MEDIA STATEMENT TO: ALL MEDIA/NEWS EDITORS DATE: 31 MARCH 2026 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE NECSA INVITES EXPRESSION OF INTEREST SUBMISSIONS FOR SMALL MODULAR REACTOR (SMR) DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP
The South African Nuclear Energy Corporation SOC Ltd (Necsa) is today launching an Expression of Interest (EOI) process inviting suitably qualified and experienced organisations, consortia, and technology providers to partner in the development, customisation, demonstration, and deployment of a Small Modular Reactor (SMR) for multiple uses in South Africa in line with Decision 4 in the Integrated Resources Plan (IRP, 2025).
This strategic initiative aims to identify capable technology partners who can work with Necsa to advance a fit-for-purpose SMR technology for future deployment as envisaged in the IRP, 2025.
The Group CEO of Necsa, Loyiso Tyabashe says, “Through the EOI process, Necsa seeks to gather detailed information on available SMR technologies, their maturity, licensing experience, and deployment readiness. Our aim is to demonstrate an SMR technology that will produce power, process heat and isotopes. This gives Necsa an opportunity to assess existing capabilities and financing models to fulfil its strategic objectives of positioning South Africa at the forefront of advanced nuclear technologies. We aim to participate in the global SMR supply chain and contribute meaningfully to the local nuclear industrialisation plan through building local capabilities for nuclear build programmes.”
Necsa Chairperson, Mr David Nicholls clarified that, “The EOI serves as the first stage of a structured selection process. It prequalifies respondents based on alignment with South Africa’s nuclear policy and experience base, technology readiness for timely deployment, financial strength for long-term delivery, commitment to intellectual property transfer and localisation of skills and technology, and the diversity of applications to maximise socio-economic and industrial benefits.”
Tyabashe adds, “The next step with be issuing of a Request for Proposals (RFP) and future developments in this process will be subject to South Africa’s regulatory framework, including public participation processes, environmental impact assessments, and regulatory approvals.”.
The relevant documents are available on the Necsa website at www.necsa.co.za and the South African government’s tender portal www.etenders.gov.za. -End-
For media enquiries, please contact:
Dr Nikelwa Tengimfene Senior Manager: Corporate Communication, Branding & Stakeholder Relations Email: media.enquiries@necsa.co.za Mobile: 066 293 4451
Issued by the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa)