The withdrawal of the section 34 nuclear ministerial determination raised concerns among stakeholders about procedural matters. This decision prompted discussions about the importance of proper governance in energy policy-making. Experts suggest that addressing these procedural issues is critical for maintaining public trust in the energy decision-making process.
The nuclear seminar in Centurion gathered various experts who shared their insights on the role of nuclear energy in South Africa. Discussions delved into the scientific basis for nuclear energy's viability as part of the energy mix. Experts advocated for an approach that centers on factual analysis and transparency in energy source evaluations.
Minister Ropa reiterated that nuclear energy must be a key component of South Africa's future energy mix. He outlined the significance of strategically developing nuclear as a means to bolster energy independence and sustainability. The ongoing dialogue will focus on balancing affordability with the need for clean and reliable energy sources.
In a recent address at a nuclear seminar in Centurion, Energy Minister Dr. Kosan Ropa reaffirmed his commitment to the future of nuclear energy in ensuring South Africa's energy security. This statement comes on the heels of the withdrawal of the section 34 nuclear ministerial determination by Dr. Ramah Hoopa, which had previously been gazetted in January. The determination faced scrutiny due to procedural issues and the need for broader consultation before any nuclear approvals could be granted. Minister Ropa advocated for a transparent and democratic process regarding nuclear energy discussions. He emphasized the importance of raising scientific objections during the decision-making process, allowing for a well-rounded discourse on nuclear's role in the nation’s energy landscape. The event brought together experts from various sectors, and the minister called for a return to realism in the public discourse on nuclear energy, asserting that it is essential for South Africa to develop a diversified energy mix. During the seminar, Ropa highlighted that nuclear energy is integral to achieving energy sovereignty for the country. He stressed the necessity of determining the appropriate scale and pace of nuclear energy deployment to ensure it is both affordable and effective in meeting the nation’s energy demands. The minister assured that updates regarding this nuclear endeavor would be announced soon, aiming to engage all stakeholders in a progressive dialogue about the country's energy future.Despite the steep cost to build medium to large scale reactors, the return on investment is without question worth the price becuase nuclear is the greenest, cheapest to operate and has by far the highest capacity factor of all energy sources making it the most reliable energy source there is. The SAn government should be pursuing its capacity expansion on nuclear energy a lot more aggressively than it currently is.
So who will design, construct, operate and maintain these installations if the ANC cannot even run a municipality and fix a pot hole?
Despite the steep cost to build medium to large scale reactors, the return on investment is without question worth the price becuase nuclear is the greenest, cheapest to operate and has by far the highest capacity factor of all energy sources making it the most reliable energy source there is. The SAn government should be unapologetically pursuing its capacity expansion on nuclear energy a lot more aggressively than it currently is.
