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15 March 2024 - NW603

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Faber, Mr WF to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

With reference to his reply to question 186 on 22 February 2023, what are the details of the (a) make, (b) model, (c) year of manufacture, (d) date of purchase and (e) purchase price paid for each vehicle purchased by his department for (i) him and (ii) the Deputy Minister since 8 May 2019?

Reply:

(i) Vehicle purchased for Minister Mantashe since 08 May 2019

  1. Make: BMW X3 s Drive 20i
  2. Model: GO1 X 3 s Drive 20i SAV (16DP)
  3. Year of Manufacture: 2023
  4. Date of purchase: 31 March 2023
  5. Price: R768, 030.00

(ii) Vehicle purchased for the Deputy Minister Dr Nkabane since 08 May 2019

  1. No vehicle purchased for the Deputy Minister to date March 2024
  2. N/A
  3. N/A
  4. N/A
  5. N/A

15 March 2024 - NW479

Profile picture: Mhlongo, Ms N

Mhlongo, Ms N to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

What (a) are the reasons that his department is delaying in plugging residents of Middelplaas Emoyeni section Ward 83204031, Mpumalanga 324, Nkomazi Local Municipality to the grid, (b) was the initial time frame put in place by his department to complete the project and (c) are the reasons that there has been no communication regarding new time frames put in place to complete the project and finally plug the community to the grid to collect the much needed revenue?

Reply:

The structure of the Integrated National Electrification Programme (INEP) within the department requires municipalities to apply for funding to electrify their prioritised areas through Integrated Development Plans (IDP). In the 2021/22 financial year, the department received an application from Nkomazi Local Municipality to electrify Middleplaas area, which was successfully funded and implemented by the municipality. It is worth noting that Emoyeni was not part of the submitted application.

Therefore, should the municipality prioritise Emoyeni and applies for funding in future, the area will be considered for funding and implementation in line with INEP application processes.

08 March 2024 - NW305

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Halse, Ms T to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

What is his department doing to ensure that municipal administrations stop inflating electricity tariffs through the gap between the approval of tariffs in Council and approval from National Energy Regulator of South Africa?

Reply:

  1. Subsequent to the tariff approvals, NERSA requests tariff schedules from municipalities and compares them with the approved tariffs to ensure that the correct tariffs are being charged to customers. Further to this, when municipal compliance audits are conducted, NERSA checks the approved tariffs against the implemented tariffs to ensure that there are no discrepancies. It must, however, be noted that municipalities charge surcharges in addition to the NERSA-approved tariffs. Such surcharges fall outside of NERSA’s regulatory mandate.

08 March 2024 - NW304

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Halse, Ms T to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

(1) What is the total number of municipalities that submit to National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) for approval of the electricity tariffs adopted in Council within the required time frames for approval; (2) does NERSA compare the minutes of the Council meeting to check if the adopted electricity tariffs are the same as those transferred to the NERSA form for adoption; if not, why not, if so, what is the total number of discrepancies that have been identified?

Reply:

(1) NERSA has 176 licensed distributors, 12 of which are private distributors. The 164 municipal distributors submit tariff applications to NERSA annually, prior to the 1 July implementation date. Although some municipalities occasionally submit their applications late, NERSA always follows up with such municipalities in an effort to have the approvals finalised by 1 July.

(2) Subsequent to the tariff approvals, NERSA requests tariff schedules from municipalities and compares them with the approved tariffs to ensure that the correct tariffs are being charged to customers.

Further to this, NERSA conducts compliance audits on the licenced distributors annually. This is done to ensure compliance with NERSA’s licence conditions, which, among others, relates to verifying whether licenced distributors implement NERSA-approved tariffs.

It must be noted that NERSA does not analyse the minutes of the Council meeting to check whether the adopted electricity tariffs are the same as those that have been transferred to the NERSA form for tariff application, as NERSA believes that the submission for tariff applications is made and signed off by the highest officer of the municipality, which represents the decision of the Council.

NERSA, therefore, does not undertake to verify the decision made by the Council. This is also done to avoid the further lengthening of the tariff approval process.

08 March 2024 - NW91

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Phillips, Ms C to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

(1) With reference to the Auditor-General’s Consolidated Generals Report on National and Provincial Audit Outcomes 2022-23, which indicates a material irregularity of a likely loss of R296 million in relation to fees for prospecting, licences, permits and rights that were not collected between April 2020 and March 2023, what total amount of the R296 million is owed to the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy in the North West, (2) what is the total amount owed in fees by companies who applied for (a) prospecting rights, (b) licences and (c) permits in the Bojanala area; (3) whether the licences and permits will be withdrawn as a result of the non payment of fees; if not, why not; if so, on what date will they be withdrawn; (4) whether the interested and/or affected parties will be notified that their licences and permits have been withdrawn; if not, why not; if so, (a) how and (b) on what date?

Reply:

1. Prospecting licences, permits and rights were awarded between April 2020 and March 2023. Prospecting Right holders are obliged to pay prospecting fees in terms of section 19(2)(f) of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, 2002 (Act 28 of 2002) (as amended) (hereinafter referred to as the MPRDA). According to section 76(2) of the MPRDA Regulations a holder of a Prospecting Right must pay prospecting fees annually in advance and not later than 30 days from the commencement date of such right and thereafter not later than 30 days following the anniversary of each respective year of the right for the duration thereof.

Prospecting right holders usually pay the initial fees when the right is issued, however they fail to pay annual fees in subsequent years due to a variety of reasons.

  • Non commencement of prospecting activities and inactive prospecting rights
  • Frivolous applications with a view to speculate with the right
  • Less than promising results from initial prospecting rounds compared to prospecting costs incurred
  • In some cases delinquency on the part of right holders.
  • Right holders entered business rescue or the holder of the rights are liquidated
  • Non traceable right holders
  • Relinquishment of rights without notifying the regulator

2. The total amount of debt relating to Bojanala district right holders’ debt is approximately R510 079.62

3. Prospecting rights can be cancelled after all administrative process have been followed. The right holders are informed on their default in payment of prospecting fees. An order/instruction is then issued in terms of section 93 of the MPRDA non-complying right holders to demand payment. If the right holder fails to make payment, section 47 (intention to cancel the right) is issued. A specific date cannot be determined as this is an ongoing process.

4. The right holder is notified once the right has been cancelled. A specific date cannot be determined as this is an ongoing process.

08 March 2024 - NW90

Profile picture: Phillips, Ms C

Phillips, Ms C to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

Whether, in light of the Auditor-General’s Consolidated Generals Report on National and Provincial Audit Outcomes 2022-23, which indicates a material irregularity of a likely loss of R296 million in relation to fees for prospecting licences, permits and rights that were not collected between April 2020 and March 2023, the licences, permits and rights were awarded without the relevant fees being paid; if not, what were the reasons that fees were not collected; if so, what are the reasons that this was allowed?

Reply:

Prospecting licences, permits and rights were awarded between April 2020 and March 2023. Prospecting Right holders are obliged to pay prospecting fees in terms of section 19(2)(f) of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, 2002 (Act 28 of 2002) (as amended) (hereinafter referred to as the MPRDA). According to section 76(2) of the MPRDA Regulations a holder of a Prospecting Right must pay prospecting fees annually in advance and not later than 30 days from the commencement date of such right and thereafter not later than 30 days following the anniversary of each respective year of the right for the duration thereof.

Prospecting right holders usually pay the initial fees when the right is issued, however they fail to pay annual fees in subsequent years due to a variety of reasons. These include less than promising results from initial prospecting rounds compared to expended financial resources and in some cases delinquency on the part of right holders.

Despite efforts from each of the Regions to collect outstanding fees, some right holders failed to respond. These were escalated to State Attorneys for collection and in some cases, there was a positive response. In others, the Department failed to get response. In some cases, holders were not traceable and there were no activities on the site. In other limited cases the Directors were deceased.

08 March 2024 - NW69

Profile picture: Cuthbert, Mr MJ

Cuthbert, Mr MJ to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

(1) Whether he will furnish Mr M J Cuthbert with a full list of (a) completed and (b) outstanding applications for (i) mining rights, (ii) prospecting rights and (iii) mining permits that were received in each province in the 2023-24 financial year; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) whether he will provide reasons for the delay in each outstanding application; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

(1)(a)(b) & (2) Please refer to the attached Annexure A and B.

08 March 2024 - NW313

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Mileham, Mr K to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

Considering that part of the cost of every litre of diesel is a tax levy called the illuminating paraffin (IP) tracer dye levy whose purpose is to curtail the unlawful mixing of diesel and IP and following the recent scandal of 70 petrol stations across the Republic reported to have mixed their diesel with paraffin, how did the dye tracing mechanism borne out of the levy fail to detect the contaminated diesel before it got sold to consumers?

Reply:

Tracer dye is added to Illuminating Paraffin to enable its detection once it is mixed into diesel. The presence of the tracer dye can only be detected through laboratory testing or specialized mobile equipment. The Department collects fuel samples randomly at service stations to test for the presence of the tracer dye, amongst others.

It is precisely this random testing that led to the detection of adulteration when the presence of the tracer dye was detected at the laboratory.

