South Africa faces major challenges in securing its gas imports

South Africa, in the midst of its energy transition, must manage a delicate balance between reducing its dependence on coal and securing its natural gas supply.
The transition to gas is imperative, but faces a number of obstacles, including delays in exploiting local discoveries and the inadequacy of existing infrastructure.
The 2024 Gas Master Plan attempts to address these challenges, but implementation remains hampered by financial and technical obstacles.
The ability to secure natural gas supplies relies on a combination of liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports and the exploitation of regional gas resources.
However, slow investment in critical infrastructure, such as pipelines and import terminals, and uncertainty over the development of domestic gas projects, accentuate the risk of shortages.