Environmental impact assessment process

The environmental impact assessment process is informed and guided by the National Environmental Management Act, which prescribes that environmental management must place people and their needs at the forefront of its concern and serve their physical, psychological, developmental, cultural, and social interests equitably. Thus people’s needs, concerns and issues cannot be disregarded or taken without due consideration during these processes. All stakeholders have the right to equal opportunity to raise their concerns and have them addressed. It is for this reason that time and money are normally regarded as secondary concerns in comparison to people and the environment. It is evident to all involved that, if not conducted properly, these processes have the ability to delay a project, result in litigation, and/or render a project unviable.

To secure an environmental authorisation, sufficient time and proper consultation with all major stakeholders and interested and affected parties are required. However, with the challenges facing the country, the time required is often a luxury we do not have and cannot afford. Thus, Eskom is continually under pressure to deliver the required infrastructure within constrained time frames. Eskom remains committed to quality EIAs and public engagement processes.

In South Africa, the undertaking of EIAs has been legislated as part of the project planning process. Eskom appoints independent (as defined in the legislation) consultants to undertake the EIA for our proposed build programme projects. Amendments are being made to the South African EIA-related legislation. Eskom has participated in the publiccommenting process on the proposed amendments.

Link to Eskom EIAs: www.eskom.co.za/eias