Visual Specialist Screening Study of the 2nd 765 kV Kappa – Sterrekus Powerline
Report Prepared for Eskom Holdings SOC
SRK Report Number 542335_VIA
Prepared by
May 2021
Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page ii
Visual Specialist Screening Study of the 2nd 765 kV Kappa – Sterrekus Powerline
SRK Consulting (South Africa) Pty Ltd The Administrative Building Albion Spring 183 Main Rd Rondebosch 7700 Cape Town South Africa
e-mail: [email protected] website: www.srk.co.za
Tel: +27 (0) 21 659 3060 Fax: +27 (0) 86 530 7003
SRK Project Number 542335
May 2021
Compiled by: Peer Reviewed by:
Sue Reuther Chris Dalgliesh Principal Environmental Consultant Partner
Email: [email protected] Authors: Sue Reuther
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page iii Table of Contents
1 Introduction ...... 1 1.1 Project Background ...... 1 1.1.1 Background ...... 1 1.1.2 Strategic Environmental Assessment for Power Corridors ...... 3 1.2 Objectives of the Visual Screening Report ...... 3 1.3 Terms of Reference for Visual Study ...... 3 1.4 Assumptions and Limitations ...... 4 2 Project Description ...... 5 2.1 Corridor Alignments ...... 6 3 Approach and Methodology ...... 7 3.1 Identification of Features ...... 7 3.2 Determination of Feature Sensitivity ...... 11 4 Baseline Characteristics of the Project Area ...... 14 4.1 Regional Overview ...... 14 4.2 Central A Alignment ...... 17 4.2.1 Western Section ...... 17 4.2.2 Central Section ...... 19 4.2.1 Eastern Section ...... 21 4.3 Central B Alignment ...... 25 4.3.1 Western Section ...... 25 4.3.2 Central Section ...... 25 4.3.1 Eastern Section ...... 27 4.4 Southern Alignment...... 27 4.4.1 Western Section ...... 27 4.4.2 Central Section ...... 28 4.4.3 Eastern Section ...... 30 5 Visual Sensitivity ...... 31 5.1 Central A Alignment ...... 33 5.2 Central B Alignment ...... 33 5.3 Southern Alignment...... 34 5.4 Site Selection Matrix ...... 34 5.5 Mitigation Measures ...... 37 6 Conclusion ...... 37 7 References ...... 39
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page iv Appendices
Appendix A Specialist CV Appendix B Declaration of Independence
List of Tables Table 3-1: Identification of visual features and datasets ...... 8 Table 3-2: Sensitivity classes of features ...... 11 Table 3-3: Sensitivity of visual features ...... 11 Table 5-1: Central A Alignment sensitivity ...... 33 Table 5-2: Central B Alignment sensitivity ...... 33 Table 5-3: Southern Alignment sensitivity ...... 34 Table 5-4: Site Selection Matrix ...... 35
List of Figures Figure 1-1: Powerline sub-corridor alignment alternatives ...... 2 Figure 3-1: Location of key visual features ...... 10 Figure 4-1: Main visual features within and surrounding the proposed Eskom Kappa corridors ...... 16 Figure 4-2: Powerlines at Sterrekus substation ...... 17 Figure 4-3: VP6 (top) and VP8 (bottom): Agricultural landscape south of Malmesbury ...... 18 Figure 4-4: Powerlines alongside R44 towards Winterhoek Mountain range and Tulbagh Valley ...... 18 Figure 4-5: VP 17: Windfarm near Tulbagh ...... 19 Figure 4-6: VP16: Powerlines crossing the R44 and Winterhoek Mountain range into Tulbagh Valley ...... 20 Figure 4-7: VP22: Powerlines crossing the Tulbagh Valley ...... 21 Figure 4-8: VP23: Tulbagh agricultural landscape in summer (dry, top) and winter (wet, bottom) ...... 21 Figure 4-9: Natural vegetation in Koue Bokkeveld Mountain Catchment area (near Gydo Pass) ...... 22 Figure 4-10: VP25: Powerlines crossing Ceres Valley near Prince Alfred Hamlet ...... 23 Figure 4-11: VP29: Converging powerlines exiting Ceres Valley ...... 23 Figure 4-12: VP32 and VP33: Parallel transmission lines at Karooport ...... 24 Figure 4-13: VP35: Powerline leading to Kappa Substation enters the Tankwa Karoo ...... 25 Figure 4-14: VP26: Ceres Valley agricultural landscape viewed from Gydo Pass ...... 26 Figure 4-15: VP27: Existing high-voltage powerlines (in the background) crossing Ceres Valley ...... 27 Figure 4-16: VP12 (top) and VP13 (bottom): Swartland agricultural landscape ...... 28 Figure 4-17: VP36: Parallel transmission lines alongside and crossing the R43 north-west of Worcester ... 29 Figure 4-18: VP 37: Western entrance to the Hex River Valley ...... 30 Figure 4-19: VP38: View of Southern corridor from R318 ...... 31 Figure 4-20: VP39: View towards Southern Corridor alignment off the N1 ...... 31 Figure 5-1: Composite visual sensitivity map ...... 32
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page v Acronyms and Abbreviations
DEA (Former) Department of Environmental Affairs Eskom Eskom Holdings SOC kV kiloVolt NR Nature Reserve REDZ Renewable Energy Development Zone SEA Strategic Environmental Assessment SRK SRK Consulting (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd VP View Point
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page vi Glossary
Cultural landscape Human-modified landscapes, particularly those of aesthetic, historical or archaeological significance.
Sense of place The unique or special qualities found in a particular location, including the combined natural, cultural, aesthetic, symbolic and spiritual qualities.
Visual Broadly includes visual, scenic, aesthetic and amenity values, which contribute to an area’s overall ‘sense of place’, and which encompass both natural and cultural landscapes.
Visual Absorption The potential for the area to conceal the proposed development. Capacity
Visual Character The elements that make up the landscape including geology, vegetation and land- use of the area.
Visual Quality The experience of the environment with its particular natural and cultural attributes.
Visual Receptors Potential viewers (individuals or communities) who are subjected to the visual influence of a project.
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 1
1 Introduction Eskom Holdings SOC (Eskom) has appointed SRK Consulting (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd (SRK) to undertake an environmental study (the study) of the second 765kV transmission powerline between the Kappa and Sterrekus substations (the Project). The purpose of the study is to:
• Screen (evaluate) the three sub-corridor alignment alternatives (identified by Eskom – see Figure 1-1) based on environmental and social factors, taking cognisance of technical constraints, to select a preferred alignment;
• Identify the preferred sub-corridor alignment from an environmental, social and technical perspective (the Screening Phase); and
• Compile a detailed baseline description and identify preliminary high-level impacts of the preferred alignment, focusing on pinch-points (areas of high or very high sensitivity that cannot be avoided by infrastructure placement) (the Baseline Assessment Phase).
SRK appointed Sue Reuther, a SRK Visual Assessment specialist, to undertake the visual study required to inform this environmental study. This report presents the findings of the visual study during the Screening Phase and will inform the consolidated Screening Report to be complied by SRK.
1.1 Project Background
1.1.1 Background Currently, Koeberg Nuclear Power Station is the only base load power station in the Western Cape; however, it has insufficient capacity to meet local demand. To offset this deficit, electricity is transmitted from the Highveld to the Cape via the Cape (Transmission) Corridor.
Despite improvements to the Corridor (including the 1st Kappa – Sterrekus [Omega] line commissioned in December 2016), supply is constrained during peak periods. To increase capacity, reduce operational costs, and improve flexibility and reliability, Eskom must improve capacity to the Cape Corridor, which includes the construction of the 2nd Kappa – Sterrekus 765 kV line (the Project), by 2027.
The Cape Corridor falls within the Central Corridor identified through the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) for Power Corridors (see Section 1.1.2). The three sub-corridor alignments were selected by Eskom based on their technical feasibility and fall wholly within the Cape Corridor (Figure 1-1).
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 2
Figure 1-1: Powerline sub-corridor alignment alternatives
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 3
1.1.2 Strategic Environmental Assessment for Power Corridors To inform a strategic approach to the planning and assessment of essential transmission grid infrastructure in South Africa, the (former) Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA), in collaboration with Eskom, commissioned a SEA, of Electricity Grid Infrastructure. The SEA identified five national Power Corridors specifically intended to accommodate electricity grid infrastructure, which Cabinet approved as Strategic Transmission Corridors on 17 February 2017. The study areas falls wholly within a Strategic Transmission Corridor.
Key outcomes of the SEA were:
• Identification of sensitivity features and sensitivity maps for the Strategic Transmission Corridors under the following themes applicable to this study:
o Agriculture;
o Avifauna;
o Terrestrial and Aquatic Biodiversity;
o Heritage; and
o Visual (tourism); and
• A Procedure for Electricity Grid Infrastructure Environmental Assessment Applications Inside the Power Corridors, to streamline and better coordinate environmental assessment of grid infrastructure within strategic corridors, while ensuring environmental protection.
The procedure consists of four phases, the first of which is the Screening Phase, followed by more detailed assessment in the preferred sub-corridor alternative, landowner negotiations and applications for the required approvals. The approach to screening has been closely guided by the protocols presented in the SEA.
1.2 Objectives of the Visual Screening Report In broad terms, and based on the protocols defined in the SEA, the objectives of this Screening Study are to:
• Verify / validate and supplement or update features that have been identified as being of low, medium, high and very high visual sensitivity in the SEA;
• Confirm the sensitivity of features identified;
• Compile a Screening Report, including a broad description of the baseline characteristics of each sub-corridor alternative; and
• Identify the preferred sub-corridor alternative in consultation with SRK and Eskom.
The main outcomes of the Visual Screening Study are updated GIS based sensitivity layers to be used by SRK in overall sub-corridor screening, and a brief Screening Report (this report) describing the project, approach and method applied for screening, a broad description of baseline characteristics, focusing on particularly sensitive features to the development of powerlines.
1.3 Terms of Reference for Visual Study The Terms of Reference (ToR) for the Visual Screening Study are as follows:
• Review and update the locations and extents of features provided by SRK (guided by the approach to the SEA) and provide SRK with updated GIS based feature layers (in .kmz file format);
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 4
• Confirm or update sensitivity of features (refer to the SEA – the process to determine the sensitivity of features should emulate the approach taken in the SEA unless specific motivating circumstances are identified by the specialist) and advise on any amended or additional buffer zones required;
• Compile a Screening Report (this report), including:
▪ Sensitivity maps (compiled by SRK based on the verified location and sensitivity of features provided in other specialist screening studies);
▪ A broad description of the baseline characteristics of each corridor alternative (i.e. a broad description of land use / baseline characteristics of each alternative, as well as particularly sensitive or important features, to inform the chapter of the main Screening Report relative to your field of study); and
▪ Site (corridor) Selection Matrix comparing the three corridors to select the preferred corridor alternative (informed by the specialist integration workshop at Megawatt Park in Pretoria, in a format to be determined);
• Confirm the preferred corridor alternative in consultation with Eskom, taking into account inputs received during stakeholder engagement; and
• Provide responses and if necessary, update the Screening Report in response to stakeholder comments.
