Ghana has taken a significant step towards its first nuclear power plant by signing an agreement with a US developer, Regnum Technology Group, to deploy a small modular reactor (SMR) from NuScale Power. The deal was signed at a US-Africa nuclear energy summit in Nairobi, marking a significant development in Ghana’s pursuit of energy security and decarbonization goals.
The chosen technology, NuScale’s VOYGR-12 SMR, offers several advantages. SMRs are smaller than traditional reactors and can be built in a factory, making them potentially more efficient and cost-effective. This particular agreement aligns with the US administration’s focus on promoting clean energy technologies in developing nations, highlighting nuclear power’s role in tackling climate change. However, the long-term viability of SMRs remains a subject of debate, with questions lingering about their commercial success.
Ghana’s choice of NuScale over other contenders like France’s EDF, China’s National Nuclear Corporation, South Korea’s Kepco, and Russia’s Rosatom, underscores the growing global competition in the nuclear power sector. The deal, expected to span the next decade, signals a potential shift in the global energy landscape, particularly for nations seeking reliable and sustainable energy sources.
Aleshia Duncan, deputy assistant secretary for international cooperation at the US Department of Energy, emphasized the significance of US involvement in supporting the development of nuclear energy in Africa. She stated that the US is committed to providing technical expertise and resources to ensure the successful implementation of nuclear power across the continent, acknowledging the role it plays in achieving economic development, energy security, and environmental sustainability.
