The South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa) has announced that it is extending the deadline for responses to its request for information (RFI) regarding its Multi-Purpose Reactor (MPR) project by 30 days, to this coming April 8, at 16:00 South African time. The extension is due to, in Necsa’s words, “the excellent global response” to the RFI and to allow the responders additional time so that they could supply more detailed information.

The corporation highlighted that the RFI is not focused exclusively on the MPR itself. The RFI is looking at a wide range of components and services. In addition to the nuclear reactor, these are a neutron beamline centre and associated equipment; facilities for fuel and material testing (by irradiation); the manufacturing of fuel and target plates; and on-site accommodation or lodging.

Companies interested in any of these opportunities should register with Necsa and supply information on the products and services that they can offer. Because of the number of questions seeking clarification that Necsa has received, the agency held two online briefing sessions on March 3 at 08:00 and 14:00 South African time respectively.

The RFI itself can be accessed on the Necsa website and on the National Treasury tender platform. It is also available on a number of global tender websites.

Respondents do not have to respond to every aspect of the RFI, although they can if they desire. They could just concentrate on those specific aspects of the RFI that they are interested in, and which fit their knowledge and capabilities.

“Necsa, in collaboration with the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, is committed to deliver the Multi-Purpose Reactor that will sustain and grow South Africa as a leader in peaceful applications of nuclear technology,” affirmed the corporation. “It is important to note that Necsa will not award any contracts in the RFI process, as it is purely for information-gathering purposes.”