04 March 2024 - NW7

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Herron, Mr BN to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

(1) Whether, with reference to his reply to question 2266 on 30 June 2023, and the reply of the Minister of Public Enterprises, Mr P J Gordhan, to question 2772 on 4 October 2023, regarding the announcement nearly three years ago on 18 March 2021 of the preferred bidders for the Risk Mitigation Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (RMIPPPP) projects – in particular the three Karpowership projects at Coega, Richards Bay and Saldanha – and furthermore, with reference to the tender for the Gas Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (GASIPPPP) issued on 14 December 2023 for 3000 megawatts (MW) to be generated from gas, his department has implemented the long stop date on 31 December 2023 as indicated by the Minister of Public Enterprises in his reply to question 2772, by which time the projects under the RMIPPPP would have had to achieve legal close; if not, why not; if so, which projects achieved legal close; (2) what is the status of the three Karpowership bids, given the appeals against the environmental authorisations; (3) whether the Karpowership bids have been cancelled when the projects have not achieved legal close; if not, why not; if so, (a) on what date(s) were the bids cancelled and (b) what are the relevant details in each case; (4) whether, given that the GASIPPPP makes provision for 2 000 MW to be procured from land-based gas-fired power generation facilities and makes special reference to facilities at Coega and within the uMhlathuze Local Municipality, the additional 1 000 MW at Coega and the specified local municipality in Richards Bay in KwaZulu-Natal is intended to provide a further opportunity for Karpowerships to bid and be included in the IPP programmes; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details; (5) given the continuing loadshedding and the urgency for additional generation capacity, what (a) measures has he implemented to ensure that preferred bidders from previous Bid Windows and the RMIPPPP reach legal close and commercial operation and (b) projects have reached commercial operation and total generation capacity has the projects contributed to electricity supply? NW7E

Reply:

With regard to (1), (2), (3) and (5)(a), all Preferred Bidders appointed under the Risk Mitigation Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (RMIPPPP) and the fifth bid window under the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP Bid Window 5) were given an absolute deadline of 31 December 2023 to meet their specific conditions precedent to reach Legal and Commercial Close. Such conditions are at the Preferred Bidders’ own risk. Accordingly, the Department is applying all relevant steps in accordance with the provisions of the Request for Proposals (RFP).

With regard to (4) all IPP Procurement Bid Windows were implemented in line with public procurement prescripts on the basis of competitive bidding against specific requirements as stated in the Request for Proposals (RFP). The Department does not design procurement programmes based on specific potential bidders, but on the requirements of the System Operator. The Department released a 2000MW Gas to Power Bid Window on 14 December 2023 which specifies an exclusion in respect of any potential Project(s) located in the area known as Zone 13 near the Port of Ngqura, as it is envisaged that a separate procurement process will be undertaken for the establishment of a gas-fired new generation project at that location. The RFP specifications for the 1000MW Gas to Power IPP Progragmme at that location is still under development.

With regard to 5(b), by 31 December 2023, 95 IPP Projects are in operation and contributing 7362.2 MW to the national grid. A further 16 IPP Projects, totaling 1687MW, are currently in construction and are expected to start operations from September 2024 onwards.

04 March 2024 - NW213

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Ceza, Mr K to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

What benefits do the communities of (a) Clewer in Witbank and (b) Tokologo in Middelburg derive from the mine operations in their respective areas in line with the Social and Labour Plans?

Reply:

a) In relation to Clewer in Witbank, the community benefits derived from mining operations under Social Labour Plans are as follows:

  • Construction of Clewer health post
  • Construction of a Clewer hall
  • Integrated waste management project: mini transfer station
  • Community skills development project (AD Security training)
  • Basic welding project for the greater Emalahleni community members

b) The community of Tokologo in Middelburg benefits are as follows:

  • Tokologo road construction
  • 8hr New town clinic in Middelburg
  • SMME Industrial Park
  • Water purification plant
  • 24-hour Rockdale clinic
  • Additional classrooms at Phumelele Primary School

04 March 2024 - NW119

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Lorimer, Mr JR to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

(1) What is the total number of candidates who were (a) awarded Government Certificates of Competence within the Mine Health and Safety Inspectorate in each category of certificate in each of the last five financial years and (b) unsuccessful in each specified financial year. (2) What (a) are the names of the current members of the Commission of Examiners for each category of certificate and (b) independent oversight is in place to ensure the integrity of the process of examination and the awarding of certificates; (3) Whether there is an appeals or complaints process in place; if not, what is the position in regard; if so, what are the relevant details; (4) Whether his department received any complaints about the integrity of the certification process in each of the past five financial years; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what (a) are the specific details of the complaints and (b) was done about the complaints?

Reply:

1. 

Mine Managers Certificate

 

Certificate Awarded

Unsuccessful

2019/20

113

636

2020/21

15

399

2021/22

69

508

2022/23

58

415

2023/24

64

556

   NB: Certificate is awarded after a candidate has passed a total of 7 subjects.

Mine Surveyors Certificate

 

Certificate Awarded

Unsuccessful

2019/20

5

507

2020/21

5

206

2021/22

10

372

2022/23

9

314

2023/24

3

419

 NB: Certificate is awarded after a candidate has passed a total of 8 subjects.

Mine Engineers Certificate

 

Certificate Awarded

Unsuccessful

2019/20

64

214

2020/21

30

126

2021/22

36

257

2022/23

38

254

2023/24

43

189

 NB: Certificate is awarded after a candidate has passed a total of 2 subjects

(a)

            MINE MANAGERS CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCY

Mr. Thabo Ngwenya

DMRE

Mr. Terence Doyle

DMRE

Mr. Solly Jivhuho

DMRE

Ms. Neo Monareng

Mining Sector

Ms. Katlego Segoe

Mining Sector

Mr. Letuka Moorosi

Mining Sector

Ms. Priscilla Nelwamondo

Mining Sector

Mr. Gawie van Heerden

Mining Sector

Mr. Eugene Moremi

Mining Sector

Ms. Caroline Shirindza

Mining Sector

Ms. Gladys Nkosi

DMRE

Ms. Karin van Deventer

Independent Geologist

Ms. Mitchell Pienaar

Mandela Mining Precinct

Ms. Lerato Mokonyane

DMRE

Ms. Keorapetse Stone

DMRE

Ms. Lesego Mokgethi

Mining Sector

                            

MINE SURVEYORS CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCY

Mr. Ndivhudza Mahwasane

DMRE

Ms. Keorapetse Stone

DMRE

Mr. Obakeng Clifford Nyaqela

Mining Sector

Mr. Mpho Matloga

DMRE

Mr. Dumisani Moloi

Mining Sector

Mr. Adolph Mhlongo

Mining Sector

Ms. Lerato Mokonyane

DMRE

Ms. Christinah Kgosi

Mining Sector

Mr. Thabo Mmulutsi

Mining Sector

                        MINE ENGINEERS CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCY

Mr. Mthokozisi Zondi

DMRE

Mr. Paulus Kambula

DMRE

Mr. Kolani Mamburu

Mining Sector

Mr. Siphamandla Mthethwa

Mining Sector

Mr. Fefa Moleleki

Mining Sector

Mr. Ayanda Zwide

Mining Sector

Mr. Clifford Dlamini

DMRE

     

(b)        Yes,

3. Yes

4. No

    Should the department receive formal complaints regarding the integrity, due processes will be followed in investigating the concerns.

18 December 2023 - NW2928

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Mileham, Mr K to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

With reference to the identification by his department’s Integrated Resource Plan of the Komati Power Station as an underperforming power plant scheduled for decommissioning in 2020, and in light of his claims in recent interviews and speeches that the Komati Power Station was a performing plant that should not have been decommissioned, what (a) total amount of electricity did Komati Power Station generate and (b) was the Energy Availability Factor at the time of its decommissioning?

Reply:

As part of information gathering process in preparation for the development of IRP 2019, the Department requested information on existing power plant generation capacity and performance projections. Eskom projected Komati to be performing at energy availability factor of 87 percent in year 2020. Komati power station has a design generation capacity of 1000 MW from a total of nine units. The repurposing of this power station has therefore led to the loss of this capacity.

14 December 2023 - NW3652

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Phillips, Ms C to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

(1) With reference to the remining of rock dumps and tailings storage facilities (TSFs) on abandoned and/or derelict mines, who becomes the owner of a rock dump or TSF on an abandoned and/or derelict mine; (2) whether the specified rock dump and/or TSF falls under the administration of his department; if not, which department does it fall under; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) whether the registered owner has a specified time frame to utilise the waste rock dumps and the TSFs; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (4) whether the process to be followed for the remining of a rock dump or TSF is the same as the process for a prospecting licence, which would include an environmental impact assessment and a water use licence?

Reply:

1. With reference to the remining of rock dumps and tailings storage facilities (TSFs) on abandoned and/or derelict mines, the person who was legally authorised to mine on the land in question, becomes owner of the movable dumps or (TSFs). Refer to the judgment of De Beers Consolidated Mines versus Ataqua Mining (Pty) Ltd and Others (3215/06) [2007] ZAFSHC 74 (13 December 2007).

2. Whether the specified rock dump and/or TSF falls under the administration of my department or otherwise, depends on when the dump was created. Dumps created before the commencement of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act 28 of 2002 (“MPRDA”) are regarded as historic dumps. As confirmed in the De Beers judgment mentioned above, these dumps fall outside the jurisdiction of application of the MPRDA and are therefore not subject to its licencing regime. Dumps created post the commencement of the MPRDA is regarded as residue stockpiles and/or residue deposits which walls within the administration of my Department.

