SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT FOR THE EIA REPORT

PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE NEAR ORKNEY, NORTH WEST PROVINCE

DECEMBER 2016

Prepared for: Genesis Orkney Solar (Pty) Ltd C/o Unit B10, Century Plaza, Heron Cresent, Century City Cape Town 7441

Prepared by: Savannah Environmental Pty Ltd

First Floor, Block 2 5 Woodlands Drive Office Park Cnr of Woodlands Drive and Western Service Road Woodmead po box 148, sunninghill, 2157 Tel: +27 (0)11 6563237 Fax: +27 (0)86 684 0547 E-mail: [email protected] www.savannahsa.com PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Genesis Orkney Solar (Pty) Ltd, an Independent Power Producer (IPP), is proposing the establishment of a commercial photovoltaic (PV) solar energy facility (known as the Orkney Solar Farm) on the Remaining Extent of Portion 7 and the Remaining Extent of Portion 21 of the Farm Wolvehuis 114, situated approximately 11.8km to the south west from the town of Orkney and in close proximity to the Vaal River. The land will be leased from Mr. Johannes Meyer. The proposed project will have a generating capacity of up to 100MW. The location of the proposed project falls within the jurisdiction of City of Matlosana Local Municipality (CMLM), which forms part of the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality (DKKDM), North West Province.

The Social Impact Assessment (SIA) was undertaken by Pamela Sidambe (author) and Lisa Opperman (contributor) of Savannah Environmental as part of the EIA process. The purpose of the report is to assess the potential social impacts associated with the proposed solar energy facility and to recommend management measures to reduce / avoid the negative social impacts and enhance the positive social impacts associated with the proposed solar energy facility. This report contains the findings of the SIA for the EIA process of the proposed Orkney Solar Farm.

Legislation and Guidelines

The review of the relevant planning and policy documents was undertaken as a part of the SIA process. The key documents reviewed included:

National: » The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (Act 108 of 1996) » National Environmental Management Act 107 of 1998 (NEMA) » National Energy Act (2008) » National Development Plan 2030 » National Climate Change Response Green Paper (DEA, 2010) » White Paper on Energy Policy of the Republic of South Africa (1998) » White Paper on Renewable Energy of the Republic of South Africa (2003) » National Integrated Resource Plan South Africa (2010-2030) » Strategic Infrastructure Projects (SIPs) Provincial: » North West Province Spatial Development Framework (SDF) - North West Environmental Management Series 7 (2008) » North West Provincial Growth and Development Strategy (PGDS) (2004- 2014) District and local: » Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality Environmental Management Framework (EMF) (2016) » Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality Integrated Development Plan (IDP) (2012- 2016)

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» City of Matlosana Local Municipality Integrated Development Plan (2015-2016) Solar Energy Policies: » Solar Energy Technology Roadmap (2013)

Baseline Description of the Social Environment

The following provides a summary of the key baseline findings as a result of the study conducted in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality (DKKDM) and the City of Matlosana Local Municipality (CMLM), in the North West Province. In summary, the area was found to have the following general characteristics:

» The North West Province is predominantly rural with the main economic activities being mining and agriculture. » The DKKDM is the smallest of the four district municipalities in the North West Province. Mining is the dominant economic activity within the district. » The population of the DKKDM in 2011 was approximately 695 933people, of which 398 676 people reside in the CMLM. » The majority of the local population belong to the Black African group and the most spoken language in the CMLM is Tshwana. » Currently the CMLM forms part of a turnaround strategy for the regeneration of the towns within the area, mainly including Stilfontein, Khuma, Orkney and Kanana. This strategy is led by the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) and the Commonwealth Local Government Forum (CLGF) in consultation with the CMLM. The purpose of this strategy and regeneration is to i) promote economic growth through integrated infrastructure development, ii) create empowerment opportunities, iii) create attraction to invest within the area and iv) identify business opportunities and the implementation thereof. » 68.2% of the CMLM population comprise the Economically Active Population (EAP); this implies that there is a larger human resource base for development projects to involve the local population. The dependency ratio of the CMLM population is high at 50.7% (that is half the local population) which puts pressure the EAP and local municipalities. » The skills profile of the area indicates that the availability of local labour for the proposed project is largely limited to low-skilled construction workers and a small number of skilled workers. » Since the early 1990s, but more specifically since 2001, mining activities have downscaled drastically. This downscaling also lead to nearly 75% of the original workforce in 1996 being retrenched by 2011. » The shift of the economy from the downscaling of mining activities have resulted in a large number of jobs losses. » The declining mining industry has resulted in the number of people living in poverty in the City of Matlosana almost doubling between 1996 and 2011. » There is high unemployment rate in the CMLM (32.7%) with a large economically active population seeking employment opportunities. Local workers should be

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utilised as much as possible for the proposed solar energy facility in order to alleviate local unemployment. » Within the CMLM 62.1% of household income falls within the poverty level; the high poverty level has social consequences such as not being able to afford basic needs and services. » High unemployment and low income levels in the study area demonstrate the need for job creation. » The continuous increase in the number of formal households in the local area will have an upward impact on electricity demand thus requiring greater electrical capacity. » Access to basic services is generally accessible in the CMLM. However old infrastructure is a matter of concern. The old infrastructure systems are in need of drastic upgrades and continuous maintenance, this pressure will only increase, resulting in various challenges. » The negative performance of the mining sector also has some positive spinoff, this being that there is a market to diversify the local economy and move the dependence away from mining and government services.

The proposed solar energy facility supports social and economic development through enabling skills development and training in order to empower individuals and promote employment creation within the local area. The development would mainly focus on economic benefits to the area and introduce a relatively new industry into the local economy.

Social Impact Assessment

The environmental assessment framework for the assessment of impacts and the relevant criteria were applied to evaluate the significance of the potential social impacts. A summary of the potential positive and negative social impacts identified in the SIA for the construction and operation phases of the proposed solar energy facility are presented in Table 1 and Table 2 below. Table 3 presents the cumulative impacts associated with the proposed solar energy facility.

Table 1: Summary of social impacts during construction phase CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Significance Significance Impact without mitigation/ with mitigation/ enhancement enhancement

Positive Impacts Direct employment and skills Medium (33) Medium (44) development Economic multiplier effects Low (27) Medium (44)

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Negative Impacts Influx of jobseekers Low (21) Low (15) Impacts on daily living and movement Low (21) Low (15) patterns (Traffic & Nuisance Impacts)

Safety and security risks Low (14) Low (10)

Table 2: Summary of social impacts during operation phase OPERATION PHASE Significance Significance Impact without mitigation/ with mitigation/ enhancement enhancement Positive Impacts Direct employment and skills Low (24) Medium (32) development

Development of clean, renewable Medium (40) N/A energy infrastructure

Benefits associated with REIPPP socio-economic development plans Low (30) Medium (48) and community trust Negative Impacts

Visual and sense of place impacts Low (14) N/A

Table 3: Summary of cumulative social impacts CUMULATIVE IMPACTS

Overall impact of the Cumulative impact of Cumulative Impact proposed project the project and other considered in isolation projects in the area Positive Cumulative Impacts Cumulative impacts from employment, skills and business Low (27) Medium (39) opportunities Negative Cumulative Impacts Cumulative impacts with large-scale Low (16) Low (20) in-migration of people

From a social perspective it is concluded that the project is supported, but that mitigation measures should be implemented and adhered to. Positive and negative social impacts have been identified. The assessment of the key issues indicated that there are no negative impacts that can be classified as fatal flaws and which are of such significance that they cannot be successfully mitigated. Positive impacts could be enhanced by

v PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016 implementing appropriate enhancement measures and through careful planning. Based on the social assessment, the following general conclusions and findings have been made: » The potential negative social impacts associated with the construction phase are typical of construction related projects and not just focussed on the construction of the proposed solar energy facility (these relate to an influx of a non-local workforce and jobseekers, intrusion and disturbance impacts, safety and security) and could be reduced to acceptable levels with the implementation of the mitigation measures proposed. However, the area has been subjected to heavy mining activities over a long period of time which has resulted in transformation and degradation of the area. The development of a solar energy facility on mining land, which has been extensively degraded and disturbed, will provide a sustainable purpose to the area where its use has been severely limited (with the closing of the mines). » The shift of the CMLM economy from the downscaling of mining activities has resulted in a large number of jobs losses. This declining mining industry has led to a number of people living in poverty in the CMLM. The negative performance of the mining sector also has some positive spinoff, this being that there is a market to diversify the local economy and move the dependence away from mining and government services. The proposed solar development would contribute towards diversifying the local economy with a relatively new industry. » The proposed solar energy facility would provide an opportunity in terms of job creation, skills development and associated economic business opportunities for the local economy. » Employment opportunities will be created in the construction and operation phases and the impact is rated as positive even if only a small number of individuals benefit in this regard. » The proposed project could assist the local economy in creating entrepreneurial development, especially if local businesses could be involved in the provision of general material and services during the construction and operation phases. » Capacity building and skills training among employees are critical and would be highly beneficial to those involved, especially if they receive portable skills to enable them to also find work elsewhere and in other sectors. » The proposed solar energy facility also represents an investment in infrastructure for the generation of clean, renewable energy, which, given the increased awareness of climate change, represents a positive social benefit for society as a whole. » Overall, it can be concluded that the positive impacts will exceed the negative impacts in terms of the social environment.

Recommendations

Based on the social assessment, the following recommendations are made:

» The EPC contractor should appoint a designated staff member to assist with the management of social impacts and to deal with any community issues.

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» In terms of employment related impacts, it is important to consider that job opportunities for the unskilled and semi-skilled in the study area could create competition among the local unemployed. Introducing an outside workforce will therefore most likely worsen local endeavours to obtain jobs and provoke discontent as well as put pressure on the local services available. It is imperative that local labour be sourced, wherever possible, to ensure that benefits accrue to the local communities. Efforts should be made to involve local businesses during the construction activities where possible. Local procurement of labour and services/products would greatly benefit the community during the construction and operation phases of the project. » Use local procurement of services and equipment where possible in order to enhance the multiplier effect. This would serve to mitigate other subsequent negative impacts such as those associated with the inflow of outsiders to the area, the increased pressure on the infrastructure and services in the area, as well as the safety and security concerns. » Involve the community in the process as far as possible (encourage co-operative decision making and partnerships with local entrepreneurs). » Implement mitigation measures to reduce and avoid negative impacts. » Safety and security risks should be taken into account during the planning/ construction phase of the proposed project. Access control, security and management should be implemented to limit the risk of crime increasing in the area.

Overall Conclusion

The proposed Orkney Solar Farm and associated infrastructure is unlikely to result in detrimental social impacts. The potential positive impacts outweigh the potential negative impacts associated with the solar energy facility. The potential for positive socio-economic benefits can be realised, and this has been proven through other renewable energy projects which have been constructed and are operational in South Africa. There is also no opposition to the project from local landowners, councillors or community representatives. The proposed solar energy facility will contribute towards the various local targets and policy aims in the policies and planning documents. The proposed solar energy facility would provide an opportunity in terms of job creation, skills development and associated economic business opportunities for the struggling local economy. From a social perspective it is concluded that the project could be developed subject to the implementation of the recommended mitigation measures and management actions contained in the SIA report.

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Table of Contents Executive Summary...... ii 1. Introduction...... 10 1.1 Social Impact Assessment (SIA)...... 10 1.2 Terms of Reference ...... 11 1.3 Specialist Details ...... 11 1.4 Declaration of Independence ...... 12 1.5 Project Overview ...... 12 2. Methodology and Approach...... 17 2.1 Approach to Study...... 17 2.2 Data Collection...... 17 2.3 Public Participation Process...... 20 2.4 Impact Evaluation Method ...... 20 2.5 Limitations and Assumptions...... 23 3. Legislation and Guidelines ...... 24 3.1 National Policies ...... 24 3.2 Provincial Policies ...... 32 3.3 District and Local Municipalities Policies...... 33 3.4 Solar Energy Policies...... 38 3.5 Conclusion...... 38 4. Background information on the study area and key stakeholder identification ...... 39 4.1 North West Province ...... 39 4.2 Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality (DKKDM) ...... 40 4.3 City of Matlosana Local Municipality (CMLM) ...... 41 4.4 Socio-Economic Context...... 43 4.5 Summary ...... 54 4.6 Land use character of the study area ...... 56 4.7 Stakeholder Identification...... 58 5. Social impact assessment ...... 61 5.1 Construction Phase...... 61 5.2 Operation Phase...... 70 5.3 Cumulative Impacts...... 75 5.4 Decommissioning Phase ...... 82 5.5 Assessment of Impacts for the No-go Option: ...... 83 5.6 Conclusion and Recommendations ...... 83 6. References ...... 87 Appendix A: SIA Environmental Management Programme (EMPr)- ...... 89 Appendix B: Minutes of meetings during SIA stakeholder consultation process...... 97 Appendix C: Declaration of Independence and CV ...... 119 Appendix D: External reviewer’s report and CV ...... 123

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List of Abbreviations

CMLM City of Matlosana Local Municipality CNA Community Needs Analysis DoE Department of Energy DEA Department of Environmental Affairs DGDS District Growth and Development Strategy DM District Municipality DKKDM Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality EA Environmental Authorisation EAP Economically Active Population ED Enterprise Development EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EMF Environmental management Framework EMPr Environmental Management Programme EMZ Environmental Management Zone EPC Engineering, Procurement and Construction GDP Gross Domestic Product HA Hectares HD Historically Disadvantaged HDSA Historically Disadvantaged South Africans IDP Integrated Development Plan IPP Independent Power Producer KPA Key Performance Area kV Kilovolts LED Local Economic Development LM Local Municipality MW Megawatt NEMA National Environmental Management Act NSSD National Strategy for Sustainable Development PV Photovoltaic PSDF Provincial Spatial Development Framework PGDS Provincial Growth and Development Strategy SED Socio-Economic Development SEMP Strategic Environmental Management Plan SDF Spatial Development Framework SIA Social Impact Assessment SIPs Strategic Infrastructure Projects VIA Visual Impact Assessment WWF World Wide Fund

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SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT FOR THE PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM, NEAR ORKNEY

1. INTRODUCTION

Genesis Orkney Solar (Pty) Ltd, an Independent Power Producer (IPP), is proposing the establishment of a commercial photovoltaic (PV) solar energy facility (known as the Orkney Solar Farm) on the Remaining Extent of Portion 7 and the Remaining Extent of Portion 21 of the Farm Wolvehuis 114, situated approximately 11.8km to the south west from the town of Orkney and in close proximity to the Vaal River. The land will be leased from Mr. Johannes Meyer. The proposed project will have a generating capacity of up to 100MW. The location of the proposed project falls within the jurisdiction of City of Matlosana Local Municipality (CMLM), which forms part of the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality (DKKDM), North West Province. This Social Impact Assessment (SIA) was undertaken by Pamela Sidambe (author) and Lisa Opperman (contributor) of Savannah Environmental as part of the EIA process.

1.1 Social Impact Assessment (SIA)

Social Impact Assessment (SIA) is described as “the process of assessing or estimating, in advance, the social consequences that are likely to follow from specific policy actions or project developments, particularly in the context of appropriate national, state, or provincial environmental policy legislation” (Becker et al, 2003). Social impacts meaning the consequences to human populations of any public or private actions that alter the ways in which people live, work, play, relate to one another, organise to meet their needs and generally cope as members of society. The term also includes cultural impacts involving changes to the norms, values, and beliefs that guide and rationalise their cognition of themselves and their society (National Maritime Fisheries Service, 1994).

SIA is a methodology or instrument used by social assessment practitioners to determine the social impacts of a project and to provide ways to mitigate and monitor the potential impacts (Vanclay, 2003). The SIA is divided into a number of phases however the public consultation is a crucial step in the preparation of an SIA. SIA is concerned with the human dimensions of the environment, this meaning that;

“SIA is the process of analysing (predicting, evaluating and reflecting) and managing the intended and unintended consequences on the human environment of planned interventions (policies, programs, plans, projects) and any social change processes invoked by those interventions so as to bring about a more sustainable and equitable biophysical and human environment (Vanclay, 2003: 2).”

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The National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) (Act 107 of 1998) sets out a number of principles which underpin environmental management in South Africa. A number of these principles relate to the social dimension of sustainable development and public process requirements such as transparency, accountability, democracy and environmental justice. The following principle outlines the basis for a SIA:

Environmental management must place people and their needs at the forefront of its concern, and serve their physical, psychological, developmental, cultural and social interests equitably.

More specifically, the social, economic and environmental impacts of activities must be considered and assessed. SIA is a useful planning tool that can assist the project proponent to conceptualise and implement a project in a manner which would see the identified negative social impacts addressed through avoidance or mitigation and the positive impacts realised and enhanced. It also allows the community to anticipate, plan for, and deal with the social changes once they come to effect. In this sense, the SIA is an indispensable part of the EIA, the Environmental Management Programme (EMPr) and any participative activity (E.g. community involvement in mitigation and monitoring during planning and implementation). The purpose of a SIA report is to provide baseline information regarding the social environment and to identify possible social impacts that may come about as a result of a project. The report highlights the most likely associated social impacts to occur from the proposed project and provides methods to aim towards emphasising positive impacts and avoiding, reducing or mitigating negative identified impacts.

1.2 Terms of Reference

The main aim of the SIA report is to assess the potential social impacts that may arise from the proposed development and to recommend the most suitable mitigation/enhancements measures from a social perspective. The purpose of the study is: » To provide baseline information describing the social environment affected by the proposed solar energy facility; » To identify, describe and assess possible social risks/ fatal flaws and social impacts that may come about as a result of the proposed development (in terms of the construction, operation and decommissioning phases of the project); and » To suggest ways in which these impacts can be mitigated or enhanced, aiming at maximising opportunities and avoiding and or reducing negative social impacts, including cumulative impacts.

