- Eskom has announced that the full load rejection test that was performed on Unit 1 of the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station on Saturday, 30 December 2023 was completed successfully.
- This was the final test that needed to be performed following the installation of the new steam generators, in accordance with the South African Grid Code (SAGC) requirements.
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. Therefore, in line with SAGC, the response of the unit to a full load rejection incident needed to be tested and verified.
The successful completion of the test serves as an encouragement as Eskom plans to undertake similar steam generator replacement activities on Unit 2.
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Author: Bryan Groenendaal