After carefully considering requests by potential bidders, Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has extended its request for proposals (RFP) deadline for the liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal project, at the Richards Bay port, to July 14.
This will allow more time for bidders to conclude negotiation agreements, set up a consortium and its financial structures, as well as conduct the necessary feasibility studies to ensure high-quality bids.
TNPA issued the RFP in September last year, which seeks to appoint a terminal operator to design, construct, maintain and operate an LNG terminal in Richards Bay. The original deadline was set for December 13, 2022.
This project is in line with the Integrated Resource Plan 2019, which caters for up to 3 000 MW of gas-to-power in the energy mix by 2027.
This is also a response to ensure that the country will have consistent new generation capacity coming on stream to mitigate against loadshedding, and provide diverse energy resources.
TNPA admits that the new timelines will have an impact on the overall project schedule in respect to the delivery targets; however, considering concerns raised by potential bidders, TNPA consented to an extension of the bid process. The State-owned freight utility is confident that this will ensure TNPA receives quality bids for what is a critical project.
TNPA aims to appoint a terminal operator by the end of October.