Eskom and Coega sign MOU to back Thyspunt nuclear project

Eskom and the Coega Development Corporation signed a memorandum of understanding in April to support the proposed Thyspunt nuclear build, Eskom’s chief nuclear officer said.

What the MOU says and Eskom’s timeline

Speaking to Algoa FM, Velaphi Ntuli, Eskom’s chief nuclear officer, described the MOU as “not merely a formal agreement but a statement of shared intent.” He said the Nuclear New Build Programme is about more than producing megawatts and includes aims such as industrialisation, localisation, skills development and inclusive economic growth.

Ntuli said Eskom expected to obtain regulatory approval for the project next year and would then go to the market to select a construction partner. He stated construction could begin in 2031.

Why Thyspunt is being prioritised

Ntuli said Thyspunt had become Eskom’s preferred site because of its readiness and existing infrastructure.

Water, infrastructure and jobs

Addressing concerns about the water-stressed Kouga region, Ntuli said Eskom is engaging with the municipality on infrastructure upgrades. To prevent the project from drawing on local water resources, he said the project team would need to consider solutions such as a desalination plant built as part of the project.

Eskom estimated the project could create between 10 000 and 20 000 jobs during construction, with thousands more indirect opportunities.

Next steps

According to Ntuli’s comments, the immediate steps are regulatory approval and then market engagement to select a construction partner.

“The signing of this MOU between Eskom and the Coega Development Corporation is not merely a formal agreement but a statement of shared intent.”