Eskom has defended the structural integrity of the Koeberg plant, after an independent reporter, raised concerns, about the monitoring system break down last year.
Other organisations, such as the Koeberg Alert Alliance, also raised concerns after Eskom failed to build a safe storage for old, highly radioactive steam generators. The matter went to the Western Cape High Court, and the state utility, ordered to pay a R1 billion to Framatome, and its sub contractors.
Daphne Mokwena, Eskom Spokesperson, said this week, the plant has containment buildings, with massive concrete domes, designed to prevent any release of radiation in the event of an incident. She also said these structures have undergone rigorous assessments.
“These are concrete core sampling and mechanical testing, conducted by reputable and independent institutions in line with international nuclear safety standards, confirmed that the material properties remain sound and well within safety margins. The results of the Integrated Leak Rate Test (ILRT) that was recently concluded on Unit 1, further validate the structural integrity of the containment buildings and the data that is being used” she said.
Mokwena said results of various tests and data analyses, confirm that both containment structures at Koeberg are fit for continued operation for at least another 20 years.
Monitoring systems at the plant are able to detect anomalies early and support proactive, preventative maintenance.
“The existing containment monitoring instrumentation was fully refurbished and restored during the 2023 and 2024 maintenance cycles. In 2025, Eskom installed Vibrating Wire Strain Gauges (VWSGs) and optical fibre sensors to enhance the precision, redundancy, and reliability of structural monitoring. These upgrades are part of Eskom’s proactive approach to safety—not a response to any immediate risk.”
Picture: Supplied