By: ESI Africa

The partnership is to focus on three key areas: 

• conducting a feasibility study for introducing the i-SMR
• training nuclear energy professionals  
• sharing technical knowledge related to nuclear energy

The project between Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) and Zimbabwe’s Centre for Education and Development (CEIRD) was sealed recently through the signing of a memorandum of understanding. 

The agreement, inked on 22 August at the Korea Institute of Radiological Health, aims to advance sustainable energy solutions in the southern African nation.

Established in 2020, CEIRD coordinates research and innovation across Zimbabwe’s academic and industrial sectors, aligning with the country’s Heritage-Based Education 5.0 policy to foster STEM-driven development and national modernisation.

Nuclear could help expand energy mix in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe primarily relies on hydroelectric and thermal power for electricity, but ageing infrastructure and climate challenges have placed a strain on its energy supply. 

“Consequently, the country is actively considering the introduction of nuclear power to diversify its energy portfolio and achieve its Vision 2030 national development policy, which focuses on science and technology,” said KHNP. 

The collaboration is expected to support Zimbabwe’s long-term energy strategy by exploring nuclear power as a reliable and sustainable option.

KHNP President Hwang Joo-ho said that it is hoped Zimbabwe will accelerate its energy diversification and find sustainable energy solutions through SMRs. 

“Building on our collaboration with Zimbabwe, KHNP will strengthen its position in the African market, where energy demand is rapidly growing.”

What is i-SMR nuclear technology?

The i-SMR is an integrated pressurised water reactor with a 170MW electrical output.

It is designed for efficiency, requiring one-third the investment and half the construction time of larger reactors, said KHNP. 

The company said it is developing the i-SMR with a target to complete its standard design by the end of 2025 and secure approval by 2028. 

The technology was introduced at COP28 in Dubai in December 2023, alongside the i-SMR-powered Smart Net-Zero City model, leading to agreements with partners in Indonesia, Jordan, Norway, and Sweden for similar feasibility studies.