Cape Town – Eskom has announced that Unit 1 at the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station will undergo its final test on Saturday, following the suspension of load shedding until the next week.
This test, known as a full load rejection test, is crucial after the installation of new steam generators.
“The purpose of the full load rejection test is to verify and demonstrate the ability of the unit to supply its auxiliary load and return to steady state conditions following a sudden disconnection from the national grid.
“The South African Grid Code (SAGC) requires that units be tested if modifications are made that could impact their capability to meet the SAGC requirements. As part of the steam generator replacement project, significant changes (modifications) were made on numerous plant components, including control systems,” Eskom acting spokesperson Aubrey Sambo said.
Koeberg to perform full load rejection test on Unit 1 on Saturday, 30 December 2023 pic.twitter.com/RDuuA9CPHe
— Eskom Hld SOC Ltd (@Eskom_SA) December 29, 2023
The South African Grid Code mandates such tests when modifications are made that could impact a unit’s capability to meet requirements.
“Prior to and in preparation of the full load rejection test, various commissioning tests were performed successfully.
“As a result, Eskom is confident that this test will be a success. However, in the unlikely event of the test failing and resulting in a unit trip, the Koeberg team is ready to respond and will work towards safely returning the unit back to service as soon as possible,” Sambo
The Koeberg Power Station recently synchronised Unit 1 with the grid after the longest outage in its history for the replacement of three original steam generators.
The station contributes approximately 5% of electricity generated by Eskom, with each unit capable of generating 900MW.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
