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The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) welcomes the concession by the Minister of Finance, Mr Enoch Godongwana, to reduce the fuel levy by R3 for one month. It offers hard-pressed motorists some relief, but the lost tax revenue will eventually have to be recovered. The Freedom Front Plus recently asked the Minister, in the form […]
The post Afslag op brandstofheffing: Welkome verligting, maar slegs uitgestelde pyn appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
In a media statement issued yesterday, the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources assured the public that the country has sufficient fuel supply, despite international conflict. However, the Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) has been privy to letters from fuel suppliers warning filling stations of possible shortages. A long list of filling stations that have […]
The post Department says there is enough fuel, yet supply at filling stations is limited – so where is the fuel then? appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
Subsidies reached almost R200-billion last year, mostly from increases in Eskom bailouts and carbon tax exemptions, while the renewables subsidy in 2024 was less than 5% of fossil fuel support
The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) will not rest until the sewage spill along the R28, at the Sasol filling station, is resolved. Raw sewage has been spilling into the area for the past thirteen days, polluting the environment and posing a serious health hazard, especially to pedestrians who use this route between Krugersdorp and […]
The post Freedom Front Plus will keep fighting to resolve sewage spill along R28 between Krugersdorp and Randfontein appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
The pitch is unusable because the grass has not grown adequately due to water shortages
GE Vernova Inc. (NYSE: GEV) today announced the successful completion of the modernization of global energy and chemical company Sasol's Secunda power plant in Mpumalanga. The modernization included the replacement of the existing pre-combustor system with a new DLN1+ combustor supplemented by the Fuel Gas Module (FGM) skid to increase the operational efficiency of the two installed 9E gas turbines and reduce carbon emissions.
This project serves as a model for modernizing power plants across Africa. As the continent faces increasing energy demands, initiatives like this highlight how innovative solutions can enable more efficient energy production with reduced emissions, without requiring entirely new infrastructure.
The upgrade led to significant improvements, including:
"This project exemplifies our purpose to electrify the world," said Joseph Anis (http://apo-opa.co/4k6G5fI), President and CEO of GE Vernova's Gas Power business in Europe, Middle East, and Africa. "Building on our advanced combustion technologies, we are helping Sasol address South Africa's energy needs more efficiently. Together, we are demonstrating how advanced technologies can deliver tangible benefits for both businesses and communities."
This project will be showcased at Enlit Africa (http://apo-opa.co/4k3OEYH), taking place from 20 – 22 May at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) in Cape Town, South Africa. GE Vernova's participation will include interactive activities at booth C22 in Hall 3 and speaking sessions covering a wide range of topics, including: a keynote on technology driven transformation, smart grids and the future of energy management, digitization and modernization of projects and accelerating women in energy.
GE Vernova has contributed to the development of the energy infrastructure in Africa for over a century, supporting power generation, transmission and distribution solutions, energy sector software applications, talent development, and community outreach.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GE.
Additional Link: https://apo-opa.co/4dJXJnj
Notes to editors:
© 2025 GE Vernova and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved.
For more information, contact:
Media Contact – GE Vernova
Winnie Gathage
Africa Communications Leader
GE Vernova
winnie.gathage@gevernova.com
Laura Aresi
Media Relations Leader, Power
GE Vernova
Laura.aresi@gevernova.com
Lesego Malete
Group Account Director
Burson Africa
lesego.malete@bursonglobal.com
About GE Vernova:
GE Vernova (NYSE: GEV) is a purpose-built global energy company that includes Power, Wind, and Electrification segments and is supported by its accelerator businesses. Building on over 130 years of experience tackling the world's challenges, GE Vernova is uniquely positioned to help lead the energy transition by continuing to electrify the world while simultaneously working to decarbonize it. GE Vernova helps customers power economies and deliver electricity that is vital to health, safety, security, and improved quality of life. GE Vernova is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, U.S., with more than 75,000 employees across 100+ countries around the world. Supported by the Company's purpose, The Energy to Change the World, GE Vernova technology helps deliver a more affordable, reliable, sustainable, and secure energy future. Learn more: GE Vernova (www.GEVernova.com), GE Vernova in Middle East & Africa (https://apo-opa.co/435wb81), and LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.co/4jY25JD). GE Vernova's Gas Power business engineers advanced, efficient natural gas-powered technologies and services, along with decarbonization solutions that aim to help electrify a lower carbon future. It is a global leader in gas turbines and gas power plant technologies and services with the industry's largest installed base.
Forward Looking Statements:
This document contains forward-looking statements – that is, statements related to future events that by their nature address matters that are, to different degrees, uncertain. These forward-looking statements often address GE Vernova's expected future business and financial performance and financial condition, and the expected performance of its products, the impact of its services and the results they may generate or produce, and often contain words such as “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “seek,” “see,” “will,” “would,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “target,” “preliminary,” or “range.” Forward-looking statements by their nature address matters that are, to different degrees, uncertain, such as statements about planned and potential transactions, investments or projects and their expected results and the impacts of macroeconomic and market conditions and volatility on the Company's business operations, financial results and financial position and on the global supply chain and world economy.
