As South Africa grapples with an ongoing energy crisis, Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are being promoted by Eskom, the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (NECSA), and others as a possible solution. But do they truly fit within the Just Energy Transition?
This essential new booklet from Earthlife Africa provides communities, policymakers, and activists with clear, factual insights into SMRs. It breaks down the promises and pitfalls, scrutinizing claims about cost, safety, and efficiency. Most importantly, it asks the critical question: Do SMRs align with South Africa’s vision for energy justice and environmental sustainability?
Important issues often overlooked in the SMR debate:
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In addition, the history of failed SMR projects, like South Africa’s Pebble Bed Modular Reactor (PBMR), raises important questions about whether we are repeating past mistakes when we should rather be working to ensure that South Africa’s energy choices benefit all its people and protect our planet for generations to come.
A truly just energy transition must prioritise affordability, accessibility, and sustainability while centring the needs of communities, workers, and the environment. Nuclear energy, including SMRs, fails on all these fronts – offering high costs, long delays, and serious safety risks instead of real solutions. Investing in SMRs risks diverting resources away from proven renewable energy technologies that can deliver clean, safe, and equitable energy for all. South Africa’s energy future must be built on justice, not false promises.
Download the booklet here to uncover the truth about SMRs – are they a breakthrough solution or an expensive distraction on the path to a just and sustainable energy future? Get the facts, challenge the claims, and join the conversation with this essential resource.
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