1.4 Assumptions and Limitations As is standard practice, the visual screening study is based on a number of assumptions and is subject to certain limitations, which should be borne in mind when considering information presented. These assumptions and limitations include:
• Visual assessment is not, by nature, a purely objective, quantitative process, and depends to some extent on subjective judgments. Where subjective judgments are required, appropriate criteria and motivations for these have been clearly stated;
• The study is based on technical information supplied to SRK, which is assumed to be accurate and feasible. This includes the proposed corridor alignments and dimensions of certain project components;
• The identification of visual features is based on those identified for the SEA (Department of Environmental Affairs, 2016), and assumptions and limitations applicable to the SEA also apply;
• The location of visual features is based on datasets identified during a desktop study by the respective specialists, and the location of features is deemed to be sufficiently accurate for this screening exercise, given the large size of the project area and scale of mapping;
• The desktop study did not involve fieldwork, but instead relies on available information and specialists’ knowledge of the study area;
• The screening focuses on the components of the project anticipated to have the greatest visual impact because of their height and/or scale, namely the towers and transmission lines; and
• This study does not motivate for or against the project, but rather seeks to give insight into the visual character and quality of the area, its visual absorption capacity and potential visual impacts.
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 5 2 Project Description The project will entail the following:
• Constructing the 2nd 765 kV transmission powerline from the Kappa Substation ~25 km north of Touws River, over the Skurweberge Mountain Range to the Sterrekus Substation near the Koeberg Power Station;
• Expanding and upgrading both the Kappa and Sterrekus Substations; and
• Ongoing maintenance of the powerline.
765kV powerlines are the highest capacity lines used by Eskom and require 80 m wide servitudes (40 m on either side of the centre line). Within the servitude, Eskom will erect a transmission line along a specified agreed route, operate and maintain the line and clear vegetation that may jeopardise operation of the line. No permanent building structures are allowed within the 80 m servitude.
Tower Types
Towers for the proposed transmission powerline will be between approximately 35 m and 55 m in height and extend over a footprint area ranging from approximately 15 m x 15 m to 100 m x 37 m, depending on the tower type used. The span between each tower would be approximately 500m, however, this will be influenced by the topography and line geometry to ensure the line is confined to negotiated servitudes. The actual number of towers, the type of towers and other support structures associated with the proposed powerline would be confirmed following approval of the proposed project and once the final alignment is negotiated with property owners.
A range of tower types is likely to be utilised along the length of the powerline, informed by weight, topography, height, cost and erection time. These include:
• Self-supporting towers;
• Guyed V-suspension towers; and
• Guyed cross rope structures.
Examples of some 765kV towers that Eskom is likely to use are illustrated below.
Self Supporting Guyed-V suspension Guyed cross rope Towers are generally erected in three ways:
• Cranes: which are generally an efficient method for erecting preassembled units or sections of lattice and steel poles ;
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 6
• Gin poles: used when tower heights and weights exceed the capacity of the crane or where access to the site is restricted. Erection of the structure is done piece by piece or section by section; or
• Helicopter: used when access to the tower position is constrained.
Clearance
Minimum clearance requirements are specified from buildings, poles and structures not forming part of the power line, proclaimed public roads and trees and shrubs as well as minimum conductor ground clearance.
An approximately 8 m wide strip generally needs to be cleared of all trees and shrubs down the centre of transmission power line servitude for stringing purposes only. Minimum standards for vegetation clearance in various situations (including follow up clearance) are specified by Eskom.
Access Roads
Temporary access roads will be required for the construction vehicles to transport construction equipment and workers to and from tower position sites. Vehicle access is usually required along the entire length of the servitude during both the construction and operation / maintenance phases of the transmission power line life cycle.
To reduce potential impacts associated with the construction of new access roads, existing roads will be used as far as possible. New access roads will be established during construction by vehicle passage rather than by grading or blading to avoid permanent removal of the existing vegetation.
2.1 Corridor Alignments The following three alternative sub-corridors alignment were identified by Eskom’s Technical Team for the Project (see Figure 1-1) and are the subject of this Study:
• The Central A Alignment, which is ±195 km in length;
• The Central B Alignment, which is ±185 km in length; and
• The Southern Alignment, which is ±260 km in length.
The sub-corridors run in a north-easterly direction from the Sterrekus Substation near Melkbosstrand in the West Coast District Municipality towards the town of Malmesbury, at which point they diverge into the three alternative alignments. All three alignment alternatives converge and terminate at the Kappa Substation north of Touws River.
Central A Alignment (Blue on Figure 1)
From the Divergence Point the Central A Alignment routes in a north-easterly direction towards Gouda (passing between Riebeek Kasteel and Hermon). The corridor tracks south from Gouda over the southern foothills of the Groot Winterhoek Mountains and the Winterhoek Mountain Catchment Area, and then south of Tulbagh in the Witzenberg Valley (where a southern tie-in is included here). The alignment then passes over Skurweberg into the Ceres Valley where it splits into two route alternatives: the northern route and the southern route. The southern route passes south of Mountain 7 (and north of Prince Alfred Hamlet) and tracks eastwards out of the Ceres Valley along the R46 road and Theronsberg Pass. The northern route passes north of Waboomsberg, over Baviaansberg, and once again merges with the southern route west of Baviaansberg in the southwestern Karoo. The alignment then extends a further ~23 km to the Kappa Substation to the north-east.
Central B Alignment (Red on Figure 1)
From the Divergence Point the Central B Alignment tracks in a north-easterly direction to the south of Hermon and over Waterval into the Breede River Valley. It then routes north of Wolseley over the
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 7
Witzenberg and Skurweberg mountains and north of Ceres in the Ceres Valley. The alignment then routes south of Waboomsberg (and south of Prince Alfred Hamlet) and eastwards out of the Ceres Valley along the R46 road and Theronsberg Pass. The alignment then extends in a north-easterly direction for a further ~40 km into the southwestern Karoo, terminating at the Kappa Substation north of Touws River.
Southern Alignment (Green on Figure 1)
From the Divergence Point, the Southern Alignment tracks south along the R45 road towards Wellington, and then north-east through the Haweqwa Nature Reserve (NR) over the Boland Mountains into the Breede River Valley. It then routes south through this valley before tracking north (northwest of Worcester and the Brandvlei Dam) over the Riviersonderend Mountains and through the Matroosberg Mountain Catchment Area along the Hex River Pass into the Hex River Valley towards De Doorns. It then continues north-east, roughly following the route of the N1 road, over the Hex River Mountains towards Touws River. The alignment then follows two alternative routes north towards the Kappa Substation. 3 Approach and Methodology Visual impacts are a function of the physical transformation of a landscape on account of the introduced object, and the experiential perceptions of viewers. Given the subjective nature of visual issues, characterising and assessing the visual impacts of a project in absolute and objective terms is not achievable. Thus, qualitative as well as quantitative techniques are required. The focus of this screening study is to determine the character and sensitivity of the visual environment, identify visual receptors and high-level mitigation measures.
The analysis was supported by images from site visits undertaken by members of the project team in September and December 2020, supplemented with Google Earth images in selected locations on the Southern Alignment.
3.1 Identification of Features Scenic value is often determined through aspects such as natural or cultural landscape complexity and integrity (or intactness), topographical diversity and landscape contrast. Visual variety and scale tend to be important, particularly at the interface between landforms. Aesthetic perception is subjective, but coherence, legibility, complexity and mystery are some of the universal factors considered (Oberholzer, et al., 2016). Features important to the visual quality of areas within proposed powerline corridors, and for which datasets can be compiled, were previously identified in Chapter 5 of the SEA (Department of Environmental Affairs, 2016) and include features relating to:
• Topography, which provides diversity and contrast as well as visually exposed (and assimilative) areas;
• Aquatic features, which add to landscape complexity and contrast and attract visually sensitive visitors;
• Protected areas, with natural or untransformed landscapes with an inherent scenic value that attracts visually sensitive visitors;
• Cultural areas, which provide aesthetic value through association with historic developments; and
• Mobility corridors, utilised by potentially large numbers of (transient) receptors.
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 8
The specialist reviewed these visual features and determined their relevance for this study area (see Table 3-1). No additional visual features were identified for this study, while some previously identified features were excluded.
Visual screening is closely linked to other specialist disciplines, notably heritage (which identifies natural and cultural landscapes and heritage resources that tend to have visual significance), and tourism (which identifies natural and cultural features that attract visitors and thus have visual sensitivity), but also others. These studies were consulted and datasets for individual visual features were provided by the respective specialists, as shown in Table 3-1. Features identified for the screening are shown in Figure 3-1.
Table 3-1: Identification of visual features and datasets
SEA Feature Relevant for Motivation for inclusion Dataset study area Topography Ridgelines, scarps, Yes The study area has mountain ranges and prominent As identified by and geological elevations and features with high scenic value and sense geotechnical features of place, which attract visual interest / visually sensitive specialist visitors. Mountain ranges and valleys in the study area typically have a rugged and natural sense of place that is incongruent with powerline infrastructure. Aquatic features Major rivers Yes Major rivers have high scenic, recreational and agricultural As identified by value, especially in the Cape Winelands, where many aquatic ecologist farms rely on irrigation. They form scenic corridors and vistas and attract recreational visitors with heightened aesthetic sensibilities. Their typically natural sense of place is incongruent with powerline infrastructure. Waterbodies, dams, Yes Waterbodies have critical agricultural value in the Cape As identified by wetlands, pans Winelands, add visual complexity and quality to a aquatic ecologist landscape and may attract recreational visitors with heightened aesthetic sensibilities. Ramsar sites No Not present in the study area. n/a Coastal zone No Not present in the study area. n/a Protected areas National Parks No Not present in the study area. n/a Nature Reserves / Yes Nature Reserves are protected areas in largely natural As identified by biosphere core condition and usually have scenic attributes and a distinct terrestrial ecologist natural sense of place that is incongruent with powerline infrastructure. Visitors to Nature Reserves value the natural sense of place and are visually sensitive. Smaller Nature Reserves are more likely to have been visually impacted by development in surrounding areas. Mountain Yes Mountain catchments are typically remote natural areas As identified by Catchments / with high scenic and visual quality and a distinct natural terrestrial ecologist biosphere buffer sense of place that is incongruent with powerline infrastructure. Private reserves Yes Private game reserves and game farms generate and Identified based on and game farms commercially rely on a sense of wilderness that is South African incongruent with powerline infrastructure. Protected Areas Database (SAPAD) Cultural areas Cultural landscapes Yes Agricultural cultural landscapes in the study area, As identified by especially the Swartland and various valleys that form part heritage specialist of the Cape Winelands, are notable for their integrity, rural
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 9
SEA Feature Relevant for Motivation for inclusion Dataset study area scenic value and historical or cultural significance. Their distinct sense of place may be altered by powerlines, though some cultural landscapes in the project area are already impacted by powerlines. Heritage sites Yes Heritage sites typically have a locally distinct historic As identified by sense of place that is incompatible with modern heritage specialist infrastructure such as powerlines and attract visually sensitive visitors. Historical towns / Yes Some (older) towns have a distinct historic sense of place As identified by villages that is incompatible with modern infrastructure such as heritage specialist powerlines and attract visually sensitive visitors. Other towns / Yes (Peri)-urban residents are sensitive receptors who are As identified by settlements affected by the visual impact of powerlines if those are planners incongruent with the surrounding landscape. Visual intrusions can also affect property values. Mobility corridors National Roads Yes National roads used by national and regional commuters / As identified by travellers seeking, fast and efficient mobility for multiple planners purposes. Users are visual receptors affected by fleeting, moving vistas of powerlines within the road viewshed if those are incongruent with the surrounding landscape. Provincial Roads Yes Provincial roads used by regional and local commuters / As identified by travellers seeking efficient mobility for multiple purposes. planners Users are visual receptors affected by fleeting, moving vistas of powerlines within the road viewshed if those are incongruent with the surrounding landscape. Scenic Routes Yes Scenic routes, typically mountain passes, valley routes or As identified by roads through regions of distinctive natural beauty, often heritage specialist provide vistas over large scenic areas that are incongruent with powerline infrastructure. Since there are comparatively few scenic routes, they attract many tourists and recreational users. The latter may be specifically attracted by the views and scenic landscapes. Passenger Rail Yes Train services are used by national, regional and local As identified by Lines commuters / travellers for multiple purposes. Users are planners visual receptors affected by fleeting, moving vistas of powerlines within the road viewshed if those are incongruent with the surrounding landscape. Other SA large telescope No Not present in the study area. n/a (SALT)
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 10
Figure 3-1: Location of key visual features
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 11
3.2 Determination of Feature Sensitivity The sensitivity of visual features to the (construction of a) powerline was classified into four sensitivity classes, describes in Table 3-2 and based on the classes identified in the SEA (Department of Environmental Affairs, 2016).
