Nuclear accident that reshaped energy policy since 2011
Three incidents at Koeberg Power Station involving elevated airborne radioactive contamination have been kept inside the plant’s containment and ventilation systems. The National Nuclear Regulator says there is no danger to the public, and monitoring continues while Eskom maintains the plant’s safety posture amid ongoing nuclear plans for South Africa.
Italy is pursuing a back‑to‑nuclear energy strategy, aiming to legalize next‑generation technologies and use small modular reactors to meet rising demand, climate goals and energy security. Debates trace to a historic shift after Chernobyl and Fukushima, with authorities projecting a timeline toward 2033–2035 for potential operations.
A coordinated U.S.-Japan intervention in late July has only temporarily strengthened the yen. The currency has given back roughly half the gains from the operation and is trading near ¥159–¥160 to the dollar as of mid-August. Analysts say the yield gap between U.S. and Japanese debt and Japan's domestic policy mix are keeping downward pressure on the yen.
The operator has withdrawn its safety screening for the Hamaoka No. 3 and 4 reactors, citing serious problems in corporate culture and governance. Public trust has become the priority as the company plans to reapply after implementing reforms; leaders will step down while a new president takes over.