Eskom Pushes Back on Koeberg Safety Fears, Insists Plant is ‘Fully Functional’

Eskom Pushes Back on Koeberg Safety Fears, Insists Plant is ‘Fully Functional’

Amidst a backdrop of persistent load shedding and public anxiety over the state of the national grid, Eskom has moved forcefully to dismiss what it calls “inaccurate and misleading” reports questioning the safety of the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station.

The power utility issued a detailed assurance this week, directly countering claims that it is “flying blind” at South Africa’s only nuclear facility. Instead, Eskom asserts that the plant is not only safe but is rigorously monitored and maintained to meet international nuclear standards.

A Firm Rebuttal on Safety

The statement from Eskom leaves little room for ambiguity. “Eskom confirms that all safety-critical systems are fully functional, carefully monitored, and continuously improved in line with strict nuclear safety standards,” the utility said.

The sharp rebuttal appears aimed at restoring public and investor confidence in the cornerstone of South Africa’s baseload energy supply, especially as the country navigates its worst energy crisis.

Focus on the Concrete Domes

At the heart of Eskom’s safety argument are Koeberg’s massive containment buildingsthe iconic concrete domes designed as the last line of defense to prevent any release of radiation. Eskom revealed that these structures have undergone extensive and successful testing.

Key assessments included:

• Concrete Core Sampling: Mechanical tests on core samples confirmed the concrete remains sound and “well within safety margins.”

• Integrated Leak Rate Test (ILRT): A critical test on Unit 1’s containment building validated its structural integrity and airtightness.

• Long-Term Viability: Eskom stated that data from these tests confirms both domes are fit for continued operation for at least the next 20 years.

Upgraded Monitoring Systems

Addressing the “flying blind” allegation directly, Eskom highlighted that the essential containment monitoring instrumentation was not just checked but “fully refurbished and restored” during the extensive maintenance cycles carried out in 2023 and 2024.

This, the utility implies, means the plant’s operators have a clear and accurate picture of the station’s vital signs at all times.

The strong defence of Koeberg underscores its strategic importance. As the single largest power station on the grid, its reliable and safe operation is non-negotiable for Eskom. By publicly laying out its technical case, the utility is attempting to quell fears and assert control over the narrative surrounding the nation’s most critical power asset.

{Source: The Citizen}

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