stations by 2032 or 2033. The addition of 2,500MW of nuclear power is expected to play a vital role in reducing power blackouts. The country outlined plans to build 1 GW of new nuclear capacity by 2030, with the identification of two sites for the construction of a new Nuclear Power Plant (NPP), South Africa is strategically positioning itself for future energy needs. Recently, as an integral component of the planning process, South Africa has initiated the issuance of a Request for Information (RFI) to the market for the development of 2,500 megawatts. The non-binding RFI, serves multiple purposes in aiding the Department's planning endeavors. It aims to provide essential insights to inform the Procurement Framework, shed light on the funding and financing model, and gain a comprehensive understanding of the costs associated with both Conventional and Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technologies. This strategic approach aligns with the broader objective of gathering crucial information to streamline the planning and implementation processes for the envisioned energy project.
The significance of the year 2024 looms large in South Africa's nuclear sector, as the country actively pursues a diverse range of programs in the short to long term. At the forefront is the Nuclear New Build Programme, aiming to procure 2500MW by 2024 (the procurement of the Nuclear New Build Program of 2,500MW is expected to be completed by the end of year), reflecting a pivotal milestone in the nation's energy landscape. Simultaneously, the Koeberg Long Term Operation (LTO) project is underway, with a crucial target to extend the operational life of the Koeberg NPP by an additional 20 years beyond 2024. Adding to this comprehensive strategy is the ambitious plan to procure a New Multi-Purpose Reactor and establish a Central Interim Storage Facility Project, both slated for completion by the pivotal year 2024. This confluence of endeavors underscores the paramount importance of 2024 in shaping the trajectory of South Africa's nuclear ambitions.
Uganda
Uganda aims to generate 1000 megawatts from its nuclear power plant by 2031. Additionally, there is a strategic goal to generate an extra 1000 MW by 2040, culminating in a total of 2000 MW from nuclear energy by that specified timeframe. This announcement marks a substantial stride in Uganda's pursuit of nuclear energy as a key component of its future energy landscape. In the remarkable nuclear journey of Uganda, the year 2023 stands out as truly exceptional. During AFNBP 2023, Uganda achieved significant milestones by signing additional Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs). Notably, Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) solidified a pivotal MOU on nuclear cooperation with the Ugandan Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development. In a parallel stride, Argentina's INVAP SE enthusiastically entered into collaboration, formalizing an MOU with the Ugandan Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, specifically focusing on the establishment of the Centre for Nuclear Science and Technology. Furthermore, last year marked the announcement of the site for the 1st nuclear power plant in the country in Buyende approximately 150 km north of Kampala.
The significance of 2024 in Uganda's nuclear sector cannot be overstated, as the country strategically navigates active partnerships with key players such as Russia, China, the United States of America, and South Korea. Amidst these collaborations, Uganda is diligently working to finalize a pivotal partnership for the development of its nuclear power plant. The year 2024 is poised to mark a critical juncture as Uganda moves decisively to identify its ultimate partnership, signaling a focused effort to channel resources and efforts toward the realization of its nuclear energy ambitions. Once this definitive partnership is established, Uganda will actively engage with its chosen collaborators to secure the essential financing required for the successful implementation of its nuclear power plant initiative.
Ghana
In 2023, significant progress was made in Ghana's nuclear endeavors. The Ministry of Energy of Ghana initiated a pivotal step by issuing a Request for Information (RFI) some time ago. This solicitation aimed to gather both technical and financial insights from vendors and strategic partners regarding the deployment of modular reactors for the construction of a nuclear plant. The RFI was extended to six vendor countries, namely China, Russia, the United States of America, South Korea, Canada, and France. The robust response included a total of 15 submissions. With this wealth of information, Ghana was busy last year assessing the different options and meeting with various vendors to clarify the situation and come up with an informed decision. Recently, Ghana has secured the backing of the United States in its endeavor to become a pivotal Small Modular Nuclear Reactor (SMR) Regional Training Hub for Sub-Saharan Africa. This collaborative effort is strategically designed to foster the development of a highly skilled nuclear workforce within Ghana, adhering rigorously to the highest international benchmarks for nuclear safety, security, and nonproliferation. The primary objective of this partnership is to empower Ghana, as well as neighboring countries, in their transition towards adopting clean, affordable, and secure energy sources while upholding stringent safety standards. Ghana's active engagement in the Foundational Infrastructure for Responsible Use of Small Modular Reactor Technology (FIRST) program since 2022 reflects its steadfast commitment, with this specific initiative standing as a key element within the broader program.
The significance of 2024 looms large in Ghana's nuclear sector, marking a pivotal juncture for the West African nation. This year holds crucial importance as it is anticipated to be the turning point when Ghana will make a decisive decision regarding the Request for Information (RFI), a step that will determine its choice of a partner for the power plant program. In tandem with this, the Ministry of Energy is set to play a central role by hosting the Africa Nuclear Business Platform (AFNBP) in May 2024. This gathering is poised to bring together key nuclear stakeholders across the African continent, amplifying the gravity of 2024 as a milestone year for Ghana's nuclear aspirations.
Egypt
The Egyptian project has emerged as the most advanced initiative in Africa, excluding the already established South African Nuclear Power Plant. ROSATOM is set to oversee the construction, training, fuel, and maintenance of the upcoming power plant in El-Dabaa, situated west of Alexandria. Comprising four reactors, each with a capacity of 1,200 MW, the estimated cost of this ambitious endeavor is approximately $30 billion. To facilitate this significant undertaking, Egypt has secured a $25 billion loan from Russia, covering 85% of the value of each work contract, services, and equipment shipping. This long-term financial arrangement spans 22 years at a 3% interest rate, with repayment commencing after the first reactor becomes operational. In July 2022, ROSATOM received approval to initiate the construction process at El Dabaa. The groundwork for this project was laid in 2019 when El Dabaa obtained a site approval permit, representing a pivotal milestone in the power plant's licensing process. This authorization signifies compliance with both Egyptian requirements and IAEA standards, ensuring the secure and reliable operation of the nuclear facilities at the designated location.
