South Africa’s only nuclear power station, Koeberg, has reached a significant milestone, with one of its units supplying a full year of continuous electricity to the national grid.
Eskom confirmed that Koeberg Nuclear Power Station’s Unit 2 completed 365 consecutive days of operation on 9 March 2026, achieving an average Energy Availability Factor (EAF) of 99.4% since recent major upgrades.
The reactor generates around 946MW, providing a consistent power supply at a time when the country is still recovering from years of load shedding. The milestone comes after the installation of new steam generators and other enhancements designed to extend the station’s operational life.
Stable Power Supply for the Western Cape
Located approximately 30km north of Cape Town, Koeberg is the continent’s only nuclear power facility. The station provides the Western Cape with a reliable local electricity source, reducing dependence on coal-fired power transmitted from other regions.
Bheki Nxumalo, Eskom’s Group Executive for Generation, praised the achievement:
“This milestone showcases the strength of South Africa’s nuclear skills base. The successful installation of the new steam generators highlights the skill and dedication of the Koeberg team.”
Significance Amid Power Challenges
The uninterrupted run is particularly important after years of rotational load shedding that disrupted households, businesses, and economic activity. A reliable nuclear baseload supply helps stabilise the grid and reduces the need to rely on more expensive backup generators.
Unit 2 is scheduled for planned maintenance on 26 April 2026, by which time it could reach approximately 412 consecutive days of operation. Eskom says the achievement already demonstrates improved reliability across its generation fleet.
“Nuclear power provides electricity without greenhouse gas emissions, supporting a cleaner environment while keeping costs manageable,” Eskom noted.
“Unit 2’s nonstop run underscores Koeberg’s vital role in economic growth, job protection, and energy security for South Africa.”
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