Locals concerned over plans for coal-fired mine
Cennergi’s representative promised community projects and jobs for locals during the construction phase, but admitted that more specialised skills would be needed during operation.
LIMPOPO – At recent public participation meetings, locals voiced their displeasure with the way the Environmental Assessment company, handled the public participation process regarding the erection of a proposed coal-fired plant on the farm Graaffwater, approximately 20 km from Marapong township just outside Lephalale.
Cennergi, a partnership between Exxaro and Tata Power of India, plan to build a coal-fired power station as independent power producers (IPP) near Lephalale in Limpopo.
The first meeting, held in Marapong was declared null and void after community members refused to sign the attendance register, saying insufficient notice was given for the meeting while the meeting in Lephalale was attended by only three members of the community.
The second meeting, held in Marapong, led to lively discussions as a translator from the EAP told participants allowing the project would lead to jobs for them. She was however, corrected by Cennergi’s representative who promised community projects and jobs for locals during the construction phase, but admitted that more specialised skills would be needed during operation.
Questions regarding air quality and the impact on the community’s health were not answered satisfactorily according to some community members.
Cennergi wants to build a 1200 MW power station with ‘new’ technology that will require less water than conventional technology. They will source their coal from a coal mine in the area, namely Thabametsi. The proposed site is close to the existing Grootegeluk Coal mine and in the vicinity of Matimba and Medupi power stations. Communities are very worried about the cumulative effects of these developments.
