Eskom's 3GW Gas Plant Halted! What This Means For SA's Power Crisis
South Africa's energy landscape has taken another turn as the Supreme Court of Appeal has overturned a permit granted to Eskom for a 3 GW gas-fired power plant in Richards Bay. The decision, announced in September 2025, throws the future of the project into uncertainty.
Why Was the Project Cancelled?
The court's ruling hinges on Eskom's failure to adequately consult with communities who would be affected by the construction and operation of the plant. This lack of engagement has forced Eskom to go back to the drawing board and restart the approval process, ensuring proper public consultations are conducted.
A History of Opposition
The gas plant project, initially proposed in 2019, has faced significant hurdles. Environmental groups have consistently voiced their opposition, contributing to the project's dormancy. This cancellation follows a trend of scrapped energy projects in Richards Bay, including a proposed LNG import plant cancelled in 2024, and several other gas-fired initiatives.
Eskom's Current Power Generation Portfolio
Eskom's existing power generation capacity is diverse, comprising:
- 15 coal power plants (40 GW)
- 1 nuclear plant (1.9 GW Koeberg)
- 4 gas/oil-fired plants (2.4 GW)
- 5 hydropower plants (3.3 GW, including 2.7 GW of pumping stations)
- 1 wind power plant (Sere, 100 MW)
This cancellation raises questions about South Africa's future energy mix and the role of gas power in addressing the country's ongoing electricity challenges. Will Eskom be able to successfully navigate the renewed approval process, and what alternatives will be considered to meet the growing demand for power?