African nations eye nuclear for energy security
5 hours ago
- Nuclear power is seen as key to Africa's energy security, especially after the Iran war disrupted fuel imports via the Strait of Hormuz.
- African nations face challenges in developing atomic energy, including financing, grid capacity, and a critical need for workforce training and safety regulators.
- Currently, South Africa operates the continent's only reactors; Egypt is building four, and eight other countries have plans for new plants.
- About 600 million Africans lack electricity; expanding nuclear access could help close the gap and power industrialization, but barriers like cost and long lead times remain.
- The World Bank lifted its ban on nuclear funding, and China and Russia are the main funders, giving them geopolitical leverage over the US.
- Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) may be better suited for African countries due to grid size and potential coupling with industries like mining.
- Africa's reliance on imported oil was exposed by the Iran war; nuclear energy could reduce exposure to price volatility and supply risks.
- South Africa's nuclear plans face controversy and legal challenges, requiring the lure back of skilled engineers from abroad, such as those in the UAE.
- Kenya also faces local community resistance to its nuclear power projects.