Blow for Richards Bay gas-to-power plant

Plans for a giant gas-to-power plant in Richards Bay have been dealt a heavy blow after the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) set aside its environmental authorisation.

Described as a ‘game changer’ in addressing the country’s electricity challenges, the 3 000 megawatt Combined Cycle Power Plant (CCPP) was to be built at the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ).

The project received major pushback from environmentalists and civil rights groups, raising concerns about the public participation process and the potential negative environmental impact.
Community victory.

The SCA ruled in favour of affected communities last week, overturning a decision of the Pretoria High Court, which had upheld an Environmental Authorisation granted to Eskom by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment…

Read the full story in the ZO Weekender edition, out on the shelves and on the ZO app today!

Don’t have the ZO app? Download it to your Android or Apple device here:

HAVE YOUR SAY