3. Whether the registered owner has a specified time frame to utilise the waste rock dumps and the TSFs will depend on the facts of each individual case and the nature of the right(s) and obligations of the owner in each case.

4. Whether the process to be followed for the remining of a rock dump or TSF is the same as the process for a prospecting licence, will firstly depend on whether the dump is historic, or whether the material therein constitutes residue stockpiles or deposits. Secondly, the nature of the activity will determine the extent and nature of the statutory authorisation to be obtained to carry out the activity. In most cases, environmental authorisations and water ule licences are required to carry out activities of this nature.

14 December 2023 - NW4189

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Weber, Ms AMM to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

(1)With reference to (a) his reply to question 1642 on 2 June 2023 and (b) the meeting on Tuesday, 14 November 2023 with the interested and affected parties discussing a scoping and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process, how is it possible that the Hillside Siding coal wash plant on Elandspruit, Farm 291 JS, in the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality has been established and operational despite the farm not having records of (i) a water use registration, (ii) an approved EIA, (iii) an approved Basic Assessment Report and (iv) an approved Environmental Management Programme; (2) whether Hill Siding has been authorised to make use of the specified property(ies); if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (3) whether he will furnish Ms A M M Weber with a copy of the said authorisation; if not, why not; if so, (a) on what date and (b) what are the further, relevant details in this regard?

Reply:

  1. The Department is not a competent authority to deal with coal siding and wash plant which is outside the mining area. This business operation as it falls outside of the mining area requires authorization from the departments of Forestry, Fisheries and Water and Sanitation.
  2. Please see (1) above
  3. Please see (1) above

12 December 2023 - NW3912

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Weber, Ms AMM to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

(1) What licenses are required from his department to run a (a) coal wash plant and (b) chrome wash plant. (2) what enforcements measures does his department have in place when one is in breach of not having a license. (3) how regularly does his department conduct inspections at these coal wash and chrome wash plants. (4) how many violations were reported to his department in the past three years on each (a) province and (b) wash plant. (5) what action steps were taken by his department to rectify the specified violations?

Reply:

The licence required to run a coal wash plant and chrome wash plant is a Water Use Licence and is granted by the Department of Water and Sanitation. Therefore, the details on the licence required, enforcement measures, inspections and violations are those stipulated by the Department of Water and Sanitation in terms of the National Water Act, 1998 (Act 36 of 1998).

12 December 2023 - NW4213

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Phillips, Ms C to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy Mr

1) With reference to his reply to question 1832 on 29 May 2023, wherein he indicated that the monument for the fallen miners will no longer be installed at the original sites but will be placed temporarily at the Mine Health and Safety Council Office Building, what is the envisaged date for the permanent installation of the monument at an alternative site; (2) whether he will furnish Mrs C Phillips with documentation and/or communication received from the City of Johannesburg advising that the monument will no longer be allowed to be erected on the original site previously approved; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

  1. By October 2024
  2. No formal correspondence was received from the City of Johannesburg. An email from MHSC employee confirming that the site is earmarked for commercial business has been attached.

08 December 2023 - NW3728

Profile picture: Mhlongo, Ms N

Mhlongo, Ms N to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

(1) Since the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (Bid Window 1 to 6) was initiated, (a)(i) what total number of projects were awarded contracts and (ii) to which companies were such contracts awarded and (b) what total number of (i) the projects that contracts were awarded to, have gone online and (ii) megawatts have they added to the grid; (2) whether he has found that any of the companies to whom contracts were awarded, had neglected to honour the contracts; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what steps have been taken to mitigate against non-performance by the companies to whom contracts were awarded?

Reply:

In response to (1)(a)(i) a total of 110 Preferred Bidders have signed project agreements under the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP), and (1)(a)(ii) the details of these projects can be found at Annexure A attached, and on the IPP Projects Database which can be accessed as https://www.ipp-projects.co.za/ProjectDatabase.

In response to (1)(b)(i) and (ii), 90 renewable energy IPP projects have completed construction and reached Commercial Close and are operational, delivering 6 180 MW to the national grid, and 9 projects (1 009 MW) are currently in construction.

In response to (2) The REIPPPP has a number of legal agreements/contracts of which all bidders are obligated to honour in line with the terms and conditions of the agreements. Projects that have successfully reached commercial operation date (COD) have managed to honour their contractual obligations satisfactory to date, and no contract have been terminated as a result of non-performance or any material breach. As part of the on-going Contract Management and Monitoring of the Department’s IPP Office, IPPs are penalised in terms of their Implementation Agreement terms and conditions if obligations and targets are not met.

Annexure A: PROJECTS IN OPERATION AND CONSTRUCTION UNDER THE RENEWABLE ENERGY

INDEPENDENT POWER PRODUCER PROCUREMENT PROGRAMME

Bid Window

PROJECT NAME:

PROJECT COMPANY NAME:

MW

CONTRACTUAL EFFECTIVE DATE

PROJECT STATUS

COMMERCIAL OPERATION DATE

PROVINCE

TECHNOLOGY

BW1

Letsatsi Power Company

Firefly Investments 253 (RF) (Pty) Ltd

64,00

05 November 2012

Operational

21 May 2014

FS

PV

BW1

Lesedi Power Company

Oakleaf Investments Holdings 79 (RF) (Pty) Ltd

64,00

05 November 2012

Operational

21 May 2014

NC

PV

BW1

Witkop Solar Park

Core Energy (RF) (Pty) Ltd

30,00

05 November 2012

Operational

20 September 2014

L

PV

BW1

Noblesfontein Phase 1

Coria (PKF) Investments 28 (RF) (Pty) Ltd

72,75

05 November 2012

Operational

12 July 2014

NC

OW

BW1

Touwsrivier Project

CPV Power Plant No. 1 (RF) (Pty) Ltd

36,00

05 November 2012

Operational

05 December 2014

WC

PV

BW1

Dorper Wind Farm

Dorper Wind Farm (RF) (Pty) Ltd

97,00

05 November 2012

Operational

09 August 2014

EC

OW

BW1

Soutpan

Soutpan Solar Power (RF) (Pty) Ltd

28,00

05 November 2012

Operational

04 July 2014

L

PV

BW1

Mulilo Renewable Energy Solar PV De Aar (RF) (Pty) Ltd

Mulilo Renewable Energy Solar PV De Aar (RF) (Pty) Ltd

9,65

05 November 2012

Operational

19 July 2014

NC

PV

BW1

Mulilo Renewable Energy Solar PV Prieska (RF) (Pty) Ltd

Mulilo Renewable Energy Solar PV Prieska (RF) (Pty) Ltd

19,93

05 November 2012

Operational

01 October 2014

NC

PV

BW1

Kaxu Solar One

KaXu Solar One (RF) (Pty) Ltd

100,00

05 November 2012

Operational

06 February 2015

NC

CSP

BW1

Dassiesklip Wind Energy Facility

Klipheuwel Wind Farm (RF) (Pty) Ltd

26,19

05 November 2012

Operational

07 May 2014

WC

OW

BW1

Konkoonsies Solar Energy Facility

Konkoonsies Solar Power (RF) (Pty) Ltd

9,65

05 November 2012

Operational

20 March 2014

NC

PV

BW1

MetroWind Van Stadens Wind Farm

Rubicept (RF) (Pty) Ltd

26,19

05 November 2012

Operational

07 February 2014

EC

OW

BW1

Kouga Wind Farm

Kouga Wind Farm (RF) (Pty) Ltd

77,60

05 November 2012

Operational

17 March 2015

EC

OW

BW1

RustMo1 Solar Farm

RustMo1 Solar Farm (RF) (Pty) Ltd

6,76

05 November 2012

Operational

15 November 2013

NW

PV

BW1

Kalkbult

Scatec Solar Kalkbult (RF) (Pty) Ltd

72,50

05 November 2012

Operational

19 March 2014

NC

PV

BW1

Aries Solar Energy Facility

Aries Solar Power (RF) (Pty) Ltd

9,65

05 November 2012

Operational

20 March 2014

NC

PV

BW1

SlimSun Swartland Solar Park

SlimSun (RF) (Pty) Ltd

5,00

05 November 2012

Operational

05 August 2015

WC

PV

BW1

De Aar Solar Power (RF) (PTY) LTD

De Aar Solar Power (RF) (PTY) LTD

48,25

05 November 2012

Operational

05 April 2014

NC

PV

BW1

Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm (RF) (PTY) LTD

Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm (RF) (PTY) LTD

133,86

05 November 2012

Operational

15 May 2014

EC

OW

BW1

Umoya Energy Wind Farm

Umoya Energy (RF) (Pty) Ltd

65,40

05 November 2012

Operational

01 February 2014

WC

OW

BW1

Cookhouse Wind Farm

Renewables Cookhouse Wind Farm 1 (RF) (Pty) Ltd

135,00

05 November 2012

Operational

19 November 2014

EC

OW

BW1

Greefspan PV Power Plant

AE-AMD Independent Power Producer 1 (RF) (Pty) Ltd

10,00

05 November 2012

Operational

11 April 2014

NC

PV

BW1

Renewable Energy Investment South Africa (REISA)

