South Africa is planning a $3 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant at the Port of Durban, with global trader Vitol supporting a consortium to develop the import and power facility. The project reflects the country’s effort to diversify its energy mix as it works toward net-zero emissions by 2050 while still addressing persistent electricity shortages. Although coal currently supplies about three-quarters of South Africa’s power, policymakers see gas as a practical transition fuel that can support renewable energy and expand access to reliable electricity. Still, the proposal has sparked debate, with critics arguing the country should invest more heavily in solar, wind, and green hydrogen instead of new fossil-fuel infrastructure.
Semafor