Companies and officials are using legal measures meant for domestic violence victims, to gag reporters
South Africa-European Union Summit concludes
President Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed the European Union’s €4.7 billion Global Gateway Investment Package aimed at supporting strategic investment projects.
The President was speaking during a press briefing following the 8th South Africa-European Union Summit held in Cape Town on Thursday.
The package is aimed at supporting:
• A clean and just energy transition in South Africa
• Digital and physical connectivity infrastructure
• The local pharmaceutical industry.
“The investment package covers areas such as critical raw mineral processing, green hydrogen, renewable energy, transport and digital infrastructure, local vaccine and pharmaceutical production, and resources for skills development.
“To boost the competitiveness of our economies, we agreed to launch negotiations towards a Clean Trade and Investment Partnership. This will support the development of cleaner value chains for raw materials and local beneficiation, renewable and low carbon energy, and clean technology,” President Ramaphosa said.
Furthermore, the partnership will also serve as a platform for “regulatory cooperation between the European Union and South Africa in areas of mutual interest related to clean supply chains”.
“This partnership is expected, for example, to deliver short and long term solutions to enable Sasol to export sustainable fuel, especially aviation fuel, to the European Union,” the President added.
Strengthening ties
President Ramaphosa noted that the summit – the first such held in seven years – reflects mutual commitment to “enhancing our Strategic Partnership for the mutual benefit of our people”.
As a regional bloc, the European Union (EU) is South Africa’s biggest trading partner recording some €49.5 billion in total trade in 2023 with EU foreign direct investment into South Africa reaching around €71 billion in 2022.
“Today’s Summit focused on strengthening our trade and investment relations, which are vital for the growth of our economies and the achievement of our development goals,” the President noted.
Discussions also focussed on other areas including green energy, science and health.
“We have prioritised the transition to green energy, ensuring that this process is just and inclusive and safeguards the livelihoods of those most affected by the transition. We also had discussions on our robust cooperation in education; science, technology and innovation; and health.
“We have recognised the vital importance of developing the skills and capabilities of young people, starting from early childhood development through to the training of young people in the skills of the future,” President Ramaphosa explained.
Global developments
On the global stage, President Ramaphosa said, “we reaffirmed our commitment to multilateralism, the rule of law and the central role of the United Nations in maintaining global peace and security”.
“We also expressed our resolve to resist actions that undermine multilateral cooperation. We reinforced our belief that the institutions of global governance must be reformed to make them representative and fit for purpose.
“We agreed that addressing the root causes of conflict is essential for achieving durable peace, security and stability in Africa.”
Turning to the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), President Ramaphosa said South Africa calls on parties to assist in addressing the “dire situation of the people” caught in the blaze of the war.
“As South Africa, we have made a call for a humanitarian intervention for displaced people in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.
“As we work to achieve a ceasefire and achieve a peaceful resolution of the conflict in the DRC, we are calling on the United Nations, African Union and EU to help to address the dire situation of the people affected by the fighting,” he said.
Reflecting on the outcomes of the Summit, President Ramaphosa described it as having further strengthened the strategic partnership.
“Today’s Summit has further strengthened our Strategic Partnership, which will support our efforts to drive inclusive economic growth, create jobs, eradicate poverty and address global challenges in a spirit of solidarity, collaboration and partnership.
“On behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, it has been a pleasure to host you today, reaffirming our commitment to building strong, mutually beneficial relations with the European Union,” President Ramaphosa concluded.
In his opening remarks at the summit, the President said that as one of South Africa’s most important trade and investment partners, the European Union can play a catalytic role in unleashing the productive capacity of our economy and equip our people, especially the youth, to participate in the economy of the future.
READ | President Ramaphosa engages EU on new investment package
“We hope we can continue to rely on the support of the European Union and its member states in our efforts to alleviate poverty, transition to a low-carbon economy, invest in climate-resilient infrastructure and grow our industrial capacity,” the President explained. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 03/13/2025 - 19:06
122 views
Mike Sangster, Senior Vice President for Africa at TotalEnergies, will deliver a keynote address at the Invest in African Energy (IAE) Forum in Paris this May. Sangster will also participate in an exclusive fireside chat, offering critical insights into the company's vision for Africa's energy future, its ongoing projects and the evolving role of oil and gas in the continent's energy mix.
TotalEnergies continues to drive oil and gas development across Africa, with a strong focus on both emerging and mature markets. In Namibia, the company is advancing its Venus-1 discovery, targeting first oil by the decade's end, with an FID expected in early 2026 for a development producing 150,000 barrels per day. TotalEnergies is also exploring additional prospects in the Orange Basin, having recently drilled the Marula-1X and Tabmoti-1X wells. In the Republic of Congo, the company is investing $600 million to expand deepwater production at the Moho Nord field, while in Libya, it plans to complete an onshore exploration project and lead new drilling campaigns in the Waha and Sharara fields in 2025.
