Abstract
This research study a deep dive into how nuclear and renewable energy sources such as
wind and solar can fit into South Africa’s sustainable energy plans, aligned with policy
recommendations that are key to achieving energy security and net-zero carbon emissions
by 2050. The study adopted a descriptive policy analysis, and findings indicate that the
anticipated solar and wind energy penetration faces challenges of intermittency in
maintaining grid stability; therefore, it must be paired with baseload sources like nuclear
energy, while also decarbonising electricity generation. The study's findings further indicate that nuclear and renewable energy sources can work together in a hybrid system, provided there are clear, consistent policies for all low-carbon energy technologies. Furthermore, public-private partnerships are essential for ensuring that energy systems are implemented and operated effectively, while simultaneously contributing to the expansion of domestic
manufacturing capacity and less reliance on imported technologies. The study employed a
qualitative research approach, collecting data through content and desktop analysis as well as semi-structured interviews.