1.3 Specialist Details

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The SIA report was prepared by Pamela S. Sidambe (author) a specialist with a Master’s degree in Social Impact Assessment (SIA) from the University of Johannesburg and Lisa Opperman (contributor) of Savannah Environmental. The report has been reviewed by Dr Neville Bews, an independent external SIA specialist with over 10 years of consulting experience in the field of SIA. Dr Bews, holds a PhD in Sociology.

1.4 Declaration of Independence

A signed declaration of independence for, Pamela S. Sidambe of Savannah Environmental is attached in Appendix C.

1.5 Project Overview

Project background and description:

The solar energy facility is to be developed by Genesis Eco-Energy Developments. Genesis Orkney Solar (Pty) Ltd (the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV)) has been established as the applicant for the project.

The solar energy facility is proposed to include several arrays (static or tracking) of photovoltaic solar panels with a contracted capacity of up to 100MW. The development footprint of the solar farm is anticipated to be approximately 350 hectares in extent, depending on the specific technology to be implemented.

Infrastructure associated with the solar farm will include: » Arrays of PV panels (either a static or tracking PV system) with a capacity of up to 100MW » Mounting structures to support the PV panels. » On-site inverters to convert the power from a direct current to an alternating current and a substation to facilitate the connection between the solar farm and the Eskom electricity grid. » A new 132kV power line between the on-site substation and the Eskom grid connection point. » Cabling between the project components, to be laid underground where practical. » Offices and workshop areas for maintenance and storage. » Temporary laydown areas. » Internal access roads and fencing around the development area.

The purpose of the proposed solar energy facility will be to evacuate the generated power into the Eskom national electricity grid. The project is proposed to be bid into the Department of Energy’s (DoE) Renewable Energy Independent Power Producers Procurement (REIPPP) Programme.

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Alternatives being assessed

A site identification process was undertaken by Genesis Orkney Solar (Pty) Ltd in order to identify suitable locations for the development of the Orkney Solar Farm. This process considered favourable climatic conditions (solar energy facilities are directly reliant on average solar radiation values for a particular area), access and capacity of the electricity grid, accessibility of the project site, and local site topography. Through this process an ideal and suitable site, from an environmental and technical perspective, has been identified for the establishment of the solar energy facility by the project developer. No alternative sites were identified or considered for the assessment.

Three power line alternatives are being considered in order to connect the solar energy facility to the national grid. These connection routes will be completed via a new 132kV power line that will be connected to the on-site facility substation and the national grid. The following grid connection options are being considered: » Alternative 1 – a turn-in turn-out connection to the Mercury - Vaal Reefs Ten 132kV power line. » Alternative 2 - a turn-in turn-out connection to the Dean Traction - Regina Traction 132kV power line. » Alternative 3 - direct connection to the Dean Traction 132 kV Substation.

Locality and size:

The Orkney Solar Farm is proposed to be developed on the Remaining Extent of Portion 7 and the Remaining Extent of Portion 21 of the Farm Wolvehuis 114, situated approximately 11.8km to the south west from the town of Orkney and in close proximity to the Vaal River. The solar energy facility is proposed to include several arrays of photovoltaic solar panels (either tracking or static) with a contracted capacity of up to 100MW. A broader study area of 748 hectares (ha) (i.e. the affected properties) is being considered for the development of the solar farm. The development footprint of the solar farm is anticipated to be approximately 350ha in extent, depending on the specific technology to be implemented. Therefore, the facility and the associated infrastructure can be appropriately placed within the boundaries of the broader study area to avoid environmental and social sensitivities. The proposed site falls under the jurisdiction of the City of Matlosana Local Municipality and within the greater Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality in the North West Province (see Figure 1 the locality map).

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Construction phase:

» Duration: It is estimated that the construction phase for the solar farm and associated infrastructure is expected to extend over a period of 12-18 months. » Capital expenditure: The total construction capital expenditure associated with the solar farm is estimated to be in the region of R1.3 -1.4 billion (2016 rand value). Expenditure during the construction phase will create business opportunities for the regional and local economy. » Employment opportunities and wages: The solar farm is likely to create approximately ~300-400 employment opportunities, depending on the final design. Of this approximately 60% of the opportunities will be available to low- skilled workers (construction labourers, security staff etc.), 25% will be available to semi-skilled workers (drivers, equipment operators etc.), and 15% will be available to skilled personnel (engineers, land surveyors, project managers etc.). Majority of low-skilled and semi-skilled opportunities are likely to be available to local workers. The injection of income into the area in the form of wages will represent an opportunity for the local economy and businesses in the area. » Skills development and training: The developer has indicated that there will be opportunities for on-site skills development and training for employees during the construction phase. » Labour accommodation: The developer has indicated that no on-site accommodation is envisaged. Most labourers will be sourced from within the local area and will not be housed on site, given the relative proximity of the study area to the town of Orkney. However, overnight site worker presence will be limited to security staff; a security team is likely to be present at the construction camp at all times. Labourers and skilled staff from outside the area will be housed off-site within the town of Orkney or other nearby areas. » Transportation of components and equipment: Trucks will be used for transportation of project components and equipment to the proposed study area. The national, secondary and internal access roads will be used to transport all components and equipment required during the construction phase of the solar energy facility. Some of the components (i.e. substation transformer) may be defined as abnormal loads in terms of the Road Traffic Act (Act No. 29 of 1989)1 by virtue of the dimensional limitations. Typical civil engineering construction equipment will need to be brought to the study area (e.g. excavators, trucks, graders, compaction equipment, cement trucks, etc.) as well as components required for the mounting of the PV support structures, construction of the substation and site preparation. The access road to the facility will be off the R502.

Operation phase:

1 A permit will be required for the transportation of these abnormal loads on public roads.

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» Duration: The solar energy facility will be operational for 20-25 years. » Employment: Full-time operational and maintenance crews would be required for the solar energy facility. Based on information provided by the developer, the solar energy facility will create approximately ~30-50 full-time equivalent employment positions during the operation phase. The number of low-skilled personnel will comprise 70% of the workforce, semi-skilled will comprise 25% and skilled will comprise 5% of the workforce during the operation phase. The annual wage bill for the operation phase is estimated to be approximately R35 million (2016 rand value). The injection of income into the area in the form of wages will represent an opportunity for the local economy. » Skills development and training: There will be opportunities for on-site skills development and training in the operation phase. » On-site presence: PV panels are designed to operate continuously, unattended and with low maintenance. Regular monitoring and maintenance activities every few weeks would be required to ensure safe and consistent operation for at least 20-25 years. A mobile team for maintenance such as, cleaning of solar panels and road and vegetation maintenance will form part of the operation phase.

Decommissioning phase:

The PV infrastructure is anticipated to have a lifespan of approximately 25 years. It is a possibility that the PV panels will be replaced with more modern technology at the end of their lifespan, but this will depend on the need for the facility at the time. Disassembling and replacement activities will require the transport of abnormal loads to and within the site. Decommissioned components will be removed from the site and reused, recycled or disposed of in accordance with regulatory requirements. Infrastructure will have to be removed and the site rehabilitated once final decommissioning has occurred. Decommissioning activities will be required to be undertaken in accordance with the relevant legislation at the time.

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Figure 1: Location of the proposed site for Orkney Solar Farm

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2. METHODOLOGY AND APPROACH

2.1 Approach to Study

The main aim for the social report is to determine the social impacts that may arise from the proposed development. The approach used for the SIA study is based on the Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning Guidelines for SIA (February 2007). These guidelines are based on the international best practice. The key objectives in the SIA process include: » Describing and obtaining an understanding of the proposed development (type, scale, location), the communities likely to be affected, and determining the need and scope of the SIA; » Collecting baseline data on the current social environment and historical social trends; » Identifying and collecting data on the SIA variables and social change processes related to the proposed intervention. This requires consultation with affected individuals and communities; » Assessing and documenting the significance of social impacts associated with the proposed project; » Assessing the project (including any feasible alternatives) and identifying potential mitigation and enhancement measures; and » Developing an Environmental Management Plan.

2.2 Data Collection

Primary and secondary data sources were utilised to inform the study in aid of the objectives of the study. Effective consultation with stakeholders is important in order to understand the concerns and requirements of affected communities and ensuring their participation in the formulation and refinement of the project design. Consultations were of critical importance in gaining insights into the key social issues and concerns of communities and other stakeholders, and in aiding the development of potential strategies for addressing these impacts. Primary data sources for the SIA included the following:

» A site visit was undertaken on Thursday 8 September 2016. Observations were made while on site and within the study area. Key stakeholders were contacted and meeting arrangements were made with during the social consultation process (refer to Appendix B); » Meetings were held with key stakeholders to collect primary social data (refer to Table 4) that were both directly and indirectly affected by the proposed project. Data collection was primarily gathered from meetings held with the impacted landowner, adjacent landowners and the Local Municipality;

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» Stakeholders that were unable to meet face-to-face were briefed over the phone on the background of the project, an overview of the environmental assessment process was provided and social issues / concerns / questions with the proposed development were discussed; » A project specific questionnaire was developed and utilised for the semi- structured meetings (refer to minutes of meetings in Appendix B). These meetings formed the basis of the primary data collection and assisted with the gathering of baseline information as well as establishing the stakeholders’ perceptions, interests and concerns on the proposed development; and

Table 2: Stakeholder consultations Meeting Meeting Details Notes Orkney Solar Farm Time: 09:00 – 10:00 Arranged meeting via City of Matlosana Local telephone 24/08/2016 Municipality Venue: Cnr. Braamfisher and OR Tambo, Klerksdorp, 2570 Confirmed and

Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality Wolvehuis RE/20/114 – Adjacent Time: 14:00 Confirmed Landowner CC Grobler Trust Venue: On farm Wolvehuis Re/20/114 Wolvehuis RE/7/114 & Time: 14:30 Confirmed RE/21/114 – Impacted Landowner Venue: On farm Wolvehuis Re/7/114 Time: Confirmed

15:00 Wolvehuis 18/114 – Adjacent Time: 16:00 Not answering Landowner Wolvehuis Investments Venue: *Contact when on site to check availability Goedgenoeg 24/433 & Time: 16:30 *Phone on morning of 8 RE/11/433 September to confirm – Mvala Communal Property Venue: On farm Geodgenoeg requested by landowner Association 433

Secondary data, mostly collected by means of a desktop study, was gathered and analysed for the purpose of the study. The following documents were examined:

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» Project maps; » A desktop aerial study of the affected area through the use of the latest version of Google Earth Pro 2016; » The scoping report – to ensure that all the issues have been addressed in the EIA phase of the process; » The background information document (BID); » The Orkney Solar Farm stakeholders database; » The 2011 South African Census Survey and the Local Government Handbook; » Planning documentation such as the District Municipality (DM) Integrated Development Plans (IDPs), Spatial Development Framework (SDF) and Environmental Management Framework (EMF) as well as the Local Municipality (LM) IDPs and policies; » Relevant guidelines, policies and plan frameworks, as outlined in Section 3 of this report; » Other similar specialist studies and relevant information where there have been cross-cutting issues, such as the EIAs undertaken for previous solar energy facilities in the North West Province and other parts of South Africa; and » Literature reviews of social issues associated with solar energy facilities.

Information that was relevant to the project was identified and assessed from these sources within the context of the pre-construction, construction, operation and decommissioning phases of the proposed project. The evaluation of the social impacts involved the assessment of both quantitative and qualitative data and the use of professional judgement. Quantitative data collected through national sources or local level interviews is assessed and analysed with sociological techniques (refer to Figure 2). However, qualitative data collected using the same methodology is more open to interpretation. In addition, what is a major impact to one person, one household or one community may be a minor impact to another according to specific personal circumstances. Hence, the results do not lend themselves easily to being ranked or assessed in exactly the same way as environmental data.

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Figure 2: Research methodology and sources diagram

2.3 Public Participation Process

The Public Participation Process (PPP) played an important part in the EIA process. The process of stakeholder consultation is an ongoing overarching requirement that applies to the entire SIA process, and where possible, the PPP and SIA processes have been integrated. Effective consultation with stakeholders is important to understand the concerns and requirements of affected communities and ensuring their participation in the formulation and refinement of the project design. Relevant stakeholders are informed about the proposed project and thereafter are able to register and participate in the environmental impact assessment process. The communications during the PPP and written submission of comments have been reviewed and issues raised through this process have been incorporated into the SIA where relevant. The PPP involves raising awareness of the proposed solar energy facility by providing information about the proposed project to all interested and affected parties and providing an opportunity for these parties to raise any issues and/or concerns regarding the project. Consultations were of critical importance in gaining insights into the key environment and social issues and concerns of communities and other stakeholders, and in aiding the development of potential strategies for addressing these impacts.

2.4 Impact Evaluation Method

This section provides an overview of the method used to identify and evaluate the social impacts for the construction and operation phases of the solar energy facility. The main objective is to determine the social risks and opportunities, and positive and adverse impacts of the project. The methodology below allows for the

20 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016 evaluation of the overall effect of a proposed activity on the social environment. This includes an assessment of the significant direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts. The significance of social impacts is to be assessed by means of the criteria of extent (scale), duration, magnitude (severity), probability (certainty) and direction (negative, neutral or positive).

» The nature, which shall include a description of what causes the effect, what will be affected and how it will be affected.

» The extent, wherein it will be indicated whether the impact will be local (limited to the immediate area or site of development) or regional:

∗ Local extending only as far as the development site area – assigned a score of 1;

∗ Limited to the site and its immediate surroundings (up to 10 km) – assigned a score of 2;

∗ Will have an impact on the region – assigned a score of 3;

∗ Will have an impact on a national scale – assigned a score of 4; or

∗ Will have an impact across international borders – assigned a score of 5.

» The duration, wherein it will be indicated whether:

∗ The lifetime of the impact will be of a very short duration (0–1 years) – assigned a score of 1;

∗ The lifetime of the impact will be of a short duration (2-5 years) - assigned a score of 2;

∗ Medium-term (5–15 years) – assigned a score of 3;

∗ Long term (> 15 years) - assigned a score of 4; or

∗ Permanent - assigned a score of 5.

» The magnitude, quantified on a scale from 0-10, where a score is assigned:

∗ 0 is small and will have no effect on the environment;

∗ 2 is minor and will not result in an impact on processes;

∗ 4 is low and will cause a slight impact on processes;

∗ 6 is moderate and will result in processes continuing but in a modified way;

∗ 8 is high (processes are altered to the extent that they temporarily cease); and

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∗ 10 is very high and results in complete destruction of patterns and permanent cessation of processes.

» The probability of occurrence, which shall describe the likelihood of the impact actually occurring. Probability will be estimated on a scale, and a score assigned:

∗ Assigned a score of 1–5, where 1 is very improbable (probably will not happen);

∗ Assigned a score of 2 is improbable (some possibility, but low likelihood);

∗ Assigned a score of 3 is probable (distinct possibility);

∗ Assigned a score of 4 is highly probable (most likely); and

∗ Assigned a score of 5 is definite (impact will occur regardless of any prevention measures).

» The significance, which shall be determined through a synthesis of the characteristics described above (refer formula below) and can be assessed as low, medium or high.

» The status, which will be described as either positive, negative or neutral.

» The degree to which the impact can be reversed.

» The degree to which the impact may cause irreplaceable loss of resources.

» The degree to which the impact can be mitigated.

The significance is determined by combining the criteria in the following formula:

S= (E+D+M) P; where

S = Significance weighting E = Extent D = Duration M = Magnitude P = Probability

The significance weightings for each potential impact are as follows:

» < 30 points: Low (i.e. where this impact would not have a direct influence on the decision to develop in the area),

» 30-60 points: Medium (i.e. where the impact could influence the decision to develop in the area unless it is effectively mitigated),

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» > 60 points: High (i.e. where the impact must have an influence on the decision process to develop in the area).

2.5 Limitations and Assumptions

The following assumptions and limitations were relevant:

» The 2011 Census is the most recent source of official statistics and this has been used for generating the information provided in the baseline profile of the study area. In addition to this, the latest District and Local Municipality policies and plans were utilised in generating information. While the data does provide useful information, it should be noted that this data may now be out of date to some degree and may no longer accurately reflect the current socio economic profile; ‐ » This study was done with the information available to the specialist at the time of executing the study, within the available timeframes. The sources consulted are not exhaustive, and additional information which might strengthen arguments, contradict information in this report, and/or identify additional information might exist. The specialist did try to take an evidence-based approach in the compilation of this report and did not intentionally exclude scientific information relevant to the assessment; » A limited amount of finalised project details from the project developer means that some of the actual projections of the project may be higher or lower than estimated in this report; » It was assumed that the motivation for, planning and feasibility of the project were undertaken by the developer with integrity, and that information provided to date by the project developer, the independent environmental assessment practitioner and the public participation consultant was accurate.