Table 3-2: Sensitivity classes of features Sensitivity Class Interpretation Very High Visually sensitive areas with major development barriers including protected areas, heritage sites, scenic routes, and others sensitive receptors. Development in this area carries a very high risk of negatively impacting sensitive landscape features. As such, development in very high sensitivity areas is strongly discouraged and viable alternatives should be investigated, where feasible to do so. High High sensitivity areas are characterised by complex terrain with high topographic diversity and landscape, high level of landscape and scenic constraints and close proximity to game reserves and other sensitive receptors. Development in these areas carries a high risk of impacting sensitive landscape features. As such, development in these areas is discouraged and viable alternatives should be investigated, where feasible to do so. Mitigation measures may also be available to reduce the magnitude of the potential impact. Medium Medium sensitivity areas are characterised by moderately complex terrain with some topographic diversity and landscape dissection, medium landscape scale and texture, moderate level of landscape and scenic constraints, and intermediate proximity of protected areas and sensitive receptors. Development in these areas carries a moderate risk of impacting sensitive landscape features. As such, development in these areas may be limited or mitigation measures may be necessary. Low Low sensitivity areas are characterised by relatively even terrain, flat to gently rolling topography and slopes, large expansive landscape scale and coarse-grain texture, few landscape and scenic constraints, absence of protected areas and few sensitive receptors and transformed or degraded land. Development in these areas carries a moderate to low risk of impacting sensitive landscapes and features. As a result, these types of areas are considered the best suited for development. Source: (Department of Environmental Affairs, 2016) Sensitivities to visual impacts from the (construction of a) powerline were assigned to the visual resources identified in Table 3-1 and associated buffer areas. Sensitivities were based on those determined in the SEA (Department of Environmental Affairs, 2016), in some cases modified as indicated in italic font in Table 3-3. Sensitivities assigned by other specialists to features that also have visual significance were considered, and visual sensitivity correlates well with biodiversity, heritage and tourism sensitivities in many areas. Visual sensitivity decreases with increasing distance of the powerline, which becomes less visible. Figure 5-1 shows the resulting visual sensitivity in each of the powerline corridors.
Table 3-3: Sensitivity of visual features
Feature Sensitivity Motivation Site <250m <500m <1km <2km <3km Topography Ridgelines, VH H L L L L Infrastructure placed on ridgelines is highly scarps and (SEA: H) (SEA: M) visible. Powerlines affect the visual quality and geological sense of place. features Placing powerlines along the lower elevations or foot of a mountain range can effectively absorb the visual impact, and the buffer width has been reduced.
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 12
Feature Sensitivity Motivation Site <250m <500m <1km <2km <3km Aquatic features Major rivers VH VH VH M L L Powerlines affect the unique riparian quality (SEA: H) (SEA: M) and sense of place, and impact on visually sensitive receptors. The lower reaches of rivers in the study area are often located within transformed landscapes, and the sensitivity to powerline diminishes quite rapidly away from the river. Waterbodies, VH VH VH M L L Powerlines affect the unique visual quality and dams, wetlands, (SEA: H) (SEA: M) sense of place conferred by waterbodies, and pans impact on visually sensitive receptors. Sensitivity should only apply to large key water bodies that are visual or recreational resources. Protected areas Nature VH VH VH VH H M Nature Reserves are formally protected natural Reserves / areas which may provide a wilderness biosphere core experience and often offer views into the surrounding area; they are visually sensitive to even distant views. Visitors are highly sensitive receptors. Powerlines affect the high visual quality of Nature Reserves, as they are incongruent with the wilderness sense of place. Mountain M M M M L L Powerlines affect the high visual quality of Catchments / remote mountain catchment areas. However, biosphere buffer catchments have fewer receptors due to their remoteness. Private reserves H H H H M L Private game reserves and game farms and game farms commercially rely on a sense of wilderness that is incongruent with powerline infrastructure. However, they are not formally protected public areas. Cultural areas Cultural Very High to Medium, as assigned by the heritage Cultural landscapes in the study area are landscapes specialist. mostly agricultural in nature, and rural No buffers are assigned as the landscapes extend landscapes are more susceptible to visual across the entire corridor width. impact than e.g. industrial landscapes as they are not entirely compatible with powerlines, although industrial-scale infrastructure and smaller transmission infrastructure related to agri-industry does exist. Some landscapes already accommodate high-voltage powerlines (e.g. Ceres and Tulbagh Valleys). Heritage sites VH H H M L L Powerlines are incongruent with the historic character of heritage sites. Heritage sites are relatively small and have visually sensitive visitors, who are exposed for short periods of time. Historical towns VH VH VH H M L Powerlines are incongruent with the historic / villages character of some towns, which have many highly sensitive receptors (residents, tourists, visitors). Other towns / VH VH H M L L Residents are deemed highly sensitive visual settlements receptors and powerlines may be incongruent
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 13
Feature Sensitivity Motivation Site <250m <500m <1km <2km <3km with the surrounding landscape and affect the quality of residents’ views. Placement of powerlines within the middle ground (<2km) is acceptable if no other constraints exist. Mobility corridors National Roads VH VH H M L L Views from national roads are prominent as (SEA: VH) (SEA: H) (SEA: M) many motorists are exposed to them. However, motorists are transient viewers and hence less sensitive. Powerlines are already located along road reserves in many areas. Though national roads are higher order roads than provincial roads, they do not necessarily carry much more traffic / more sensitive viewers, and visual sensitivity is deemed similar to provincial roads. Provincial VH VH H M L L Views from provincial roads are prominent as Roads many motorists are exposed to them. However, motorists are transient viewers and hence less sensitive. Powerlines are already located along road reserves in many areas. Scenic Routes VH VH VH VH H M The vistas from scenic routes attract visually highly sensitive visitors, are incongruent with powerline infrastructure and often have heritage and tourism value as well. Passenger Rail VH VH H M L L Sensitivity of train passengers is deemed Lines similar to those national and provincial road users. Railway lines used by dedicated tourist operations have greater visual sensitivity.
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 14
4 Baseline Characteristics of the Project Area Each alternative corridor is ~2 km wide, resulting in a vast study area of ~1 200 km2.
The climate of the study area varies from Mediterranean in the low-lying southwest, to semi-arid in the northeast; and the powerline will traverse a diverse environment, which includes natural areas, and agricultural, residential, commercial, industrial and conservation land uses.
The project traverses the City of Cape Town, West Coast and Cape Winelands District Municipalities, and is located entirely in the Western Cape Province.
Visual character and quality of the areas within the proposed powerline corridors are described below. Visual character is descriptive and non-evaluative, which implies that it is based on defined attributes that are neither positive nor negative. It refers to the overall experience and impression of the landscape, such as natural or transformed. Visual and scenic qualities are determined by both landscape and cultural characteristics within the study area, including, but not limited to, topographical and geological features, vegetation patterns, land use activities and settlement forms (DEA&DP, 2005). Scenic value is often deemed enhanced through aspects such as natural or cultural landscape complexity and integrity (or intactness), topographical diversity and landscape contrast. Visual evaluations by their nature encompass both tangible and more abstract qualities of the landscape, resulting in a degree of subjectivity, with cultural undertones (Oberholzer, et al., 2016).
4.1 Regional Overview The coastal plain at the western end of the corridor comprises of recent sand interspersed with granite. Further inland, weathered Malmesbury Group shales of the Swartland become foothills of the quartzitic sandstone mountain ranges (Department of Environmental Affairs, 2016) which dominate the central and eastern portion of the study area. The dramatic mountains of the Cape Fold Belt are underlain by geological formations of the Bokkeveld Group and Table Mountain Group. Shale and sandstone form low rolling hills across valley bottoms in the western portion of the study area, while weather-resistant quartzitic sandstone forms steep rocky mountains (SRK, 2017).
The study area is located within the Cape Floristic Kingdom and the Fynbos Biome and supports various Shale and Sandstone Fynbos and Renosterveld vegetation types. The natural vegetation of the area is predominantly low to moderately tall shrubland. However, much of the natural vegetation in the valleys has been lost to agriculture. Natural vegetation cover on the steeper slopes of the mountains has mostly remained intact because it is not suitable for development, in addition to which some areas are proclaimed nature reserves (SRK, 2017).
The project area is now characterised by a mosaic of agricultural and wilderness landscapes, a transition from plains in the west to valleys and mountain ranges with scenic passes in the centre to plains and outcrops in the east. It is rich with historical sites and towns, many of which retain their original charm. Broadly speaking, the project area traverses the wheat-producing Swartland to the west, the popular and scenic Cape Winelands in the centre and the arid Tankwa Karoo to the east, and baseline descriptions of the individual corridors are broadly split along those lines in the sections below.
Although there are many drainage lines in the valleys, these watercourses have been severely affected by agricultural activities and dams. The most important perennial rivers in the study area include the Berg River in the western section and the Breede River and Hex River in the central section of the area. The eastern section is more arid and rivers are ephemeral.
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 15
Major powerlines linking the Kappa and Sterrekus substations run along portions of the project area. Several existing and approved renewable energy projects are located in the project area, particularly the eastern portion, which falls within the gazetted Komsberg Wind Renewable Energy Development Zone (REDZ). Energy generation and transmission infrastructure may variably be considered as visually detracting or a sign of progress and service delivery (Department of Environmental Affairs, 2016). The national road N1 and important provincial roads are also located in the area. The project area contains few large-scale industrial, mining or other visually scarring features.
Overall, the area has a high visual quality due to recognisable cultural landscapes and landforms, which are major scenic resources and determinants of visual significance. It has a recognisable and strong sense of place and visually sensitive receptors associated with the Cape Winelands and western fringes of the Karoo, various Nature Reserves, human settlements and major mobility routes.
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 16
Figure 4-1: Main visual features within and surrounding the proposed Eskom Kappa corridors Western Section Central Section Eastern Section
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 17
4.2 Central A Alignment
4.2.1 Western Section The western section of the Central A Alignment extends from the Sterrekus Substation near Melkbosstrand, approximately 6 km inland of the Atlantic coastline, to Nuwekloof Pass that leads into the Tulbagh Valley. The western part of this section is common to all three alignment alternatives.
The Sterrekus Substation at the western end of the corridor is a major substation and termination point for several 765 kV and 400 kV transmission lines. It dominates the visual character of the immediate area due to the size of the substation and congregation of several major powerlines. The immediate area thus displays a somewhat industrial visual character, within a broader rural context (see Figure 4-2).
VP1: Multiple transmission lines at Sterrekus
VP2: Sterrekus substation VP2: Transmission line parallel to road Figure 4-2: Powerlines at Sterrekus substation This western section falls primarily within the Swartland, named after the black appearance of natural renosterveld vegetation formerly dominant in the area. Dryland and irrigated farming as well as some agri-industry are prevalent in the western-most portion. Wheat farming, fed by winter rains, has been the main land use in the Swartland for centuries and dominates the remainder of the western section, though dryland viticulture has gained popularity in recent decades.
