Richards Bay – The recent energy forum held in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, was organised by the provincial government with the support of the Richards Bay Industrial Development Corporation.
The event’s goal was to attract investment from the region and discuss practical solutions to ensure energy security.
The forum was attended by representatives of the South African government and state-owned enterprises, investors, and international industry experts.
One of the speakers at the event was Ryan Collyer, CEO of Rosatom Central and Southern Africa.
He highlighted the promising prospects of strengthening Richards Bay’s position as a strategically important energy hub in Southern Africa.
“KwaZulu-Natal is South Africa’s industrial heartland, with ports and factories that require a stable and reliable energy supply,” stated Ryan Collyer.
“To address these needs, Rosatom offers African markets floating power units (FPUs) of 100 MW capacity, powered by two RITM-200M reactors.
“FPUs are ideal for such coastal regions: they deliver consistent power output, operate independently from the grid, and can be located close to industrial zones.
“The implementation of these projects can drive economic growth, support carbon neutrality, foster industrial development, and create new jobs.”
Rosatom is systematically working to develop partnerships with countries on the African continent, building long-term relationships and offering its partners comprehensive solutions – ranging from human resources policy implementation to the construction of research centers and large-scale power generation facilities.
At the two-day energy indaba from 12 March 2026, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli called for stronger collaboration between government, industry, and investors to accelerate energy investment and industrial development in the province.
“This Indaba is about confronting constraints, coordinating our efforts, and positioning this province as a competitive, energy‑secure investment destination,” stated Premier Ntuli.