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3. LEGISLATION AND GUIDELINES

A review of the policy environment provides valuable insight into the government’s priorities and plans. The review of the relevant planning and policy documents was undertaken as a part of the SIA process. The key documents reviewed included:

National Policies: » The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (Act 108 of 1996) » The National Environmental Management Act (107 of 1998) (NEMA) » The National Energy Act (34 of 2008) » National Development Plan 2030 » National Climate Change Response Green Paper (DEA, 2010) » White Paper on Energy Policy of the Republic of South Africa (1998) » White Paper on Renewable Energy of the Republic of South Africa (2003) » National Integrated Resource Plan South Africa (2010-2030) » Strategic Infrastructure Projects (SIPs) Provincial Policies: » North West Province Spatial Development Framework (SDF) - North West Environmental Management Series 7 (2008) » North West Provincial Growth and Development Strategy (PGDS) (2004- 2014) Local and District Policies: » Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality Integrated Development Plan (IDP) (2013/2014) » Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality Integrated Development Plan (IDP) (2012-2016) » City of Matlosana Local Municipality Integrated Development Plan (2011- 2015) Solar Energy Policies: » Solar Energy Technology Roadmap (2013)

The legislative and policy context plays an important role in identifying and assessing the potential social impacts associated with the proposed solar energy facility. In this regard a key component of the SIA process is to assess the proposed solar energy facility in terms of its suitability with regards to the key planning and policy documents. A brief overview of the most relevant policies, plans and guidelines, in relation to the proposed solar energy facility are discussed in this section below.

3.1 National Policies

Any project contributing to the objectives mentioned within the national policies, discussed briefly below, could be considered strategically important for the nation. The review of the policy environment suggests that the utilisation of renewable

24 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016 energy sources in the country is considered to be an integral means of reducing the carbon footprint of South Africa, diversifying the national economy, and reducing poverty. As the project would contribute a renewable energy supply to provincial and national targets set out and supported within these national policies, it is considered that the proposed solar energy facility fits within the national policy framework. A brief review of the most relevant national policies is provided below.

3.1.1 The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (Act 108 of 1996)

The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (Act 108 of 1996) has been adopted as the supreme law of the country and forms the foundations for a democratic society in which fundamental human rights are protected. In terms of the environment, Chapter 2 Section 24 states that everyone has a right:

(a) “To an environment that is not harmful to their health or well being; and (b) To have the environment protected, for the benefit of present and future ‐ generations, through reasonable legislative and other measures that: i. prevent pollution and ecological degradation; ii. promote conservation; and iii. secure ecologically sustainable development and use of natural resources while promoting justifiable economic and social development.”

Chapter 7 defines the role of local government in its community. Five objectives of local government are described in Chapter 7 Section 152: » to provide democratic and accountable government for local communities; » to ensure the provision of services to communities in a sustainable manner; » to promote social and economic development; » to promote a safe and healthy environment; and » to encourage the involvement of communities and community organisations in the matter of local government.

The Constitution outlines the need to promote social and economic development. A SIA is a requirement for sustainable development as it assesses the social impacts associated with development and aims towards safeguarding people’s future well being. The proposed solar energy facility aims to increase the economic ‐ opportunities of the area by providing more job opportunities for the local community. The development will also aid in promoting a healthy environment through the provision of clean, renewable energy. It is therefore considered that the development of the Orkney Solar Farm is appropriate and suitable in terms of the Constitution.

3.1.2 The National Environmental Management Act (107 of 1998) (NEMA)

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NEMA is the legislation setting out the framework for environmental management in South Africa. The Act promotes cooperative environmental governance and establishes principles for decision making on matters affecting the environment. An overarching principle in Chapter 1 emphasises that development must be socially, environmentally and economically sustainable.

The EIA Regulations (Government Notices R982-985 of December 2014) define an environmental impact assessment as ‘the process of collecting, organising, analysing, interpreting and communicating information that is relevant to the consideration of that application’. The SIA aims to fulfil these requirements by providing all social information relevant to the consideration of the project.

3.1.3 The National Energy Act (34 of 2008)

One of the objectives of the National Energy Act is to promote diversity of supply of energy and its sources. In this regard, the preamble makes direct reference to renewable resources, including solar:

“To ensure that diverse energy resources are available, in sustainable quantities, and at affordable prices, to the South African economy, in support of economic growth and poverty alleviation, taking into account environmental management requirements; to provide for increased generation and consumption of renewable energies (Preamble).”

The National Energy Act aims to ensure that diverse energy resources are available, in sustainable quantities and at affordable prices, to the South African economy in support of economic growth and poverty alleviation, taking into account environmental management requirements and interactions amongst economic sectors, as well as matters relating to renewable energy. The Act provides the legal framework which supports the development of renewable energy facilities for the greater environmental and social good.

3.1.4 Department of Energy Strategic Plan 2015-2020

The Department of Energy (DoE) is mandated to ensure secure and sustainable provision of energy for socio-economic development. This is achieved by developing an Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) for the entire energy sector and promoting investment in accordance with the IRP which focuses on energy. The Department of Energy envisions the pursuance of the aforementioned mandate through the following strategic statements:

» Aim: Formulate energy policies, regulatory frameworks and legislation, and oversee their implementation to ensure energy security, promotion of

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environmentally-friendly energy carriers and access to affordable and reliable energy for all South Africans. » Vision: Improving our energy mix by having 30% clean energy by 2025. The vision of the DoE will be realised by the following factors as depicted in Figure 3 below. » Mission: To regulate and transform the energy sector for the provision of secure, sustainable and affordable energy.

Figure 3: Factors affecting the DoE’s 2025 vision of 30% clean energy by 2025

The DoE Strategic Plan 2015-2020 Programme 6 on Clean Energy focusses on managing and facilitating the development and implementation of clean and renewable energy initiatives as well as Energy Efficiency Demand-Side Management (EEDSM). Sub-programmes within Programme 6 include: energy efficiency, renewable energy, climate change and designated national authority. The proposed solar energy facility will contribute towards the DoE target of implementing 30% clean energy by 2025.

3.1.5 National Development Plan 2030

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The National Development Plan aims to eliminate poverty and reduce inequality by 2030. Given the complexity of national development, the plan sets out a number of interlinked priorities, some of which include: » Bringing about faster economic growth, higher investment and greater labour absorption. » Focusing on key capabilities of people and the state. » Building a capable and developmental state. Enabling milestones include: » Increased employment from 13 million in 2010 to 24 million in 2030. » Establish a competitive base of infrastructure, human resources and regulatory frameworks. » Ensure that skilled, technical, professional and managerial posts better reflect the country's racial gender and disability makeup. » Increase the quality of education. » Provide affordable access to quality health care. » Establish effective, safe and affordable public transport. » Produce sufficient energy to support the industry at competitive prices, ensuring access for poor households, while reducing carbon emissions per unit of power by about one-third. » Ensure that all South Africans have access to clean running water in their homes. » Make high-speed broadband internet universally available at competitive prices. » Realise a food trade surplus, with one-third produced by small-scale farmers or households.

The National Development Plan aims to provide a supportive environment for growth and development, while promoting a more labour-absorbing economy. The proposed solar energy facility will assist in reducing carbon emissions targets and creating jobs in the local area, as well as assist in creating a competitive infrastructure base in terms of energy contribution to the national grid.

3.1.6 National Climate Change Response White Paper (2011)

South Africa’s response to climate change has two objectives: 1) to effectively manage the inevitable climate change impacts through interventions that build and sustain South Africa’s social, economic and environmental resilience and emergency response capacity; and 2) to make a fair contribution to the global efforts to stabilise greenhouse gas (GHG) concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that avoids dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system within a timeframe that enabled economic, social and environmental development to proceed in a sustainable manner. The paper proposes a number of approaches dealing with climate change impacts with respect to selected sectors. Energy, in this context, is considered to be one of the key sectors that provides for possible

28 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016 mitigations to address climate changes. The White Paper provides support for the proposed solar energy facility which will contribute to managing climate change impacts, supporting the emergency response capacity, as well as assist in reducing GHG emissions in a sustainable manner.

3.1.7 White Paper on the Energy Policy of the Republic of South Africa (1998)

The White Paper on Energy Policy states the need to improve the energy security in the country by means of expanding the energy supply options. This implies the increase in the use of renewable energy and encouraging new entries into the generation market. The support for the renewable energy policy is guided by a rationale that South Africa has a very attractive range of renewable resources, particularly solar and wind and that renewable applications are in fact the least cost energy service in many cases; more so when social and environmental costs are taken into account. Government policy on renewable energy is thus concerned with meeting the following challenges: » Ensuring that economically feasible technologies and applications are implemented; » Ensuring that an equitable level of national resources are invested in renewable technologies, given their potential and compared to investments in other energy supply options; and » Addressing constraints on the development of the renewable industry.

The policy states that the advantages of renewable energy include minimal environmental impacts during operation in comparison with traditional supply technologies, generally lower running costs, and high labour intensities. Disadvantages include: higher capital costs in some cases; lower energy densities; and lower levels of availability, depending on specific conditions, especially with sun and wind based systems. Nonetheless, renewable resources generally operate from an unlimited resource base and, as such, can increasingly contribute towards a long-term sustainable energy future. Therefore the policy supports the advancement of renewable energy sources at ensuring energy security through the diversification of supply, which is in line with the proposed solar energy facility.

3.1.8 White Paper on the Renewable Energy Policy of the Republic of South Africa (2003)

The White Paper on Renewable Energy Policy supplements the Government’s overarching policy on energy as set out in its White Paper on the Energy Policy of the republic of South Africa (DME, 1998). The White Paper on Renewable Energy Policy recognises the significance of the medium and long-term potential of renewable energy. The main aim of the policy is to create the conditions for the development and commercial implementation of renewable technologies. The

29 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016 position of the White Paper on Renewable Energy is based on the integrated resource planning criterion of:

“Ensuring that an equitable level of national resources is invested in renewable technologies, given their potential and compared to investments in other energy supply options.”

The White Paper on Renewable Energy sets out the Government’s vision, policy principles, strategic goals and objectives for promoting and implementing renewable energy in South Africa. South Africa relies heavily on coal to meet its energy needs because it is well-endowed with coal resources in particular. However, South Africa is also endowed with renewable energy resources that can be sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels, but which have so far remained largely untapped. This White Paper fosters the uptake of renewable energy in the economy and has a number of objectives that include: ensuring that equitable resources are invested in renewable technologies; directing public resources for implementation of renewable energy technologies; introducing suitable fiscal incentives for renewable energy and creating an investment climate for the development of the renewable energy sector. The White Paper on Renewable Energy of 2003 set a target of 10 000GWh to be generated from renewable energy by 2013. The target was reviewed during the renewable energy summit of 2009 held in Pretoria. The summit raised the issue over the slow implementation of renewable energy projects and the risks to the South African economy of committing national investments in the energy infrastructure to coal technologies. Other matters that were raised include potential large scale roll out of solar water heaters and enlistment of Independent Power Producers to contribute to the diversification of the energy mix. The objectives of the White Paper on Renewable Energy are considered in six focal areas, namely: financial instruments, legal instruments, technology development, awareness raising, capacity building and education, and market based instruments and regulatory instruments. The policy supports the investment in renewable energy facilities as they contribute towards ensuring energy security through the diversification of energy supply, reducing GHG emissions and the promotion of renewable energy sources.

3.1.9 National Integrated Resource Plan for South Africa (2010-2030)

The primary objective of the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) is to determine the long term electricity demand and detail how this demand should be met in terms of generating capacity, type, timing and cost. However, the IRP also serves as input to other planning functions, inter alia economic development, and funding, and environmental and social policy formulation. The accuracy of the IRP is to be improved by regular reviews and updates. The National Integrated Resource Plan 2010 projected that an additional capacity of up to 56 539MW of generation capacity will be required to support the country’s economic development and

30 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016 ensure adequate reserves over the next twenty years. The required expansion is more than two times the size of the existing capacity of the system. A significant component of the plan, amongst others, is the expansion of the use of renewable energy sources to reduce carbon emissions involved in generating electricity. In this regard, the IRP supports the development of 17GW of renewable energy generation by 2030. The proposed solar energy facility contributes to the targets in this policy.

3.1.10 Strategic Infrastructure Projects (SIPs)

The Presidential Infrastructure Coordinating Committee (PICC) are integrating and phasing investment plans across 18 Strategic Infrastructure Projects (SIPs) which have five core functions: to unlock opportunity, transform the economic landscape, create new jobs, strengthen the delivery of basic services, and support the integration of African economies. A balanced approach is being fostered through greening of the economy, boosting energy security, promoting integrated municipal infrastructure investment, facilitating integrated urban development, accelerating skills development, investing in rural development, and enabling regional integration.

SIP 8 of the energy SIPs supports the development of the solar energy facility which is as follows: » SIP 8: Green energy in support of the South African economy: Support sustainable green energy initiatives on a national scale through a diverse range of clean energy options as envisaged in the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP 2010) and supports bio-fuel production facilities.

SIP 10 of the SIPs supports the development of the solar energy facility in terms of the transmission and distribution network as the proposed site is located within the Central Corridor of the electrical grid corridors: » SIP 10: Electricity transmission and distribution for all: Expand the transmission and distribution network to address historical imbalances, provide access to electricity for all and support economic development. Align the 10-year transmission plan, the services backlog, the national broadband roll-out and the freight rail line development to leverage off regulatory approvals, supply chain and project development capacity.

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3.2 Provincial Policies

A brief review of the most relevant provincial policies is provided below. The proposed solar energy facility is considered to align with the aims of these policies, even if contributions to achieving the goals therein are only minor.

3.2.1 North West Provincial Growth and Development Strategy (PGDS) (2004- 2014)

The North West Provincial Growth and Development Strategy (PGDS) provides a framework for integrated and sustainable growth and economic development for the Province and its people. Challenges facing the Province are as follows: the Province is mostly rural in nature; it has a low population density and relative inadequate infrastructure, especially in the remote rural areas; the Province has inherited an enormous backlog in basic service delivery and maintenance that will take time to eradicate; the population is predominantly poor with high levels of illiteracy and dependency that seriously affect their productivity and ability to compete for jobs; the Province is characterised by great inequalities between the rich and poor as well as disparities between urban and rural; the Province is faced with HIV/AIDS as a social and economic challenge; available resources are unevenly distributed and there is limited potential for improved delivery of services and growth. From the above, job creation and poverty eradication together with the low level of expertise and skills; stand out as the greatest challenges to be resolved within the Province.

Goals and objectives of the PGDS are to fight poverty and unemployment, improve the low level of expertise and skills which are classified as both immediate and long term goals and acquire primary goals for sustained growth and economic development. The proposed solar energy facility will contribute to employment creation and skills development which is in line with the goals and objectives of the North West PGDS.

The North West PGDS aims at building a sustainable economy to eradicate poverty and improve social development. The proposed solar energy facility will contribute to growth and development of the local area by expanding the economic base and creating employment opportunities.

3.2.2 North West Province Spatial Development Framework (SDF) - North West Environmental Management Series 7 (2008)

The North West Provincial Government (NWPG) has recently adopted a ten-year growth and development strategy for the Province known as North West 2014. In order to fight poverty, unemployment and low levels of skills and expertise, this strategy has two goals. The Economic Goal which requires an average economic

32 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016 growth rate of 6.6% per annum and the Poverty Eradication Goal to wipe out the basic needs backlog which annually will require investment estimated at R854 million. The key pillars for growth and economic development are: » Agriculture and rural development » Mining and energy » Manufacturing » Trade and finance » Tourism » Construction and infrastructure » Small Medium and Micro Enterprise » Training and Skills Development

The strategy lists a number of transversal objectives of which one is “Ensuring sustainable development through resource and environmental management”. The Provincial Spatial Development Framework and Environmental Management Plan (PSDF–EMP) is one of the fundamental implementation instruments of North West 2014 and provides the spatial dimension for this strategy. The key emphasis is on economic growth and poverty eradication. This version mainly provides statements of objectives, key development issues, development concepts/principles, and the spatial development rationale. The Spatial Development Framework (SDF) addresses the need for spatial planning, socio-economic development, infrastructure and conservation of natural resources. Key socio-economic issues which would require strategic planning provision include: employment (including youth and women); poverty eradication; attracting investment; economic growth; HIV / AIDS and other diseases; food security; physical infrastructure (including availability of industrial land); illiteracy; tourism development; population growth, urbanisation and migration. Natural resource issues include inadequate water resources for future development; bush encroachment and alien invasive species; land and soil degradation; and overgrazing. With regard to spatial planning, the legacies of the Apartheid-era policy is identified as a key issue and residents of the North West are consequently extremely underdeveloped.

The proposed solar energy facility will contribute to economic growth and development, which will in turn help eradicate poverty through job creations and skills development in the region which will be in line with the North West SDF.

3.3 District and Local Municipalities Policies

These strategic policies at the district and local levels have similar objectives for the respective areas, namely to accelerate economic growth, create jobs, uplift communities and alleviate poverty. The proposed solar energy facility is considered to align with the aims of these policies, even if contributions to achieving the goals therein are only minor.

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3.3.1 Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality Environmental Management Framework (EMF) Strategic Environmental Management Plan (Draft 2016)

This report represents the Strategic Environmental Management Plan (SEMP) of the DKKDM EMF process. The SEMP bridges the divide between the current state of the environment in the district and the desired state. It aims to achieve this by managing the sustainable utilisation of land through Management Guidelines and by controlling the activities that may impact on environmental attributes in specific geographical areas.

The EMF Management Zones identified for DKKDM include the following (refer to Figure 4): 1. Environmental Sensitive Zone; 2. Agricultural Zone; 3. Urban Zone; 4. Mining and Industrial Zone; 5. Rural Development Zone; and 6. Dolomitic Zone.

Figure 4: Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality Environmental Management Zones

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Each of these zones represents a specific demarcated area that requires active control to ensure that its potential is realised. To facilitate the attainment of the desired state for these zones, guidelines are required that stipulate compatible activities that support the vision for these zones and specific management requirements and objectives that need to be adhered to when development is proposed in a zone. The report represents the SEMP of the DKKDM EMF process and serves to plot the way forward for attaining the desired state. The proposed site for Orkney Solar Farm is located within the Mining and Industrial Zone which is located near the town Orkney (refer to Figure 4). The EMF states the compatible and incompatible activities for the Mining and Industrial Zone which are reflected in Table 5 below.