IAE 2025 (www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com) is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors. Taking place May 13-14, 2025 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.
Meanwhile, TotalEnergies is expanding its gas processing and midstream infrastructure across Africa, strengthening its role in the continent's evolving energy landscape. In Mozambique, the company is progressing with the Mozambique LNG project, a $20 billion development expected to secure renewed financial backing from export credit agencies. I Uganda, TotalEnergies is gearing up for first oil from its Tilenga field in 2025, with crude transported via the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP). Once operational, EACOP will be the longest heated crude oil pipeline globally, significantly enhancing East Africa's ability to monetize its hydrocarbon resources and attract further investment into the region's energy sector.
TotalEnergies is also expanding its renewable energy footprint in Africa through strategic investments in solar, wind, hydropower and green hydrogen. The company is advancing its 500 MW Sadada solar project in Libya and acquired Scatec's hydropower portfolio on the continent in July 2024, including the 250 MW Bujagali Hydropower Plant in Uganda and stakes in projects in Malawi, Rwanda and the DRC. In South Africa, TotalEnergies is constructing a 216 MW solar plant with battery storage, along with a 140 MW wind farm and a 120 MW solar facility, set to supply green electricity to Sasol's industrial operations. In Morocco, the company is developing the Chbika project, a 1 GW wind and solar farm designed to produce 200,000 metric tons of green ammonia annually for export to Europe. These initiatives align with TotalEnergies' strategy to integrate renewables into its portfolio while supporting Africa's energy transition.
Sangster's participation at IAE 2025 comes at a pivotal time for Africa's energy sector, as investors and policymakers navigate a shifting global energy landscape. His keynote address and fireside chat will provide valuable perspectives on the role of private investment in African energy, strategies for unlocking new upstream opportunities and how TotalEnergies is adapting to the continent's long-term energy needs.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
Jet fuel secured to address shortage
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy and stakeholders in the fuels industry have adopted a logistics plan for the transportation of jet fuel for OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA).
The stakeholders include SASOL and the Fuels Industry Association of South Africa.
“This means that there is no longer a shortage of jet fuel for the refuelling of airlines across ORTIA," the Transport Department said on Sunday.
READ | Jet fuel secured for OR Tambo International Airport
The logistics plan was developed by the Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) and adopted in a meeting convened by the Minister on Friday, 31 January.
On 1 February, the opening stock at ORTIA was 20.1 million litres.
“An additional 59 million litres of jet fuel have been injected into the pipeline in the last week... and this volume will arrive at ORTIA by 6 February. This volume may necessitate the removal of the current restrictions on airlines and bring the fuel supply closer to normal operations,” the department said.
The department said 71.5 million litres of jet fuel will be imported into Durban via three vessels expected to arrive on 5 February and 10 February, respectively. The imported fuel will then be transported to ORTIA via pipeline.
The total available stock in February will be 150.6 million litres.
“In addition, the fuel industry has also agreed to establish a mechanism to share across contracted airlines so that any airline whose supplier runs short is able to access from a non-contracted supplier.
“The Minister has commended the various stakeholders for their collaborative efforts. She also expressed her appreciation to all partners, airline customers, and the public for their understanding and co-operation during this period,” the department said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 02/03/2025 - 09:35
Jet fuel secured for OR Tambo International Airport
The Department of Transport has announced that the fuels industry and its stakeholders have in total secured the 121.1 million litres of jet fuel needed at OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA).
This is until the National Petroleum Refiners of South Africa (NATREF) refinery opens its doors at the end of February 2025.
The announcement follows an urgent meeting convened by the Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, last Friday with the relevant fuel industry stakeholders to resolve jet fuel shortages.
The meeting was attended by Airport Company South Africa (ACSA), the Fuel Industry Association of South Africa (FIASA) and SASOL.
The meeting was aimed at resolving the jet fuel shortages that were threatening to disrupt flight operations at OR Tambo International Airport in February 2025.
The anticipated fuel shortages was as a result of the shutdown of the National Petroleum Refiners of South Africa (NATREF), which caught fire on 04 January 2025.
This led to some airlines having to make alternative arrangements to secure fuel at Windhoek, King Shaka Airport and other destinations at considerable inconvenience to passengers and crew.
On Monday last week, the fuels industry indicated to ACSA that it had secured 50 million litres of jet fuel from various suppliers and on Friday an additional 71.1 million litres were secured which brought the total to 121.1 million litres of jet fuel for OR Tambo.
The above total will be imported through the Port of Durban via three vessels expected to arrive on 01 February and 10 February 2025.
“The meeting agreed that all parties will work on a logistics plan to ensure the imported fuel supply moves from the Port of Durban to OR Tambo in time for airline needs,” the Department of Transport said in a statement.