Renewable Energy Investments SA (RF) (Pty) Ltd

75,00

05 November 2012

Operational

15 August 2014

NC

PV

BW1

Solar Capital De Aar

Solar Capital De Aar (RF) (Pty) Ltd

75,00

05 November 2012

Operational

15 August 2014

NC

PV

BW1

Droogfontein Solar Power (RF) (PTY) LTD

Droogfontein Solar Power (RF) (PTY) LTD

48,25

05 November 2012

Operational

06 April 2014

NC

PV

BW1

Herbert PV Power Plant

AE-AMD Independent Power Producer 3 (RF) (Pty) Ltd

19,90

05 November 2012

Operational

11 April 2014

NC

PV

BW1

Khi Solar One

Khi Solar One (RF) (Pty) Ltd

50,00

05 November 2012

Operational

05 February 2016

NC

CSP

BW2

Bokpoort CSP Project

ACWA Power Solafrica Bokpoort CSP Power Plant (Pty) Ltd (RF)

50,00

09 May 2013

Operational

19 March 2016

NC

CSP

BW2

Gouda Wind Project

Blue Falcon 140 Trading (RF) (Pty) Ltd

135,24

09 May 2013

Operational

25 August 2015

WC

OW

BW2

Solar De Aar 3 (Pty) Ltd

Solar Capital De Aar 3 (RF) (Pty) Ltd

75,00

09 May 2013

Operational

02 April 2016

NC

PV

BW2

Sishen Solar Facility

Windfall 59 Properties (RF) (Pty) Ltd

74,00

09 May 2013

Operational

29 November 2014

NC

PV

BW2

Amakhala Emoyeni

Amakhala Emoyeni RE Project 1 (RF) (Pty) Ltd

137,90

09 May 2013

Operational

28 July 2016

EC

OW

BW2

Tsitsikamma Community Wind Farm Project

Tsitsikamma Community Wind Farm (RF) (Pty) Ltd

94,80

09 May 2013

Operational

17 August 2016

EC

OW

BW2

Wind Farm West Coast 1

Aurora Wind Power (RF) (Pty) Ltd

90,82

09 May 2013

Operational

09 June 2015

WC

OW

BW2

Waainek

Waainek Wind Power (RF) (Pty) Ltd

23,28

09 May 2013

Operational

10 January 2016

EC

OW

BW2

Grassridge

Grassridge Wind Power (RF) (Pty) Ltd

59,82

09 May 2013

Operational

06 June 2015

EC

OW

BW2

Chaba

Chaba Wind Power (RF) (Pty) Ltd

20,58

09 May 2013

Operational

12 September 2015

EC

OW

BW2

Aurora-Rietvlei Solar Park

Aurora-Rietvlei Solar Power (RF) (Pty) Ltd

9,00

09 May 2013

Operational

23 December 2014

WC

PV

BW2

Vredendal Solar Park

Vredendal Solar Power Park (RF) (Pty) Ltd

8,82

09 May 2013

Operational

31 July 2014

WC

PV

BW2

Stortemelk Hydro

Stortemelk Hydro (RF) (Pty) Ltd

4,31

09 May 2013

Operational

29 July 2016

FS

SH

BW2

Linde

Simacel 155 (RF) (Pty) Ltd

36,80

09 May 2013

Operational

30 June 2014

NC

PV

BW2

Dreunberg

Simacel 160 (RF) (Pty) Ltd

69,60

09 May 2013

Operational

31 December 2014

EC

PV

BW2

Jasper Power Company

Japer Power Company (RF) (Pty) Ltd

75,00

09 May 2013

Operational

17 December 2014

NC

PV

BW2

Boshoff Solar Park

Boshof Solar Power (RF) (Pty) Ltd

60,00

09 May 2013

Operational

25 October 2014

FS

PV

BW2

Upington Airport

Sublunary Trading (RF) (Pty) Ltd

8,90

09 May 2013

Operational

31 July 2014

NC

PV

BW2

Neusberg Hydro Electrical Project

Kakamas Hydro Electric Power (RF) (Pty) Ltd

9,99

09 May 2013

Operational

31 January 2015

NC

SH

BW3

Ilanga CSP

Karoshoek Solar One (RF) (Pty) Ltd

100,00

23 January 2015

Operational

30 November 2018

NC

CSP

BW3

!Xina Solar One

Xina Solar One (RF) (Pty) Ltd

100,00

23 January 2015

Operational

01 August 2017

NC

CSP

BW3

ENERGY Joburg Landfill Gas to Electircity Project

ENERGY Joburg (RF) (Pty) Ltd

18,00

27 August 2015

Operational

Goudkoppies - 2017-04-25
Marie Louise - 2018-01-28
Robinson Deep - 2016-11-26
3 Facilities under 1 Project

G

LG

BW3

Longyuan Mulilo De Aar 2 North Wind Energy Facility

Longyuan Mulilo De Aar 2 North (RF) (Pty) Ltd

138,96

23 January 2015

Operational

31 October 2017

NC

OW

BW3

Longyuan Mulilo De Aar Maanhaarberg Wind Energy Facility

Longyuan Mulilo De Aar Wind Power (RF) (Pty) Ltd

96,48

23 January 2015

Operational

31 October 2017

NC

OW

BW3

Nojoli Wind Farm

Nojoli Wind Farm (RF) (Pty) Ltd

86,60

23 January 2015

Operational

31 October 2016

EC

OW

BW3

Loeriesfontein 2 Wind Farm

Loeriesfontein 2 Wind Farm (RF) (Pty) Ltd

138,23

23 January 2015

Operational

08 December 2017

NC

OW

BW3

Noupoort Wind Farm

Noupoort Wind Farm (RF) (Pty) Ltd

79,05

23 January 2015

Operational

11 July 2016

NC

OW

BW3

Khobab Wind Farm

Khobab Wind Farm (RF) (Pty) Ltd

137,74

23 January 2015

Operational

08 December 2017

NC

OW

BW3

Red Cap-Gibson Bay

Gibson Bay Wind Farm (RF) (Pty) Ltd

110,00

23 January 2015

Operational

28 April 2017

EC

OW

BW3

Adams Solar PV 2

Adams Solar PV Project Two (RF) (Pty) Ltd

75,00

23 January 2015

Operational

01 December 2016

NC

PV

BW3

Paleisheuwel

Electra Capital (RF) (Pty) Ltd

75,00

23 January 2015

Operational

12 October 2016

WC

PV

BW3

Mulilo Sonnedix Prieska PV

Mulilo Sonnedix Prieska PV (RF) (Pty) Ltd

75,00

23 January 2015

Operational

22 July 2016

NC

PV

BW3

Mulilo Prieska PV 4

Mulilo Prieska PV (RF) (Pty) Ltd

75,00

23 January 2015

Operational

05 August 2016

NC

PV

BW3

Tom Burke

Tobivox (RF) (Pty) Ltd

60,00

23 January 2015

Operational

27 August 2016

L

PV

BW3

Pulida Solar Park

Pulida Energy (RF) (Pty) Ltd

75,00

23 January 2015

Operational

23 January 2017

NC

PV

BW3.5

Kathu Solar Park

Kathu Solar (RF) (Pty) Ltd

100,00

09 May 2016

Operational

31 January 2019

NC

CSP

BW3.5

Redstone Solar Thermal Power Plant

Redstone Solar Thermal Power (RF) (Pty) Ltd

100,00

04 April 2018

In Construction

Pending

NC

CSP

BW4

Ngodwana Energy (Alternate)

