The South African Nuclear Energy Corporation SOC Ltd (Necsa) has launched an Expression of Interest (EOI) process inviting suitably qualified and experienced organisations, consortia, and technology providers to partner with it in the development, customisation, demonstration, and deployment of a Small Modular Reactor (SMR) for multiple uses in South Africa in line with Decision 4 in the Integrated Resources Plan (IRP 2025).
This strategic initiative aims to identify capable technology partners who can work with Necsa to advance a fit-for-purpose SMR technology for future deployment as envisaged in the IRP 2025.
Group CEO of Necsa, Loyiso Tyabashe says, “Through the EOI process, Necsa seeks to gather detailed information on available SMR technologies, their maturity, licensing experience, and deployment readiness. Our aim is to demonstrate an SMR technology that will produce power, process heat and isotopes. This gives Necsa an opportunity to assess existing capabilities and financing models as part of its strategic programme to meet its objective of positioning South Africa at the forefront of advanced nuclear technologies. We aim to participate in the global SMR supply chain and contribute to the local nuclear industrialisation plan through developing local capabilities for nuclear build programmes.”
Necsa Chairperson, Mr David Nicholls clarified that, “The EOI serves as the first stage of a structured selection process. It prequalifies respondents based on alignment with South Africa’s nuclear policy and experience base, technology readiness for timely deployment, financial strength for long-term delivery, commitment to intellectual property transfer and localisation of skills and technology, and the diversity of applications to maximise socio-economic and industrial benefits.”
Tyabashe adds, “The next step will be issuing of a Request for Proposals (RFP) and future developments in this process will be subject to South Africa’s regulatory framework, including public participation processes, environmental impact assessments, and regulatory approvals.”
The relevant documents are available on the Necsa website at: www.necsa.co.za
and the South African government’s tender portal: www.etenders.gov.za
