South Africa is all set to develop its first liquefied natural gas (LNG) import terminal at the Port of Richards Bay. Zululand Energy Terminal, a joint venture between Vopak Terminal Durban and Transnet Pipelines (TPL), has officially signed a 25-year Terminal Operator Agreement (TOA) with Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA).
The agreement, signed on February 10, 2025, gives Zululand Energy Terminal the rights to construct, develop, finance, operate, and maintain the LNG import terminal in Richards Bay.
This follows the Request for Proposal (RFP) award in January 2024 and marks the completion of detailed discussions between TNPA, the port authority, and Zululand Energy Terminal, the terminal operator.
The LNG terminal will be developed in two phases:
Phase 1 will involve setting up a Floating Storage Unit (FSU) with a capacity of 135,000–174,000 cubic meters and onshore regasification facilities that can handle approximately 400 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscfd).
A new pipeline connection will link the terminal to the Lilly Pipeline via Empangeni, providing an additional tie-in point for customers in the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (IDZ). The plan also includes optional truck-loading facilities for wider distribution.
Phase 2 will replace the FSU with a permanent onshore storage tank of up to 220,000 cubic meters. This expansion will increase the gas send-out capacity to 600 mmscfd, supporting Gas-to-Power projects in Richards Bay and supplying industries nationwide.
As South Africa faces declining gas supplies and prepares to shut down aging coal-fired power plants, the terminal will play a vital role in ensuring energy security, supporting industrial development, and expanding gas supply options for power generation and industries.
Zululand Energy Terminal is already in discussions with potential customers as part of its capacity allocation process. A final investment decision (FID) is expected in 2026, which will depend on securing long-term commitments from buyers.
A Vopak South Africa representative said that the project aligns with Vopak’s strategy of expanding in industrial and gas terminals and providing sustainable energy solutions for the country.
Alongside the LNG project, TNPA has also signed a 25-year concession agreement with FFS Tank Terminals for a liquid bulk terminal at Richards Bay’s South Dunes precinct.
The liquid bulk terminal will cater to the growing demand for bunker fuels, further enhancing maritime fuel services in the region.
A Transnet official said that these projects are critical for modernising South Africa’s port infrastructure and will help the country remain competitive in the global energy and shipping markets.
Zululand Energy Terminal’s Request for Proposal (RFP) process, which began on September 23, 2024, has already identified key stakeholders interested in the terminal’s services.
Negotiations are ongoing with a select group of customers to finalise agreements necessary for the 2026 investment decision.
Reference: Vopak
the title: “The Benefits of Mindfulness Meditation for Mental Health”
In today’s fast-paced world, many people find themselves constantly overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues. While there are a variety of treatment options available, one method that has been gaining popularity in recent years is mindfulness meditation.
Mindfulness meditation is a practice that involves focusing on the present moment, without judgment or attachment to thoughts and emotions. By bringing awareness to the sensations in the body and the thoughts in the mind, individuals can learn to better cope with the challenges of daily life.
One of the primary benefits of mindfulness meditation is its ability to reduce stress and anxiety. Studies have shown that regular practice of mindfulness meditation can lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, and decrease symptoms of anxiety disorders. By learning to stay present and not get caught up in negative thinking patterns, individuals can experience a greater sense of calm and peace in their lives.
In addition to reducing stress and anxiety, mindfulness meditation has also been found to improve mood and overall mental well-being. By cultivating a greater awareness of one’s thoughts and emotions, individuals can learn to respond to them in a more adaptive and healthy way. This can lead to a greater sense of self-compassion and acceptance, which in turn can improve one’s mental health.
Furthermore, mindfulness meditation has been shown to improve cognitive function and concentration. By training the mind to focus on the present moment, individuals can enhance their ability to pay attention and make decisions. This can be particularly beneficial for those struggling with attention-deficit disorders or other cognitive challenges.
Overall, the benefits of mindfulness meditation for mental health are vast and well-documented. By incorporating this practice into one’s daily routine, individuals can experience a greater sense of well-being, improved mood, and enhanced cognitive function. So why not give mindfulness meditation a try and see the positive impact it can have on your mental health?