Ngodwana Energy (RF) (Pty) Ltd

25,00

18 April 2018

Operational

12 March 2022

M

BM

BW4

Roggeveld

Roggeveld Wind Power (RF) (Pty) Ltd

140,00

04 April 2018

Operational

26 February 2022

NC

OW

BW4

Karusa Wind Farm

ACED Renewables Hidden Valley (RF) (Pty) Ltd

139,80

31 July 2018

Operational

28 June 2022

NC

OW

BW4

The Soetwater Wind Farm

Soetwater Wind Farm (RF) (Pty) Ltd

139,40

31 July 2018

Operational

19 July 2022

NC

OW

BW4

Nxuba Wind Farm

Nxuba Wind Farm (RF) (Pty) Ltd

138,90

31 July 2018

Operational

24 November 2020

EC

OW

BW4

Kangnas

Kangnas Wind Farm (RF) (Pty) Ltd

136,70

07 June 2018

Operational

15 November 2020

NC

OW

BW4

Perdekraal East

Perdekraal Wind Farm (RF) (Pty) Ltd

107,76

07 June 2018

Operational

08 October 2020

WC

OW

BW4

Golden Valley Wind

Amstilite (RF) (Pty) Ltd

117,72

23 July 2018

Operational

01 May 2021

EC

OW

BW4

Excelsior Wind Energy Facility

Amstilinx (RF) (Pty) Ltd

31,90

23 July 2018

Operational

23 December 2020

WC

OW

BW4

Wesley-Ciskei

Riverbank Wind Power (RF) (Pty) Ltd

32,70

04 April 2018

Operational

20 August 2021

EC

OW

BW4

Oyster Bay Wind Farm

Oyster Bay Wind Farm (RF) (Pty) Ltd

140,00

31 July 2018

Operational

21 July 2021

EC

OW

BW4

Copperton Windfarm

Copperton Wind Farm (RF) (Pty) Ltd

102,00

31 July 2018

Operational

23 December 2021

NC

OW

BW4

Garob Wind Farm

Garob Wind Farm (RF) (Pty) Ltd

135,93

31 July 2018

Operational

04 December 2021

NC

OW

BW4

Sirius Solar PV Project One

Sirius Solar PV Project One (RF) (Pty) Ltd

75,00

04 April 2018

Operational

18 February 2020

NC

PV

BW4

Matla A Bokone Solar

Matla A Bokone Solar (RF) (Pty) Ltd

75,00

24 July 2018

Operational

07 March 2020

NC

PV

BW4

Dyason's Klip 1

Dyason’s Klip 1 (RF) (Pty) Ltd

75,00

04 April 2018

Operational

16 March 2020

NC

PV

BW4

Dyason's Klip 2

Dyason’s Klip 2 (RF) (Pty) Ltd

75,00

04 April 2018

Operational

10 April 2020

NC

PV

BW4

Konkoonsies II Solar

Ramizone (RF) (Pty) Ltd

75,00

23 July 2018

Operational

30 September 2020

NC

PV

BW4

Solar Capital Orange

Solar Capital Orange (RF) (Pty) Ltd

75,00

31 July 2018

Operational

1 April 2023

NC

PV

BW4

De Wildt

De Wildt Solar (RF) (Pty) Ltd

50,00

31 July 2018

Operational

23 January 2021

NW

PV

BW4

Bokamoso

Bokamoso Solar (RF) (Pty) Ltd

67,90

09 July 2018

Operational

12 September 2020

NW

PV

BW4

Zeerust

Zeerust Solar (RF) (Pty) Ltd

75,00

30 July 2018

Operational

01 January 2021

NW

PV

BW4

Greefspan PV Power Plant No. 2 Solar Park

Boikanyo Solar (RF) (Pty) Ltd

55,00

30 July 2018

Operational

09 April 2021

NC

PV

BW4

Waterloo Solar Park

Waterloo Solar Park (RF) (Pty) Ltd

75,00

13 July 2018

Operational

22 November 2020

NW

PV

BW4

Aggeneys Solar

Main Street 957 (RF) (Pty) Ltd

40,00

23 July 2018

Operational

25 July 2020

NC

PV

BW4

Kruisvallei Hydro

Zevobuzz (RF) (Pty) Ltd

4,70

31 July 2018

Operational

25 February 2021

FS

SH

BW5

Coleskop WEF

Coleskop Wind Power (Pty) Ltd

140,00

18 January 2023

In Construction

Pending

EC

OW

BW5

San Kraal WEF

San Kraal Wind Power (Pty) Ltd

140,00

09 November 2022

In Construction

Pending

EC

OW

BW5

Phezukomoya WEF

Phezukomoya Wind Power (Pty) Ltd

140,00

09 November 2022

In Construction

Pending

EC

OW

BW5

Brandvalley Wind Farm

Brandvalley Wind Farm (RF) (Pty) Ltd

140,00

23 February 2023

In Construction

Pending

WC

OW

BW5

Rietkloof Wind Farm

Rietkloof Wind Farm (RF) (Pty) Ltd

140,00

23 February 2023

In Construction

Pending

WC

OW

BW5

Wolf Wind Farm

Wolf Wind Farm (RF) (Pty) Ltd

84,00

23 February 2023

In Construction

Pending

EC

OW

BW5

Grootfontein PV 1

Grootfontein PV 1 (Pty) Ltd

75,00

28 June 2023

In Construction

Pending

WC

PV

BW5

Grootfontein PV 2

Grootfontein PV 2 (Pty) Ltd

75,00

28 June 2023

In Construction

Pending

WC

PV

BW5

Grootfontein PV 3

Grootfontein PV 3 (Pty) Ltd

75,00

28 June 2023

In Construction

Pending

WC

PV

08 December 2023 - NW3794

Profile picture: Mileham, Mr K

Mileham, Mr K to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

(1) Since 2005, what (a)(i) Government bailouts, guarantees and/or other financial assistance has been provided to The Petroleum Oil and Gas Corporation of South Africa (PetroSA) and (ii) was the quantum thereof in each case and (b) conditions were imposed on PetroSA in order to secure such assistance from Government; (2) whether PetroSA complied with the conditions imposed in each specified case; if not, what consequences arose from the noncompliance; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

  1. PetroSA has not received any government bailouts or financial assistance since the aforementioned period, i.e. 2005. PetroSA has in past requested funding assistance, either in the form of capital injection or loan guarantees, which has not been provided or advanced.
  2. In the absence of the government bailouts, guarantees and/or financial assistance, there are no conditions imposed to PetroSA for fulfilment as a result no consequence management applicable to PetroSA on this item.

08 December 2023 - NW3871

Profile picture: Ceza, Mr K

Ceza, Mr K to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

What punitive measures does his department have in place to ensure that all mines operating in (a) Secunda, (b) Witbank and (c) Middelburg comply with environmental regulations put in place to prevent degradation and/or pollution, in order to improve the life expectancy of communities who reside around the specified mining areas?

Reply:

Section 31(L) (1) of National Environmental Management Act, 108 of 1998 (NEMA as amended) states that: an Environmental Management Inspector or Environmental Mineral and Petroleum Inspector, may issue a compliance notice if there are reasonable grounds for believing that a person has not complied-

(a) with a provision of the law for which that inspector has been designated in terms of section 31D; or

(b) with a term or condition of a permit, authorisation or other instrument issued in terms of such law.

In terms of Section 31(N) (2) of National Environmental Management Act, 108 of 1998 (NEMA as amended), if a person fails to comply with a compliance notice, the environmental management inspector or an environmental mineral and petroleum inspector must report the non-compliance to the Minister.

The Minister may-

(a) revoke or vary the relevant permit, authorisation or other instrument which is the subject of the compliance notice; and

(b) take any necessary steps and recover the costs of doing so from the person who failed to comply.

08 December 2023 - NW3870

Profile picture: Ceza, Mr K

Ceza, Mr K to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

Whether his department has any plans in place to create sustainable employment for the youth and women who will rehabilitate the 6 000 abandoned mines in the Republic; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

The department is currently rehabilitating Asbestos Derelict and Ownerless mines in the country. As part of the rehabilitation process, local employment comprising women, men, and youth forms part of the labour. Furthermore, sub-contractors for respective work also employ women and youth in their operations. The department reports these employment initiatives as part of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP).

08 December 2023 - NW3383

Profile picture: Msimang, Prof CT

Msimang, Prof CT to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

What (a) total number of applications for mining licenses were received in each province for the 2023-24 financial year, (b) number of the applications were successful and (c) number of the successful applications for mining licenses were awarded to women and persons living with disabilities?

Reply:

  1. 2525 mining licenses applications were received since the beginning of the 2023/24 financial year.
  2. None of the applications mentioned in (a) above have been finalised.
  3. Please see (b) above

01 December 2023 - NW3944

Profile picture: Faber, Mr WF

Faber, Mr WF to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

Whether (a) he, (b) the Deputy Minister and (c) any other official in his department attended the Rugby World Cup final in France in October 2023; if not; what is the position in this regard; if so, what (i) are the relevant details of each person in his department who attended the Rugby World Cup, (ii) is the total number of such persons and (iii) were the total costs of (aa) travel, (bb) accommodation and (cc) any other related costs that were incurred by his department as a result of the trip(s)?

Reply:

The (a) Minister (b) the Deputy Minister and (c) officials in the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy did not attend the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France. The department Incurred no costs whatsoever as no officials were authorised to attend the World Cup.

01 December 2023 - NW3804

Profile picture: Msimang, Prof CT

Msimang, Prof CT to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

Whether his department has the figures for the allocated budget and actual spending on the compensation for liability given to private citizens who have suffered losses in business operations and damage to their personal property because of load shedding; if not, what disaster prevention measures were adopted by his department n this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

The department does not have a budget allocated for compensation of liability to private citizens who have suffered losses in business operations and damage to their personal property because of load shedding. Damages, direct loss or consequential loss as a result of load shedding must be directed to ESKOM and Municipalities as they are competent authorities for the generation and maintain supply of electricity.

01 December 2023 - NW3630

Profile picture: Graham, Ms SJ

Graham, Ms SJ to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

(1) What (a) is the projected completion date of the Redstone Concentrated Solar Thermal Power Project that forms part of the SA Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer (REIPP) Procurement Programme, (b) is the projected lifespan of the project, (c) has been the total expenditure on the project to date and (d) total number of jobs (i) have been created in construction and other relevant fields and (ii) are local jobs; (2) whether the project will be completed within the R11,6 billion cost estimate; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) (a)(i) what are the details of South African funders who are involved in the project and (ii) to what extent are the specified funders involved and (b) what is Eskom’s share in the project; (4) whether the specified project falls within the Just Energy Transition Programme; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details? NW4817E

Reply:

It is important to note that Independent Power Producer (IPP) Projects procured under the Renewable Energy IPP Procurement Programme (REIPPPP) provide all the funds for the construction and operation of the power plant, and bear all the construction and site risks of the project – any delays or cost overruns are for the account of the IPP and not recoverable. At Commercial Close, IPPs further commit to a specified date to start generating power and are penalised if late.

(1)(a) and (b) the project is currently projected to reach Commercial Operation on 24th July 2024, as confirmed Eskom who has signed the Power Purchase Agreement with the Redstone Concentrated Solar Thermal Power Project Company. The project lifespan of the project will be 20- years in accordance with the Power Purchase Agreement signed by the project.