Table 3: Compatible and incompatible activities for the Mining and Industrial Zone Compatible Activities Incompatible Activities Permissible activities include the authorised Development that compromises mineral mining activities that adhere to conditions resources of authorisation, Environmental Management Plan / Programme and mining best practices. Infrastructure and activities associated with Illegal mining activities (i.e. not authorised) mining and industry Engineering and utility services and Activities that are in conflict with desired infrastructure state and after use plans Solid waste disposal facilities Urban and infrastructure development prior to mineral extraction Sub-stations and electrical infrastructure Intensive agriculture Sewage treatment facilities Tourism (regulated and mining-focused)

The proposed solar energy facility will not compromise any mineral resources or mining activities in this zone and will contribute to industrial development within the area.

3.3.2 Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality (DKKDM) Integrated Development Plan (IDP) (2012-2016)

The vision of the DKKDM is to be a catalyst for Economic Development in the DKKDM region of the North West Province, benefiting all communities in the DKKDM’s designated area of jurisdiction. The mission of the DKKDM is to strive to effectively implement existing, partner and new projects, attract investment for business development within the DKKDM region, encourage and support business’ participation in spatial development initiatives as well as strengthen or regenerate lagging business sectors (sector development).

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The goal of the DKKDM is to assist municipalities with the implementation of key local economic development projects, by championing investment in or supporting business development for selected high impact projects to stimulate economic growth, job creation and economic diversification in the DKKDM region. Development priorities and objectives include: » Local Economic Development » Investment and trade facilitation » Project facilitation (provide business appraisals on viable and non-viable projects, source local and international investment/trade partners etc.) » Economic research activities » Corporate governance responsibilities

The IDP includes the district’s Spatial Development Framework 2011. The SDF guides and informs the directions of growth, movement routes, special development areas, conservation of both the built and natural environment, areas at which particular types of land-use should be encouraged and/or discouraged, and areas at which the intensity of land development could be either increased or reduced. It is indicated within the SDF 2011 that the proposed solar energy facility is located within the districts development corridor. Figure 5 demonstrates a map of the development corridors within the district Municipality.

Figure 5: Dr Kenneth Kaunda Development Corridors

Therefore the proposed solar energy facility falls in line with the SDF within the IDP as the site is located within the development corridor. The IDP aims at promoting local economic growth and social development in order to provide a better life for

36 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016 the communities. The development will contribute in assisting the District Municipality in achieving economic growth and building a sustainable economy through the field of renewable energy. The development of the proposed solar energy facility will contribute to employment creation and economic growth, which in turn will have a positive multiplier effect on the local area through income expenditure, which therefore supports the DKKDM IDP 2012-2016 vision, mission and goals.

3.3.3 City of Matlosana Local Municipality Integrated Development Plan (2015-2016)

The City of Matlosana Local Municipality (CMLM) adopted Agenda 16 in 2006 which elucidates the Council’s strategic directions and objectives to be achieved by 2016. The mission of the Municipality is to be a well-run city through good governance, so as to place it amongst the five leading local municipalities in 2016. They strive to do this through economic growth and prosperity and quality municipal service delivery. In order to yield improved performance and service delivery, a new corporate strategy (Vision 2020) was also adopted in August 2013 with three core values which are integrity, dignity and performance. Key performance areas (KPA) in the Municipality include: » KPA 1: Basic Service Delivery (ensuring that the residents of the Municipality have access to basic and essential services) » KPA 2: Local Economic Development (growing the economy and creating jobs) – the creation of jobs to reduce unemployment and enhance local economic development activities » KPA 3: Municipal transformation and organisational development » KPA 4: Municipal financial viability and management (effectively managing the Municipality’s finances) » KPA 5: Good governance and public participation

According to the CMLM IDP 2015-2016, the CMLM has many distressed mining towns and is among the eight municipalities chosen to benefit from the special Presidential Package established to help fast-track programmes in mining towns. President Jacob Zuma said government would, as part of an October 2012 agreement between business, government and labour, build housing and roll out other services to revitalise mining towns, with a focus on Matlosana, eMalahleni, Sekhukhune, Lephalale, West Rand and Matjhabeng. The President announced on 17 June 2014, in his State of the Nation Address, focus on Economy and Job Creation, that he would take over the work started under his former deputy Kgalema Motlanthe on the Framework Agreement for a Sustainable Mining Industry reached by labour, business and government last year. These efforts will include work to revitalise mining towns, notably the areas of Matlosana, Emalahleni, Sekhukhune, Lephalale, West Rand and Matjhabeng.

37 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

The overarching direction of the CMLM IDP articulates a vision for economic growth and development, provision of basic services (service delivery improvement) and infrastructure development. The proposed solar energy facility will contribute to job creation, economic growth and development in the region, which will be in line with the KPA 2 of the City of Matlosana IDP.

3.4 Solar Energy Policies

3.4.1 Solar Energy Technology Roadmap 2013

Diffusion of renewable energy, generally, and solar technology, specifically, in South Africa is meant to address the government's desire to aggressively integrate renewable energy technologies into the national energy mix to reduce the country's carbon emission levels, to help address its growing electricity generation needs, and its industrial heat needs (DEA draft integrated Energy planning report, 2012). The use of solar radiation for power generation is considered a non-consumptive use of a natural resource which produces zero greenhouse gas emissions during its operation. The generation of renewable energy will contribute to South Africa’s electricity market which has, to date, been heavily dominated by coal-based power generation. The advancement of renewable energy is a priority for South Africa as the government has set a goal of generating 17GW renewable electricity by 2030, as part of the IRP 2010. Furthermore, recent policy highlights the desirability of clean, green energy and solar generated energy which will play a significant role in reaching these quotas.

3.5 Conclusion

The findings of the review of the relevant policies and documents pertaining to the energy sector indicate that solar energy and the establishment of solar energy facilities such as the Orkney Solar Farm are supported at a national, provincial, and local level, and that the proposed facility will contribute towards the various targets and policy aims in a positive manner. The author of this SIA is therefore of the opinion that the establishment of the proposed Orkney Solar Farm is supported by the policies and planning documents on all levels of Government.

38 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

4. BACKGROUND INFORMATION ON THE STUDY AREA AND KEY STAKEHOLDER IDENTIFICATION

The Orkney Solar Farm is proposed to be established approximately 11.8km south west of the town ofOrkney, which is located within the City of Matlosana Local Municipality (CMLM) and forms part of the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality (DKKDM) of the North West Province. This section will provide a brief overview of the study area, baseline characteristics, surrounding land uses and a description of the key stakeholders associated with the proposed development.

4.1 North West Province

The North West Province is situated in the north of South Africa (refer to Figure 6). The Province shares the boundaries with Free State, Limpopo and Gauteng Provinces, and is the gateway to Botswana (refer to Figure 6). It covers an area of ~104 882km² and has a population of ~3 509 953. Much of the Province consists of flat areas of scattered trees and grassland. The Vaal River flows along the southern border of the Province. Mahikeng (previously Mafikeng) is the capital of the Province. The biggest cities in the Province are Mmabatho, Potchefstroom and Klerksdorp. Other main towns within the Province include Brits, Rustenburg, and Lichtenburg. The North West Province is divided into four district municipalities which include; Bojanala District Municipality, Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality, Dr Ruth Segomotsi District Municipality and Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality, which are further subdivided into 19 local municipalities (North West Province, Local Government Handbook, 2012).

Most of the economic activity is concentrated in the southern region of the North West Province between Potchefstroom and Klerksdorp, as well as Rustenburg and the eastern region. The North West Province is predominantly a rural Province with the main economic activities being mining and agriculture. Mining of diamond, marble and gold bring in substantial wealth. The Province is a world leader in platinum production. Mining is the major contributor to the North West Province economy and represents almost a quarter of South Africa’s mining industry as a whole. The Province produces a quarter of South Africa’s gold, as well as granite, marble, fluorspar and diamonds (NAFCOC, 2014). The North West Province is well known for cattle farming, while the areas around Rustenburg and Brits are fertile where mixed-crop farming land occurs. Maize and sunflowers are the most important crops, and the Province is a major producer of white maize in the country (South Africa Info, 2014). The Province has a number of major tourist attractions, including the internationally famous Sun City, the Pilanesberg National Park, the Madikwe Game Reserve and the Rustenburg Nature Reserve.

39 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

Figure 6: Location of the North West Province in South Africa (Source: Local Government Handbook, 2012)

4.2 Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality (DKKDM)

The DKKDM is located in the southern part of the North West Province and borders both the Gauteng (located 65km south-west of Johannesburg) and the Free State Province (refer to Figure 7). The DKKDM is the smallest of the four districts and is made up of five local municipalities namely; Ventersdorp, Tlokwe, City of Matlosana, Lekwa Teemane and Maquassi Hills.

Mining is the dominant economic activity of the district. Additional sectors in terms of employment are social services, trade and farming. Potchefstroom is home to several tertiary institutions and training centres while the economic base for Ventersdorp is agriculture. The main economic sectors in the DKKDM include mining, trade, finance, business services, manufacturing, construction, government services and agriculture.

The district is serviced by a number of primary roads, with the N12 Treasure Route forming the main development axis in the district and serving as a potential concentration point for future industrial, commercial and tourism development. DKKDM is a region with a rich and diverse natural and cultural heritage, with the potential for sustained economic growth. The major cities/towns in the District Municipality include; Hartbeesfontein, Klerksdorp, Leeudoringstad, Makwassie, Orkney, Potchefstroom, Stilfontein, Ventersdorp, Witpoort and Wolmaransstad.

40 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

Figure 7: District Municipalities of the North West Province, South Africa (Source: North West province, Local Government Handbook, 2012)

4.3 City of Matlosana Local Municipality (CMLM)

The CMLM is located in the DKKDM in the North West Province (refer to Figure 8). It is one of four local municipalities in this district. The major towns are Hartbeesfontein, Klerkdorp, Orkney and Stilfontein (Local government handbook, 2012). The CMLM is also located 120km south of Rustenburg and the platinum belt. Klerksdorp, Jouberton, Alabama, Manzilpark, Orkney, Kanana, Vaal Reefs, Stilfontein, Khuma, Tigane and Hartebeesfontein are all areas that form part of the CMLM. The following characteristics are found within the CMLM (South African Cities Network, 2012): » Klerksdorp was originally established and developed as a regional service centre between the gold mining areas in the Rand and the diamond mining fields in the Cape in the late 1800s. Although Klerksdorp has always been the main economic hub of the greater municipal area, it has not specifically been involved in the mining activities but has still maintained the function of a regional service centre in terms of agricultural supplies, retail facilities, schools and medical services which stretches further than the boundaries of the DKKDM into the North West Province and even Botswana. It is precisely this notion which has helped sustain the area in a period of considerable mining decline over the last twenty years. » Since the early 1990s but more specifically since 2001, mining activities have downscaled drastically. This downscaling also lead to nearly 75% of the original workforce in 1996 being retrenched by 2011. Significant

41 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

percentages of these retrenchment packages have been reinvested in the area because the housing market has improved despite the decrease in employment. Entrepreneurial activities have also intensified due to compulsory self-employment advancements. » The declining mining industry has resulted in the number of people living in poverty in the CMLM almost doubling between 1996 and 2011. This is due to the fact that the municipal area is characterised by high unemployment levels (32.7%). » Although the economic decline of the area is similar to that experienced in the Free State Goldfields the overall impact in the City of Matlosana Local Municipality seems significantly less than in the Free State Goldfields. The rapid economic decline of the area has been buffered by (1) the regional service character of the area, (2) a business focus which has expanded into Botswana, (3) proximity to the platinum belt and (4) proximity to Gauteng (in fact some researchers view the area as a spatial extension of Gauteng) and more specifically the West Rand. » Currently, the N12 Treasure Route puts Klerksdorp in the centre of new developments. Towards the west of the N12, developments comprise residential development, retail nodes and mixed land usages. » Like many other cities and towns in South Africa, old infrastructure is a matter of concern. The old infrastructure systems are already in need of drastic upgrades and continuous maintenance – this pressure will only increase, resulting in various challenges. At the same time the historic role related to mining has created significant problems for municipal management in the advent of mine downscaling and closure. One such an example is the inability of the Municipality to institute an appropriate billing system.

42 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

Figure 8: Map of the Local Municipalities within the DKKDM (Source: DKKDM, Local Government Handbook, 2012)

4.4 Socio-Economic Context

4.4.1 Population

The population trends in a geographical area affect the rate of economic growth through the provision of labour and entrepreneurialism and the demand for goods and services. These trends also indicate the number of people who are likely to be impacted on by the proposed project. The North West Province covers a geographical area of 104 882km2 and accounts for 8.59% of South Africa’s land mass. The province has a population of 3.5 million people, 6.8% of South Africa’s entire population, with a population density of 33.5 people per square kilometre. The population growth rate between 2001 and 2011 for the North West Province was 1.6%. The DKKDM growth rate was 1.5% which is higher than the CMLM growth rate at 1% from 2001 to 2011 (refer to Table 6).

According to Statistics South Africa (Census 2011), the population of the DKKDM is 695 933, which increased from 599 670 in 2001. The population is unevenly distributed among the four Local Municipalities and the average annual growth rate of the district is 1.49%. The CMLM has a population of 398 676 people and a population density of 110 people per square kilometre. Table 4: Population statistics (Source: Census 2011)

43 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

Census 2011 Area (km2) Population Population Population total density /km2 growth rate % (2001 - 2011) North West Province 104 882 3 509 953 33.5 1.6 Dr Kenneth Kaunda DM 14 642 695 933 48 1.5 City of Matlosana LM 3 561 398 676 110 1

The CMLM covers a geographical area of 3 561km2 which is approximately 24.3% of the DM. Approximately 57% of DKKDM population resides in CMLM with this being majority of the population (refer to Figure 9).

Figure 9: Population distribution between Local Municipalities within the DKKDM (Source: DKKDM IDP 2013-14)

The location proposed for the solar energy facility is situated in Ward 28 approximately 11.8km south west of Orkney. Orkney covers an area of 16.43km2 and consists of approximately 13 435 residents.

4.4.2 Population groups and languages

The population groups and language distribution gives an indication of the cultural dynamics of the area and has implications for the proposed project in terms of the approach that should be used for communication regarding the project as well as implementation. According to Census 2011, the CMLM has a total population of 398 676, of which the majority of the population belong to the black African population group comprising of 81%, followed by White population group (14.5%), refer to Table 7 and Figure 10.

44 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

Table 5: Population groups within the DKKDM and CMLM (Source: Census 2011) Population Group North West Dr Kenneth City of Province Kaunda DM Matlosana LM Black African 89.8% 80.3% 81% Coloured 9% 4.1% 3.5% Indian/Asian 5.8% 0.7% 0.8% White 5.5% 14.5% 14.5% Other 3.7% 0.4% 0.2%

In the CMLM it is evident that: » The most spoken language in the local area is Tswana (36.7%) followed by Sotho (20.3%). » The distribution of the population groups and prominent languages indicates that the local population are likely to be culturally similar to one another.

45 ORKNEY SOLAR ENERGY FACILITY SIA REPORT JUNE 2016

Buffels Solar 1

Figure 10: Distribution of population groups in the local area (Source: http://dotmap.adrianfrith.com/)

46 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

4.4.3 Age composition and gender differentiation

The age structure of a population is extremely important for planning purposes. Figure 11 indicates the age and gender profile of citizens at a provincial and municipal level.

Age Distribution

70

60

50 Age 0-14 e g

a 40 t n

e Age 15-64 c r 30 e P 20 Age 65+

10

0 North West Province DKKDM MLM

Figure 11: Age distribution (Source: Census 2011)

The age distribution of the population is very similar throughout the local area with the greatest proportion of the population falling within the age group of 15-64 years. The Economically Active Population (EAP) in the CMLM is 68.2%. The high proportion of economically active persons implies that there is a large human resource base for the development projects to involve the local population. The gender differentiation is also quite similar where there are slightly more females in the district and local municipalities.

The dependency ratio indicates the number of individuals that are below the age of 15 and over the age of 64, that are dependent on the EAP (individuals that are aged 15-64 that are either employed or actively seeking employment). The total dependency ratio is used to measure the pressure on the productive population and government. Dependents increase the burden on the EAP / productive population and local municipalities to maintain basic needs, upbringings and pensions. A high dependency ratio can also cause problems for municipalities as the largest proportion of government expenditure is on health, social grants and education that are mostly utilised by the young and old population. As demonstrated in the Figure 12 the dependency ratio of the CMLM is 50.7%.

47 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

Dependency Ratios

100 90 80 70 e

g 60 a t

n 50 e c r

e 40 P 30 20 10 0 North West Province DKKDM MLM

Figure 12: Dependency ratios for the local area (Source: Census 2011)

4.4.4 Unemployment

The employment profile of the study area is an important indicator of human development. The quality of labour is reflected, among other things, by the educational profile of the economically active population and the availability of training facilities in the region. The term labour force refers to those people who are available for employment in a certain area. According to Statistics South Africa, the definitions of the following employment indicators are: » Economically active person: “A person of working age (between 15 and 65 years inclusive) who is available for work, and is either employed, or is unemployed but has taken active steps to find work in the reference period.” » Employed: “Those who performed work for pay, profit or family gain for at least one hour in the seven days prior to the interview or who were absent from work during these seven days, but did have some form of paid work to return to.” » Official and expanded definition of unemployment: “The unemployed are those people within the economically active population who: (a) did not work during the seven days prior to the interview, (b) want to work and are available to start work within two weeks of the interview, and (c) have taken active steps to look for work or start some form of self-employment in the four weeks prior to the interview.” » Labour force: “All employed and unemployed persons of working age”. » Unemployment rate: “The percentage of the economically active population that is unemployed.”

