Pretoria: The South African Nuclear Energy Corporation SOC Ltd (Necsa) has garnered significant international and local interest in its forthcoming Small Modular Reactor (SMR) demonstration project. This follows a mandatory briefing session organized for potential suppliers.

According to South African Government News Agency, the session was a pivotal part of Necsa's recently announced Expression of Interest (EOI), which was initiated at the end of March and is due to close on 29 May 2026. A notable total of 54 potential partners from 12 countries, including South Africa, attended the session.

Necsa Group CEO Loyiso Tyabashe highlighted the importance of the meeting in providing clarity on various aspects of the SMR programme. The platform allowed for detailed discussion on technical, commercial, and strategic facets of the initiative. Tyabashe noted the robust interest from nuclear designers and institutions focused on advancing nuclear technology as a positive indicator for the programme's future.

Once the EOI submissions close, Necsa plans to assess the responses and proceed to the subsequent phase, which will involve issuing a request for proposals to shortlisted parties. Necsa Board Chairperson David Nicholls emphasized the organization's commitment to incorporating local industry participants in the SMR programme. He reiterated Necsa's dedication to a transparent and competitive process that aligns with South Africa's energy policies while fostering strategic partnerships that blend local and global expertise.