The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) and Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) have signed a 10-year memorandum of understanding (MoU) to coordinate regulatory and infrastructure development for sustainable energy in South Africa.
The agreement establishes joint steering committees and workstreams focused on technical, regulatory and strategic alignment. It aims to streamline licensing and operation of petroleum, LNG and electricity generation, distribution and transmission facilities with direct links to the Integrated Resource Plan and the South African Renewable Energy Masterplan, according to the MoU.
“The MoU supports security of supply. Unlocking global opportunities for sustainable impact and South Africa’s ports are central to energy independence and supply security,” says Acting TNPA Chief Executive Phyllis Difeto.
Under its gas-to-power programme, the TNPA is advancing plans for three bulk LNG import terminals at Richards Bay, Ngqura and Saldanha. The first facility, at Richards Bay, is expected to be operational by 2028, followed by Ngqura. Work is also underway on small-scale LNG facilities and renewable energy developments across all eight commercial ports.
“The collaboration was imperative to ensure sufficient import capacity and efficient port operations, given the country’s reliance on liquid fuels and anticipated LNG imports,” says NERSA’s Petroleum Pipelines Regulator Member Muzi Mkhize.
