Role of nuclear energy in the electricity supply of South Africa

This paper analyses the role of nuclear power in the electricity supply in South Africa from both a technical and economic perspective. The technical perspective considers the impact of transmission lines connecting a newly built plant to the national grid. The economic perspective analyses the cost elements of a nuclear plant, which include the capital cost, fuel cost, operation and maintenance cost, waste management and decommissioning cost. Specific mention is made of the Integrated Resource Plan 2010 and its impact that it will play in terms of additional nuclear power integration in South Africa.