An update on these logistics plans will be presented to the Minister on Friday, 31 January 2025.
“Parties agreed it is necessary to build a fuel reserve to serve as a critical safety buffer for unforeseen circumstances such as delays, diversions or unexpected changes in flight conditions,” the department said.
In this regard ACSA will engage the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources and its entities.
The Minister expressed her appreciation to passengers, businesses and stakeholders for their patience during this period of “unforeseen difficulty” and apologised for the inconvenience caused. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 01/26/2025 - 13:37
Eskom appoints Group Executive for Strategic Delivery
Eskom has announced a new executive appointment to align its execution capability and capacity to prepare for a competitive marketplace with the appointment of Alfred Seema.
Eskom Group Chief Executive (GCE) Dan Marokane announced the appointment of Seema as Eskom Group Executive for Strategic Delivery from Sasol, where he most recently held the role of Vice President for Gas Sourcing and Business Development.
According to the State-owned power utility, Seema brings to Eskom over 25 years of experience in gas and associated project development and execution, as well as strong programme management skills.
He has been described as a seasoned strategist and executive with an impressive track record in the energy and petrochemical sectors, most of which were spent at Sasol and Petro SA.
According to his LinkedIn profile, Seema holds a Chemical Engineering degree from the University of Cape Town (UCT), a BCom Finance degree from the University of South Africa (Unisa), and a Master of Business Administration from Henley Business School, a leading triple-accredited business school part of the University of Reading in the United Kingdom.
“We are bringing in some new skills at the executive level, to guide our teams in the business so we can execute faster and more efficiently.
“We’ve moved at pace to close critical positions at Eskom, and I am again impressed with the volume and calibre of applicants who were willing to be associated with our brand and chose to work for Eskom and the country,” Marokane said.
Delivering on the strategic initiatives, Eskom announced in June that over the next 36 months, it will pursue its strategy across several key initiatives to deliver value.
These include:
• Increasing the Energy Availability Factor (EAF) to 70% in the next 12 to 36 months.
• Returning more than 2.5GW in capacity to the grid by March 2025 and developing an executable initial pipeline of at least 2GW of clean energy projects by 2026.
• Re-baselining the cost trajectory and improving efficiencies.
• Advocating and pursuing a sustainable solution to municipality debt.
• Delivering the unbundling of the Distribution and Generation divisions.
• Accelerating the implementation of initiatives to enable a Just Energy Transition.
Eskom said it will continue to focus on implementing generation recovery, strengthening governance, and tackling crime and corruption while futureproofing the organisation to enable energy security, growth, and long-term sustainability to benefit South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 12/04/2024 - 10:31
Day 2 on the Klip River: Riverlea to Soweto
Ex-Eskom official convicted of fraud and corruption
Former Eskom Safety Risk Officer Thandi Ruth Magagula has been convicted of fraud and corruption in relation to the fraudulent awarding of contracts at the power utility.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority, Magagula pleaded guilty to seven counts of corruption and two of fraud.
She was subsequently convicted in the Middelburg Specialised Commercial Crimes Court under Section 17(1) of the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act 12 of 2004.
“The offences stem from contracts valued at over R58 000 awarded to a company named Mantoza Engineering Projects CC during the period between April 2015, while Eskom employed Magagula and simultaneously served as a director of Mantoza Engineering Projects.
“Magagula failed to disclose her financial interest in the company to Eskom's management and continued to conduct business with the public entity while holding a directorship position,” the NPA said in a statement on Monday.
The matter has been postponed to 24 October for sentencing.
“This behaviour violated laws governing public officials and Eskom's conflict of interest policies During plea proceedings, Magagula was convicted in line with her admissions of guilt confirming her role in the corrupt activities.
“The NPA views this conviction as a significant step in the fight against corruption, particularly within critical public entities like Eskom. The NPA remains committed to holding individuals accountable for corrupt practices, reinforcing public service integrity,” the prosecutorial body concluded.
Last week Cabinet welcomed the arrest of six engineering firm directors accused of Black Economic Empowerment fronting and tender fraud of R400 million at Eskom and Sasol.
READ | Cabinet welcomes crime fighting efforts
– SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 10/14/2024 - 13:05
Protests held against fossil-fuel industry in Cape Town and Johannesburg
Mashatile kicks off working visit to the UK
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has arrived in London, United Kingdom, for the second leg of his working visit scheduled to take place today and wrap up on Friday, 4 October 2024.
According to the Presidency, the purpose of the visit is to improve trade and investment relations between South Africa and the United Kingdom.
This visit follows a successful working visit to Ireland, which was aimed at advancing cooperation between South Africa and Ireland to improve trade and investment, and building on the significant progress made in the fields of science, innovation, as well as education and skills development.
READ | Deputy President assures Ireland of SA’s commitment to 'enabling environment' for business
The United Kingdom is one of South Africa’s most significant bilateral partners, particularly in trade, investment, skills development, science, innovation, the Just Energy Transition and tourism, among others.