(1)(d)(i) and (ii) the Project is currently in construction. The project has committed a total of 4047 job years during construction and has achieved 11 396 job years to date (Note: A job Year refers to the equivalent of a full-time employment opportunity for one person for one year)

Of this, the breakdown of local jobs committed and achieved are as follows:

Element

Obligation

Achieved

RSA Based Employees

1456

2476

RSA- Based Employees who are citizens

1086

2138

RSA- Based Employees who are black citizens

501

2010

RSA- Based Employees who are skilled employees

590

1686

RSA- Based Employees who are Skilled Black Citizens

191

1253

RSA- Based Employees who are Citizens from Local Communities

223

906

Employees who are people with disabilities

0

0

Employees who are women

0

225

Employees who are Youth

0

701

Total

4047

11 396

(1)(c) (2) and (3)(a), the detail of the requested information resides with the developer(s) or project owners. Its also important to note that the Department is bound by confidentiality undertakings with the Project. Therefore, its proposed that these questions be referred to the developer(s) or project owners.

3(b) Eskom is designated as the Buyer in terms of the Ministerial Determination issued in terms of section 34, of the Electricity Regulation Act, of the Electricity that will be generated by all procured IPP Projects and is not a shareholder in any IPP Project.

(4) The said project is part of procurement that fell within IRP 2010, therefore in line with Government policy.

 

10 November 2023 - NW3527

Profile picture: Pambo, Mr V

Pambo, Mr V to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

1) Whether a certain person (name furnished), when he joined the Central Energy Fund in 2019 as a Non-Executive Director, declared that a damning forensic report was done on him by PwC South Africa in which he was found guilty on all 11 allegations against him; if not, why not; if so, how was the specified person appointed at the Central Energy Fund; (2) whether the specified person had applied to be in the Board of Central Energy Fund; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, which processes did the specified person follow when he applied; (3) whether the specified person was vetted by the State Security Agency (SSA); if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details of the (a) State Security Report conducted in 2019 and (b) any other SSA report done after?

10 November 2023 - NW3165

Profile picture: Msimang, Prof CT

Msimang, Prof CT to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

Whether any inspections have been conducted since the beginning of the year to ensure that (a) mining companies and (b) petroleum licence holders are complying with legislative requirements; if not, why not, in each case; if so, (i) what total number of inspections took place, (ii) where did the specified inspections take place and (iii) what total amount was spent to conduct the inspections?

Reply:

(a) (b) Yes, inspections have been conducted.

(i) 1737 mining inspections and 1188 petroleum inspections were conducted during period January till September 2023 to monitor compliance to legislative requirements.

(ii) Inspections took place in all nine provinces of the Republic of South Africa.

(iii) Total amount spent thus far on inspections is R4 379 264.46

07 November 2023 - NW3282

Profile picture: Paulsen, Mr N M

Paulsen, Mr N M to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

What (a) progress has been made with discussions and/or plans to fast-track Small-scale Embedded Generation applications by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa and (b) are the relevant details in this regard?

Reply:

Small-Scale Embedded Generation (SSEG) project are “behind the meter” solutions and not subject to regulator approval, but simply require a generator to register with the Regulator. The financial viability of SSEG projects is subject to a generator securing a concomitant power purchase agreement with a prospective buyer of the electricity produced.

Where the electricity is required to be wheeled, the wheeling agreements are subject to approval by the respective distributor (Municipality or Eskom) through whose distribution infrastructure the energy is evacuated from the point of production to the point of consumption.

To assist municipalities/Eskom to structure and price wheeling agreements, a National Wheeling Framework has been developed and is currently being reviewed by NERSA

26 October 2023 - NW3164

Profile picture: Msimang, Prof CT

Msimang, Prof CT to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

Whether any economic verification audits have been conducted on mines in the past three years; if not, why not; if so, what (a) total number of mines have undergone such economic verification audits and (b) were the outcomes in each case?

Reply:

No, the Department does not conduct economic verification audits at mines. However, Mine Economic inspections are being conducted which focuses on the evaluation of financial statements to ascertain the company’s overall performance. Statistical returns are also investigated for data relating to employment and earnings per month as well as operating costs and production and sales.

26 October 2023 - NW2969

Profile picture: Paulsen, Mr N M

Paulsen, Mr N M to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

What has he found to be the evidence that the green energy project that is replacing Eskom’s coal-fired power stations will not underperform new energy projects?

Reply:

The country is committed to a fair transition, and this is supported by the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) of 2019. The IRP 2019 pursues a balanced energy mix made up of coal fired power stations, green energy power projects and other technologies. It is shown in IRP that green energy when combined with other technologies will be able to provide the necessary energy security of supply.

13 October 2023 - NW2906

Profile picture: Wolmarans, Mr M

Wolmarans, Mr M to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

What (a) is the status of the projects that are yet to reach financial close and sign agreements under the Risk Mitigation Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme aside from the three projects of Karpowership and (b) steps has his department taken to resolve some of the challenges faced by Karpowership’s three projects?

Reply:

With regard to 1 (a) the status is as follows:

• Two (02) projects reached Legal Close on 30 August 2023 and are working towards reaching financial close;

• Project Agreements for two (02) additional projects are being prepared for legal Close. One (01) of the 2 projects is experiencing port access issues which are currently being attended to in conjunction with the relevant authorities; and

• One (01) project is experiencing difficulties with its project economics and bankability.

With regard to 1 (b) in so far as the department’s role in assisting all the projects including Karpowership, we have engaged, to the extent permitted by law, the Ports Authority to facilitate logical resolution of the port access challenges. What remains is for the projects to engage the relevant authorities and finalise all the outstanding matters.

13 October 2023 - NW3036

Profile picture: Phillips, Ms C

Phillips, Ms C to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

Whether he will furnish Mrs C Phillips with the (a) prescribed monthly returns with accurate and correct information and data from 1 July 2020 to 31 July 2023 from a certain plant (details furnished) situated on Portion 71 of the Farm Groenkloof, in the Bojanala District, North West, (b) audited annual financial reports and/or financial statements for the specified period, reflecting the balance sheet and profit and loss account, (c) annual reports detailing the extent of the holder’s compliance with the provisions of section 2(d) and (f), the charter contemplated in section 100 and the prescribed social and labour plan, as required by section 28(2) of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, Act 28 of 2002 (MRPD Act); if not, (i) why not, (ii) what steps will he take to ensure compliance by the specified company and (iii) what actions will be taken against Saferro Chrome and Resources Limited for non-compliance with the provisions of section 26(3) and 28(2) of the MPRD Act; if so, on what date?

Reply:

The Department does not have information on the owner of Portion 71 of the Farm Groenkloof in the Bojanala District, North West. Saferro Chrome and Resources Limited are not the holder of a mining right or mining permit. Section 28 (2) of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, 2002 applies to the rightful holders of a mining right or mining permit.

  1. Please refer to the above paragraph
  2. Please refer to the above paragraph
  3. Please refer to the above paragraph

The National Environmental Management Act, 107 of 1998 (NEMA) provides for regulation of activities which cannot be undertaken without an Environmental Authorisation, such listed activities includes mining and prospecting activities. If any person conducts a listed activity without an approved Environmental Authorisation they are committing an offense in terms of section 49A of NEMA and can be prosecuted following an investigation.

 

 

13 October 2023 - NW2927

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Mileham, Mr K to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

Whether prior to appointing a certain person (name and details furnished) he was informed that the specified person (a) was allegedly earning a salary as the Chief Operating Officer of a state-owned entity while also serving as a member on the entity’s Board of Directors and/or (b) allegedly submitted a fraudulent court order clearing him of misconduct while serving in a certain position (details furnished); if not, what is the position in each case; if so, what are the relevant details in each case?

Reply:

a) No, I was not informed.

b) No, I was not informed.

06 October 2023 - NW3125

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Mhlongo, Ms N to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

What (a) measures have been put in place to ensure that residents who were affected by the Jagersfontein Dam disaster in Free State have been compensated, (b) steps have been taken against the mine to ensure that they are held accountable for the disaster and (c) is the current progress on rebuilding the community?

Reply:

The Department does not have the authority to regulate the processing of residue deposits at the Jagersfontein dam. This is as a result of the De Beers court judgment over Jagersfontein mine residue deposits (De Beers Consolidated Mines Ltd v Ataqua Mining (Pty) Ltd & others, case no. 3215/06, Free State Provincial Division, 13 December 2007). The judgement held that historical mine residue deposits (those created before the coming into operation of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, 2002 (MPRDA) on the 01st of May 2004) are not minerals as contemplated in the MPRDA and such they are not regulated under provisions of the MPRDA. The processing of historical mine residue deposits does not constitute mining and the area where they are situated is not classified as a mine. This was again confirmed by the court judgment in the case of Ekapa Minerals (Pty) Ltd & Others vs Lucky Seekoei & Others (2057/2016) [2017] ZANCHC 5 (13 January 2017).

However, The Department engaged the Minerals Council South Africa to provide assistance to the affected community even though the facility is legally not a mining operation. About R2.75 million was spent by the Minerals Council on the following emergency relief through three Public Benefit Organisations, namely Gift of the Givers, Soul Provider and the Red Cross:

  • Distributing 15,000 food parcels, each providing an average of 25 meals totalling 375,000 meals at a cost of R1,250,000. An estimated 4,500 people received nutritious meals for four months. The percentage of black South Africans benefiting from the programme is 100%.
  • Providing running water from water boreholes at two schools for learners and the surrounding community at a cost of R1 million.
  • Distributing mattresses, blankets, clothing, underwear, sanitary packs, water and cooking utensils at a cost of R500,000.

