South Africa is accelerating plans to revitalize its small nuclear reactor technology, with officials anticipating a shift from care and maintenance to active development potentially as early as the first quarter of next year, according to Electricity and Energy Minister Kgosientsile Mokoena.

Mokoena made the announcement on Wednesday, signaling a renewed commitment to the Pebble Bed Modular Reactor (PBMR) program, which has been in a state of suspended animation for several years. The PBMR is a type of high-temperature gas-cooled reactor utilizing small, spherical fuel pebbles. It was initially conceived as a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional nuclear reactors.

The original PBMR project faced significant challenges, including escalating costs, delays in regulatory approvals, and shifting national energy priorities. While the project was formally abandoned in 2010, the underlying technology and expertise have been preserved within the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa). The focus now appears to be on exploring the potential of smaller, modular reactors to meet the country's growing energy demands and contribute to a diversified energy mix.

The decision to revive the program reflects South Africa's broader efforts to address its energy security concerns and transition towards a low-carbon economy. Nuclear energy, particularly small modular reactors, are increasingly being viewed as a potential solution to provide reliable, baseload power while reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Further details regarding the timeline, funding, and specific scope of the revival efforts are expected in the coming months.