Deadline Approaching for Public Input on South Africa's New Unconventional Gas Regulations

With only one week remaining for the public and key stakeholders to submit their inputs on the proposed unconventional gas regulations, the spotlight intensifies on South Africa's commitment to environmentally sensitive energy practices. The Department of Water and Sanitation, under the guidance of Minister Pemmy Majodina, has reopened the window for comments following a notable pause during the festive season.

Published initially on November 22, 2024, in Gazette Notice 51642, these regulations specifically target the methods involved in extracting naturally occurring hydrocarbons through processes like fracking, coal bed methane extraction, and underground coal gasification. Given the technical and environmental implications of such methods, particularly hydraulic fracturing or 'fracking', a meticulous regulation framework is critical. Fracking, a method known for stimulating gas production through underground drilling, has come under scrutiny due to its potential to contaminate groundwater—an essential resource for any community.

When the original notice went public on May 7, 2021, it opened the floor for 60 days of public commentary, later extended by another 30 days to accommodate more comprehensive stakeholder feedback. Input gathered during these phases showed significant concerns regarding the environmental impacts of such technologies, urging the Department to collaborate with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE) to ensure compliance with national environmental policies.

Wisane Mavasa, the department spokesperson, emphasized, "This legislation aims not only to regulate but also to mitigate the environmental risks associated with unconventional gas operations." The regulations intend to protect water sources from chemical intrusions and manage the environmental footprint of onshore drilling activities.

Now extended till January 15, 2025, this current round of consultations seeks to finalize the discussions on how these activities should be governed under the National Water Act. Stakeholders and the general public have various channels to voice their opinions, primarily through written submissions sent to unconventionalgas@dws.gov.za or through forthcoming stakeholder engagement sessions, the dates of which will be announced soon.

With the deadline fast approaching, the Department of Water and Sanitation urges all interested parties to seize this opportunity to contribute to a regulation framework that balances economic interests with environmental protection. This public consultation phase is not only a procedural necessity but also a crucial element in fostering transparency, accountability, and public involvement in governance issues that affect communal resources like water.