The South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa) and energy technology company Siemens Energy have signed a nonbinding agreement to strengthen collaboration in energy, technology and innovation.

The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation between the two organisations focused on supporting power generation, including new technologies such as small modular reactors (SMRs).

The framework also focuses on supporting skills development to service the energy industry, advanced manufacturing for nuclear and general industry, and the implementation of National Industrial Participation Programmes (NIPP) emanating from infrastructure projects developed by both organisations.

“By combining our expertise in engineering and technology with Necsa’s nuclear capabilities, we see strong potential to advance collaboration in areas such as SMRs for power generation,” says Siemens Energy Southern and Eastern Africa chairperson and MD Thabo Molekoa.

“We are particularly encouraged by the opportunities this creates for skills development and industrial growth, which are important for strengthening energy security and economic resilience.”

“This agreement strengthens Necsa's partnerships that drive successful implementation of energy projects and innovation while also building local capability,” says Necsa Group CEO Loyiso Tyabashe.

“Delivery against the agreement will be closely monitored through joint working teams, from identification of projects to implementation, to ensure timely and effective coordination between the two organisations.”

The partnership aims to support South Africa’s broader energy security objectives while contributing to sustainable economic growth.

Necsa brings extensive capabilities in nuclear research and development, while Siemens Energy contributes global leadership in engineering, digitalisation and energy technologies.

While the agreement is nonbinding, it lays the groundwork for future, more detailed partnerships and commercial agreements, Necsa says.