New Environment Minister Greenlights Karpowership Deal Amid Controversy

In a decision that could reignite the strained conversation surrounding South Africa’s energy crisis, Environment Minister Dion George has upheld the environmental authorization for Karpowership's emergency power supply deal. Despite previously vocal criticism from George's Democratic Alliance party towards the ANC's handling of the deal, he rejected all grounds of appeal from environmental groups on 17 July.

George's 187-page ruling maintained the need for load shedding solutions and pushed forward the Turkish company's multi-year plans to anchor powerships at three major harbours. A response by the Centre for Environmental Rights (CER), representing groundWork and the South Durban Community Environmental Alliance, highlighted frustrations over potentially high electricity costs, environmental damage, and alternative energy opportunities neglected in the deal.

With a 180-day window to seek judicial review of the decision, CER finds itself weighing possible legal actions. Meanwhile, Karpowership must still navigate grid access issues, disputes with a local partner, and additional legal challenges.

The narrative behind Karpowership’s proposal has been fraught with contention since it emerged in 2020, involving players from environmental activists to government ministers. Claims of biased reports and overrepresentation of natural gas benefits pepper the case. Despite George's ruling in favor of Karpowership, the path is not yet clear for the powerships' implementation. With extensive conditions pending, including reapplication for grid access and ongoing legal disputes, South Africa's energy future still teeters on a balance of immediacy and sustainability.