Nuclear Diplomacy in a New Cold War Energy Race as SA Misses Its Moment

American Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s recent diplomatic tour of Central Europe highlighted how nuclear energy has become a key part of American geopolitical strategy as countries compete for influence in what’s being called the "new Cold War".

During official visits to Slovakia and Hungary, Rubio signed nuclear energy cooperation agreements between the United States (US) and these countries. These agreements are designed to help those two countries diversify their energy sources, reducing reliance on Russian supplies. At the same time, the US benefits by strengthening ties with these countries and offering them cutting-edge American energy technology.

In Slovakia, officials and US counterparts agreed on cooperation around nuclear energy. This is part of a broader US programme, the Foundational Infrastructure for Responsible Use of Small Modular Reactor Technology (FIRST), which promotes small modular reactors (SMRs).

SMRs are compact nuclear power plants that use less space and are easier to build compared to traditional nuclear plants. They can generate clean energy without producing harmful emissions and can be scaled to meet specific needs, for example, they can be small enough to power a mine. They’re also considered safer than older nuclear reactors due to their advanced design and smaller size. They could be a perfect solution for many countries that want to reduce reliance on coal and other fossil fuels.

In Hungary, Rubio and Prime Minister Viktor Orbán signed a deal that would make Hungary a potential hub for SMR technology in the region. This partnership could bring billions of dollars in investments, create thousands of jobs, and secure Hungary’s energy future while reducing dependence on Russia.

These agreements reflect a larger US strategy to counter Russia’s dominance in Europe’s energy supply. Slovakia and Hungary have long depended on Russia for gas, oil, and nuclear fuel. By investing in SMRs, the US is offering these countries a cleaner, more secure energy alternative and will provide them the necessary fuel, helping them reduce their vulnerability to Russian influence. The US is essentially saying, "We have the technology to ensure your energy security without relying on Russia."

The "new Cold War" refers to the modern-day geopolitical rivalry between the US and its allies against Russia and China. But this rivalry isn’t just about political influence, it’s also about energy. Just like during the original Cold War, where nuclear weapons were used as political leverage, now nuclear energy is becoming a tool for countries to ensure they have control over their own energy resources and do not depend on potentially hostile powers. The goal is energy independence, which means having a stable, reliable energy supply that doesn’t leave you vulnerable to foreign manipulation.

One of the technologies at the heart of this new energy diplomacy is SMRs.

And while countries in Central Europe are seizing the opportunity to advance their nuclear energy programmes, South Africa has yet to fully explore the potential of SMRs. South Africa already has experience in nuclear power through its Koeberg Nuclear Power Station, but it has largely focused on larger, traditional reactors.

By not investing in SMRs, South Africa risks falling behind other nations in the race for clean, reliable energy. The country needs to act quickly if it wants to diversify its energy mix, reduce its dependence on a single source, and secure a stable energy future. SMRs could offer South Africa a game-changing solution, especially given the country’s growing energy demands and its push for cleaner, more sustainable energy sources.