Is Nuclear Power the Answer to South Africa's Energy Needs?

Public Panel Discussion

As discussions on nuclear power generation in South Africa remain lively, two contending points of view are emerging. The first supports government’s decision to expand nuclear power generation on the basis that it will improve energy security and cover the shortfall in meeting the country’s electricity demand. The second suggests that in addition to nuclear power being costly and environmentally risky, electricity demand in South Africa is in fact dropping and therefore argues against any new nuclear build programmes in the country.

However, little is understood with respect to the socio-economic implications of nuclear power generation in general, and in South Africa in particular. This points to the urgent need to facilitate discussions amongst various stakeholders on the merits and demerits of nuclear power expansion. With this purpose in mind, the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF-SA), the Heinrich Böll Stiftung (HBS) and the Centre of Renewable and Sustainable Energy Studies (CRSES) decided to host a public debate on the prudence of South Africa’s nuclear energy ambitions.

The debate, which will be moderated by Xolani Gwala from Radio 702, will draw on expert views from government, business, academia and civil society.

Confirmed speakers include:

His Excellency Walter Lindner, German Ambassador to South Africa

Phumzile Tshelane, CEO: South African Nuclear Energy Corporation

Mycle Schneider, Independent International Energy and Nuclear Policy Analyst and the Convening Lead Author and Publisher of the Annual World Nuclear Industry Status Report

Adv. Kevin Malunga, Deputy Public Protector of South Africa

Saliem Fakir, Head: Living Planet Unit, WWF-SA

Kumi Naidoo, Launch Executive Director: African Civil Society Centre

Venue: The Wanderers Club, Johannesburg

To secure your place please RSVP to Amanda.Luxande@za.boell.org.