The section runs through a thoroughly transformed landscape that forms part of a very large and therefore less intact cultural agricultural landscape. Much of this cultural landscape is characterised by undulating wheat farms, with green dominating the landscape in winter, changing to golden hues in summer. Local mountains, such as the Paardeberg and the Elandskloof Mountains, create complexity in the background and add visual interest to an otherwise relatively uniform expanse of fields (see Figure 4-3).
An existing 765 kV powerline runs the entire length of this section (visible in Figure 4-3). It is fairly well absorbed by the background in undulating areas, but silhouettes starkly where it projects above the
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 18
skyline. The powerline is not aligned with major infrastructure, but rather crosses fields and several national and provincial roads (N7, R302, R45 and R46) in a north-easterly direction. The powerline aligns with the R44 just north of Voelvlei Dam and crosses into Tulbagh Valley just north of Nuwekloof Pass (see Figure 4-4). A windfarm is located east of Nuwekloof Pass and highly visible from the R44, though at a distance appear to be dwarfed by transmission line pylons (see Figure 4-5). The windfarm inserts incongruent vertical elements into the landscape and imparts a somewhat industrial character to the immediate area.
Figure 4-3: VP6 (top) and VP8 (bottom): Agricultural landscape south of Malmesbury
Figure 4-4: Powerlines alongside R44 towards Winterhoek Mountain range and Tulbagh Valley
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 19
Figure 4-5: VP 17: Windfarm near Tulbagh Motorists are the key visual receptors in this area, though they gain only occasional glimpses of the powerline where it crosses roads. Nearby towns such as Riebeeck Kasteel, Hermon and Malmesbury are located more than 3 km from the existing powerline (and more than 2 km from the edge of the proposed corridor), which is thus visible in the middleground for some residents.
The western portion of the Central A Alignment has some visual quality and sense of place. Both, however, are reduced by the relatively uniform topography and landscape, which is wholly transformed, and the industrial character of the western-most areas. There are relatively few visually sensitive receptors. Visual interest increases close to Nuwekloof Pass.
Overall, the section has medium visual quality.
4.2.2 Central Section The central section of the Central A Alignment extends from Nuwekloof Pass to Gydo Pass, where the corridor crosses the north-south aligned Tulbagh and adjacent, elevated Witzenberg Valleys, and the Groot Winterhoek mountain range that separates the two. The Groot Winterhoek mountain range rises to approximately 1 500 m in this area. The existing powerline crosses just north of Nuwekloof Pass into Tulbagh Valley (see Figure 4-6) and again into the southern portion of Witzenberg Valley, on roughly the same alignment as proposed for the new powerline.
The mountains provide a dramatic backdrop to views from anywhere within both valleys (see Figure 4-8), add visual contrast to the landscape and provide a clear delineation and definition of the valleys. Tulbagh and Witzenberg Valleys have been almost wholly transformed and do not retain much of their original vegetation. However, the agricultural landscape, comprising different hues, textures and patterns of vineyards, olive groves, crops and pastures, is complex and visually appealing (see Figure 4-8). Tulbagh Valley is a popular destination on the wine and olive tasting routes, and outdoor activities attract many visitors who are visually sensitive receptors. The existing powerline crosses the southern portion of the valley and is visible from many locations in the valley (see Figure 4-7), but remains in the background when viewed from the town and the most frequented tourist destinations in the northern portion of the valley. Tulbagh is a historic town and, in combination with the relatively small and well-defined valley, the area has a distinct sense of place and high visual quality.
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 20
The narrow Witzenberg Valley is smaller than Tulbagh Valley, and is intensively farmed, though has fewer agro-processing facilities and other structures and, arguably, retains a more rural and remote sense of place. It shares many visual attributes of Tulbagh Valley. However, it has fewer tourist attractions and therefore attracts fewer visually sensitive receptors.
A number of private Nature Reserves were mapped in the corridor (Grootvlei Nature Reserve in Tulbagh Valley and Opdrag Nature Reserve in Witzenberg Valley) – based on aerial images these areas appear to be farmed. If correct, these reserves lie within farmed areas and may not deliver a wilderness experience.
Overall, the section has medium to high visual quality.
Figure 4-6: VP16: Powerlines crossing the R44 and Winterhoek Mountain range into Tulbagh Valley
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 21
Figure 4-7: VP22: Powerlines crossing the Tulbagh Valley
Figure 4-8: VP23: Tulbagh agricultural landscape in summer (dry, top) and winter (wet, bottom)
4.2.1 Eastern Section The eastern section of the Central A Alignment extends from Gydo Pass to the Kappa Substation and splits into two sub-routes at Gydo Pass. Gydo Pass (R303) in the north of Ceres Valley connects the Warm Bokkeveld to the south with the higher altitude Koue Bokkeveld to the north, offering spectacular, sweeping views of Ceres Valley (see Figure 4-14).
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 22
The northern sub-route crosses the foothills of the Koue Bokkeveld Mountains before entering the Tankwa Karoo lowland towards the east. Intensive farming dominates the visual character adjacent to Witzenberg Valley at Elandsfontein, but quickly gives way to a largely pristine mountain plateau at an elevation of approximately 1 000 m. The plateau is bounded by peaks up to 1 900 m high, including Waboomsberg and Baviaansberg, which provide contrast and diversity to the landscape. Land cover is good and natural vegetation is varied as it benefits from high rainfalls in the mountains and provides added contrast and interest (see Figure 4-9). The corridor follows an existing gravel road in the mountains to the north of Ceres Valley, sections of which run adjacent to the ephemeral Droëlandsrivier that has carved through the mountains and adds complexity and depth. No powerlines are located in the mountainous section east of Gydo Pass and east of Karoopoort, where the corridor joins existing powerlines. Sensitive receptors are primarily users of the scenic Gydo Pass and visitors to the Inverdoorn Nature Reserve, a tourist destination located north-east of Karoopoort, and crossed by the corridor.
This northern sub-route of the Central A Alignment has very high scenic value and visual quality.
Figure 4-9: Natural vegetation in Koue Bokkeveld Mountain Catchment area (near Gydo Pass) The southern sub-route connects to the Central B corridor via Gydo Pass into Ceres Valley. Much of this route overlays the existing major powerline that crosses from the Tulbagh and Witzenberg Valleys north of Prince Alfred Hamlet and along the northern edge of Ceres Valley (see Figure 4-10). At the convergence point of the Central A and Central B corridors, the existing powerline from Tulbagh Valley is joined by two additional high-voltage powerlines that cross Ceres Valley further to the south (see Section 4.2). The route then substantially overlays the Central B Alignment for ~25 km and runs parallel to the R46.
The Central A southern sub-route continues along the R355 in a north-easterly direction through Karoopoort, a historic mountain pass of high scenic quality. However, the convergence of several existing powerlines at the exit of Ceres Valley and along Karoopoort is incompatible with and detracts from the otherwise natural sense of place of the scenic Koue Bokkeveld Mountains, especially where powerlines are visible against the skyline and where many lines run in close proximity, dominating the view. This reduces the visual quality of the area (see Figure 4-11 and Figure 4-12).
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 23
A number of visual receptors are present in the area, particularly residents of Prince Alfred Hamlet, adjacent to the corridor, and users of the popular R46. These users are already exposed to views of existing powerlines.
This southern sub-route of the Central A Alignment has medium scenic value and visual quality.
Figure 4-10: VP25: Powerlines crossing Ceres Valley near Prince Alfred Hamlet
Figure 4-11: VP29: Converging powerlines exiting Ceres Valley The two sub-routes converge west of Karooport, where the corridor enters the Tankwa Karoo, a large ~700 m high, arid plain with increasingly sparse and uniform-looking vegetation and few topographic features (see Figure 4-13). Views are expansive, and some visual interest is provided by distant outcrops and dramatic cloud formations, which stand out as features in areas with sparse vegetation. The Tankwa Karoo in general has a distinct stark character and sense of place.
The Komsberg Wind REDZ extends to Karoopoort and from there eastwards for ~160 km. More than 40 wind energy projects have been approved in the REDZ. Most are clustered around the Komsberg Substation ~60 km east of Kappa, but ~six approved projects are located around the Kappa substation. More projects may be considered in future. Even if only some of those projects come to fruition, the visual character of the area will change significantly from a vast open landscape to one that is visually cluttered with windfarms which impose vertical elements into the view. This reduces the visual quality of the landscape in this section and makes it more congruent with transmission lines, which are already present.
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 24
Relatively few visual receptors are present, as most road users would take the R46 south to Touws River rather than the R355 or R346 through Karoopoort into the Karoo.
Overall, the visual quality of this corridor section is medium to low.
Figure 4-12: VP32 and VP33: Parallel transmission lines at Karooport
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 25
Figure 4-13: VP35: Powerline leading to Kappa Substation enters the Tankwa Karoo
4.3 Central B Alignment
4.3.1 Western Section The western section of the Central B Alignment extends from the Sterrekus Substation to the Elandskloof Mountains, where the powerline crosses into the southern Tulbagh Valley. Most of this section overlays with the Central A Alignment described in Section 4.2.1. The Central B Alignment diverges from Central A west of Hermon and runs south-east until it reaches the Waterval / Elandskloof Mountains. The visual quality of the Swartland landscape in that section of the Central B corridor is comparable to that in the western section of the Central A Alignment.
In contrast to the western section of the Central A route, 15 km of the western section of the Central B route would constitute a new powerline route through agricultural land, crossing the Berg River (here flowing through a transformed rural landscape) and the R46 south of Hermon.
The overall section has medium to low visual quality and sensitivity.
4.3.2 Central Section The central section of the Central B Alignment extends from the Waterval / Elandskloof Mountains to the eastern rim of Ceres Valley. This section is visually comparable to the central section of the Central A Alignment, as it consists of a similarly diverse sequence of highly scenic and dramatic mountain passes (midway between Nuwekloof and Bainskloof Pass, and northerly Michell’s Pass) and rural valley landscapes (Tulbagh and Ceres Valleys). Though the Central B Alignment crosses the mountains and Tulbagh Valley further south (north of Wolseley) than the Central A Alignment, the general visual characteristics of Tulbagh Valley and adjacent mountains described in Section 4.2.2 also apply to this corridor.
The crossing of the Elandskloof Mountains, between Nuwekloof Pass and Bainskloof Pass, follows two existing powerlines. It crosses the very scenic Elandsberg Nature Reserve and the Hawequas Mountain Catchment Area. The powerlines and proposed corridor do not follow an established mountain pass road.
Ceres Valley is a large, round valley basin surrounded by the foothills of the Koue Bokkeveld Mountains to the north and bounded by the Matrooosberg Mountain Catchment Area to the south. Peaks reach ~2 000 m and provide a dramatic backdrop and contrast. They also clearly define and delineate the valley. The landscape rises gently from the western and central portions of the valley,
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 26
then rises sharply at the foothills in the east (SRK, 2017).Ceres Valley is well known for fruit production (apple, pear, stone fruit), but the predominant crops in the central parts of the valleys are wheat and lucerne. Isolated farmsteads and farm dams are scattered throughout the area and an extensive network of gravel roads connects farms and settlements. From higher vantage points the rural landscape forms a vivid mosaic of contrasting colours and textures (see Figure 4-14).
Two high-voltage powerlines already run through this entire portion of the Central B corridor, affecting the visual quality of the area. However, in many places the powerlines integrate relatively well into the background within the heterogenous valley landscape (see Figure 4-14 and Figure 4-15). They and cross the mountains north of the popular and scenic Bainskloof and Michell’s Passes, thereby limiting the visual impact on motorists and rail users.
