More African Countries Opt For Nuclear Power Plants

Africa will, by 2030, witness an increase in the number of nuclear power plants as several countries have begun processes to join nuclear power producers in the world.

The demand for electricity across Africa is expected to grow many times by 2050.

And in a bid to meet the demand and also drive industrialisation, most countries believe nuclear power is the best option to achieve this goal.

So far, only South Africa operates nuclear power plant at Kornberg.

Last year, Egypt awarded a contract to Rosatom, a Russian nuclear power firm, to build a 4.5 Gigawatts (4500Megawatts) power plant and it is expected to begin soon.

Seven other African countries namely Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Sudan and Kenya have advanced in processes towards establishing nuclear power plants by 2030.

An article published by energy for growth noted that seventeen other African countries have also taken steps towards becoming ready and could be potential markets by 2050.

Recently, the European Union made a proposal that recognises gas and nuclear power as green energy.

Although this proposal has divided the Union block, some industry players especially those in developing countries,  have welcomed the move.

In an interview with GNA, Dr Stephen Yamoah, Executive Director of Nuclear Power Ghana (NPG), described the EU’s proposal as a positive development and good news for Ghana.

He said the development means more countries are realising the important role that nuclear plays as a sustainable and environmentally friendly energy source.

“Nuclear is certainly green and that is not debatable. Nuclear does not emit CO2 and it is one of the surest ways we are to decarbonise the environment.”

Source: https://energynewsafrica.com