Cape Town – Eskom has announced that Unit 2 of the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station experienced an unplanned, non-technical trip while operating at full capacity.
“Koeberg Unit 2 inadvertently tripped during the execution of work on Unit 1, which is currently offline for work to be conducted as part of its Long-Term Operation program,” the power utility said in a statement on Sunday, (2 March 2025).
“Unit 2 was safely shut down in accordance with its protection protocols, ensuring continued stability and security.”
Eskom said it has since established it is safe to initiate the start-up process for Koeberg Unit 2, in line with standard operating procedures, and Unit 2 is expected to be reconnected to the national grid within 48 hours.
“While the trip did not necessitate the implementation of load-shedding which remains suspended, Eskom acknowledges that overall, generation capacity remains constrained,” explained Eskom spokesperson Daphne Mokwena.
“The company continues to maintain high levels of maintenance, averaging 7 032MW in February.
“These efforts are key to enhancing fleet reliability ahead of increased winter demand while also meeting environmental licence conditions and regulatory requirements.”
Eskom assured the public that Koeberg Nuclear Power Station maintains the highest safety standards as evidenced by the management of today’s event.