Following a series of meetings by the Minerals Council with the Kopanong Local Municipality and the Free State Government, 6 projects were initially earmarked. Further assessments identified 3 of the 6 projects being potentially sustainable and within the objectives and mandate of the Fund:

  1. Working towards a sustainable water solution for the Jagersfontein community. The assistance does not include services that are the responsibility of local, provincial and national government.
  2. Aiding local schools and learning centres to enhance learning and education in the community. The assistance does not include services that are the responsibility of local, provincial and national government.
  3. Establish an internet and Wi-Fi service for the community at the Jagersfontein library.

06 October 2023 - NW3035

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Phillips, Ms C to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

Whether he will provide Mrs. C Phillips with the records of the written notice and consultation as envisaged by section 26(3) of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, Act 28 of 2002, for the beneficiation of chrome currently undertaken by a certain company (name furnished) on Portion 71 of the Farm Groenkloof, in the Bojanala District, North West; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

1, The entity referred to has no mining authorisations issued by this Department, furthermore the Department has no records pertaining their application to beneficiate minerals. However, section 26 of the Act was meant to promote beneficiation of mineral in the Republic. Section 26(3) requires any person who intends to beneficiate any mineral outside the Republic to do so with written notice and in consultation with the Minister. The constraints on electricity generation have limited the ability to facilitate local beneficiation.

06 October 2023 - NW2817

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Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

(1) Whether he has found that the practice of seawalls is extremely harmful to the diamond diving industry and the littoral environment when hundreds of tons of residue stockpile are being dumped into the ocean every hour, destroying habitat, sterilising large areas of valuable diamond diving resource, turning the water column into a black slurry and driving the final nail into the coffin of the diamond diving industry; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what steps have been taken by his department to address the environmental crisis; (2) whether it is his position that seawall material is defined as residue stockpile and is therefore the responsibility of the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment to monitor, as provided for in the National Environmental Management Act, Act 107 of 1998, instead of his department that has no authority over the specified matter; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details? NW3232E

Reply:

(1) Response: Seawalls are generally created using sea – sand excavated directly from the sea mining block to allow the enclosed area to be pumped out and drained. The pumping creates a semi-dry working environment so that work can be carried out safely and efficiently. In most cases, particularly in the case of diamond mining, seawalls are created as temporal structures, they collapse as mining activities proceed from one block to the next. In cases where the mining block is set to have a longer lifespan, the sea – sand (i.e., seawall) is reinforced with rocks often collected on the coast and tailings material. There would be minimal impact on the sea and surrounding environment as there is no harmful or hazardous material introduced to create the seawalls. Naturally, when the seawalls collapse, they create high turbidity in the immediate area that often creates murky water, but given the strength of ocean currents, the sediment is swiftly dispersed. In cases where the mining block is situated in heavy mineral sands, the tailings may appear reddish-brown in colour due to the presence of the zircon element and this is often mistaken as a black slurry.

2. Response: According to the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, 2002 (Act 28 of 2002) as amended, the residue stockpile “means any debris, discard, tailings, slimes, screening, slurry, waste rock, foundry sand, beneficiation plant waste, ash or any other product derived from or incidental to a mining operation and which is stockpiled, stored or accumulated for potential re-use, or which is disposed of, by the holder of a mining right…”. Seawalls do not fall into this definition as the material used will not be reused or disposed of. However, the environmental impacts arising out of any mining/prospecting activities subject of a mining right or any right/permit issued in terms of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, 2002, falls within the competent jurisdiction of the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy.

06 October 2023 - NW3136

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Mathulelwa, Ms B to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

Whether his department has plans in place for the wide establishment of small-scale miners; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

Yes, the DMRE has established a Small-Scale mining component with officials at nine regional offices whose functions is to handle enquiries, guide and advice and assist with the application process. Furthermore, a policy was gazetted in 2022 to develop the mechanisms to formalise artisanal and small-scale mining operations and bring them within the mainstream economy.

22 September 2023 - NW2646

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Tito, Ms LF to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

What (a) is the total number of mines which have been rehabilitated in each province since he came into office in February 2018 and (b) are the relevant details of each rehabilitated mine? NW3030E

Reply:

a) Since 2018 the department has rehabilitated thirteen (13) derelict and ownerless mines.

b) Eleven (11) of those mines are in Limpopo, one (1) in Mpumalanga, and another one (1) in the Northern Cape.

21 September 2023 - NW2890

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Graham, Ms SJ to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

Whether his department was involved in the installation of solar systems at Vondeling in the Dr Beyers Naudé Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape; if not, why not; if so, what (a) total number of solar systems were installed at Vondeling in 2021, (b) total number of the solar system units are not working, (c) total number have never worked and (d) are the reasons that the contractor has not been required to repair the non-functioning units?

Reply:

Yes, DMRE was involved in the installation of the SHSs

a) DMRE installed eighty-eight (88) Solar Home Systems (SHSs) at Dr Beyers Naude in the 2020/21 financial year through one of its appointed service providers. Twenty (20) SHSs were installed in Vondeling.

b) The DMRE conducted an inspection with the service provider and the municipality officials on 28-29 April 2021. During the inspection two (2) of the installed SHSs were found to be not working and the service provider was instructed to repair, and they were repaired.

All SHSs (88 in total) installed were working when the inspection was concluded on 29 April 2021.

c) None

d) There installed SHSs are covered by the service provider for a period of one (1) year post the installation period through warranties as per the contract signed between the DMRE and the service provider. Once the one year period has elapsed, the repairs and maintenance of the SHSs becomes the responsibility of the municipality.

21 September 2023 - NW2724

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Phillips, Ms C to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

(1) With regard to Section 26(3) of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, Act 28 of 2002, which states that any person who intends to beneficiate any mineral mined in the Republic outside the Republic may only do so after written notice and in consultation with the Minister, what (a) total number of companies and/or individuals in the Bojanala area have submitted written notice and consulted with him in order to beneficiate ore containing chromium (Cr), (b) are the names of the companies and/or individuals and (c) are the details of the property on which the beneficiation is taking place; (2) whether, with regard to Section 5(4)(a), which states that no person may prospect for or remove, mine, conduct technical co-operation operations, reconnaissance operations, explore for and produce mineral or petroleum or commence with any work incidental thereto on any area without an approved environmental management programme or approved environmental management plan, as the case may be, he will furnish Mrs C Phillips with a copy of the plans of the companies and/or individuals referred to in question 1(a); if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

1. Section 26 of the Act was meant to promote beneficiation of mineral in the Republic. Section 26(3) requires any person who intends to beneficiate any mineral outside the Republic to so with written notice and in consultation with the Minister. The constraints on electricity have limited the ability to facilitate local beneficiation.

(a) There is no company and/or individual in the Bojanala area that has submitted written notice and consulted with the Minister.

(b) Please refer to 1(a)

(c) Please refer to 1(a)

2. Beneficiation of minerals outside a mining arear is managed in terms of NEMA.

21 September 2023 - NW2645

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Tito, Ms LF to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

(1) Whether he has been informed that a 15-year-old child from Phola near Ogies, suffered third-degree burns after falling into a pit of an unrehabilitated mining area in Mpumalanga in October 2022 and that to date the owner of the land has not been located; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (2) Whether his department has a database of all mine owners in each province, particularly the owners of the mines that need rehabilitation; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details? NW3029E

Reply:

1. The Department has been informed of the unfortunate incident. Preliminary investigations shows that the area where the incident happened falls outside coordinates of any Licensed mine. The Mining company in the vicinity decided to assist on purely humanitarian grounds and this assistance has also been acknowledged by the child’s family. The Department remains seizes with this matter to prevent the occurrence of such an incidence from happening again.

2. The Department has the database of mines that need rehabilitation. These are legacy mines that have been abandoned by the previous mine owners prior to the introduction of the Minerals Act (1991) and Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA, 2002). To this end, the department has prioritized the rehabilitation of these Derelict and Ownerless (D&O) mines.

21 September 2023 - NW3011

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Lorimer, Mr JR to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

What (a) financial amounts has the Republic contributed to the Grand Inga Hydropower Project since 1 January 2013 up to the latest specified date for which information is available, (b) have been the material outcomes of the contributions and (c) renewed financial commitments has the Republic made towards the revival of the specified project in 2023?

Reply:

The Republic of South Africa has not made any financial contribution to the Grand Inga 

Hydropower Project and there are no financial commitments made.

21 September 2023 - NW2966

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Mathulelwa, Ms B to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

What (a) measures have been taken to rehabilitate old mining and bushy areas which were previously mines and (b) are the details of the time frames that have been put in place to legalise small-scale mining for local communities?

Reply:

(a)The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy has a programme to rehabilitate derelict and ownerless mines. Annually National Treasury allocates funds for the rehabilitation of these mines. In the current financial year, R143 million has been allocated for this purpose. With these amounts three derelict and ownerless mines are rehabilitated as outlined in the Annual Performance Plan.

(b) There is nothing in law or otherwise that preclude small scale miners or local communities and Artisanal miners to participate in mining activities. In furtherance of small-scale mining the department is providing technical and financial support with respect to permit applications and other relevant matters

21 September 2023 - NW2926

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Lorimer, Mr JR to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

What steps is he and his department taking to close the legislative loopholes that were identified in the Joint Illegal Mining Report, which make it more difficult for law enforcement to stop illegal mining?

