Environmental Groups Challenge Total’s Offshore Drilling Plans in South Africa

In what is shaping up to be a pivotal legal confrontation for South Africa’s energy future and environmental conservation, two prominent environmental groups have filed a court bid to halt TotalEnergies SE’s offshore oil exploration in the waters near Cape Town. This move by The Green Connection and Natural Justice is the latest chapter in the escalating conflict between environmental activists, who demand an end to fossil fuel exploitation, and energy companies expanding operations in the region.

The High Court of South Africa has now become the battleground where these groups aim to challenge Total's authorization to drill up to five wells. This authorization, granted by the government in April of the previous year, pertains to an offshore area designated as Block 5/6/7. However, the environmental organizations argue that the environmental impact assessment (EIA) report, which forms the basis for this permission, is fundamentally flawed and did not meet all legal requirements.

The environmentalists’ stand reflects a growing trend within South Africa and is buoyed by similar movements and court victories worldwide. Local communities, backed by NGOs, are becoming increasingly vocal and litigious in their opposition to oil and gas exploration activities along the South African coast. This opposition was notably successful in 2021 when Shell Plc was legally forced to suspend seismic activity off the Wild Coast.

Despite the pushback, Total has not waned in its commitment to South Africa's potential oil and gas wealth. The company even increased its stake in the region earlier this month by acquiring an operating interest in Block 3B/4B. These actions demonstrate the high stakes involved, as South Africa grapples with the balance between economic development through resource extraction and environmental stewardship.

The conflict is further intensified by the stances taken by government officials. South African Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe has, on several occasions, publicly supported the advancement of oil and gas exploration efforts within the country's territory. He criticised environmental organizations for opposing these developments, which he sees as vital for national economic interests.

With this filing, The Green Connection and Natural Justice are drawing a line in the sand against the continued expansion of fossil fuel infrastructure, reminding decision-makers of the legal frameworks and environmental obligations that must govern such activities. The court’s decision on this matter will likely have far-reaching implications for the country's energy and environmental policies going forward.