The approval of construction permits and licenses by ENRRA represented noteworthy milestones in the development of the El Dabaa nuclear power plant. Construction is actively progressing for units 1 and 2, with unit 3 set to commence in May 2023. Notably, the construction license for unit 4 was issued in August 2023. Adding to the project's momentum, the newly established port facility at El Dabaa received a significant component—the core catcher—from Russia. This substantial achievement further underscores the advancing progress of the nuclear power plant.
In the upcoming year, 2024, Egypt's nuclear power program is poised to achieve great advancements. The ongoing construction of the El Dabaa nuclear power plant, equipped with four substantial Russian reactors, is anticipated to progress significantly. Notably, Egypt has set plans to commence the mining of crude uranium in 2024, representing a crucial milestone in the nation's swiftly evolving program for the peaceful utilization of nuclear energy. This strategic move underscores a significant step toward ensuring the sustainability and continued progress of Egypt's nuclear power initiatives.
Rwanda
During 2023, the Rwanda Atomic Energy Board (RAEB) initiated a collaboration with Dual Fluid, to undertake the development of a demonstration Dual Fluid nuclear reactor in Rwanda. The anticipated timeline envisions the operational status of the demonstration reactor by 2026, followed by comprehensive technology testing slated for completion by 2028. In this partnership, the Government of Rwanda will provide the necessary site and infrastructure, while Dual Fluid will take charge of the technical implementation. As a key aspect of the agreement, Rwandan scientists will undergo practical training in the domain of nuclear technology.
Rwanda is gearing up for a dynamic year in 2024, marked by a flurry of activities in the nuclear sector. The Nuclear Research Reactor (RR) is currently undergoing an ongoing feasibility study, complemented by a preparatory site survey program expected to conclude by February 2024. The comprehensive feasibility study report for the RR is anticipated to be in draft form by May 2024, with approval expected by August 2024. Simultaneously, the nuclear power program is in its final stages of the pre-feasibility study, involving the identification of multiple sites and the assessment of various Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technologies available in the market. The Rwanda Atomic Energy Board (RAEB) has received the draft document and commenced the approval process, scheduled for completion by March 2024. With these strategic initiatives underway, Rwanda is poised to make well-informed decisions regarding both the nuclear power program (SMR) and the Nuclear Research Reactor (RR) by the close of 2024.
Kenya
Currently positioned at Phase 2 of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) milestone approach, Kenya is strategically preparing for the establishment of its first nuclear power plant (NPP) by 2031, with construction set to commence in 2027. Kenya has achieved significant milestones in its pursuit of introducing nuclear power, demonstrating a commitment to thorough planning and strategic development. The completion of the pre-feasibility study, along with the formulation of a 15-year Strategic Plan for the Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) and Electric Grid Study & Strategic Environmental Assessment, reflects the comprehensive groundwork undertaken. Two potential sites, namely Kilifi, a coastal city, and Kwale in the southwest of Mombasa, have been identified for the nuclear power initiatives. Notably, the country underwent two International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) missions in 2015 and 2021, providing valuable recommendations and suggestions to guide the ongoing progress of Kenya's nuclear power program. Furthermore, Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) have been established with both South Korea and China, signifying collaborative efforts and international partnerships in Kenya's nuclear journey.
In the year 2024, Kenya is expected to continue its significant progress in the development of the national nuclear infrastructure for the country’s new research reactor program. The country is diligently working on aligning both national and international legal frameworks to support the establishment of the nuclear power plant. Kenya plans to have the nuclear research reactor operational by 2030 at Konza in Machakos County. The reactor will be deployed for various applications including training, education, research, health, agriculture, and industry.
Nigeria
Nigeria is actively advancing its national nuclear energy program, following governmental approval and guided by the National Energy Master Plan (NEMP), which stems from the National Energy Policy (NEP). The program outlines a roadmap aiming to integrate nuclear energy into Nigeria’s grid. Furthermore, the country has formalized Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with entities such as the U.S. National Regulatory Commission, the U.S. Department of Energy, the European Commission, and South Africa's National Nuclear Regulator.
In the coming years, Nigeria is expected to make significant strides in its national nuclear energy program. It has extended an invitation for the second Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) mission. In addition, Nigeria has signed its Fourth Country Programme Framework (CPF) for 2024 – 2029 with the IAEA. This framework identifies five priority areas; Nuclear and radiation safety and security, Food and agriculture, Health and nutrition, Water and environment, and Energy planning and development. These developments indicate Nigeria’s commitment to integrating nuclear energy into its grid as outlined in its National Energy Master Plan (NEMP).
In reflection of the nuclear landscape across Africa, the year 2023 marked a significant chapter characterized by remarkable progress, transformative collaborations, and a commitment to addressing energy challenges while contributing to sustainable development and global climate change efforts. As we pivot towards 2024, the horizon holds great promise for the continent's nuclear ambitions, with great initiatives and milestones on the horizon. The year 2024 unfolds as a pivotal moment, offering unparalleled potential and opportunities for the continent to harness the benefits of nuclear energy, address energy demands, and contribute meaningfully to global sustainability endeavors. The collaborative spirit, strategic planning, and commitment to innovation underscore the continent's readiness to embrace a nuclear-powered future.