The employment profile of the study area is an important indicator of human development, but also of the level of disposable income and subsequently the

48 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016 expenditure capital of the residing population. Poverty and unemployment are closely correlated. The proposed solar energy facility is expected to generate employment opportunities in the construction and operation phases. Table 8 demonstrates the unemployment rate in the study area.

Table 6: Unemployment rate (Source: Census 2011) Census 2011 Dr Kenneth Kaunda DM City of Matlosana LM Unemployment Rate 29.7% 32.7% Youth Unemployment 39.2% 43.1% Rate

South Africa’s unemployment rate is at 25.2% which is below the average unemployment rate in the North West Province of 26.2% (STATS SA, 2011). About 35% of the North West Province population is illiterate and more than 60% of the population are living below the poverty line. This translates negatively on productivity and competence in jobs (NDA, 2014). The DKKDM unemployment rate is at 29.7% and youth unemployment rate (age 15-24) is at 39.2%. The unemployment rate within the CMLM is high at 32.7% when compared to the national, provincial and DM unemployment rate. This is a result of the decline in the mining industry and the closure of the mines.

Of the 264 627 economically active (employed and unemployed but looking for work) people in the CMLM, there are approximately 51 967 unemployed individuals, refer to Table 9.

Table 7: Employment status for the CMLM (Source: Census 2011) 2011 Census City of Matlosana LM Employed 106 929 Unemployed 51 967 Discouraged work seeker 11 311 Not economically active 94 420

The CMLM is largely populated by potentially economically active and young people. This implies that there is a lot of human capital available for any kind of work, but also that there is space for training and developing young and economically active people in the relevant fields needed. This could increase the employment level and decrease the poverty level in the local area. Local workers should be utilised as much as possible for the proposed solar energy facility in order to alleviate local unemployment.

Due to the closure of the mines in the area and the job losses associated with the mine closures, Zama-Zama activity is increasing (i.e. illegal mining activities which are uncontrolled). Zama-Zamas are informal miners who enter mine workings to dig gold on their own account or extract gold from surface sources illegally. The creation of

49 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016 employment opportunities will assist in addressing some of the issues relating to Zama- Zamas.

4.4.5 Household income levels

Household income is one of the most important determinants of welfare in a region. The ability to meet basic needs, such as adequate food, clothing, shelter and basic amenities, is largely determined by the level of income earned by the households. Poverty is often defined as the lack of resources to meet these needs. Household income levels are one avenue for determining poverty levels in a community. Households that have either no income or low income fall within the poverty level (R0- R38 200 per annum); indicating the difficulty to meet basic needs requirements. A middle-income is classified as earning R38 201- R307 600, and a high income is classified as earning R307 601 or more per annum. Figure 13indicates the household income levels of the residents in the CMLM.

City of Matlosana LM Average Household Income Levels

100

80 e g a

t 60 n e c

r 40 e P 20

0 Low Income (No Middle Income High Income income- R38 200) (R38 201- R307 (R307 601- R2 457 600) 601+)

Figure 13: Household income levels in CMLM (Source: Census 2011)

It is evident from Figure 13 that the CMLM has a high number of households that fall within a low income category and within the poverty level, this being 62.1% of the local population. A low percentage of households fall within the middle income category (33.1% of the population) and high income category (4.7%). The high percentage of low income households indicates that there is a high demand for employment opportunities which will help decrease the dependence on forms of assistance either from government and or non-government organisations. The high poverty level of 62.1% has social consequences such as not being able to pay for basic needs and services. The lower average income levels indicate a higher demand for employment

50 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016 opportunities in the economy. However, skill levels are less likely to improve unless education levels improve which will lead to more skilled people which will in turn lead to the opportunity to earn higher income levels. This means that there should be less focus on the quantity of job creations and more focus on the quality of jobs created.

4.4.6 Education levels

Education plays a critical role in the development of communities and impacts greatly on economies. The type of education and training received by individuals equally determines the occupation or career they would eventually pursue. It provides a set of basic skills for development, creativity and innovative abilities. The level of education influences growth and economic productivity of a region. There is a positive correlation between a higher level of education and the level of development and standard of living. Education levels in any given population will influence economic and human development. It is clear that low education levels lead to a low skills base in an area, while high education levels have the opposite effect, producing a skilled or highly skilled population. Household and personal income levels are also either positively or adversely affected by education levels.

The availability of skills in a local population indicates whether it is possible to employ local residents in the construction and operation phase of a project. Table 10 demonstrates the level of education/skills availability in the study area.

Table 8: Education levels of the population aged 20 years and older (Source: Census 2011 & NW Municipal Report) 2011 Census North West Dr Kenneth City of Province Kaunda DM Matlosana LM No Schooling 11.8% 10% 7.9% Some primary 16.8% 14.6% 13.6% Completed Primary 5.2% 4.9% 4.7% Some Secondary 33.1% 34% 36.3% Completed Grade 12/Matric 25.2% 26.9% 28.3% Higher Education 7.7% 9.5% 9.2%

The North West Municipal Report Census 2011 indicates that majority of the population aged 20 years and older have some secondary education at a provincial, district and local level. A small percentage of the population have completed matric or have a higher education, this means that majority of the population have a low-skill level and would either need employment in low-skill sectors, or better education opportunities in order to improve the skills level of the area, and therefore income levels. Education alone cannot eradicate poverty; rather, education coupled with greater job opportunities in the economy will be the roadmap out of poverty (Stats SA, 2014). The skills profile of

51 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016 the area indicates that the availability of local labour for the proposed project is largely limited to low-skilled construction workers and a small number of skilled workers.

4.4.7 Household trends

Analysis of household data provides important indicators in relation to the consumption of electricity. The number of households in the DKKDM is approximately 208 047 and approximately 120 442 households within the CMLM (refer to Table 11). The average household size in the DKKDM and CMLM is 3.2 people per household.

Table 9: Number of households and average household size (Source: Census 2011) Census 2011 Number of Average household households size

North West Province 1 062 015 3.2 Dr Kenneth Kaunda DM 208 047 3.2 City of Matlosana LM 120 442 3.2

Distribution of the average houseold type

100 Formal 90 dwelling 80 70 e g

a 60 t Informal n

e 50

c dwelling r

e 40 P 30 20 Traditional 10 dwelling 0 North West Province DKKDM MLM

Figure 14: Distribution of the average household type (Source: Census 2011)

Majority of the population live in urbanised areas within formal dwellings, refer to Figure 14 The continuous increase in the number of households will have an upward impact on electricity demand thus requiring greater electrical capacity.

4.4.8 Access to services

Households are entitled to a minimum level of services. The proportion of households in the study area with the minimum access to services is indicated in Figure 15.

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Distribution of average access to basic services

100 North West Province 80 e g

a 60

t Dr Kenneth n

e Kaunda DM c

r 40 e P

20 City of Matlosana 0 LM Access to Access to Refuse Flush toilet electricity piped water removal

Figure 15: Distribution of average access to basic services (Source: Census 2011)

A large number of people in the Local Municipality have access to basic services. There is still room for improvement in the provision of basic services more specifically in the rural areas, to expand basic services such as access to electricity and sanitation.

Basic services is generally accessible in the CMLM. However old infrastructure is a matter of concern. The old infrastructure systems are in need of drastic upgrades and continuous maintenance – this pressure will only increase, resulting in various challenges.

4.4.9 GDP trends and contribution

The DKKDM economy has a comparative advantage in several sectors, relative to the total provincial economy, namely in: manufacturing, electricity & water provision, construction, trade, finance, business services and government services. The following analysis is presented in the DKKDM IDP 2013/2014; the mining sector in the DKKDM has been growing negatively at a rate of 6.6% per annum over the decade from 1996 to 2005 and at a negative rate of 3.7% per annum for the period 2005 to 2010. It decreased from 52.6% in 1996 to an expected 29.8% in 2010. Clearly this negative trend of the mining economic sector in the DKKDM has significantly impacted on the economic performance of the district over the last decade. This negative performance in the mining sector has also had positive spinoffs for the district with an improved performance in the tertiary sector of the economy in the district with significant growth in the retail and trade; transport and communication; financial and business services; and community and social services sectors.

53 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

The current (2011) main pillars of the local economy of the CMLM are the services (28.11%), financial (27.47%), transport and communication (17.26%), retail (14.30%) and the mining (7.75%) sectors. There has been a massive decline in the mining economy as well as the employment rates between 1996 and 2011 in the City of Matlosana Local Municipality. The annual growth rate in the mining sector had declined by 15% during this period. Employment in the mining sector had decreased by 44% between 1996 and 2001 and another 23% by 2011. Currently only 6 out of the 28 developed shafts are operational in the area. The considerable mining decline over the last twenty years has resulted in the City of Matlosana slowly but surely diversifying the economic base. This also indicates that there is a market to diversify the local economy and move the dependence away from mining and government services.

4.5 Summary

Summary and key challenges of the local area:

The following is a summary of the key baseline findings as a result of the study conducted on the DKKDM and the CMLM, in the North West Province. In summary, the area was found to have the following general characteristics:

» The North West Province is predominantly rural with the main economic activities being mining and agriculture. » The DKKDM is the smallest of the four district municipalities in the North West Province. Mining is the dominant economic activity within the district. » The population of the DKKDM in 2011 was approximately 695 933people, of which 398 676 people reside in the CMLM. » The majority of the local population belong to the Black African group and the most spoken language in the CMLM is Tshwana. » Currently the CMLM forms part of a turnaround strategy for the regeneration of the towns within the area, mainly including Stilfontein, Khuma, Orkney and Kanana. This strategy is led by the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) and the Commonwealth Local Government Forum (CLGF) in consultation with the CMLM. The purpose of this strategy and regeneration is to i) promote economic growth through integrated infrastructure development, ii) create empowerment opportunities, iii) create attraction to invest within the area and iv) identify business opportunities and the implementation thereof. » 68.2% of the CMLM population comprise the Economically Active Population (EAP); this implies that there is a larger human resource base for development projects to involve the local population. The dependency ratio of the CMLM population is high at 50.7% (that is half the local population) which puts pressure the EAP and local municipalities.

54 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

» The skills profile of the area indicates that the availability of local labour for the proposed project is largely limited to low-skilled construction workers and a small number of skilled workers. » Since the early 1990s, but more specifically since 2001, mining activities have downscaled drastically. This downscaling also lead to nearly 75% of the original workforce in 1996 being retrenched by 2011. » The shift of the economy from the downscaling of mining activities have resulted in a large number of jobs losses. » The declining mining industry has resulted in the number of people living in poverty in the City of Matlosana almost doubling between 1996 and 2011. » There is high unemployment rate in the CMLM (32.7%) with a large economically active population seeking employment opportunities. Local workers should be utilised as much as possible for the proposed solar energy facility in order to alleviate local unemployment. » Within the CMLM 62.1% of household income falls within the poverty level; the high poverty level has social consequences such as not being able to afford basic needs and services. » High unemployment and low income levels in the study area demonstrate the need for job creation. » The continuous increase in the number of formal households in the local area will have an upward impact on electricity demand thus requiring greater electrical capacity. » Access to basic services is generally accessible in the CMLM. However old infrastructure is a matter of concern. The old infrastructure systems are in need of drastic upgrades and continuous maintenance, this pressure will only increase, resulting in various challenges. » The negative performance of the mining sector also has some positive spinoff, this being that there is a market to diversify the local economy and move the dependence away from mining and government services.

Socio-Economic Spin-Offs

Projects under the REIPPP programme are obliged to make a real contribution to local economic development in the area. The Economic Development statutes of the procurement programme stipulate that projects need to spend a percentage of their revenue on socio-economic and enterprise development, as well as allocate ownership shares to local communities that benefit previously disadvantaged communities located around the project. The dividends generated from each development needs to be invested into local economic development projects and programmes. The development of the proposed solar energy facility has the potential to contribute towards socio- economic improvements within the local area. Socio-economic needs of the local community can be identified through an in-depth community needs analysis where the

55 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016 real needs of communities can be identified and thereafter addressed by development programmes in order to significantly contribute towards local economic development.

Overall baseline conclusion:

The proposed solar energy facility supports the social and economic development through enabling skills development and training in order to empower individuals and promote employment creation within the local area. The development would mainly focus on economic benefits to the area and contribute towards diversifying the local economy. Negative impacts may also occur such as influx of jobseekers into the area putting pressure on municipal service facilities.

4.6 Land use character of the study area

The project site proposed for the solar energy facility is located between Orkney and Leeudoringstad in the North-West Province. The proposed site is located approximately ~11.8km to the south west from the town of Orkney which is a gold mining town that lies on the banks of the Vaal River. Majority of the land surrounding the proposed site comprises large open farmlands. There is a vast industrial character within and surrounding the Orkney area due to large areas being utilised for gold mining. The areas being subjected to heavy mining activities over a long period of time has resulted in the transformation and degradation of the area. Prominent features within or surrounding areas the proposed project site include (also refer to Figure 1):

» Electricity transmission lines are predominant features near and within the site. » The Vaal River runs along the south eastern boundary of the proposed site, which also serves as the provincial boundary between the North West Province and the Free State Province. » A railway line and the R502 regional road traverse the north eastern boundary of the proposed site. » The degradation of the surrounding land as a result of previous mining activities within the Orkney area. » The broader landscape has already been altered due to commercial gold mining operations with the presence of shaft head infrastructure, mine dumps and transmission infrastructure associated with this activity in the area. » There is one distribution substation located on the site boundary, as well as other Eskom main and distribution substations located in close proximity to the site.

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Figure 16: Landowners map of the proposed Orkney Solar Farm

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4.7 Stakeholder Identification

Stakeholders are defined as “any group or organisation which may affect or be affected by the issue under consideration (UN, 2001: 26).” These may be direct or indirect stakeholders and may include organisations, institutions, groups of people or individuals, and can be at any level or position in society, from international to the national, regional and household levels (Farnke & Guidero, 2012). Stakeholders are those who need to be considered and whose participation and support are crucial to achieving the success of project goals.

Stakeholder analysis involves identifying the key stakeholders associated with the project. The first step in the process of stakeholder analysis is stakeholder identification; determining who the project stakeholders are, and their key grouping and sub- groupings (IFC, 2007). Identifying stakeholders that are directly and indirectly affected by the project is important to determine who might be affected and in what way. The key stakeholders in the proposed project have been identified, grouped / sub grouped and demonstrated in Figure 16 below (as per Ilse Aucamp SIA methodology & Aucamp et al, 2011). There are direct and indirectly affected stakeholders to the proposed solar energy facility. Directly affected stakeholders are sensitive social receptors that may potentially be affected by the proposed solar energy facility; this relates to the locations of sensitive receptors. A sensitive receptor is an area or structure sensitive to a predicted social impact. Potentially sensitive receptors that might be impacted by the proposed solar energy facility include dwellings and other sensitive properties such as schools, hospitals, places of worship and other community facilities that have been identified and discussed as part of the EIA process and the SIA report.

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Figure 16: Key stakeholders associated with the proposed solar energy facility

A description of each of the stakeholders groups in relation to the proposed solar energy facility is discussed in the section below:

» Farming community: the farming community has been grouped into three categories, namely- farm owners, farm tenants and farm workers. Farm owners include farmers who own the land and make a living from their properties. Farm tenants are people who rent the land and work on the land for income. Lastly the farm workers, people who work and may also live on the farms (farm workers and their families). The surrounding lands primarily consist of the large farms that are utilised for cattle grazing and other agricultural activities. » Farming industry: vulnerable farming activities in the study area. The primary agricultural activity is livestock farming from local community members and private farmers. Impacts that may arise include stock theft and poaching from an increase of in-migrants in the area (especially during the construction phase). » Surrounding towns / affected communities: Orkney is the closest town to the proposed site located approximately 11.8km to the north east. Leeudooringstad is located approximately 36km south west from the site. Residents in these towns may be positively and/or negatively affected by the proposed development (mainly temporarily). Employment opportunities will be available and it is probable that

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labour will be sourced from the local area (depending on the availability of the skills); this will be a positive impact for the local community. » Service providers: The major service providers which will be affected by the project include the district and local municipalities and local businesses in the area. The local municipality that will be directly impacted by the proposed development will be City of Matlosana Local Municipality and the greater Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality. The municipality will absorb a number of social impacts (positive and negative), the impacts may relate to a marginal influx of people coming into the area, since they will be responsible to deliver services to people residing within their municipal area. There are a number of local businesses in the area that could benefit from the proposed development in terms of an increase in demand for goods and services. » Stakeholders outside the direct area of influence: There are a number of stakeholders that reside outside the direct area of influence but who may be marginally affected by the project. These include road users of the R502 and local gravel roads. These roads are used on a frequent basis as part of daily or weekly movement patterns. Construction vehicles and trucks will be utilising these roads during the construction phase, which will increase the traffic, create traffic disruptions and may increase the wear and tear on these roads.

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5. SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

This section provides a detailed description and assessment of the potential social impacts associated with the construction, operation and decommissioning phases of the proposed Orkney Solar Farm and associated infrastructure.

5.1 Construction Phase

Impacts associated with the construction phase of a project of this nature are usually of a short duration (approximately ~12 – 18 months) and temporary in nature, but could have long-term effects on the surrounding social environment if not managed appropriately.

