South Africa is exploring nuclear project bids from Russia and Iran to expand its energy capacity in the face of ongoing electricity outages. This decision, however, may impact its relationship with the United States, especially following President Trump’s recent executive order halting aid due to alleged ties with Iran. Efforts to renew a strategic nuclear agreement with the U.S. remain ongoing amid these tensions.
The South African government is considering bidding for nuclear projects from Russia or Iran to expand its civilian nuclear power capabilities, as indicated by Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Gwede Mantashe. This move may disrupt relations with the United States, particularly following a recent executive order from President Trump, which froze aid to South Africa and alleged suspicious ties with Iran pertaining to nuclear developments.
Currently, South Africa operates Koeberg, the continent’s only nuclear power facility, and plans to add 2,500 megawatts in capacity to address frequent electricity outages and reduce carbon emissions. Minister Mantashe emphasized that the country cannot exclude any bidders based on their nationality but will consider the best offers available.
In the context of renewing a strategic energy agreement with the U.S., the country faces scrutiny due to claims that it is enhancing relations with Iran to explore nuclear and military collaborations. However, Pretoria maintains that there is no ongoing cooperation with Iran concerning nuclear technology.
Negotiations for a new bilateral agreement with the United States, aimed at facilitating the export of U.S.-made nuclear fuel to South Africa, have been ongoing for nearly ten years. The previous Section 123 Agreement, which lapsed in December 2022, has seen technical discussions reach a conclusion, but legal processes on both sides are yet incomplete, preventing official agreements.
Failure to secure this agreement might obstruct South African power utility Eskom’s ability to procure reactor fuel from Westinghouse for Koeberg’s Unit 1, currently supplied by Framatome for Unit 2. Such a situation may also deter U.S. investment from companies like TerraPower and ASP Isotopes, especially during a resurgence in global nuclear energy interest.
In summary, South Africa’s pursuit of nuclear project bids from Russia or Iran has raised concerns regarding its relations with the United States, particularly amidst recent executive orders affecting aid and cooperation. While South Africa seeks to enhance its nuclear capacity to combat frequent power outages, it faces complications in renewing crucial agreements with the U.S. that govern nuclear trade, which could further affect its energy security and potential foreign investment in its nuclear sector.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
