South African Committee Hears Views on Gas Bill Amid Calls for Stronger Regulation
The Portfolio Committee on Electricity and Energy has been reviewing the Gas Bill, which aims to strengthen regulatory certainty, promote competition, improve oversight, and prepare the gas sector for future energy developments.
Chairperson Zama Khanyase said that the committee received 33 written submissions after a public call for comments, with 23 stakeholders asking to make oral presentations. The public hearings were held on August 11 and 12, where industry representatives, regulators, civil society organisations, and energy experts presented their views.
Sydney Mosoane supported the objectives of the Bill, stating that the Gas Act of 2001 no longer responds adequately to the changing gas industry. He warned that South Africa remains dependent on gas supplies from Mozambique and faces a possible decline in gas supply from around 2028. Investment in liquefied natural gas infrastructure would require a transparent and predictable regulatory framework.
Civil society organisations, including Natural Justice and GroundWork, raised concerns about environmental governance, climate change, public participation, methane monitoring, and community consultation. They called for stronger safeguards and greater alignment between gas infrastructure development and South Africa's just energy transition commitments.