The Deputy President’s visit will focus on building investor confidence in South Africa and driving foreign direct investment into the nation.
According to Mashatile’s office, he will continue to engage with various local and international private sector partners to mobilise investment support and strengthen public-private partnerships to realise the country’s economic growth and transformation objectives.
“The Deputy President will also use the opportunity to advance the strategic priorities of the Government of National Unity (GNU), which include creating sustainable economic growth, addressing poverty and the high cost of living, and building an ethical, capable developmental State,” his office said.
During this visit, the Deputy President will also engage with representatives from several organisations. These include Bloomberg Media, Financial Times, Sasol, Brand South Africa, the London Stock Exchange, Investec’s Investors Roundtable, Standard Bank, JP Morgan, City Bank, Goldman Sachs and the South African Chamber of Commerce.
He is expected to also pay a courtesy call on the Duke of Edinburgh and meet with the Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Angela Rayner.
The Deputy President is leading a delegation comprising various Ministers. He is accompanied by the International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola; Minister in the Presidency responsible for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Maropene Ramokgopa; Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson; Small Business Development Minister Stella Ndabeni Abrahams and some Deputy Ministers from various departments. – SAnew.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 09/30/2024 - 11:05
Critical minerals sector key to driving global economic growth
President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised the importance of the critical minerals sector in driving global economic growth and sustainability.
By leveraging key sectors such as mining, energy, and manufacturing, the President said South Africa is set to improve its business environment and attract much-needed investment.
He was addressing the African Minerals Forum hosted by the Business Council for International Understanding (BCIU) and Prosper Africa on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 79), in New York, USA, on Monday.
He highlighted that four months ago, South Africa held national general elections, which ushered in a Government of National Unity, where 10 political parties have come together to coalesce around a common agenda for economic growth and sustainable development.
President Ramaphosa underlined South Africa's commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change through the country's Just Energy Transition Plan. This plan aims to guide the shift from coal to renewable energy, while also ensuring equitable economic opportunities for affected communities.
“South Africa's and Africa’s critical minerals sector has a crucial role to play in this regard, and we recognise the importance of collaboration with other countries to develop the potential of our critical minerals sector.
“The US in particular has established expertise in advanced mining technologies, automation and sustainability practices.
“We want to strengthen our ties with US companies and institutions to foster technological advancements, enhance supply chain efficiencies and attract investment into our mining sector,” the President said.
The President also emphasised that South Africa strongly endorses the United Nations Secretary-General’s position paper on Critical Energy Transition Minerals, where he highlights the importance of beneficiation, benefit sharing, local value addition and economic diversification.
“It would not be an understatement to say that the minerals that lie beneath the soil of Africa are powering the green energy revolution. Thirty percent of the world’s proven critical mineral reserves are found in Sub-Saharan Africa.
“South Africa has substantial reserves of platinum group metals, manganese, vanadium as well as chromium.
“These resources are fundamental to the development of cutting-edge technologies that drive progress in various sectors. What will be critical is to ensure that this progress does not leave Africa behind,” he said.
The President stressed the need to avoid perpetuating colonial-era exploitation, where African countries primarily export raw minerals. He said that by focusing on beneficiation and domestic processing, African nations could see significant economic growth.
President Ramaphosa highlighted that beneficiation and local processing of critical minerals could increase the continent’s GDP by 12% or more by 2050.
He cited estimates suggesting that African countries could generate USD 24 billion annually in GDP and create 2.3 million jobs by investing in mining beneficiation and domestic processing.
President Ramaphosa highlighted the strides made by SASOL, South Africa’s flagship petrochemical company, in leading green hydrogen technologies research and development.
“As the global automotive industry moves towards Electric Vehicles and New Energy Vehicles, we are leveraging our rich experience with automotive production to get some of the world’s leading automotive manufactures with a footprint in South Africa to produce more their green vehicles in our country,” he said.
Despite improvements in the beneficiation of South Africa’s mineral exports, President Ramaphosa admitted that more needs to be done.
He underscored the country’s commitment to creating a supportive policy framework for the critical minerals sector, focused on streamlining regulations, fostering innovation in mining technologies, building workforce skills, improving transport and logistics infrastructure, and incentivising investment.
South Africa's five-point policy approach aims to create a supportive environment for the critical minerals sector. This includes simplifying regulations, supporting research and development in mining technologies, investing in workforce skills, improving logistics infrastructure, and incentivising domestic and international investment.
“South Africa also has a beneficiation strategy that seeks to translate the benefits of our country’s mineral endowments into a national competitive advantage.
“As the UN Secretary-General’s paper has noted, Critical Energy Transition Minerals can transform economies, create green jobs and foster sustainable local, regional and global development,” he said.
President Ramaphosa further stressed that for the potential of critical minerals to be fully realised, both mineral-producing nations and their end-user countries must embrace inclusivity.