Reply:

The Department is participating in the process of developing the General Laws amendment (GLA) Bill by creating provisions in the Mineral Petroleum Resource Development Act (MPRDA, the Diamond Act and the Precious Metal Act that will strengthen penalties and criminalise illegal mining.

14 July 2023 - NW2325

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Msimang, Prof CT to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

What measures has his department adopted in the past two years to deal with and stop illegal mining, which has become popular amongst illegal immigrants recently?

Reply:

a) The National Environmental Management Act, 107 of 1998 (NEMA) provides for regulation of activities which cannot be undertaken without an Environmental Authorisation, such listed activities includes mining and prospecting activities. If any person conducts a listed activity without an approved Environmental Authorisation they are committing an offense in terms of section 49A of NEMA and can be prosecuted following an investigation.

b) The Department is working with law enforcement authorities to deal with the scourge of illegal mining. There are several multi-disciplinary and intelligence led operations which include the Depart of Home Affairs (Immigration) that have been successfully undertaken in various provinces in this financial year.

c) It should also be noted, especially with recent experiences in illegal mining, that the scourge has become an organised crime often led by sophisticated crime syndicates. Further operations are being planned together with law enforcement authorities to respond to challenges caused by illegal mining activities in the country.

d) The South African Police Service has also set up the Economic Infrastructure Task Team (EITT) which role is to address the scourge of crimes within the non-ferrous metals, essential infrastructure, critical infrastructure, extortion, and illegal mining. The Department of Minerals and Energy is working together with the envisaged unit with the immigration teams.

14 July 2023 - NW2524

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Herron, Mr BN to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

(1) Whether, with reference to his reply to question 214 on 24 February 2023, regarding the partnership between Eskom and Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), his department has any role to play in the just energy transmission programme (JETP); if not, why not; if so, (2) whether the retraining programme that is being implemented by Eskom and CPUT therefore is of no interest to his department as it has a role to play in the JEPT; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) whether his department has its own JETP; if not, (a) why not and (b) which department is responsible for ensuring a just transition in the energy supply chain; if so, what are the relevant details; (4) whether there are any plans to replicate or implement similar programmes as part of his department’s just energy transition plans; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the further, relevant details; (5) what total number of affected employees has his department targeted for retraining under its own JETP plan?

Reply:

1. As stated previously, the details of the partnership between Eskom and South African Renewable Energy Technology Centre (SARETEC) could best be responded to by the relevant department. In so far as the JETP, the department continues to work with the Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) and provides comments as and when it is necessary to do so.

2. The department is on record in saying that the transition programme is not an event but a process that should not be rushed as it has to adequately respond to the needs of the people, central to which is the issues of retention of jobs, skills and reskilling of people and ensuring that no one is worse of. To this effect, the department is conducting analysis on social impacts not only understand the extent of the impact, but to also inform the decision-making process on the protection of jobs, and the required skills and reskilling, including the issues of health.

3. The department has developed a Just Energy Transition Framework which forms the basis for developing indicators for monitoring the socio-economic impacts of the transition.

4. The analysis we are currently conducting on socio-economic impacts and the definition of indicators to monitor such impacts will outline the details of what actions the department will be taking in the next financial year.

5. Similarly, the analysis should inform us on this by the end of this financial year.

30 June 2023 - NW2494

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Chirwa, Ms NN to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

With reference to the numerous mines that have been cited as neither meeting their obligations in community projects nor giving back to the communities in which they operate, what (a) are the details of the mines that (i) have not been meeting their community obligations and (ii) are repeat offenders in this regard and (b) steps did his department take in response to the offending mines?

Reply:

(a)(i) The Department conducts monitoring and enforcement inspections on implementation of community development projects by mines as per the annual performance plan. 237 Social and Labour Plan inspections were conducted in the previous financial year (2022/2023) and directives were issued for various reasons of non-compliance.

(ii) Yes, but if the company continues not to implement SLP, the right can be suspended or cancelled and if they apply for renewal of the mining right, the application can be refused.

(b) See (a)(i) above

30 June 2023 - NW2143

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Msimang, Prof CT to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

Whether, given that the President, Mr M C Ramaphosa, recently transferred necessary and/or incidental powers and functions of the Electricity Regulation Act, Act 4 of 2006, to the Minister of Electricity to make a determination if new generation is needed, in which case such a recommendation, where relevant, must be made to him as the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy to procure it, there has been any agreement with the Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, since this transfer has happened, to determine the way forward, as previously there were concerns on what powers the Minister of Electricity had and didn't have; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

On 26 May 2023, the President transferred the administration, powers and functions entrusted by the Electricity Regulation Act (Act no.4 of 2006) to the Minister of Electricity in terms of section 97 the of Constitution.

Both Departments (Mineral Resources & Energy and Electricity) are working closely to manage the transition through effective coordination; and dedicated focus on programmes that will alleviate the electricity shortage in the short term and enable long-term security of supply.

 

30 June 2023 - NW2266

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Herron, Mr BN to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

(1) Considering that there is an urgent need to end loadshedding and noting that although during Bid Window 6 of the Renewable Independent Power Producer Programme, only 1000MW out of 4200MW was procured and the rest were rejected in the Eastern and Western Cape, due to insufficient gridspace (details furnished), the gridspace remains reserved since 2021 for Karpowership in the Eastern Cape, Western Cape and Richards Bay (details furnished), and given that Karpowership’s environmental authorisations remain refused and the current court cases on its generation licences could take many years to resolve, (a) what is the justification for the prioritisation of the Karpowership deal over adding new capacity through wind and solar energy and (b) by what date will the portion of the grid reserved for the Karpowership be released; (2) whether, given that Karpowership is holding up the gridspace and the urgency to end the loadshedding, there will be a limit to the extension that is being given to Karpowership to reach the commercial and financial deadline; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what is the (a) current and (b) final commercial and financial close deadline for Karpowership; (3) given the grid constraints, what laws, policy and/or factors inform his decision when (a) reserving the grid for independent power producers (IPPs) before commercial and financial close and (b) releasing the grid that is reserved for a particular IPP; (4) whether he will furnish Mr B N Herron with a list with the relevant details of IPPs that have not yet reached commercial and financial close, but have a portion of the grid reserved; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details? NW2565E

Reply:

It is important to point out that the Department is obliged to conduct its procurement process in compliance with all legislative and regulatory prescripts of the laws of South Africa.

With regard to 1 (a)(b) The grid constraints that affected BW6 procurement were in specific areas and there is no linkage with Karpowerships.

With regard to 2 (a) Please see response 1 above(b),for all the remaining Preferred Bidders under the Risk Mitigation IPP Procurement bid window, the Department intends to conclude all procurement decisions before the end of this financial year.

With regard to 3 (a) and (b) The Department is not responsible for the allocation of grid, this is the mandate of Eskom as the custodian of the national grid.

With regard to 4, The lists of procured projects and the list of preferred bidders for each of the bid windows are available on the IPP Projects website at www.ipp-projects.co.za  The Department can provide the list if so required.

30 June 2023 - NW2408

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Madokwe, Ms P to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

What (a) role has he played to ensure that the De Beers Group complies with its responsibilities of (i) rehabilitating the area they operated in and (ii) rolling out outstanding Social and Labour Plans before its exodus from Gauteng and (b) will the implications be should the specified company fail to comply?

Reply:

  1. (i) De Beers ceded their Mining Right to Cullinan Diamond Mine (Pty) Ltd in June 2008. The annual financial assessment review for 2023 was submitted on 30 March 2023. The current environmental assessment was calculated at R252 231 057.00. The financial provision that is held by the Department in a form a guarantee amounts to R347 879 259.00.

(ii) De Beers last Social and Labour Plan before ceding was for the period 2006 to 2010. The said Social and Labour Plan was fully implemented.

  1. The financial provision is fully funded and has a surplus of R96 648 202.22

30 June 2023 - NW2464

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Le Goff, Mr T to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

(1) With reference to the replies to question 54 on 24 February 2023 and 213 on 1 March 2023, and given the current need to end load shedding, (a) on what basis were bids regarding the 3200 megawatts (MW) of renewables rejected due to insufficient space on the grid and (b) what are the reasons that only 1000MW was procured when grid space was available; (2) (a) on what document and/or information does he rely to determine whether or not the grid is full, (b) how does he verify the information to ensure that the grid is full or not and (c) on what date will the Grid Capacity Allocation Rules be revised to ensure that the projects that are not ready to come online do not continue to take up space on the grid; (3) whether, given the urgent need to end load shedding and the fact that there is over 3400MW available in the Eastern and Western Cape, the remainder of the 3000MW Bid Window 6 will be reopened to be further allocated; if not, why not; if so, on what date?

Reply:

  1. (a) and (b) The projects could not be awarded the preferred bidder status, the basis being Eskom the grid owner and operator confirmed to the department that grid capacity was exhausted in areas where the said projects locations were proposed. The grid that was available could only accommodate 1000MW of projects in their respective proposed locations.
  1. (a) and (b), Eskom the grid owner and operator is the custodian of such information ( Eskom GCCA ) and it’s available to the public. (2) (c), Eskom as the custodian of the national grid, is best placed to address the actions that are being taken to resolve grid capacity constraints for future projects.
  1. The REIPPPP Bid Window 6 has closed and cannot be re-opened, as this is not provided for in the Request for Proposals (RFP) and public procurement prescripts.