However, much of the mountainous area in this section is protected. The corridor (and existing powerlines) cross two Nature Reserves (the Elandsberg Nature Reserve west of the Elandsberg Mountains and the Ceres Bergfynbos Reserve north of Michell’s Pass), several Mountain Catchment Areas (Hawequas and Koue Bokkeveld) and lies within 3 km of at least three other Nature Reserves (Bontebok Ridge, Boontjiesrivier Park and Wakkerstroom). This adds visual sensitivity to the mountainous areas. However, the Nature Reserves are relatively small and farming activities in surrounding areas, as well as the existing powerlines, will be visible; they do not, thus, deliver a wilderness experience.
Highly sensitive residential visual receptors at Wolseley would be affected, as the corridor lies adjacent to the town. However, current views already incorporate two powerlines, which do not dominate the wide open landscape that is partially degraded in the foreground. The powerline is partially screened from residential areas by vegetation in the foreground.
Overall, the section has medium visual quality.
Figure 4-14: VP26: Ceres Valley agricultural landscape viewed from Gydo Pass
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 27
Figure 4-15: VP27: Existing high-voltage powerlines (in the background) crossing Ceres Valley
4.3.1 Eastern Section The eastern section of the Central B Alignment extends from the eastern edge of Ceres Valley to the Kappa Substation. Most of this section partly or fully overlays the Central A Alignment, and the visual characteristics described for the relevant section of the southern and combined routes in Section 4.2.1 apply.
The Central B Alignment diverges from the Central A route ~4 km west of Karoopoort and forms a ~15 km long loop south of Karoopoort. It re-joins the Central A corridor ~5 km east of Karoopoort. The deviation runs through terrain comparable to that in the Central A alignment through Karoopoort. The landscape is defined by undulating topography with largely natural vegetation. Numerous peaks and high points result in frequently changing and diverse views that are often restricted to the foreground. In contrast to the Central A route, no powerline is currently located in this section of the Central B Alignment. The R46 towards Touws River carries regular traffic.
This section has a medium to low visual quality and sensitivity that is comparable to the Central A corridor, with the exception of the loop around Karoopoort, which has a high visual quality. 4.4 Southern Alignment
4.4.1 Western Section The western section of the Southern Alignment extends from the Sterrekus Substation to the Elandskloof Mountains, where the powerline crosses into the southern Tulbagh Valley. Most of this section overlays with the Central A and Central B Alignments described in Sections 4.2.1 and 4.3.1. The Southern Alignment diverges from the Central A and B alignments east of the Paardeberg, where it turns south-east towards Wellington. North of Wellington the route turns north-east, onto the alignment of two existing powerlines, before joining the Central B route at the Waterval / Elandskloof Mountains. The visual quality of the Swartland landscape in the divergent section of the Southern Alignment is comparable to that in the western sections of the Central A and B Alignments (see Figure 4-16 and Figure 4-3).
The overall section has medium to low visual quality and sensitivity.
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 28
Figure 4-16: VP12 (top) and VP13 (bottom): Swartland agricultural landscape
4.4.2 Central Section The central section of the Southern Alignment extends from the Waterval / Elandskloof Mountains to the eastern end of Hex River Valley. This section is visually comparable to the central sections of the Central A and B Alignments, as it consists of a similarly diverse sequence of scenic mountain passes (midway between Nuwekloof and Bainskloof Pass and at the Hex River Poort Pass) and agricultural valley landscapes (Breede River and Hex River Valleys).
The proposed alignment of the Elandskloof Mountains, between the Nuwekloof Pass and Bainskloof Pass, is the same as the Central B corridor and two existing powerlines, as described in Section 4.3.2. The corridor then follows an existing 400 kV powerline south to the Bacchus Substation for ~30 km, along the Breede River Valley (see Figure 4-17). North of Worcester the corridor turns north-east and from that point does not follow an established powerline. The corridor crosses the Matroosberge Mountain Catchment Area, which separates the Breede River and Hex River Valleys, at the Hex River Poort Pass on the N1 and Hex River alignment.
The Breede River Valley is an important agricultural area. Its shape and landscape pattern is broadly similar to that of Tulbagh Valley, especially in the northern section traversed by the corridor which is relatively narrow and framed by the Hawequas and Matroosberg Mountain ranges on either side (south of Worcester the Breede River valley widens and is less confined). Near Worcester the rural landscape is peri-urban in character, as agri-industrial, commercial and residential land uses are interspersed in the area.
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 29
Figure 4-17: VP36: Parallel transmission lines alongside and crossing the R43 north-west of Worcester The Hex River Poort Pass is a low ~5 km pass which does not afford views across the surrounding area. Travellers from Worcester emerge from the relatively narrow pass to a highly scenic view of the narrow, enclosed Hex River Valley (see Figure 4-18). The Hex River Valley contains a number of important heritage sites (other than cemeteries) and has a very scenic agricultural landscape of high integrity and contrast. It is dominated by vineyards and framed by the surrounding mountains, while dams provide additional texture and diversity. No major infrastructure, such as powerlines, detracts from the visual qualities of the area. More recent high-density urban development and the N1 on the slightly elevated southern edge of the valley are very visible and partially affect the visual integrity of the cultural landscape.
The N1 is the major artery connecting Cape Town and Johannesburg. It carries a large number of (transient) visual receptors. A railway line also carries transient viewers. More importantly, the Breede River Valley is an important destination on the Cape Winelands wine route and popular with visitors seeking out the many recreational opportunities associated with the Breede River and scenic mountain areas. As such, the area attracts many visually sensitive visitors. Worcester and De Doorns are located close to the corridor and are not currently affected by high voltage powerlines.
Overall, the section has medium to high visual quality in the Breede Valley and high to very high visual quality in the Hex River Poort Pass and Hex River valley where no high-voltage powerlines are located.
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 30
Figure 4-18: VP 37: Western entrance to the Hex River Valley Source: Google Maps
4.4.3 Eastern Section The eastern section of the Southern Alignment extends from the Hex River Valley to the Kappa Substation. After exiting the eastern Hex River Valley the route runs ~5 km south of the N1 for 20 km through largely natural landscape and then aligns close to the N1 for another ~15 km before turning north.
The section south of the N1 runs across a ~1 000 m high plateau punctuated by local eminences that add visual interest. The visual value of the area lies in the fact that, apart from centuries of grazing, the area remains largely unaltered, with only minimal signs of human presence (such as farm fences, dirt roads and small-scale transmission lines) (see Figure 4-19).
Moving east, the landscape becomes more arid in appearance, vegetation appears stunted and visually more homogenous, but the topography becomes more varied and interesting (see Figure 4-20). Sections of the N1 near Touws River have a more rural character as farming and small settlements are visible from the road.
The link between the N1 and Kappa Substation has two sub-routes, both through lower-lying areas with rugged wilderness terrain featuring south-west to north-east trending ridges with maximum elevations of ~1 300 m (at Voetpadsberg and Bontberg). Close to Kappa Substation the route enters the flatter Tankwa Karoo area described in Section 4.2. Both of these sub-routes lie entirely within the Komsberg Wind REDZ, which extends to Touws River. Most wind energy projects within this REDZ are located in flatter terrain, and none were approved in close proximity to this portion of the corridor, except near Kappa. Two solar photovoltaic energy projects were approved south of Touws River and partly overly the Southern corridor. More renewable energy projects may be considered in future. Overall, the route appears less (at risk of being) affected by visually intrusive wind and solar projects than the Central A and B alignments, due to the more rugged terrain, but some impact on the visual character and quality of the area from renewable energy projects is likely in future.
There are some sensitive receptors in this area. As described above, the N1 is one of South Africa’s main transport arteries, and railway lines also carry viewers. More importantly, Touws River (town) is within the corridor, and the Aquila Game Reserve near Touws River is a tourist destination attracting visitors with heightened aesthetic sensibilities.
This section of the Southern Alignment has an overall high to very high scenic value and visual quality due to the wilderness landscape within interesting rugged terrain that has not yet been affected by major powerline development.
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 31
Figure 4-19: VP38: View of Southern corridor from R318 Source: Google Maps
Figure 4-20: VP39: View towards Southern Corridor alignment off the N1 Source: Google Maps 5 Visual Sensitivity The visual sensitivity of an area is a function of the visual quality and character of the landscape and the presence of sensitivity receptors. Character and quality of the landscape determine whether powerlines are (somewhat) congruent with existing land uses and/or whether the landscape can effectively absorb or conceal the powerline by way of topography, vegetation or existing development.
Visual sensitivity within the corridors has been mapped based on the features and sensitivities presented in Section 1.1. A composite sensitivity map is shown in Figure 5-1. Sensitivity is also more broadly discussed for each corridor in the sections below.
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 32
Figure 5-1: Composite visual sensitivity map
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 33
5.1 Central A Alignment The overall visual sensitivity of the different sections in the Central A Alignment is broadly summarised in Table 5-1, based on the baseline characteristics described in Section 4.2.
Table 5-1: Central A Alignment sensitivity
Section Sensitivity Motivation Western Medium to low An existing 765 kV powerline is located in this corridor section. Swartland cultural landscape has a medium visual quality. The main sensitive features are heritage sites (mostly cemeteries). Relatively few receptors would be affected by the powerline, which crosses rather than runs adjacent to roads, and is located at least 2 km from towns. Central Medium to An existing 765 kV powerline is located in a portion of this corridor section. high Tulbagh and Witzenberg Valley cultural landscapes have a medium to high visual quality. Nature Reserves in Tulbagh and Witzenberg Valleys are small and within farmed areas. Tulbagh attracts many visually sensitive receptors who would be affected at the Nuwekloof Pass and in the southern portion of the valley. Eastern – northern High to very No powerline is located in the area east of Gydo Pass. sub-route high Koue Bokkeveld mountainous terrain has pristine wilderness character and very high scenic value and visual quality. Sensitive receptors include users of Gydo Pass (medium to high sensitivity) and visitors to Inverdoorn Nature Reserve (very high sensitivity). Eastern – southern Medium An existing 765 kV powerline is located in this corridor section, and is joined by sub-route 400 kV powerlines in Ceres Valley. Ceres Valley is a medium quality cultural landscape, and high scenic quality of Koue Bokkeveld Mountains at Karoopoort is impacted by powerlines. Sensitive residential receptors at Prince Alfred Hamlet and users of the R46 are exposed to existing powerlines. Eastern – combined Medium to low Several powerlines are located in the corridor. corridor The Karoo provides vast views of natural landscape but has less diversity and visual interest. The Tankwa Karoo in general has a distinct sense of place. Many renewable energy projects have been approved in the Komsberg Wind REDZ and will alter the visual character of the area. Few visual receptors are in the area.
5.2 Central B Alignment The overall visual sensitivity of the different sections in the Central B Alignment is broadly summarised in Table 5-2, based on the baseline characteristics described in Section 4.3.
Table 5-2: Central B Alignment sensitivity
Section Sensitivity Motivation Western Medium to low An existing 765 kV powerline is located in most (but not all) of this corridor section. The Swartland cultural landscape is deemed of medium visual quality. The main sensitive features are heritage sites (mostly cemeteries). Relatively few receptors would be affected by the powerline, which crosses rather than runs adjacent to roads, and is located at least 2 km from towns. Central Medium Two existing 400 kV powerlines are located in this corridor section. The Tulbagh and Ceres landscape with intersecting mountain ridges has a medium visual quality. Protected areas are small and in a rural landscape. Views of visual receptors in Wolseley already incorporate powerlines.