He emphasised the importance of creating decent work opportunities, eradicating exploitative practices such as child and forced labour, and ensuring human rights protections.
Local beneficiation and industrialisation were highlighted as priorities, alongside environmental safeguards to ensure sustainable extraction practices.
The President urged for a long-term focus on inter-generational equity, recognising that critical minerals are vital for solving global challenges like climate change, energy, and food insecurity.
He called on US companies to collaborate in fostering sustainable development.
“By leveraging our respective strengths, pursuing strategic collaborations, and implementing supportive policies, we stand ready to meet the demands of the global market and drive sustainable development.
“I call on US companies and investors to join us on our journey,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 09/24/2024 - 10:07
Eskom, Sasol sign gas MoU
Eskom and energy and chemical company, Sasol, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to “collaboratively explore and research potential future liquified natural gas (LNG) requirements”.
This is according to a joint statement released by the two companies, following the signing ceremony of the MoU on Friday.
“The collaboration aims to determine the potential volumes that South Africa requires to establish a viable LNG import market, along with the enabling infrastructure, and will be facilitated by government-to-government relations where necessary.
“This initiative focuses on using gas for power generation to provide essential base load electricity and position gas as a key enabler of re-industrialisation, while also ensuring continued supply to the market by unlocking global LNG resources.
“Furthermore, the collaboration will contribute to enhancing South Africa’s energy mix and enable the country’s energy transition and decarbonisation,” the joint statement read.
The MoU is expected to “explore sourcing gas within South Africa, the Southern African Development Community region, and other parts of the African continent, in addition to evaluating long-term LNG contracting”.
“This will support the gas requirements for Eskom’s planned coal power station repowering and conversion to gas in the long term. The parties will also engage other state entities to enable an LNG value chain in South Africa.
“As part of its revised gas strategy, Sasol is working on enabling the future supply of LNG to South Africa by collaborating with companies such as Eskom, existing and future customers, suppliers, and infrastructure developers.
“The research findings from the first phase of the Sasol-Eskom collaboration will guide the necessary role players and investors required to offer the best prospects for South Africa’s energy market, while outlining the challenges associated with the long-term commitments required for LNG imports,” the statement said.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Minister of Energy and Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, explained the importance of the collaboration between two of South Africa’s biggest energy related companies.
“We have made it clear that we are serious about LNG solutions for the country, and that our demand for gas across both industrial and energy frontiers will unlock these solutions.
“This collaboration between our two energy champions – one public, one private – will provide a data-driven and commercially sound basis for gas-fed industrialisation and for us to explore the well-worn path to lower carbon energy that the global north has already taken by scaling gas to power.
“Gas has emerged as the second-largest contributor to global electricity production, experiencing rapid growth as many countries shift from coal to gas in their energy mix to enable positive implications for climate change, as gas typically emits less CO2 per unit of energy,” Ramokgopa said.
Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, said the two companies can collaborate to work on the transition to lower carbon methods.
“We have a great deal of experience as the two largest users of coal in South Africa and we felt by working together we could accelerate the climate change transition in a responsible way which sets the country up for the best economic, environmental and social outcomes and addresses the imminent gas supply shortfall.
“Eskom is focused on a balanced and diversified energy mix based on existing coal and nuclear and introducing gas for baseload power, as well as renewables, energy storage systems including batteries and pumped hydro, to achieve overall security of supply and to meet and exceed rapidly expanding energy demand,” Marokane said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 09/20/2024 - 14:15
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Zambia – among the world's top mineral producers – are currently spearheading the implementation of a Transboundary Battery and Electric Vehicle (EV) Special Economic Zone (SEZ) (https://apo-opa.co/4g2yhK7). The development of SEZs dedicated exclusively to battery and EV production aims to unlock new foreign investment, as well as position both countries within the global automotive manufacturing space.
The upcoming Critical Minerals Africa (CMA) Summit will feature a Automotive and Batteries Focus panel, examining measures to establish Africa as a global hub for battery precursors, batteries and EVs, as well as exploring opportunities for Africa's critical minerals to support clean energy development. To date, most African automotive manufacturing takes place in South Africa, yet massive mineral wealth in Zambia and the DRC indicates the potential of these markets to become industrial hubs.
The Critical Minerals Africa 2024 summit on November 6 - 7 serves to position Africa as the primary investment destination for critical minerals. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energy 2024 conference (https://apo-opa.co/4fUGT5A) on November 4 - 8, offering delegates access to the full scope of energy, mining and finance leaders in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.
Increased cooperation among governments and international partners has been critical to positioning Africa's mineral producers as potential manufacturing partners. The DRC, which holds the world's largest cobalt reserves at 6 million metric tons out of the global 11 million metric tons, established the Congolese Battery Council in 2023 to facilitate investment across its mineral value chain. The country – also representing Africa's largest copper producer – signed an MOU with Zambia in March 2023 to fast-track the implementation of the Transboundary Battery and Electric Vehicle SEZ, seeking to add value to its raw cobalt and copper resources.
