South Africa's Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) and the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) have signed a 10-year agreement to deepen collaboration in promoting sustainable energy supply and infrastructure development in the country.

The deal, TNPA said in release on August 21, is expected to accelerate the country’s Just Energy Transition as South African ports are an integral part of this programme.  Furthermore, the agreement will promote energy security.

"Under this agreement, the partnership will ensure alignment in the licensing and operation of petroleum facilities, liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities, as well as electricity generation, distribution and transmission facilities," it said.

As part of its response to address the country’s energy requirements, TNPA is progressing a gas-to-power programme, which will introduce three bulk LNG terminals at as many ports.  The first one is set to begin operations by 2028.

Acting TNPA CEO Phyllis Difeto said the deal is vital in boosting national energy independence and security.

"The agreement aligns with our strategic plan of ensuring security of supply and unlocking global opportunities for sustainable impact. Ports play a critical role in the importation of various energy sources, as well as components importation, which would support SA's energy aspirations and requirements,” Difeto said.

Work is also underway to establish small scale LNG facilities at some ports and renewable energy projects at the country's eight commercial ports.

NERSA representative, Muzi Mkhize said:

"The two institutions, being authorities in their own right, need to ensure that sufficient import capacity is available and that the port system functions efficiently, especially given the country’s reliance on imports to meet the liquid fuels demand and the anticipated LNG imports in the context of the country’s socio-economic challenges and developmental goals.”