5.1.1 Direct employment and skills development

The construction of the proposed solar energy facility will require a workforce and therefore direct employment will be generated. The proposed solar energy facility will create employment opportunities for the local community.

At the focus group meeting held at the City of Matlosana Local Municipality (CMLM), Mr Khuzwayo, the deputy Director Macro City Planning and Development as well as the ward councillor for Ward 28, Mr Chris Bester indicated that the community of CMLM was in need for job creation as the closure of mines in North West has led to job losses. The closure of mines in the area has created social problems within the CMLM specifically leading to high unemployment rates. The Municipality forms part of the distressed mining towns which have been proclaimed by the President. Projects which create employment in the area are welcomed. There is sufficient local labour, including unskilled, semi-skilled and skilled labour available to work on the proposed project due to the down-scaling of the mining operations within the area. The proposed solar energy facility will bring positive economic impacts into the area and assist with the alleviation of the unemployment rate. The ward councillor, Mr Bester, stated that, “there is a large economically active population in search of employment opportunities in the impacted Local Municipality. Currently, a large proportion of local labour is used in the mining and agricultural industry. Mining activities are no longer identified as a significant and always feasible option with regards to job creation in the surrounding areas, and the proposed project will create new employment opportunities, especially in the construction phase. This will contribute to the overall upliftment of the surrounding communities.

It is estimated that during the construction phase (for the period of ~12-18 months) approximately ~300-400 full-time equivalent employment positions will be generated by the Orkney Solar Farm. Of this approximately 60% of the opportunities will be available to unskilled / semi-skilled workers (construction

61 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016 labourers, security staff, drivers, equipment operators etc.), 25% will be available to semi-skilled personnel (electricians, site managers etc.) and 15% of employment opportunities will be for skilled individuals (engineers, project managers, site managers etc.). Solar PV projects make use of high levels of unskilled and semi- skilled labour providing the opportunity to make use of local labour within the area. Employment opportunities for the proposed solar energy facility will peak during the construction phase and significantly decline during the operation phase. The injection of income into the area in the form of wages will represent an opportunity for the local economy and businesses in the area.

The CMLM is characterised by high levels of unemployment and poverty. The unemployment rate is at 32.7%. Over the years, employment in the mining sector has shown a dramatic decrease in the CMLM. The economic distress experienced by the mining towns has affected the economy of the Municipality negatively. Job losses have been experienced in both the mines while the mine-supplying industries have also scaled down. The Municipality intends to fully participate and derive maximum benefit from any new investments and developments in the local area.

According to the CMLM IDP 2015-2016, the CMLM has many distressed mining towns and is among the eight municipalities chosen to benefit from the special Presidential Package established to help fast-track programmes in mining towns. President Jacob Zuma said government would, as part of an October 2012 agreement between business, government and labour, build housing and roll out other services to revitalise mining towns, with a focus on Matlosana, eMalahleni, Sekhukhune, Lephalale, West Rand and Matjhabeng. The President announced on 17 June 2014, in his State of the Nation Address, that he would take over the work started under his former deputy Kgalema Motlanthe on the Framework Agreement for a Sustainable Mining Industry reached through labour, business and government. These efforts will include work to revitalise mining towns, notably the areas of Matlosana, Emalahleni, Sekhukhune, Lephalale, West Rand and Matjhabeng.

Adverse impacts could occur if a large in-migrant workforce is employed and brought in during the construction phase (culturally different migrants would also contribute to social conflicts). The developer will need to demonstrate a commitment to local employment targets in order to maximise the opportunities and benefits for members of the local community. It is likely that an Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractor will be appointed by the developer who will hire the necessary employees. The applicant has indicated that training will also be provided to employees with the development of the proposed solar energy facility. Specific skills training for local communities have the opportunity to develop local employee potential. This is crucial to long-term development of skills and education in the area. This will accelerate the positive benefits and impacts of the development on the economy.

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Impact assessment on direct employment opportunities and skills development Construction Phase Nature: The creation of employment opportunities and skills development opportunities during the construction phase for the local economy and surrounding communities Without enhancement With enhancement Extent Local- Regional (3) Local- Regional (3) Duration Short term (2) Short term (2) Magnitude Moderate (6) Moderate (6) Probability Probable (3) Highly probable (4) Significance Medium (33) Medium (44) Status (positive or negative) Positive Positive Reversibility N/A Irreplaceable loss of resources N/A Can impacts be enhanced Yes Enhancement measures » Efforts should be made to employ local contractors that are compliant with Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) criteria. » A local employment policy is to be adopted to maximise the opportunities made available to the local labour force (sourced from the CMLM, primarily from the closest towns / settlements such as Stilfontein and Kanana). » The recruitment selection process should seek to promote gender equality and the employment of women. » Training and skills development programmes should be initiated prior to the commencement of the construction phase. » A Community Liaison Officer should be appointed from the local community. A method of communication should be implemented whereby procedures to lodge complaints are set out in order for the local community to express any complaints or grievances with the construction process. Residual impacts » Improved pool of skills and experience in the local area. » Economic growth for small-scale entrepreneurs. » Temporary employment during the construction phase will result in jobs losses and struggles for construction workers to find new employment opportunities after the construction has been completed.

The impact is assessed to be positive, local and regional in extent, temporary in duration, of moderate intensity, and highly probable with enhancement measures implemented. The impact is of medium significance.

5.1.2 Economic multiplier effects

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There are likely to be opportunities for local businesses to provide services and materials for the construction phase of the development. The local service sector will also benefit from the proposed solar energy facility. It is important that a fair and equal opportunity is provided when allowing local service providers to tender for work, and that the Municipality is involved throughout the process.

The economic multiplier effects from the use of local goods and services opportunities will include, but is not limited to, construction materials and equipment and workforce essentials such as services, safety equipment, ablution, accommodation, transportation and other goods.

The total construction capital expenditure associated with the establishment of the 100MW solar energy facility and associated infrastructure is estimated to be in the region of R 1.3-1.4 billion (2016 Rand value). A large portion of the capital expenditure will be spent on local goods and services required for the development of the solar energy facility. In terms of business opportunities for local companies, expenditure during the construction phase will create business opportunities for the regional and local economy. The increase in demand for new materials and services in the nearby area may stimulate local business and local economic development (however locally sourced materials and services may be limited due to availability).

Also the injection of income into the area in the form of wages will represent an opportunity for the local economy and businesses in the area. Through the stimulation of employment and income, creation of new demand within the local and regional economies is expected. With increased income comes additional income for expenditure on goods and services supplied. The intention is to maximise local labour employment opportunities, which is likely to have a positive impact on local communities and have downstream impacts on household income, education and other social aspects. The implementation of the enhancement measures below can increase the opportunities for the local area.

Economic multiplier effects impact assessment Construction Phase Nature: Significance of the impact from the economic multiplier effects from the use of local goods and services Without enhancement With enhancement Extent Local- Regional (3) Local- Regional (3) Duration Short term (2) Short term (2) Magnitude Low (4) Moderate (6) Probability Probable (3) Highly probable (4) Significance Low (27) Medium (44) Status (positive or Positive Positive negative) Reversibility N/A

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Irreplaceable loss of N/A resources Can impacts be Yes enhanced Enhancement » A local procurement policy is to be adopted by the developer and EPC contractor to maximise the benefit to the local economy. » The developer should create a database of local companies, specifically Historically Disadvantaged (HD) which qualify as potential service providers (e.g. construction companies, waste collection companies, security companies etc.) prior to the commencement of the tender process for construction contractors; these companies should be notified of the tender process and invited to bid for project-related work. » Goods and services are to be sourced from the local area as much as possible. » Engage with local authorities and business organisations to investigate the possibility of procurement of construction materials, goods and products from local suppliers where feasible. Residual impacts Improved local service sector and growth in local business.

The impact is assessed to be positive; local to regional in extent; temporary in duration; moderate intensity; and highly probable. The impact is of medium significance.

5.1.3 In-migration of people (non-local workforce and jobseekers)

The in-migration of people to the area as a non-local workforce of construction workers and/or jobseekers could result in pressure on economic and social infrastructure and on the local population (rise in social conflicts). Influx of people into the area, especially job seekers, could further lead to a temporary increase in the level of crime, cause social disruption and put pressure on basic services. An influx of people looking for economic opportunities could result in pressure on the local population such as a rise in social conflicts and change in social dynamics, increase in HIV, pregnancies and drug abuse. Adverse impacts could occur if a large in-migrant workforce, culturally different from the local indigenous group, is brought in during construction. The high unemployment rate (32.7% in the CMLM), the decrease in the mining industry and expectations of job creation is already a source of competition among locals and could be exacerbated through outsiders coming into the area resulting in conflict.

An influx of in-migrants in terms of a non-local workforce or jobseekers could result in increased pressure on social infrastructure such as existing community infrastructure, social services, municipal services, accommodation, health facilities, transport facilities, basic services and so forth that are already strained. The degree to which societies are disrupted largely depends on the level of local employment achievable and in the case of this project a significant portion of the

65 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016 workforce is expected to be sourced locally and the overall number of outsiders would not be significant to cause great disruption to the area.

Assessment of impacts from influx of in-migrants Construction Phase Nature: Added pressure on economic and social infrastructure and increase in social conflicts during construction as a result of in-migration of people Without mitigation With mitigation Extent Local (1) Local (1) Duration Short-term (2) Short-term (2) Magnitude Low (4) Minor (2) Probability Probable (3) Probable (3) Significance Low (21) Low (15) Status (positive or Negative Negative negative) Reversibility Yes Irreplaceable loss of No resources Can impacts be mitigated Yes Mitigation » A ‘locals first’ policy is to be advertised for construction employment opportunities, especially for semi and low-skilled job categories. Enhance employment opportunities for the immediate local area and towns in the CMLM. » It is recommended that local employment policy is adopted to maximize the opportunities made available to the local labour force. » Tender documents should stipulate the use of local labour as far as possible. » Recruitment of temporary workers at the gates of the development should not be allowed. A recruitment office with a Community Liaison officer (that has been appointed from the local community) should be established in a nearby town to deal with jobseekers. » A security company is to be appointed and appropriate security procedures to be implemented. » Implement procedures for the control and removal of loiters at the construction site. » A Community Liaison Officer should be appointed from the local community. A method of communication should be implemented whereby procedures to lodge complaints are set out in order for the local community to express any complaints or grievances with the construction process. Residual impacts Possibility of outside workers remaining in the area after construction is completed and subsequent pressures on local infrastructure and services.

The impact is assessed to be negative; local in extent; temporary in duration; minor intensity; and probable with mitigation measures. The impact is of low significance with mitigation.

5.1.4 Impacts on daily living and movement patterns (traffic impacts and nuisance impacts)

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An increase in traffic due to construction vehicles and heavy vehicles could create short-term disruptions and safety hazards for current road users. Trucks will be utilised for transportation of project components and equipment to the proposed site. The access road will be located off the R502; the existing farm gravel access road. The primary roads that will be used for transportation of project components and equipment will be the regional road (R502) and internal roads. Increased traffic due to construction vehicles and heavy vehicles could cause disruptions to road users and increase safety hazards. The use of local roads and transport systems may cause road deterioration and congestion, especially on the main road that will be utilised - the R502. An increase of traffic from the rise in construction vehicles is a safety concern for other road users and local communities in the area.

There will be an increase in the movement of people during the construction phase. Low and semi-skilled workers will likely be transported to site with busses on a daily basis. Noise, vibrations, dust and visual pollution from construction vehicles and heavy vehicle traffic during the construction phase could cause temporary disruptions in daily living, movement patterns and quality of life for local community members. There are a few and sparsely populated homesteads or residents living in the adjacent area, the surrounding lands are primarily utilised for agriculture or mining.

Impacts associated with construction related activities include noise, dust and disruption or damage to adjacent properties and is a potential issue. Experience from construction of other solar energy facilities in the area indicate that site clearing does increase the risk of dust and noise being generated, which can in turn impact on the adjacent properties. However the adjacent properties are quite a distance from the proposed site

Noise, vibrations, dust and visual pollution from construction vehicles and heavy vehicle traffic during the construction phase could cause temporary disruptions in daily living, movement patterns and quality of life for local community members. The area has already been transformed and there has been continuous disruptions from the previous mining activities. The proposed site is familiar with disruptions from trucks, mining and industry activities and therefore this reduces this impact to low due to the Tau Lekoa Mining complex located north east of the site.

Assessment of impacts on daily living and movement patterns (traffic impacts) Construction Phase Nature: Temporary increase in traffic disruptions and movement patterns during the construction phase Without mitigation With mitigation Extent Local (1) Local (1) Duration Short term (2) Short term (2) Magnitude Low (4) Minor (2)

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Probability Probable (3) Probable (3) Significance Low (21) Low (15) Status (positive or Negative Negative negative) Reversibility Yes Irreplaceable loss of No resources Can impacts be Yes mitigated Mitigation » Dust suppression measures must be implemented for heavy vehicles such as wetting of gravel roads on a regular basis and ensuring that vehicles used to transport sand and building materials are fitted with tarpaulins or covers when travelling on roads. » All vehicles must be road worthy and drivers must be qualified, obey traffic rules, follow speed limits and be made aware of the potential dust, noise and safety issues. » Heavy vehicles should be inspected regularly to ensure their road safety worthiness. » Provision of adequate and strategically placed traffic warning signs and control measures along the R502 to warn road users of the construction activities taking place for the duration of the construction phase. Warning signs must be visible at all times. » Implement penalties for reckless driving for the drivers of heavy vehicles as a way to enforce compliance to traffic rules. » The developer and the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractors must ensure that there is a dedicated safe entrance to the site, and an access control point at the entrance gate off the R502. » The developer and the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractors must ensure that the fencing or entrance gates along the access road must either be maintained in the present condition, or repaired if disturbed due to project activities. » It is the developer and the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractor’s responsibility to ensure roads utilised are either maintained in the present condition or upgraded if disturbed due to project activities. » A comprehensive employee induction programme must be implemented to cover land access protocols and road safety. » A Community Liaison Officer should be appointed from the local community. A method of communication should be implemented whereby procedures to lodge complaints are set out in order for the local community to express any complaints or grievances with the construction process. Residual impacts None anticipated

The impact is assessed to be negative; local in extent; temporary in duration; minor intensity and probable with mitigation measures. The impact is of low significance after mitigation.

5.1.5 Safety and security impacts

The perceived decline of security during the construction phase of the proposed project due to the influx of workers and/ or outsiders to the area, may have indirect

68 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016 effects, such as increased safety and security risks for neighbouring properties and damage to property, increased risk of veld fire, stock theft, crime and so forth. The perception exists that construction related activities (influx of jobseekers, and construction workers and so forth) is a contributor to increased criminal activities in an area. Safety and security impacts are a reality in South Africa which needs to be addressed through appropriate mitigation and management measures. The surrounding area is predominantly mining areas or open degraded lands. There are no sensitive social receptors located close the proposed site, local community members utilise the open lands for grazing activities. Therefore the impact is assessed to be of low significance. However, precautions will still need to put in place to limit any possible negative impacts associated with safety and security.

Assessment of safety and security impacts Construction Phase Nature: Temporary increase in safety and security concerns associated with the influx of people during the construction phase Without mitigation With mitigation Extent Local (1) Local (1) Duration Short term (2) Short term (2) Magnitude Low (4) Minor (2) Probability Improbable (2) Improbable (2) Significance Low (14) Low (10) Status (positive or Negative Negative negative) Reversibility Yes Irreplaceable loss of No resources Can impacts be Yes mitigated Mitigation » Working hours should be kept within daylight hours during the construction phase, and/or as any deviation that is approved by the surrounding landowners. » The perimeter of the construction site should be appropriately secured to prevent any unauthorised access to the site; the fencing of the site should be maintained throughout the construction period. » The appointed EPC contractor must appoint a security company and appropriate security procedures and measures are to be implemented. » Access in and out of the site should be strictly controlled by a security company. » The contractor should provide workers with identity tags and prohibit the access of unauthorised people to the construction site. » The contractor must ensure that open fires on the site for heating, smoking or cooking are not allowed except in designated areas. » Contractor must provide adequate firefighting equipment on site and provide firefighting training to selected construction staff.

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» A comprehensive employee induction programme must be covered, covering land access protocols, fire management and road safety. This must be addressed in the construction EMPr as the best practice. » All vehicles must be road worthy and drivers must be qualified and made aware of the potential road safety issues and follow the speed limits. » The contractor should have personnel trained in first aid on site to deal with smaller incidents that require medical attention. » A Community Liaison Officer should be appointed from the local community as a grievance channel. A method of communication should be implemented whereby procedures to lodge complaints are set out in order for the local community to express any complaints or grievances with the construction process. Residual impacts None anticipated

The impact is assessed to be negative; local in extent; temporary in duration; minor intensity and improbable with mitigation measures. The impact is of low significance with mitigation.

5.2 Operation Phase

The solar energy facility is designed to be operational for at least ~20-25 years. The potential positive and negative social impacts which could arise as a result of the operation of the proposed project include the following:

5.2.1 Direct employment and skills development

The operation phase of the project will require a workforce and therefore direct employment will be generated. Maintenance of the plant and optimisation of the performance of the solar panels is performed on a daily basis. Solar panel wash cycles may occur 2 to 3 times per annum dependent upon the performance of the modules. Based on information provided from the proponent, the 100MW solar energy facility will create approximately ~30-50 full- time equivalent employment opportunities Approximately 5% of the labour force will be skilled workers, 25% will be semi-skilled and 70% unskilled/low skilled. Employees that can be sourced from the local pool include less skilled and semi-skilled such as safety and security staff and certain maintenance crew. Highly skilled personnel may need to be recruited from outside the local area. Employment opportunities will be created during the operation phase and this is rated as positive impact (although limited) for the local area as there is a decline in the mining industry and rise in the unemployment rate. The proponent has indicated that training will also be provided to employees. On-the-job training is a key element of staff development. This is crucial to long-term development of skills and education in the area. This will accelerate the positive benefits and impacts of the development on the economy.