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 34
Section Sensitivity Motivation Eastern Medium to low Two existing 400 kV powerlines are located in this corridor section and are joined by a 765 kV powerline in Ceres Valley. The Karoo provides vast views of natural landscape but has less diversity and visual interest. The Tankwa Karoo in general has a distinct sense of place. Many renewable energy projects have been approved in the Komsberg Wind REDZ and will alter the visual character of the area. Few visual receptors. Eastern – loop High No powerlines are located in the loop area. south of Karoopoort Natural landscape with complex topography offering diversity of views. Some visual receptors on R46 towards Touws River. 5.3 Southern Alignment The overall visual sensitivity of the different sections in the Southern Alignment is broadly summarised in Table 5-3, based on the baseline characteristics described in Section 4.4.
Table 5-3: Southern Alignment sensitivity
Section Sensitivity Motivation Western Medium to low An existing 765 kV powerline is located in this corridor section. The Swartland cultural landscape is deemed of medium visual quality. The main sensitive features are heritage sites (mostly cemeteries). Relatively few receptors would be affected by the powerline, which crosses rather than runs adjacent to roads, and is located at least 2 km from towns. Central Medium to high A 400 kV powerline is located in the corridor section in the Breede Valley. (Breede valley) Hex River Valley and Hex River Poort Pass are largely intact and scenic High to very landscapes, with some visual impacts from road and urban development. high (Hex River Sensitive residential receptors in Worcester and De Doorns are not currently valley) affected by powerlines. Breede Valley and surrounding mountains attract recreational visitors. Eastern High to very Long section without powerlines and largely intact natural landscape with high rugged terrain, wilderness character and high visual quality. Mostly within Komsberg Wind REDZ but few approved projects and possibly less attractive for renewable energy projects than flatter areas. Sensitive receptors include users of N1 and visitors to Aquila Game Reserve. 5.4 Site Selection Matrix The consolidated screening report compiled by SRK will include a Site (Alignment) Selection Matrix to inform the selection of the preferred alignment. The outcomes of this Visual study are summarised in Table 5-4 to inform the Site Selection Matrix.
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 35 Table 5-4: Site Selection Matrix
Sub-corridor Central A Central B Southern Northern Option Southern Option - Eastern Option Western Option Analysis Very High 24 26 28 52 54 Sensitivity: % High 54 45 40 26 22 Coverage (estimated) Medium 22 28 32 22 20 Low 0 0 0 0 0 Number of Pinch Points1 Many Many Many Many Many % of route as Pinch Points Majority Majority Majority Majority Majority Degree to which site verification may eliminate/ reduce pinch Low Low Low Low Low points Areas requiring detailed site Heritage sites, waterbodies Heritage sites, waterbodies Heritage sites, waterbodies Heritage sites, waterbodies Heritage sites, waterbodies verification if selected Fatal Flaws2 None None None None None Corridor Selection Ranking Ranking (1 – preferred) 3 1 2 4 5 • Largely follows existing • Largely follows existing • Largely follows existing • Eastern corridor portion • Eastern corridor portion powerline, which reduced powerline, where visual powerline, where visual follows existing powerline, follows existing powerline, visual quality quality is reduced quality is reduced where visual quality is where visual quality is • No powerlines are located • No powerlines are located reduced reduced Motivation3 east of Gydo Pass in the loop south of • No powerlines are located • No powerlines are located • Visually highly sensitive Karoopoort in the corridor east of in the corridor east of Koue Bokkeveld area has Worcester Worcester pristine wilderness • Visually highly sensitive • Visually highly sensitive character and very high Hex River Valley, Hex Hex River Valley, Hex River Poort Pass and River Poort Pass and
1 Areas within sub-corridors where routes cannot avoid areas of high and very high sensitivity (i.e. where areas of high or very high sensitivity span the entire wider of the sub-corridor) 2 Areas of such high sensitivity that authorities are unlikely to approve development through this area 3 Pertinent issues only that distinguish the route from the other routes and make it less/more acceptable
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 36
Sub-corridor Central A Central B Southern Northern Option Southern Option - Eastern Option Western Option scenic value and visual wilderness landscape wilderness landscape quality east of Hex River Valley east of Hex River Valley • Eastern option closer to • Western option less proposed renewable exposed to proposed energy farms renewable energy farms Statement of overall Acceptable if no other Acceptable if no other Acceptable if no other Acceptable Acceptable acceptability options exist options exist options exist
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 37
5.5 Mitigation Measures Key mitigation measures related to the placement and design of powerline infrastructure, to minimise exposure thereof, are listed below.
Placement of powerline:
• Do not locate powerlines between visual receptors and the sensitive feature.
• Place powerlines more than 2 km from sensitive features and visual receptors where possible.
• Place powerlines more than 2 km from sensitive visual receptors where possible.
• Align powerlines along the boundaries/edges of sensitive features (e.g. cultural landscapes), rather than through them.
• Align powerlines to follow the grain or flow of the landscape, i.e. alongside or parallel to existing linear features such as roads, structures, fire breaks, windbreaks (avenues of trees) and cadastral boundaries.
• Locate powerlines within existing powerline corridors, or otherwise visually disturbed and, therefore, more congruent areas (e.g. industrial or mining landscapes).
Placement of pylons:
• Where several powerlines run in parallel, erect pylons / towers alongside each other as much as possible.
• Place pylons to avoid silhouetting, e.g. below ridgelines or in front of tree belts.
• Place substations in unobtrusive low-lying locations, preferably away from roads and screened with berms and / or vegetation.
Pylon design:
• Use towers of the same design in areas that form part of one viewshed, as far as possible.
• Maintain a relatively straight alignment as far as possible to avoid the use of straining towers with high-density lattice structure.
• Use low-density lattice structure (e.g. suspension towers) rather than towers with higher-density lattice structure.
• Use finishes on towers that minimize or eliminate surface glare.
Reducing exposure of powerline infrastructure:
• Preserve existing vegetative screening and minimise vegetation removal during construction.
• Use existing access roads wherever possible and minimise construction of new access roads.
• Minimise cut and fill.
An additional possible mitigation measure is the avoidance and potential protection of corridors where no transmission lines are currently located, to ensure that essential qualities of the landscapes within the project area are preserved. 6 Conclusion The study provides a visual screening of three sub-corridor alignment alternatives identified by Eskom for the second 765kV transmission powerline between the Kappa and Sterrekus substations. The screening considered the visual analysis in the SEA for Electricity Grid Infrastructure and is based on
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 38
desktop information compiled by the visual specialist and other specialists and supported by images from site visits and Google Earth. Features with potential visual sensitivity to powerlines include features relating to topography, waterbodies, protected areas, cultural areas and mobility corridors.
Overall, the study area has a high visual quality due to recognisable cultural landscapes and landforms, which are major scenic resources and determinants of visual significance. It has a recognisable and strong sense of place and visually sensitive receptors associated with the Cape Winelands and western fringes of the Karoo, various Nature Reserves, human settlements and major mobility routes.
All corridors follow existing powerlines for a portion of the alignment, resulting in a reduced visual quality and sensitivity. The Southern Alignment is deemed most visually sensitive as no powerlines are located in the corridor east of Worcester and the corridor runs through the visually highly sensitive Hex River Valley, Hex River Poort Pass and wilderness landscape east of Hex River Valley. The Central A Northern Alignment similarly runs through the visually pristine and high-quality Koue Bokkeveld wilderness area east of Gydo Pass and is deemed highly sensitive from a visual perspective. The Central A Southern Alignment and the Central B Alignment follow existing powerlines along most of the corridor. All alignments cross mountain passes that are visually sensitive but unavoidable pinch points.
While no fatal flaws were identified, the Central A Southern Alignment and the Central B Alignment are deemed most visually congruent with, and hence suitable for the placement of, another powerline.
Prepared by Reviewed by
______
Sue Reuther Chris Dalgliesh
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 39 7 References
DEA&DP. (2005). Guideline for Involving Visual and Aesthetic Specialists in EIA Processes. Retrieved June 2020, from http://asapa.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/5_deadp_visual_guideline_june05.pdf
Department of Environmental Affairs. (2016). Strategic Environmental Assessment for Electricity Grid Infrastructure in South Africa. Stellenbosch: CSIR Report Number: CSIR/02100/EMS/ER/2016/0006/B.
Oberholzer, B., Lawson, Q., Klapwijk, M., Young, G., Anderson, M., & Orton, J. (2016). Visual, Aesthetic and Scenic Resources. In R. Scholes, P. Lochner, G. Schreiner, L. Snyman-Van der Walt, & M. de Jager (Eds.), Shale Gas Development in the Central Karoo: A Scientific Assessment of the Opportunities and Risks. CSIR/IU/021MH/EXP/2016/003/A. Retrieved January 2021, from https://seasgd.csir.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Ch-14_Visual_28Nov2016.pdf
SRK. (2017). Eskom Romansrivier – Ceres 132/66kV Powerline: Visual Impact Assessment. Report 509264/42A. Retrieved January 2021, from file:///C:/Users/reut/Downloads/509264_RomansriverBA_BAR_Appendix_F6_VIA_part_1%20(1).pdf
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 40
Appendix A Specialist CV
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021 Page 1 Sue Reuther Principal Consultant and Partner
Profession Environmental Consultant Education MPhil (Environmental Management), University of Cape Town, 2004 BSc (Hons), (Economics), University College London, 2001 Registrations/ Registered Environmental Assessment Practitioner Affiliations (EAP): Number 2020/425 Member, IAIAsa
Specialisation Environmental impact assessments, economic and resource economic impact assessment, environmental control officer, state of the environment reporting (including environmental management frameworks), visual impact assessment.
Expertise Sue Reuther has been involved in environmental assessment sector in Africa, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East for the past 18 years. Her core expertise includes: • Environmental impact assessment and management projects, including IFC / PS compliant processes, strategic assessments and spatial planning for projects in the mining, infrastructure, oil and gas and coastal and marine sectors in South Africa, Africa and South America; • Environmental and Social Due Diligence (ESDD) reviews against Good International Industry Practice (GIIP) in Africa and the Middle East; • Visual impact assessments for mining projects and energy infrastructure; and • Economic and socio-economic specialist studies for projects in the infrastructure, mining and energy sectors in Africa, South America and Asia. She has 2 years of previous experience in strategy and financial research and assessment (London).
Employment
2005 - present SRK Consulting (Pty) Ltd, Associate Partner and Principal Environmental Consultant 2003 - 2004 University of Cape Town (UCT), MPhil Environmental Management 2001 - 2002 JPMorgan Chase, Equity Research Analyst, London 2000 (Jul - Oct) Chase Manhattan Bank, Financial Institutions Analyst, London 1998 - 2001 University College London (UCL), BSc (Honours) Economics, London
Publications A number of publications, in Development Southern Africa and for JPMorgan. I have been interviewed and quoted in numerous environmental and sustainability articles published in the press and sector specific journals, including Urban Green File, Mining World, Construction World, Environmental Management and Civil Engineering. I hold guest lectures to UCT 4th year / post-graduate students on EIA/EMF since 2014.
