Green Connection Warns of Climate Risks in Proposed Gas Bill

The Green Connection is urging South Africa's Parliament to withdraw a proposed Gas Bill that could lock the country into long-term fossil-fuel infrastructure. The organisation warns of climate, electricity cost, and community risks associated with the bill.

The bill aims to promote a gas industry in South Africa, which currently does not exist on a large scale. However, Natural gas is primarily composed of methane, a potent greenhouse gas that traps roughly 80 times more heat than carbon dioxide over a 20-year period.

Lisa Makaula, Advocacy Lead at The Green Connection, stated that the bill makes no reference to South Africa's climate commitments or emissions targets. It also treats liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a 'clean' or 'transition' fuel, despite growing scientific concerns about methane emissions and climate impacts.

The proposed Gas Bill could expose electricity consumers to volatile international gas prices, leading to higher tariffs for households already struggling with the cost of living. The organisation is concerned that the bill could also weaken protections for affected communities and landowners.