The first biogas plant in Nelson Mandela Bay, which will convert substantial amounts of organic solid waste into renewable energy, is to be launched in 2027.
The R400m biogas technology, which is to be installed at the Fishwater Flats wastewater treatment works, will transform waste material into a sustainable source of clean energy.
Straits Group SA is the lead partner in the project.
The facility is expected to reduce the amount of solid waste the plant generates, with each cubic metre of biogas corresponding to the destruction of about two to three kilograms of solids.
Municipal spokesperson Sithembiso Soyaya said the process would enhance the plant’s operational efficiency and contribute to a more sustainable approach to wastewater management.
“This initiative will be the first biogas plant constructed at a wastewater treatment works site in the region.
“The biogas plant will add 2.5-megawatts of electricity energy capacity to the city’s power grid, bolstering power supply and contributing to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.”
Soyaya said the initiative supported the city’s commitment to stewardship.
The construction phase would provide opportunities to small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) working with the main contractor over a 24-month period.
It is expected that more than 50 temporary jobs will be created during construction and about 30 long-term skilled positions.
The project has an estimated completion date of December 2027.
The installation of the biogas plant will proceed in two phases.
The first has been completed, with site establishment scheduled to start in January.
The city’s acting executive director for electricity and energy, Tholi Biyela, said the municipality was excited about the project.
“Waste typically harms the environment, but this biogas plant transforms that negative into a positive.
“This innovation will empower the metro to be more energy-efficient, reduce emissions and provide significant economic benefits to the local community,” he said.
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