Languages English – read, write, speak (Excellent) German – read, write, speak (Excellent) French – read, write, speak (Good) Spanish – read, write, speak (Good) Portuguese – read (Good) Dutch – read, speak (Good) Afrikaans – read, understand (Good)
REUT SReuther_Abridged CV January 2021 SRK Consulting Page 2 Sue Reuther Principal Consultant
Visual Assessments
• Eskom, Visual screening and baseline compilation to inform the selection of the preferred Eskom Kappa – Sterrekus transmission line corridor, Western Cape, South Africa, 2020, R90 000
• Anglo American Coal South Africa, Visual Impact Assessment (VIA) for proposed SACE Lifex Project at the Khwezela Colliery Operations, South Africa, 2020, R105,000
• Tronox Mineral Sands, Visual Impact Assessment (VIA) for proposed In-Pit Residue Storage Facility (RSF) and Sand Tailings Facility (STF) for the Namakwa Sands East Mine Orange Feldspathic Sands (East OFS) Project, South Africa, 2020, R95,000
• Tronox Mineral Sands, Visual Screening for site selection process for the Sand Tailings Facility (STF) and the preferred In-Pit Residue Storage Facility (RSF) for the Namakwa Sands East Mine Orange Feldspathic Sands (East OFS) Project, South Africa, 2019 – 2020, R35,000
• Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Review of Visual Impact Assessment (VIA) for a proposed Aquaculture Development Zone (ADZ) in Saldanha Bay, South Africa, 2017, R50,000
• Provincial Government Western Cape, Review of Visual Impact Assessment (VIA) for the construction of a bypass in Hermanus, South Africa, 2016, R50,000
• Mineral Sands Resources, Review of Visual Impact Assessment (VIA) for the Tormin mine expansion, South Africa, 2016, R130,000
• Vale, Visual Impact Assessment (VIA) of proposed phosphate mine in Monapo district, Mozambique, 2011 – 2012, US$15,000
• SRK Canada, Review of Visual Impact Assessment (VIA) of proposed new Sabodala Gold Mine, Senegal, 2010, US$70,000
• Eden District Municipality, Visual Impact Assessment (VIA) of proposed new Eden regional landfill, South Africa, 2009 – 2011, R80,000
• Transnet, Visual Impact Assessment (VIA) of proposed of dredging operations and new cranes at the Port of Cape Town, South Africa, 2006 – 2007, R30,500
Environmental (and Social) Impact Assessments (EIA or ESIA) • Mineral Sand Resources, ESIA for the proposed inland extension of Tormin Mine, South Africa, 2021- ongoing, R2.4 million
• Mineral Sand Resources, Baseline for the potential future inland extension of Tormin Mine, South Africa, 2021-ongoing, R850,000
• Tronox Mineral Sands, Screening study to provide environmental input into the site selection process for the Sand Tailings Facility (STF) and the preferred In-Pit Residue Storage Facility (RSF) for the Namakwa Sands East Mine Orange Feldspathic Sands (East OFS) Project, South Africa, 2019 – 2020, R300,000
• Tronox Mineral Sands, EIA for proposed construction and operation of an In-Pit Residue Storage Facility (RSF) and Sand Tailings Facility (STF) for the Namakwa Sands East Mine Orange Feldspathic Sands (East OFS) Project, South Africa, 2019 – 2020, R1,900,000
• Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname, Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan (EMMP), including impact assessment, for Staatsolie’s Cyclic Steam Stimulation (CSS) Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) project in the Tambaredjo oil field, Suriname, 2019 – 2020, $40,500
• Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname, Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan (EMMP), including impact assessment, for Staatsolie’s Polymer Flooding Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) project in the Tambaredjo oil field, Suriname, 2019, $64,000
REUT SReuther_Abridged CV April 2021 SRK Consulting Page 3 Sue Reuther Principal Consultant
• Maritime Authority Suriname, ESIA update for the Suriname River Dredging Project (SRDP), Suriname, 2019, US$172,000
• Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname, ESIA for the construction of a new 36 MW HFO-fuelled power plant in the Saramacca District, Suriname, 2018 – 2019, US$125,000
• Sezigyn, EIA for Exploration Right Application, Offshore Block Orange Deep West, West Coast, South Africa, 2018, R150,000
• Ricocure, EIA for Exploration Right Application, Offshore Block 3B, West Coast, South Africa, 2018, R150,000
• Sezigyn, EIA for Exploration Right Application, Offshore Mid-Orange Basin, West Coast, South Africa, 2018, R150,000
• Mineral Sands Resources, Section 24G Application to apply for rectification of an unlawful activity, South Africa, 2018 - ongoing, R95,000
• Joule Africa, Initial Environmental and Social Assessment of the KPEP Hydropower Project, Cameroon, 2018, $10,800
• Impact Oil and Gas, EIA for 2D and/or 3D Seismic Survey in Orange Deep Basin, South Africa, 2017, R600,000
• City of Cape Town, EIA in support of a Waste Management Licence application for the operation of the Vissershok North Landfill, Cape Town, 2017 – 2018, R650,000
• Sungu Sungu, EIA for proposed 3D seismic survey in the offshore Pletmos Basin, South Coast, 2016 – 2018, R500,000
• Mineral Sand Resources, EIA for the Tormin Coastal Mine Expansion, Western Cape, 2016 – 2017, R1,500,000
• Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF), Project Definition and EIA for a proposed Aquaculture Development Zone (ADZ) in Saldanha Bay, Western Cape, 2016 – 2018, R1,000,000
• Provincial Government Western Cape, Environmental Authorisation Amendment Application process for a section of the R310 upgrade at Spier, Western Cape, South Africa, 2015 – 2019, R100,000
• Transnet Capital Projects, EIA for the construction of additional substations, transmission infrastructures and area lighting masts near the Port of Saldanha, Western Cape, 2015 – 2016, R360,000
• Simo Petroleum, ESIA to IFC standards for the transportation and storage of fuel in Liberia, 2015 – 2016 (suspended), $175,000
• Simo Petroleum, ESIA to IFC standards for the transportation and storage of fuel in southern Guinea, 2015 – 2016 (suspended), $175,000
• Provincial Government Western Cape, EIA for the construction of a bypass in Hermanus, including EMP and Water Use Authorisation (WUA), Hermanus, Western Cape, 2014 – 2020, R3,100,000
• Lucky Star, Section 24G Application and Environmental Impact Assessment to apply for rectification of an unlawful activity, St. Helena Bay, Western Cape, 2015 – 2016, R330,000
• Sable Mining / West Africa Explorations (WAE), Cumulative Impact Assessment for WAE’s Nimba iron ore mine, Guinea, 2014 – 2015 (suspended), US$90,000
• Hatch Goba, BA and WUA for the proposed upgrade of a portion of Slent Road, City of Cape Town, South Africa, 2013 – 2015, R200,000
• Sonangol, ESIA and EMP for terrestrial aspects of the four landing sites of SOOC, Angola, 2013, US$47,000
REUT SReuther_Abridged CV April 2021 SRK Consulting Page 4 Sue Reuther Principal Consultant
• Maersk Oil Angola, ESIA and EMP for a 3D seismic survey in an offshore oil concession area, Angola, 2013, US$35,000
• Lucky Star (formerly: Oceana Brands), Review and Public Participation for AEL renewal for fishmeal plant in St. Helena Bay, St. Helena Bay, Western Cape, 2013, R40,000
• N.V. Energiebedrijven Suriname (EBS), ESIA and EMMP for construction of a new 84 MW power plant in Paramaribo, Suriname, 2013 – 2014, US$130,000
• Maersk Oil Angola, ESIA and EMP for prospect drilling of 6 wells in offshore Block 16, Angola, 2012 – 2013, US$35,000
• WesternGeco, ESIA and EMP for a 3D seismic survey in an offshore oil concession area, Angola, 2012, US$35,000
• Rare Metals Industries, Scoping study, including applications for AEL and WML, for construction of a specialty metals production complex, Saldanha, Western Cape, 2012 – 2014, R230,000
• WesternGeco, ESIA and EMP for a 3D seismic survey in an offshore oil concession area, Angola, 2012,US$35,000
• Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname, Rapid Environmental Assessment and EMP for expansion of a power plant from 14 MW to 28 MW, Suriname, 2012 – 2013, US$100,000
• Transnet (TPT), Operational EMP for the Saldanha Terminal, including the Break Bulk and Bulk Terminals, Saldanha, Western Cape, 2012, R88,000
• AECOM (Pty) Ltd on behalf of Western Cape Department of Transport and Public Works, EIA and EMP for the proposed completion of the R45 road corridor near Malmesbury in the Western Cape, Western Cape, South Africa, 2012 – 2016, R600,000
• Provincial Government Western Cape, BA and EMP for proposed upgrade of Annandale Road, Stellenbosch, South Africa, 2011, R150,000
• Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname, EIA and EMP for proposed construction of diesel, gasoline and LGP pipelines, Suriname, 2011 – 2012, US$120,000
• Premier Fishing, EIA, incl. EMP and applications for AEL and CWDP, for proposed re-establishment of fishmeal plant in Saldanha, Saldanha Bay, South Africa, 2011 – 2015, R1 200,000
• WesternGeco, EIA and EMP for proposed offshore 3D seismic survey of concession Block 20, Angola, 2010, US$30,000
• WesternGeco, EIA and EMP for proposed offshore 3D seismic survey of concession Block 19, Angola, 2010, US$30,000
• Provincial Government Western Cape, EIA and EMP for upgrade of Main Road 168 through Stellenbosch Wine Route, Stellenbosch, South Africa, 2009 – 2012, R1 100,000
• Transnet, Basic Assessment and EMP to inform AEL application, Saldanha Bay, Western Cape, 2009 – 2010, R900,000
• BHP Billiton, Environmental and Social Impact Assessment of dredging operations, Suriname, South America, 2007 – 2008, US$500,000
• Transnet, EIA of proposed expansion of Transnet’s Iron Ore Terminal at Port of Saldanha, Saldanha Bay, Western Cape, 2007 – 2008, R22 000,000
• BHP Billiton, ESIA of bauxite transport options, Bakhuis, Sipaliwini district, Suriname, South America, 2006 – 2008, US$2 000,000
REUT SReuther_Abridged CV April 2021 SRK Consulting Page 5 Sue Reuther Principal Consultant
• Transnet, EIA and EMP of deepening of Ben Schoeman Dock, Cape Town Harbour, Cape Town, Western Cape, 2006 – 2007, R1 500,000
• Provincial Government Western Cape, EIA and EMP for proposed upgrade of Main Road 108 in Gordon’s Bay, Gordon’s Bay, Western Cape, 2006 – 2007, R200,000
• Nassau IER, Initial Environmental Review of Phase 1 bauxite exploration activities in Nassau, Nassau Mountains, Suriname, South America, 2006, US$12,200
• BHP Billiton, ESIA and EMP of proposed bauxite mine, Bakhuis, Sipaliwini district, Suriname, South America, 2005 – 2008, US$4 000,000
• Provincial Government Western Cape, EIA and EMP for proposed upgrade of Trunk Road 2 in Somerset West, Somerset West, Western Cape, 2005 – 2006, R200,000
Economic and Social Assessments
• Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Evaluation of Ecosystem Services derived from the Papenkuils Wetland, 2020-2021, R435,000
• Vale, Development of socio-economic closure strategy for Confidential Mine, 2020-2021 • RSK, Modelling of economic and population dynamics to inform town master plans for sections of Basra, Zubair and Nashwa, Iraq, 2020-2021, $15,000
• CSIR, Social impact assessment for three Kwagga Wind Energy Facilities, Western Cape, South Africa, 2020-2021, R100 000
• Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (DEA&DP), Ecosystem Services Assessment and Valuation of Papenkuils Wetland, Western Cape, South Africa, 2020-2021, R500,000
• Eskom, Socio-economic screening and baseline compilation to inform the selection of the preferred Eskom Kappa – Sterrekus transmission line corridor, Western Cape, South Africa, 2020, R120,000
• Aecom, Socio-economic impact assessment for a bulk water pipeline through an informal settlement, Stellenbosch Municipality, South Africa, 2020, R80,000
