LNG opportunity announced for Eastern Cape

RFP for LNG Terminal at the Port of East London

SOUTH AFRICA: Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the appointment of a terminal operator to design, finance, develop, construct, operate, maintain and transfer a Small-to-Medium Scale Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Terminal at the Port of East London under a 25-year concession agreement.

This development is underpinned by demonstrated market interest and growing regional demand for natural gas. Through its Expression of Interest process, TNPA received strong market response from potential operators, demonstrating market confidence in the LNG infrastructure at the Port of East London.

The terminal is expected to provide a reliable energy solution for niche LNG consumers and industrial users in the Eastern Cape, while reinforcing the port’s role in enabling industrial growth and sustainable economic development. The project is also expected to drive much-needed job creation in the Eastern Cape, generating both direct and indirect employment opportunities.

“This initiative represents a significant milestone in unlocking new investment opportunities within the port, further advancing its long-term growth and development objectives. The LNG terminal is expected to attract private sector investment, support the development of strategic energy infrastructure, and strengthen the port’s role as a catalyst for economic growth in the region. By creating an enabling environment for new industries and emerging trade opportunities, we are positioning the port to respond to evolving market needs while contributing to regional competitiveness and sustainable development,” says East London Port Manager, Dr Sphiwe Mthembu.

The earmarked LNG terminal development forms part of TNPA’s strategic direction to advance port infrastructure development and support diversification for the future energy demand in the Eastern Cape. The terminal will be developed on a greenfield site of approximately 8 900m² hectares located within the port’s West Bank precinct.

The successful bidder will be responsible for the development of the terminal infrastructure required to handle small-to-medium scale LNG imports, including associated operational and safety systems.