Zambia – Africa's second-largest copper producer – formed a task committee in 2023 to expedite the implementation of the SEZ and identified land to host the zone. The country has strengthened partnerships with global mining firms, including Ivanhoe Mines, Galileo Resources, Tertiary Minerals, First Quantum, Vedanta Resources, Jubilee Metals and Xtract Resources, to achieve its goal of producing three million tons of copper annually by 2030. The Zambian and DRC governments are also partnering with the World Bank to launch local platforms between May 2024 and 2026, aimed at identifying and assessing investment prospects across their respective EV and critical minerals value chain.
South Africa, which holds 80% of the world's platinum group metals (PGMs) reserves – crucial for EV and hydrogen vehicle production – currently leads Africa's EV market. Mining firm Isondo Precious Metals (https://apo-opa.co/3XlPHdy) plans to launch an advanced manufacturing facility for processing PGMs for EV applications in Johannesburg. Meanwhile, global automaker BMW, mining firm Anglo Platinum and energy company Sasol are piloting a fleet of hydrogen-fueled vehicles to advance smart mobility adoption in South Africa. CMA 2024 will host delegations from the DRC, Zambia, South Africa and other key industry stakeholders to discuss the latest developments shaping Africa's smart mobility and mining sectors.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
Syndicate closing down businesses and schools
Johannesburg, South Africa – In line with Sasol’s commitment to nurturing entrepreneurship in South Africa and supporting the socioeconomic development of fence-line communities, Sasol Energy Marketing and Sales is partnering with Township Entrepreneurs Alliance (TEA) as a fuel sponsor to enable TEA to conduct its mission of developing entrepreneurs in townships, rural areas and informal …
The global market for platinum group metals (PGMs) – which include platinum, palladium, rhodium, iridium, osmium and ruthenium – will record a 4.47% increase between now and 2029, according to market research firm Mordor Intelligence. In part, market growth will come from growing demand for PGMs in green technologies, including hydrogen energy technologies, in turn generating opportunities across Africa's mining and hydrogen value chains.
The Critical Minerals Africa (CMA) Summit, taking place on November 6-7 in Cape Town, will unpack the nexus between PGMs and green hydrogen and their evolving role within the African and global energy transition. The continent is home to the world's largest PGM reserves, with South Africa alone possessing over 80% of global resources and Zimbabwe also holding substantial reserves. These metals play a vital role in fuel cell technology, enabling the production of electricity from hydrogen and oxygen. As African countries – including Namibia, South Africa, Mauritania and Egypt – intensify their green hydrogen activities, long-term PGM demand is expected to grow substantially, powering a wide range of applications from hydrogen fuel cell vehicles to stationary power generation to industrial processes.
Africa's Green Hydrogen Potential
The African continent holds substantial potential for green hydrogen production given its abundance of co-located renewable resources. According to the European Investment Bank, Africa has the potential to produce 50 million tons of green hydrogen per annum by 2035, which could help meet power, transportation and industrial energy needs, decarbonize heavy-polluting industries, as well as be used for global export.
Namibia represents a pioneer of green hydrogen on the continent, having secured billions in investment for green hydrogen projects from various investors, including the USAID, the Development Bank of Southern Africa and Japanese investment firm ITOCHU. Green energy firm Hyphen Hydrogen Energy is implementing a $10-billion project, with the capacity to produce 350,000 metric tons per year using 7 GW of renewable energy and 3 GW of hydrogen electrolyzers. Last May, Belgian port operator Antwerp Bruges partnered with the Namibian Ports Authority to develop a EUR 250-million hydrogen and ammonia storage facility at Walvis Bay Port to facilitate the transport of hydrogen to regional and global markets.
Realizing the potential of green hydrogen to drive regional energy security, South African tourism, trade and investment agency Wesgro signed an agreement last month with the Northern Cape Economic Development, Trade and Investment Promotion Agency, Namibia's Environmental Investment Fund and infrastructure company Gasunie and Climate Fund Managers. The agreement paves the way for the parties to assess the feasibility of developing a green hydrogen corridor connecting the Western Cape and Northern Cape provinces of South Africa with Lüderitz in Namibia.
Furthermore, green energy companies Hive Energy UK and Genesis Eco-Energy are developing a R105 billion green hydrogen and ammonia project in the Coega Special Economic Zone in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The project will add 14,400 MW of electricity to the grid and produce 900,000 tons of green ammonia for export to global markets, increasing the country's export revenue. South Africa has also established a $1-billion fund in partnership with the Netherlands, aimed at accelerating the deployment of green hydrogen projects to feed growing demand in Europe.
Private and public sector entities in South Africa are demonstrating the potential for synergy between PGMs and green hydrogen, specifically in hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. Last October, mining firm Anglo American entered into a partnership with automotive firm BMW South Africa and international energy firm Sasol to develop South Africa's PGMs and green hydrogen value chains. Anglo American will provide PGMs used in hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles, while Sasol will provide the green hydrogen and BMW the vehicles.
As global demand for green hydrogen rises due to carbon emission reduction policies and growing energy needs, a parallel surge in PGMs demand is also anticipated. Given that Africa is home to the overwhelming majority of these critical minerals, CMA 2024 will explore the latest policies, projects and developments ensuring that the continent capitalizes on green hydrogen as a key growth driver.
Organized by Energy Capital & Power, CMA is the largest gathering of critical mineral stakeholders in Africa. Taking place from November 6 – 7 in Cape Town, the event positions Africa as the primary investment destination for critical minerals. This year's edition takes place under the theme Innovate, Enact, Invest in African Critical Minerals to Sustain Global Growth, connecting African mining projects and regulators with global investors and stakeholders to untap the full potential of the continent's raw materials. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
NERSA approves Sasol Gas application
The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) has approved Sasol Gas (Pty) Ltd.’s application for a maximum price of gas for the period 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025.
The Energy Regulator said the maximum gas price is expected to facilitate the achievement of the policy imperatives contemplated in the Gas Act’s objectives.
“Sasol Gas applied for a maximum price determined on the basis of a ‘cost-plus’ principle set out in the 2023 Methodology. The effective date of the approved maximum prices of gas will be 01 June 2024. The approved maximum prices of gas will remain effective until the date of approval of other maximum prices by the Energy Regulator,” NERSA on Friday.
The application for a maximum price of gas has been approved as follows:
“The approved maximum price is exclusive of VAT. NERSA's decision implies that the maximum price level approved is fair and reasonable, after it has taken into consideration the provisions of the Gas Act of 2001 and the associated regulations,” the Energy Regulator said.
The detailed decision and reasons for the decision document regarding the above decision is available on the NERSA website at www.nersa.org.za. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 05/10/2024 - 14:11
Warning against Employment Equity misrepresentation
The Department of Employment and Labour has warned employers against misrepresenting their Employment Equity (EE) status.
The department’s Statutory and Advocacy Services Chief Director, Advocate Fikiswa Bede, said a number of employers risk being taken to courts over misrepresentation on their employment equity status.
Bede said, in addition to imposing fines, the department will also be taking a number of employers to court and lay criminal charges.
“The Employment Equity Act allows us to go to court. I hope no one wants to have a criminal record. We are now seriously looking at pursuing the criminal route,” Bede said.
Bede noted that Chief Executives of companies are responsible for signing-off the EE plans.
She said the department has been doing its own monitoring and will no longer accept EE reports as the gospel truth.
Just like the Chief Executives, Bede said EE managers and EE Forum members have a duty to ensure compliance and as such they will also need to be held accountable.
Bede was speaking during the Employment Equity Dinner and Awards ceremony, held in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, on Thursday night.
The department hosted the EE awards to reward employers complying with the legislation and also aimed to promote compliance with EE legislation.
Employers bestowed with recognition were selected from a sample of 91 employers from various sectors who were judged against their own approved EE plans, and the number was reduced to nine.
She emphasised the department is not interested in getting money from employers but ensuring compliance.
She said the inspectorate would be invoking Section 61, where some of the elements of the section states that “no person may – obstruct or attempt to improperly influence any person who is exercising power or performing a function in terms of this Act; or knowingly give false information in any document or information provided to the Director-General or a labour inspector in terms of this Act.”
Employment and Labour Inspector General, Aggy Moiloa urged employers to comply and not allow themselves to be pushed or force be exerted on them to comply.
“Judging by the annual reports of the Commission for Employment Equity (CEE), the work of the inspectorate is cut out. We have some mileage to cover,” Moiloa said.
Moiloa commended the award recipients, emphasising that workplaces should be centres to harvest talent.
“These are ground breakers, trend setters who give us hope that there are institutions that are willing to comply,” Moiloa said.
Award categories
Ministerial award (performing inspectors): Albert Mabokela; Lesego Maema; Edward Manana;
Ministerial Award Gold: Clientele Legal; Sherwood Spar; Shoprite Cherkers Pty Ltd;
Ministerial Award Silver: Le Roux; Medicus Shoes; Pine Lake Marina Pty Ltd; and
Ministerial Award Bronze: Braitex Tensilon Pty Ltd; Toscana Herbs and Fresh Produce Pty Ltd.
The category on affirmed employers, who showed progress was awarded to Footgear (Pty) Ltd; Ackermans A Division of Pepkor Trading (Proprietary) Ltd; Sasol Limited and Samsung Electronics South Africa Production (Pty) Ltd.
Other affirmed employers included Gautrain Management Agency; Mediclinic South Africa; Blunden Coach Tours; Rockwell Automation; Machinery Plant Hire cc and Sishen Iron Ore Company PTY LTD. -SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 05/10/2024 - 10:14