• Centerra Gold, Input into and review of economic impact assessment for the Kumtor Gold Mine Conceptual Closure Plan Update, Kyrgyzstan, 2019, $23,000
• KSEMS (on behalf of SANRAL), Social Impact Assessment for the Upgrade of National Road 3 Section 3 Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, 2019, R86,000
• Allied Gold Corp, Economic specialist study for the Dish Mountain Gold Project, Ethiopia, 2018 – suspended in Dec 2019, $11,000
• Sierra Rutile Limited, Economic input into the SRL Area 1 Mine Environmental, Social and Health Impact Assessment, Sierra Leone, 2018, R35 000
• Serina Kaolin, Update of socio-economic impact assessment for proposed Chapman’s Peak Estate, Cape Town, 2017, R45,000
• RSK, Economic specialist component of three socio-economic impact assessments for the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), Uganda and Tanzania, 2016 – 2017, $40,000
• Eskom, Economic input into socio-economic study for Eskom Generation Fleet Renewal Project, South Africa, 2016 – 2017, R25,000
• Tronox Mineral Sands, Socio-economic impact assessment for the Doringbaai Abalone Farm, West Coast, South Africa, 2016, R85,000
REUT SReuther_Abridged CV April 2021 SRK Consulting Page 6 Sue Reuther Principal Consultant
• Provincial Government Western Cape, Socio-economic impact assessment for the Hermanus CBD Bypass Project, Hermanus, Western Cape, 2016, R85,000
• River Club, Socio-economic impact assessment for the redevelopment of the River Club, Cape Town, January 2016 – 2017, R77,000
• Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), Socio-economic baseline study and Spatial Analysis study for proposed runway realignment at Cape Town International Airport, Cape Town, 2014 – 2016, R200,000
• PPC Cement, Update of the socio-economic assessment in the ESIA and ESMP for the PPC Barnet Songololo cement plant and quarry in Bas Congo Province to ensure compliance of the documents with IFC standards and other lender requirements, Bas Congo Province, Democratic Republic of Congo, 2013 – 2014,
• Nyumba Ya Akiba Sprl, Update of the socio-economic assessment in the ESIA and EMP for the Nyumba Ya Akiba cement plant in Bas Congo Province to ensure compliance of the documents with IFC standards and other lender requirements, Bas Congo Province, Democratic Republic of Congo, 2013, R94,000
• Sasol, Socio-economic specialist study for proposed mine development, Limpopo, South Africa, 2013, R90,000
• FCX / PDG, Socio-economic specialist study for proposed copper mine, Democratic Republic of Congo, 2012, R50,000
• AF-ROM Energy, Socio-economic specialist study for proposed 75 MW solar farm, Victoria West, Northern Cape, South Africa, 2012, R50,000
• AF-ROM Energy, Socio-economic specialist study for proposed 75 MW solar farm, Craddock, Eastern Cape, South Africa, 2012, R50,000
• Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname, CRP for communities potentially affected by the refinery expansion, Suriname, 2012, US$20,000
• SRK Cardiff, Input into review of Economic Impact Assessment, Pakistan, 2010, R50,000 • Courtrai Developments, Social Impact Assessment of proposed new retirement village and resettlement, Paarl, Western Cape, 2009 – 2010, R40,500
• Staatsolie, Social Impact Assessment of proposed oil refinery expansion, Wanica Province, Suriname, South America, 2009, US$10,000
• BHP Billiton / SRK Consulting, Economic Impact Assessment of proposed dredging operations, Suriname, South America, 2008, US$10,000
• BHP Billiton / SRK Consulting, Economic Impact Assessment of proposed bauxite transport activities, Suriname, South America, 2006 – 2007, US$20,000
• BHP Billiton / SRK Consulting, Economic Impact Assessment of proposed bauxite mining activities at Bakhuis, Bakhuis, Apoera district, Suriname, South America, 2005 – 2007, US$27,000
ESIA Reviews, Gap Analyses and ESDD
• Endeavour Mining, ESG input into Competent Persons Report (CPR) for Endeavour mining assets, Burkina Faso, 2021, EUR10,000
• Eramet Comilog Manganese, Limited Environmental Regulatory Due Diligence of a Heavy Mineral Sands Project, Northern Cape, South Africa, 2020, €11,000
• Voith Hydro, Environmental and Social Due Diligence (ESDD) of Caculo Cabaca Hydropower Project, Angola, 2019 – 2020, €32,000
REUT SReuther_Abridged CV April 2021 SRK Consulting Page 7 Sue Reuther Principal Consultant
• Voith Hydro, High-level Gap Analysis of the ESIA for the Zenzo Hydropower Project, Angola, 2017, €13,000
• Voith Hydro, High-level Gap Analysis of the ESIA for the Koysha Hydroelectric Project, Ethiopia, 2017, €15,000
• Deutsche Bank, Annual reviews of compliance with Environmental and Social Action Plan of Be’er Tuvia Closed Cycle Gas Turbine Power Plant, Israel, 2017 – ongoing, €100,000
• Deutsche Bank, Environmental and Social Due Diligence (ESDD) of Be’er Tuvia Closed Cycle Gas Turbine Power Plant, Israel, 2016, €44,000
• HSBC, Annual reviews of compliance with Environmental and Social Action Plan of the Lauca Hydropower Project, Angola, 2015 – ongoing, €210,000
• HSBC (initially Deutsche Bank), Environmental and Social Due Diligence (ESDD) of the Lauca Hydropower Project, Angola, 2014, €90,000
• ARC / Maersk, Review of an Environmental Impact Study (EIS) for the Chissonga oil field development in offshore Block 16, Angola, 2014, R13,000
• HSBC Bank plc, Review of EIS undertaken for the Cambambe – Catete power transmission line to be constructed as part of the Cambambe hydropower project, Angola, 2014, - value-n/a
• Sable Mining / West Africa Explorations (WAE), Review of ESIA conducted for WAE’s Nimba iron ore mine to determine compliance with GIIP and addressing of some of the identified gaps, Guinea, 2013 – 2014, US$160,000
• Comide SPRL, Gap Analysis of EMP for Comide Copper Mine, including a review of the EMP and general environmental management on site, identification of gaps and recommendations to achieve Good International Industry Practice, Kolwezi, Democratic Republic of Congo, 2012, R450,000
Other Environmental Projects (EMF, ECO, other)
• Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF), ECO Reviewer for Saldanha Bay Aquaculture Development Zone (ADZ), Western Cape, 2019 – 2020, R200,000
• Eskom, Updating of the Duynefontyn and Thyspunt Site Safety Reports, Cape Town, 2016 – 2019 • Hatch Africa, ECO Reviewer for the upgrade of Slent Road, Klipheuwel, 2016, R55 000
• Lucky Star, Determination of the pollution potential of effluent from Lucky Star’s St Helena Bay cannery and fishmeal plant operations, St Helena Bay, South Africa, 2014
• Premier Fishing, Investigation of legal requirements for Premier Fishing’s Hout Bay Lobster Facility (particularly with regards to effluent discharge) and management of effluent monitoring programme, Cape Town, South Africa, 2016, R100,000
• Eskom, Investigation of legal requirements for Eskom Oil Regeneration Plant, Cape Town, 2015 – 2016, R50,000
• Lucky Star, Substantive investigation in response to the Notice of Intention to issue a compliance notice in terms of Section 31L of NEMA and/or a directive in terms of Section 28(4) of NEMA, St. Helena Bay, Western Cape, 2014, R85,000
• National Institute for Environment and Development in Suriname (NIMOS), Introductory-level EIA training for consultants in Suriname, Suriname, South America, 2014, US$30,000
• Provincial Government Western Cape, ECO Reviewer for Phase 1 upgrade of Main Road 168 (R310) through Stellenbosch Wine Route, Stellenbosch, 2013 – 2015
REUT SReuther_Abridged CV April 2021 SRK Consulting Page 8 Sue Reuther Principal Consultant
• Provincial Government Western Cape / EFG Engineers, Water Use Authorisation for Phase 1 upgrade of Main Road 168 through Stellenbosch Wine Route, Stellenbosch, South Africa, 2013, R50,000
• SRK US / Barrick, Compilation of Bird, Herpetology, Bat and Aquatic ecology baselines, Dominican Republic, 2012, US$15,000
• SRK US / Barrick, Compilation of Bird, Herpetology, Bat and Aquatic ecology baselines, Dominican Republic, 2011 – 2012, US$16,000
• Cape Winelands District Municipality, Environmental Management Frameworks for the District Municipality, Cape Winelands District Municipality, Western Cape, 2010 – 2012, R1,600,000
• Worcester Land Trust, ECO for the widening of an existing and construction of a new road, Worcester, 2010, R40 000
• City of Cape Town, Environmental Management Frameworks for Districts A, D, G and H, Cape Town, Western Cape, 2008 – 2009, R560,000
• City of Cape Town, Environmental Management Frameworks for Districts B, C and E, Cape Town, Western Cape, 2008 – 2009, R400,000
• Provincial Government Western Cape, State of the Environment Report for the Western Cape Province, Western Cape, 2005 – 2006, R1,000,000
• Knysna Municipality, 2005 State of the Environment Report for the Knysna Municipality, Knysna, 2004 – 2006, R200,000
• Communicare, ECO for the construction of a residential development, Aliwal Gardens, 2005 – 2006 • City of Cape Town, ECO for the construction of a warehouse development, Tygerberg Business Park, 2005
REUT SReuther_Abridged CV April 2021 Kappa- Sterrekus Powerline Specialist Screening Report: Visual Page 41
Appendix B Declaration of Independence
REUT/DALC 542335_Kappa_Specialist Screening Report_Visual May 2021
DETAILS OF SPECIALIST AND DECLARATION OF INTEREST
(For official use only) File Reference Number: NEAS Reference Number: Date Received:
Application for integrated environmental authorisation and waste management licence in terms of the- (1) National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998), as amended and the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2014; and (2) National Environmental Management Act: Waste Act, 2008 (Act No. 59 of 2008) and Government Notice 921, 2013
PROJECT TITLE
Screening Study of the 2nd 765 kV Kappa – Sterrekus Powerline
Specialist: SRK Consulting Contact person: Sue Reuther Postal address: 183 Main Road, Rondebosch Postal code: 7701 Cell: 084 424 5197 Telephone: 021 659 3064 Fax: E-mail: [email protected] Professional EAPASA – Registered EAP 2020-425 affiliation(s) (if any) IAIAsa
Project Consultant: SRK Consulting Contact person: Sharon Jones Postal address: 183 Main Road, Rondebosch Postal code: 7701 Cell: Telephone: 021 659 3060 Fax: E-mail: [email protected]
4.2 The specialist appointed in terms of the Regulations_
I, Sue Reuther, declare that --
General declaration:
I act as the independent specialist in this application; I will perform the work relating to the application in an objective manner, even if this results in views and findings that are not favourable to the applicant; I declare that there are no circumstances that may compromise my objectivity in performing such work; I have expertise in conducting the specialist report relevant to this application, including knowledge of the Act, Regulations and any guidelines that have relevance to the proposed activity; I will comply with the Act, Regulations and all other applicable legislation; I have no, and will not engage in, conflicting interests in the undertaking of the activity; I undertake to disclose to the applicant and the competent authority all material information in my possession that reasonably has or may have the potential of influencing - any decision to be taken with respect to the application by the competent authority; and - the objectivity of any report, plan or document to be prepared by myself for submission to the competent authority; all the particulars furnished by me in this form are true and correct; and I realise that a false declaration is an offence in terms of regulation 48 and is punishable in terms of section 24F of the Act.
Signature of the specialist:
SRK Consulting Name of company (if applicable):
11 May 2021 Date: