The review, announced by Environment Minister Willie Aucamp, aims to resolve years of stalled approvals that have slowed progress in the upstream energy sector.
Speaking to Channel Africa on Wednesday, Dr Ross Compton, Senior Director of Global Policy at EnerGeo Alliance, said the minister’s intervention was “very welcome” and had the potential to be transformative.
“Appeals have been in limbo for some time. Uncertainty around timelines is a deterrent to investment. Capital is mobile and can go elsewhere. This sends a strong signal that SA is open for business,” he said.
Compton noted that delayed decisions not only discouraged new investors but also risked undermining capital already committed to exploration. “SA is operating in a competitive global environment. There is excitement in Namibia and other regions, attracting investment. SA has discoveries and significant potential, but delays risk deterring further exploration.”
Environmental groups have raised concerns about the potential impact of offshore exploration on marine ecosystems. Compton acknowledged these concerns but stressed that SA had “best in class” environmental legislation and rigorous international standards.
He added that public participation and environmental impact assessments were integral to every application, and that current regulations were under review, with public submissions open until April 30.
On building trust between communities and industry, Compton said transparent engagement was essential. He highlighted the Southern African Oil and Gas Conference as an example of constructive dialogue among government, industry, communities and civil society.
Compton also warned that prolonged delays in approving exploration projects could increase SA’s dependence on imported fuel, exposing the country to geopolitical risks such as those currently affecting global supply chains.
“Developing domestic oil and gas production has the potential to insulate SA from some of those risks in the longer term. It is an opportunity too important to pass on,” he said.
–ChannelAfrica–
