In a groundbreaking move for the African energy sector, Ghana is set to deploy its first small modular reactor (SMR), the NuScale VOYGR-12, thanks to a new agreement between Nuclear Power Ghana (NPG) and US-based Regnum Technology Group. This development was announced at the second annual US-Africa Nuclear Energy Summit.
The partnership will result in the construction and operation of Africa’s premier commercial advanced light-water SMR plant. While the exact location of the plant is still under evaluation, the companies plan to establish a subsidiary to manage the facility.
Under Secretary for Arms Control and International Security, Bonnie Jenkins, emphasized the significance of the agreement, stating, “Signing this agreement will position Ghana as a leader in the deployment of small modular reactors in Africa, catalyzing economic development and job creation in the region.” Jenkins also highlighted the potential of these technologies in advancing a more sustainable future.
Nuclear Power Ghana, founded in 2018, is responsible for managing the country’s nuclear energy initiatives. Ghana’s interest in nuclear energy dates back to the 1960s, although initial reliance on hydro power satisfied its energy needs at the time. The country’s nuclear ambitions gained momentum with the acquisition of a Chinese-built 30kW miniature neutron source reactor in 1995, which has since been converted to use low-enriched uranium fuel.
Efforts to integrate nuclear power into Ghana’s energy mix intensified in the late 2000s, culminating in the creation of a nuclear regulatory body in 2015. Dr. Stephen Yamoah, Executive Director of Nuclear Power Ghana, recently underscored the growing demand for power and the crucial role nuclear energy could play in meeting this need.
The NuScale VOYGR plant, which holds certification from the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) at 50MWe per module, is currently seeking approval to increase its output to 77MWe per module. This upgrade is under review by the NRC.
In addition to the SMR agreement, the summit saw the launch of the region’s first clean energy training centre in Accra, established with support from the US Department of Energy. The centre aims to bolster the development of civil nuclear energy programs across Africa by providing technical expertise and training in reactor design, operation, and spent nuclear fuel management.
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