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Employment opportunities and skills development Operation Phase Nature: The creation of employment opportunities and skills development opportunities during the operation phase and local economy Without enhancement With enhancement Extent Local- Regional (2) Local- Regional (2) Duration Long term (4) Long term (4) Magnitude Minor (2) Minor (2) Probability Probable (3) Highly probable (4) Significance Low (24) Medium (32) Status (positive or negative) Positive Positive Reversibility N/A Irreplaceable loss of resources N/A Can impacts be enhanced Yes Enhancement » It is recommended that a local employment policy is adopted to maximise the opportunities made available to the local community. » The recruitment selection process should seek to promote gender equality and the employment of women wherever possible. » Vocational training programs for employees should be established to promote the development of skills. Residual impacts Improved pool of skills and experience in the local area

The impact is assessed to be positive; local to regional in extent; long-term; minor intensity and probable. The impact is of medium significance with enhancement.

5.2.2 Development of clean, renewable energy infrastructure

Energy production has been and still is one of the main pivots of social and economic development in South Africa. Currently, South Africa relies on coal- generated energy to meet its energy needs. Almost 72% of South Africa’s primary energy is from coal, over half used to generate electricity and a quarter used for synfuels production. South Africa’s carbon emissions are higher than those of most developed countries partly because of the energy-intensive sectors which rely heavily on low quality coal. Use of low quality coals is the main contributor to GHG emission. South Africa’s emissions per capita are high, at 8.23 tons of CO2 (tCO2) per capita, much higher than Africa’s average of 0.94tCO2 and four times higher than the non-OECD value of 2.24 tCO2 (Mwakasonda, 2007). The use of solar irradiation for power generation is considered a non-consumptive use of a natural resource which produces zero GHG emissions. The generation of renewable energy will contribute to South Africa’s electricity market. The advancement of renewable

71 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016 energy is a priority for South Africa. The government considers the use of renewable energy as a contribution to sustainable development (White Paper on Renewable Energy). As most of the sources are local and naturally available, its use will strengthen energy security as it will not be subjected to disruption by international crisis e.g. oil. Furthermore, recent policy highlights that clean, green energy and solar generated energy will play a significant role in reaching these quotas (Energy Research Centre UCT, 2004). Given South Africa’s reliance on Eskom as a power utility, the benefits associated with an Independent Power Producer based on renewable energy are regarded as an important contribution.

Increasing the contribution of the renewable energy sector to the local economy may contribute to the diversification of the local economy and provide greater economic stability. The growth in the solar energy sector could introduce skills and development into the area. The development of a solar energy facility could therefore add to the stability of the economy, and even though this project is small scale in comparison to the overall potential of the sector, it could contribute to the local economy. The overall contribution to South Africa’s total energy requirements of the proposed solar energy facility is small; however, the 100MW facility will help contribute to offset the total carbon emissions associated with energy generation in South Africa.

Assessment of the development of clean, renewable energy infrastructure Operation Phase Nature: Development of clean, renewable energy infrastructure Without enhancement With enhancement Extent Local- Regional- National (4) N/A Duration Long term (4) N/A Magnitude Minor (2) N/A Probability Highly probable (4) N/A Significance Medium (40) N/A Status (positive or negative) Positive N/A Reversibility Yes Irreplaceable loss of resources Yes (impact of climate change) Can impacts be enhanced No Enhancement None anticipated Residual impacts » Reduce carbon emissions through the use of renewable energy and contribute to reducing global warming » Contribution towards security of electricity supply

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The impact is assessed to be positive; local to national in extent; long term; minor intensity; and highly probable. The impact is of medium positive significance.

5.2.3 Benefits associated with the REIPPP Programme, socio-economic development plans and community trust

According the Department of Energy (DoE) renewable energy projects under the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement (REIPPP) Programme are obliged to make a real contribution to local economic development in the area. Awarded projects are required to spend a certain amount of their generated revenue on Socio-Economic Development (SED) and Enterprise Development (ED) and share ownership in the project company with local communities (DoE, 2011).

One of the initiatives that have come with the REIPP programme is the development of a community trust funded by revenue generated from the sale of energy. The community trust will generate a reliable and steady income stream over a 20 year period. The trust will be used to fund development initiatives in the area and support local economic and community development. As the community trust will run for the entire operation phase of 20-25 years, it allows the Local Municipality and communities to undertake long term planning. This provides opportunities for positive benefits to the local area. However, these benefits can be enhanced. The economic distress experienced by the mining towns in the area has affected the economy of the Municipality negatively. Job losses have been experienced, while the mine-supplying industries have also scaled down. It is important for the developers to engage and communicate with the Local Municipality and the Ward Councillor (Ward 28) for guidance on socio-economic development plans for the local area. Socio-economic spin-offs from the proposed solar energy facility could contribute to better infrastructure provision and investment in the local area.

An in-depth community needs analysis (CNA) will need to be carried out at a later stage to make sure that the real needs of communities are addressed (in line with the local government) and the correct representatives of the community are appointed to run the community trust; in order for development programmes to significantly contribute towards local economic growth, SED and ED.

Assessment of the benefits associated with REIPPPP - SED and ED programmes and community trust Operation Phase Nature: Benefits to the local area from SED / ED programmes and the community trust from the REIPPPP social responsibilities Without enhancement With enhancement Extent Local (2) Local (2) Duration Long term (4) Long term (4) Magnitude Low (4) Moderate (6)

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Probability Probable (3) Highly probable (4) Significance Low (30) Medium (48) Status (positive or negative) Positive Positive Reversibility Yes Irreplaceable loss of resources No Can impacts be enhanced Yes Enhancement » An in-depth community needs analysis (CNA) will need to be carried out on the local area to make sure that the real needs of communities are addressed (in line with the local government) and the correct representatives of the community are appointed to run the community trust. » Engagement and involvement of the Local Municipality (CMLM) and the Ward Councillor (Ward 28) regarding social responsibility plans. Residual impacts Improvements in local communities through socio-economic and enterprise development.

The impact is assessed to be positive; local in extent; long term; moderate intensity; and highly probable. The impact is of medium positive significance.

5.2.4 Impact on the area’s sense of place and landscape

The sense of place is developed over time as the community embraces the surrounding environment, becomes familiar with its physical properties, and creates its own history. The sense of place is created through the interaction of various characteristics of the environment, including atmosphere, visual resources, aesthetics, climate, lifestyle, culture and heritage. Importantly though, it is a subjective matter and is dependent on community perceptions.

An impact on the sense of place is one that alters the visual landscape to such an extent that the user experiences the environment differently, and more specifically, in a less appealing or less positive light. The social impacts associated with the impact on sense of place relate to the change in the landscape character from the development of the proposed solar energy facility and associated infrastructure .

There is an infrastructural and industrial character within the area. The proposed solar energy facility would not create a significant impact on the area’s sense of place due to the following prominent features surrounding the proposed site which have resulted in an existing industrial context to the area: » The proposed site is located south west of the Tau Lekoa mine » The general landscape has already been altered due to commercial gold mining operations with the presence of shaft head infrastructure, mine dumps and transmission infrastructure associated with this activity in the area.

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» Electricity power infrastructure are predominant features traversing and surrounding the proposed site.

There is a strong mining landscape context within the greater Orkney area and there is a domination of mining / degraded areas within the local economy. Therefore, due to the strong visual influence of mine dump as well as the Eskom transmission line corridors and substations, the impact on the area’s sense of place from a social perspective is expected to be low. Review of the Visual Impact Assessment (VIA) must be acknowledged and recommendations implemented.

Impacts on the areas sense of place Operation Phase Nature: Sense of place impacts from a social perspective associated with the operation phase of the solar energy facility and associated infrastructure Without mitigation With mitigation Extent Local (1) N/A Duration Long term (4) N/A Magnitude Minor (2) N/A Probability Improbable (2) N/A Significance Low (14) N/A Status (positive or negative) Negative Negative Reversibility Yes Irreplaceable loss of resources No Can impacts be mitigated Not applicable Mitigation None anticipated. Residual impacts None anticipated if the solar energy facility will be removed after decommissioning, provided the site is rehabilitated to its original (current) status.

The impact is assessed to be negative; local in extent; long term; minor intensity; and improbable. The impact is assessed to be of low significance, however the Visual Impact Assessment (VIA) must be acknowledged and recommendations implemented.

5.3 Cumulative Impacts

Possible cumulative impacts as a result of other similar projects and associated infrastructure in the area could have cumulative negative and positive impacts for the local community. Cumulative impacts have been considered as part of the social impact assessment and identified where relevant. The cumulative impacts of the project are related to the construction and operation phases. The site for the proposed solar energy facility is located between 15km and 30km from other renewable energy facilities.

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It is also important to note that it is unlikely that all proposed renewable energy facilities located in the region will be built due to capacity constraints on the Eskom grid and the limits placed on renewable energy targets. The cumulative impacts for the proposed Orkney Solar Farm has been assessed to be acceptable. Table 12 below lists the known solar projects in the area (also refer Figure 17 below).

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Figure 17: Location of the proposed Orkney Solar Farm in relation to other solar energy facilities within a 30km radius from the site.

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Table 12: Other projects / developments within 30km from the proposed Orkney Solar Farm site Approximate distance from the Project Name Location Project Status site (measured from the centre) Bokmoso PV solar energy Farm Matjesspruit ~22km to the south Authorisation facility 145 west of the site granted Solar Energy Facility on Farm Omega 342 ~35km to the west In Process Omega 342 Buffels Solar PV 1 solar Portion 5 of Farm ~30km to the north In Process energy facility Hartebeestfontein east of the site 422 Buffels Solar PV 2 solar Portion 57 of Farm ~30km to the north In Process energy facility Hartebeestfontein east of the site 422 Vaal River Solar Energy Portions 3 and 7 of ~19km to the north Authorisation Facility 1 Farm Vaalkop and west granted portion 200 of Farm Nooitgedacht 434 Vaal River Solar Energy Portions 3 and 7 of ~21km to the north Authorisation Facility 2 Farm Vaalkop and west granted portion 200 of Farm Nooitgedacht 434 Vaal River Solar Energy Portions 3 and 7 of ~20km to the north Authorisation Facility 3 Farm Vaalkop and west granted portion 200 of Farm Nooitgedacht 434

The potential for positive cumulative impacts or benefits is likely to be significant. This could result in positive permanent impacts on the economy, business development, employment and education in the area and the Province. Several projects in one area may also result in some negative impacts such as an influx of jobseekers and nuisance impacts, however these impacts will be temporary and associated with the construction phase. However the cumulative impacts for the proposed Orkney Solar Farm have been assessed to be acceptable (as detailed below).

5.3.1 Cumulative impacts from employment, skills and business opportunities

The proposed solar energy facility and the establishment of other solar energy facilities has the potential to result in significant positive cumulative impacts; specifically with the creation of a number of socio-economic opportunities for the Province, which in turn, will result in a positive social benefit. The positive cumulative impacts include creation of employment, skills development and training opportunities, and downstream

78 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016 business opportunities. Benefits to the local, regional and national economy through employment and procurement of services could be substantial should many renewable energy facilities proceed. This benefit will increase significantly should critical mass be reached that allows local companies to develop the necessary skills to support construction and maintenance activities and that allows for components of the renewable energy facilities to be manufactured in South Africa. Furthermore at municipal level, the cumulative impact could be positive and might incentivise operation and maintenance companies to centralise and expand their activities towards education and training more closely to the projects. Cumulative impacts on local entrepreneurs will be positive and assist in developing their businesses further. Also renewable energy projects under the REIPPP process are obliged to make a real contribution to local economic development in the area. Awarded projects are required to spend a certain percentage of their generated revenue on Socio-Economic Development (SED) and Enterprise Development (ED) and share ownership in the project company with local communities. The cumulative impacts are likely to have significant positive impact on the local economy.

Cumulative impacts of employment opportunities, business opportunities and skills development Nature: An increase in employment opportunities, skills development, SED and business opportunities with the establishment of more than one solar energy facility Overall impact of the Cumulative impact of proposed project the project and other considered in isolation projects in the area Extent Local- Regional (3) Local- regional (3) Duration Long term (4) Long term (4) Magnitude Minor (2) Moderate (6) Probability Probable (3) Probable (3) Significance Low (27) Medium (39) Status (positive or negative) Positive Positive Reversibility N/A Irreplaceable loss of resources N/A Can impacts be enhanced Yes Confidence in findings High Enhancement The establishment of a number of solar energy facilities in the area has the potential to have a positive cumulative impact on the area in the form of employment opportunities, skills development, business opportunities and SED/ED. The positive benefits will be enhanced if local employment policies are adopted and local services providers are utilised by the developers to maximise the project opportunities available to the local community.

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The impact is assessed to be positive; local to regional in extent; long-term; moderate intensity and probable. The overall impact is likely to have a medium positive significance to the local area.

5.3.2 Cumulative impacts with large scale in-migration of people

The development of large-scale solar projects in the local area will likely draw labour, businesses and jobseekers to the area. If the local labour force cannot be sourced locally or the local labour pool is inadequate for the solar energy facility project, outside labour will likely move to the area to fill the gap. The area may experience an influx of new residents who may move to the area looking for job opportunities; which will have effects on the existing population during the construction periods that could entail problems of housing, sanitation, water usage and solid waste disposal. Employment for a solar energy facility peaks during construction and significantly declines during operation; since solar energy facilities need relatively few workers while in operation, solar facilities will not create long-term boomtowns. Though there may be an influx of workers during construction, these workers are relocated on a temporary basis. Rapid population growth is a common experience in rural towns near new large development projects. Towns with larger populations (greater than 1 000 individuals) and with developed services will likely experience greater rates of population growth than areas without developed services.

In relation to the area, the towns that are sensitive receptors will be Orkney and Leeudooringstad and the informal settlement of Kanana. The impact of an influx of people on services and resources is likely to impact the current communities and increase the pressure on local municipalities to meet the basic needs of these potential new communities. The poor communities are likely to be the most vulnerable to loss of service provision and suffer the negative impact of large scale in-migration. There is potential for the influx of migrants to significantly change the local receiving environment and this is likely to have a permanent impact in the region. If more than one solar energy facility is under construction at any one time, then the impacts from in-migration of people is likely to have more of a negative impact on the local area. It is very difficult to control an influx of people into an area, especially in a country where unemployment rates are high.

Cumulative impacts with large-scale in-migration of people Construction & Operational Phase Nature: Negative impacts and change to the local economy with an in-migration of labourers, businesses and jobseekers to the area. Overall impact of the Cumulative impact of the proposed project project and other projects considered in isolation in the area

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Extent Local (2) Local (2) Duration Long term (4) Long term (4) Magnitude Minor (2) Low (4) Probability improbable (2) Improbable (2) Significance Low (16) Low (20) Status (positive or negative) Negative Negative Reversibility Yes Irreplaceable loss of resources No Can impacts be mitigated Yes Confidence in findings Medium Mitigation » Develop a recruitment policy/ process (to be implemented by contractors), which will source labour locally, where feasible. » Working together with government agencies to ensure service provision is in line with the development needs of the local area. » Forming joint ventures with community organisations, through trusts, which can provide local communities with benefits, such as employment opportunities and services.

The impact is assessed to be negative; local to regional in extent; long-term; moderate intensity and probable. The overall impact is of low negative significance to the local area.

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5.4 Decommissioning Phase

Typically, the major social impacts associated with the decommissioning phase are linked to the loss of jobs and associated income. This has implications for the households who are directly affected, the communities within which they live, and the relevant local authorities. However, in the case of the proposed solar energy facility the decommissioning phase is likely to involve the disassembly and replacement of the existing components with more modern technology. This is likely to take place in 20 - 25 years post commissioning. The decommissioning phase is therefore likely to create additional, construction type jobs, as opposed to the job losses typically associated with decommissioning however for a limited period of time.

Given the relatively small number of people employed during the operation phase (~30- 50), the social impacts at a community level associated with decommissioning are likely to be limited. In addition, potential impacts associated with the decommissioning phase can be effectively managed with the implementation of a retrenchment and downscaling programme.

Social impacts associated with decommissioning Decommissioning Phase Nature: Social impacts associated with retrenchment including loss of jobs and source of income Without Mitigation With Mitigation Extent Local (2) Local (2) Duration Short term (1) Short Term (1) Magnitude Moderate (6) Low (4) Probability Highly Probable (4) Highly Probable (4) Significance Medium (36) Low (28) Status Negative Negative Reversibility No Irreplaceable loss of No resources? Can impact be mitigated? Yes

Mitigation » Implementation of a retrenchment and downscaling programme » All structures and infrastructure associated with the proposed solar energy facility should be dismantled, removed and transported off-site on decommissioning; & the landscape rehabilitated/ re-vegetated. Residual impacts Loss of jobs and associated loss of income, can impact on local economy and other businesses.

The impact is assessed to be negative; local in extent; short term; low intensity; and highly probable. The impact is of low significance.

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5.5 Assessment of Impacts for the No-go Option:

The impacts of pursuing the No go Option are primarily negative as follows: » There would be an opportunity loss in terms of job creation, skills development and ‐ associated economic business opportunities for the local economy. Also the opportunity to establish a new sector within the area will be lost.

Foregoing the proposed solar energy facility development would not necessarily compromise the development of renewable energy facilities in South Africa. However, the socio-economic benefits for local communities would be forfeited and may lead to further degradation of the area’s economy.

5.6 Conclusion and Recommendations

The SIA has primarily focused on the collection of primary data to identify and assess social issues and potential social impacts. Secondary data was collected and presented in a literature review and primary data was collected through consultations with key stakeholders and the public participation process. The environmental assessment framework for the assessment of impacts and the relevant criteria were applied to evaluate the significance of the potential impacts. A summary of the potential positive and negative impacts identified in the SIA for the construction and operation phase are presented in Tables 13 and 14 below and a summary of the cumulative social impacts is also provided in Table 15.

Table 13: Summary of social impacts during construction phase CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Significance Significance Impact without Mitigation/ with Mitigation/ enhancement enhancement

Positive Impacts Direct employment and skills Medium (33) Medium (44) development Economic multiplier effects Low (27) Medium (44) Negative Impacts Influx of jobseekers Low (21) Low (15) Impacts on daily living and movement Low (21) Low (15) patterns (Traffic & Nuisance Impacts)

Safety and security risks Low (14) Low (10)

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Table 14: Summary of social impacts during operation phase OPERATION PHASE Significance Significance Impact without Mitigation/ with Mitigation/ enhancement enhancement Positive Impacts Direct employment and skills Low (24) Medium (32) development

Development of clean, renewable Medium (40) N/A energy infrastructure

Benefits associated with REIPPP socio-economic development plans Low (30) Medium (48) and community trust Negative Impacts

Visual and sense of place impacts Low (14) N/A

Table 15: Summary of cumulative social impacts CUMULATIVE IMPACTS

Overall impact of the Cumulative impact of Cumulative Impact proposed project the project and other considered in isolation projects in the area Positive Cumulative Impacts Cumulative impacts from employment, skills and business Low (27) Medium (39) opportunities Negative Cumulative Impacts Cumulative impacts with large-scale Low (16) Low (20) in-migration of people

Key findings

From a social perspective it is concluded that the project is supported, but that mitigation measures should be implemented and adhered to. Positive and negative social impacts have been identified. The assessment of the key issues indicated that there are no negative impacts that can be classified as fatal flaws and which are of such significance that they cannot be successfully mitigated. Positive impacts could be enhanced by implementing appropriate enhancement measures and through careful planning. Based on the social assessment, the following general conclusions and findings have been made:

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» The potential negative social impacts associated with the construction phase are typical of construction related activities and not just focussed on the construction of the proposed solar energy facility (these relate to influx of non-local workforce and jobseekers, intrusion and disturbance impacts, safety and security) and could be reduced with the implementation of the mitigation measures proposed. » The shift of the CMLM economy from the downscaling of mining activities has resulted in a large number of jobs losses. This declining mining industry has led to a number of people living in poverty in the CMLM. The negative performance of the mining sector also has some positive spinoff, this being that there is a market to diversify the local economy and move the dependence away from mining and government services. The development of the proposed solar energy facility would contribute towards diversifying the local economy with a relatively new industry. » The proposed solar energy facility would provide an opportunity in terms of job creation, skills development and associated economic business opportunities for the local economy. » Employment opportunities will be created in the construction and operation phases and the impact is rated as positive even if only a small number of individuals benefit in this regard. » The proposed project could assist the local economy in creating entrepreneurial development, especially if local business could be involved in the provision of general material and services during the construction and operation phases. » Capacity building and skills training among employees are critical and would be highly beneficial to those involved, especially if they receive portable skills to enable them to also find work elsewhere and in other sectors. » The proposed solar energy facility also represents an investment in infrastructure for the generation of clean, renewable energy, which, given the increased awareness of climate change, represents a positive social benefit for society as a whole. » Overall, it can be concluded that the proposed solar energy facility will have more positive impacts on the social environment than negative.

Recommendations

The following recommendations are made on the basis of the SIA and a thorough review of the concerns and suggestions raised by stakeholders and interested and affected parties during the stakeholder engagement process (also refer to Appendix A). The proposed mitigation measures should be implemented to limit the negative impacts and enhance the positive impacts. Based on the social assessment, the following recommendations are made:

» The EPC contractor should appoint a designated staff member to assist with the management of social impacts and to deal with any community issues.

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» In terms of employment related impacts, it is important to consider that job opportunities for the unskilled and semi-skilled in the study area could create competition among the local unemployed. Introducing an outside workforce will therefore most likely worsen local endeavours to obtain jobs and provoke discontent as well as put pressure on the local services available. It is imperative that local labour be sourced, wherever possible, to ensure that benefits accrue to the local communities. Efforts should be made to involve local businesses during the construction activities where possible. Local procurement of labour and services/products would greatly benefit the community during the construction and operation phases of the project. » Local procurement of services and equipment where possible in order to enhance the multiplier effect. This would serve to mitigate other subsequent negative impacts such as those associated with the inflow of outsiders to the area, the increased pressure on the infrastructure and services in the area, as well as the safety and security concerns. » Involve the community in the process as far as possible (encourage co-operative decision making and partnerships with local entrepreneurs). » Implement mitigation measures to reduce and avoid negative impacts. » Safety and security risks should be taken into account during the planning/ construction phase of the proposed project. Access control, security and management should be implemented to limit the risk of crime increasing in the area.

Overall Conclusion

The proposed Orkney Solar farm and associated infrastructure is unlikely to result in permanent damaging social impacts. The potential positive impacts outweigh the potential negative impacts associated with the solar energy facility. The potential for positive socio-economic benefits can be realised, and this has been proven through other renewable projects which have been constructed and are operational in South Africa. There is also no opposition to the project from local landowners, councillors or community representatives. The proposed solar energy facility will contribute in a positive manner towards the various local targets and policy aims in the policies and planning documents. The proposed solar energy facility would provide an opportunity in terms of job creation, skills development and associated economic business opportunities for the struggling local economy. From a social perspective it is concluded that the project could be developed subject to the implementation of the recommended mitigation measures and management actions contained in the SIA report.

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6. REFERENCES

Aucamp, I.C., Woodbourne, S., Perold, J.J., Bron, A. and Aucamp, S.-M. (2011). Looking beyond social impact assessment to social sustainability. In Vanclay, F. and Esteves, A.-M. New Directions for Social Impact Assessments, Cheltenham, UK: Edward Elgar.

Census 2011 Community Profiles Database. Statistics South Africa.

City of Matlosana Local Municipality Integrated Development Plan (2015-2016)

CSIE, DME and Eskom. 2001. South African Renewable Energy Resource Database. Available from: www.csir.co.za/environmentek/sarerd/contact.html

Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality Integrated Development Plan (IDP) (2013/2014)

Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality Integrated Development Plan (IDP) (2012-2014)

Franke. V. & Guidero. A. (2012). Engaging local stakeholder: A Conceptual Model for Effective Donor- Community Collaboration. Institute for Homeland Security Solutions.

Frith, A. 2011. Mapping South Africa with dot distribution: Census 2011. Available from: http://dotmap.adrianfrith.com/

IFC. (2007). Stakeholder Engagement: A Good Practice Handbook for Companies Doing Business in Emerging Markets. International Finance Corporation: Washington.

Interorganizational Committee on Principles and Guidelines for Social Impact Assessment. US Principles and Guidelines – Principals and guidelines for social impact assessment in the USA. Impact Assessment and Project Appraisal, 21(3): 231-250.

National Climate Change Response Green Paper (DEA, 2010)

National Development Agency (NDA). (2014). Beyond 10 years of unlocking potential. Available from: http://www.nda.org.za/?option=3&id=1&com_id=198 &parent_id= 186&com_task=1

National Energy Act (2008)

National Environmental Management Act 107 of 1998 (NEMA)

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National Development Plan (2030)

National Integrated Resource Plan South Africa (2010-2030)

North West Province Spatial Development Framework (SDF) - North West Environmental Management Series 7 (2008)

North West Provincial Growth and Development Strategy (PGDS) (2004- 2014)

Solar Energy Technology Roadmap (2013)

South African LED Network (SA LED Network). (2010). Networking Practioners Developing Local Economies. Available from: http://led.co.za/

State of the Environment Report (SOER). 2005. Northern Cape Province. Department of Tourism, Environment and Conservation. CSIR Environmental.

Statistics South Africa. (2014). Education: A Roadmap out of poverty? Available from: http://beta2.statssa.gov.za/?p=2566

Strategic Infrastructure Projects (SIPs)

The Constitution Act 108 of 1996

UNEP, 2002. EIA Training Resource Manual. 2nd Ed. UNEP.

United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN). (2001). Guidelines for Stakeholders: Participation in Strategic Environmental Management. New York, NY: United Nations.

Vanclay, F. 2003. Conceptual and methodological advances in Social Impact Assessment. In Vanclay, F. & Becker, H.A. 2003. The International Handbook for Social Impact Assessment. Cheltenham: Edward Elgar Publishing Limited.

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APPENDIX A: SIA ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME (EMPR)-

Construction Phase

Direct employment and skills development OBJECTIVE: Maximise opportunities for local employment and skills development associated with the construction phase

Project Solar energy facility and associated infrastructure component/s The opportunities and benefits associated with the creation of local Potential Impact employment and skills development to be maximised. Activity/risk » Construction procurement practice employed by the EPC contractor source » Developers investment plan The developer should aim to employ as many low-skilled and semi-skilled Enhancement: workers from the local area as possible. This should also be made a Target/Objective requirement for all contractors.

Enhancement: Action/control Responsibility Timeframe The Developer & Pre-construction & Employ local contractors that are compliant with Broad EPC Contractor construction Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) criteria. phase Ensure that local employment policy is adopted to The Developer & Pre-construction & maximise the opportunities made available to the local EPC Contractor construction labour force (sourced from the CMLM, primarily from phase the closest towns / settlements such as Stilfontein and Kanana). The recruitment selection process is to promote gender EPC Contractor Pre-construction & equality and the employment of women wherever construction possible. phase Training and skills development programmes are to be The Developer Pre-construction & initiated prior to the commencement of the construction construction phase phase A Community Liaison Officer is to be appointed from the EPC Contractor Pre-construction & local community. A method of communication is to be construction implemented whereby procedures to lodge complaints phase are set out in order for the local community to express any complaints or grievances with the construction process.

» Employment policy document that sets out local employment and Performance targets completed before the construction phase commences; Indicator » Employ as many local semi and low-skilled labour as possible.

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» Training and skills development programme undertaken prior to the commencement of the construction phase. » The developer and EPC contractor must keep a record of local Monitoring recruitments and information on local labour to be shared with the ECO for reporting purposes.

Economic multiplier effects OBJECTIVE: Maximise the local economic multiplier effect during the construction phase

Project Solar energy facility and associated infrastructure component/s Potential Impact Potential local economic benefits Activity/risk Developers procurement plan source Enhancement: Increase the procurement of goods and services especially within the local Target/Objective economy

Enhancement: Action/control Responsibility Timeframe The Developer & Pre-construction Ensure a local procurement policy is adopted to EPC Contractor & construction maximise the benefits to the local economy. phase Develop a database of local companies, specifically The Developer& Pre-construction Historically Disadvantaged (HD) which qualify as EPC Contractor & construction potential service providers (e.g. construction phase companies, security companies, catering companies, waste collection companies, transportation companies etc.) prior to the tender process and invite them to bid for project-related work. Source as much goods and services as possible from The Developer Pre-construction the local area. Engage with local authorities and & construction business organisations to investigate the possibility of phase procurement of construction materials, goods and products from local suppliers.

» Local procurement policy is adopted Performance » Local goods and services are purchased from local suppliers where Indicator feasible » The developer must monitor indicators listed above to ensure that they Monitoring have been met for the construction phase

Pressure on economic and social infrastructure impacts from an in migration of people

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OBJECTIVE: Reduce the pressure on economic and social infrastructure and social conflicts from an influx of a non-local workforce and jobseekers during the construction phase

Project Solar energy facility and associated infrastructure component/s Decline on local economic and social infrastructure and services as well as Potential Impact a rise in social conflicts from an influx of a non-local workforce and jobseekers Activity/risk Influx of migrant workers and jobseekers source Mitigation: To avoid or minimise the potential impact on local infrastructure, services Target/Objective and communities and their livelihoods

Mitigation: Action/control Responsibility Timeframe A ‘locals first’ policy is to be advertised for construction The Developer & Pre-construction & employment opportunities, especially for semi and low- EPC contractor construction skilled job categories. Enhance employment phase opportunities for the immediate local area, such as towns in the CMLM that are located closest to the site e.g. Orkney, Stilfontein and Kanana. A local employment policy is to be adopted to maximise The Developer & Pre-construction & the opportunities made available to the local labour EPC contractor construction force. phase Tender document is to stipulate the use of local labour The Developer & Pre-construction & as far as possible. EPC contractor construction phase Recruitment of temporary workers at the gates of the EPC contractor Construction development is not to be allowed. A recruitment office phase with a Community Liaison officer (that’s been appointed from the local community) is to be established in a nearby town to deal with jobseekers. A security company is to be appointed and appropriate EPC contractor Construction security procedures to be implemented. phase Implement procedures for the control and removal of EPC contractor Construction loiters at the construction site needs to be established. phase A Community Liaison Officer is to be appointed from the EPC contractor Pre-construction & local community. A method of communication is to be construction implemented whereby procedures to lodge complaints phase are set out in order for the local community to express any complaints or grievances with the construction process.

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» Ensure ‘locals first’ policy is adopted/advertised Performance » Ensure no recruitment takes place on site Indicator » Control/removal of loiters » The developer and EPC contractor must monitor the indicators listed Monitoring above to ensure that they have been met for the construction phase

Impacts on daily living and movement patterns (traffic impacts & nuisance impacts) OBJECTIVE: To reduce impacts from traffic disruptions, noise and dust pollution on the local community during the construction phase

Project Solar energy facility and associated infrastructure component/s Increase in traffic disruptions, heavy vehicles and construction activities Potential Impact can generate noise and dust impacts. Activity/risk Construction activities increasing traffic and creating noise and dust source impacts To avoid or minimise the potential traffic impacts on local communities and Mitigation: minimise the potential noise and dust impacts associated with construction Target/Objective activities

Mitigation: Action/control Responsibility Timeframe Implement appropriate dust suppression measures on a EPC Contractor Construction regular basis along the gravel access road and on the phase proposed site. Vehicles used to transport sand and building materials EPC Contractor Construction must be fitted with tarpaulins or covers when travelling phase on roads. All vehicles must be road worthy and drivers must be EPC contractor Construction qualified, obey traffic rules, follow speed limits and made phase aware of the potential noise, dust and road safety issues. Heavy vehicles are to be inspected regularly to ensure EPC contractor Construction their road safety worthiness. phase Provision of adequate and strategically placed traffic EPC contractor Construction warning signs and control measures along the R502 to phase warn road users of the construction activities taking place for the duration of the construction phase. Warning signs must be visible at all times. Implement penalties for reckless driving for the drivers EPC contractor Construction of heavy vehicles as a way to enforce compliance to phase traffic rules. The developer and engineering, procurement and EPC contractor Construction construction (EPC) contractors must ensure that there is phase

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Mitigation: Action/control Responsibility Timeframe a dedicated access and an access control point at the entrance gate off the R502. Infrastructure such as fencing and/or gates along access EPC contractor Construction route must be maintained in the present condition or phase repaired if disturbed due to project activities. Ensure roads utilised are either maintained in the present The Developer & Construction condition or upgraded if disturbed due to project EPC contractor phase activities. Provide a comprehensive employee induction programme EPC contractor Construction to cover land access protocols and road safety. phase A Community Liaison Officer is to be appointed from the EPC contractor Construction local community. A method of communication is to be phase implemented whereby procedures to lodge complaints are set out in order for the local community to express any complaints or grievances with the construction process.

» Dust suppression measures implemented for all heavy vehicles and construction vehicles that require such measures during the Performance construction phase Indicator » Vehicles are roadworthy, inspected regularly and speed limits are adhered to » Provision of traffic warning signs on R502 » The developer and EPC contractor must monitor the indicators listed Monitoring above to ensure that they have been met for the construction phase

Safety and security impacts OBJECTIVE: To reduce the possibility of the increase in crime and safety and security issues during the construction phase

Project Solar energy facility and associated infrastructure component/s Increase in crime due to influx of non-local workforce and job seekers into Potential Impact the area Activity/risk Safety and security risks associated with construction activities source Mitigation: To avoid or minimise the potential impact on local communities and their Target/Objective livelihoods

93 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

Mitigation: Action/control Responsibility Timeframe Working hours should be kept to daylight hours during Construction the construction phase, and/or as any deviation that is EPC contractor phase approved by the adjacent landowners. The perimeter of the construction site is to be EPC contractor Construction appropriately secured to prevent any unauthorised phase access to the site; the fencing of the site should be maintained throughout the construction period. Access in and out of the site is to be strictly controlled by EPC contractor Construction a security company. phase A security company is to be appointed and appropriate EPC contractor Construction security procedures are to be implemented. phase Provide workers with identity tags and prohibit the access EPC contractor Construction of unauthorised people to the construction site. phase Open fires on the site for heating, smoking or cooking are EPC contractor Construction not allowed, except in designated areas. phase Provide adequate firefighting equipment on site and EPC contractor Construction provide firefighting training to selected construction staff. phase A comprehensive employee induction programme to be The Developer & Pre-construction & developed and utilised to cover land access protocols, fire EPC contractor construction management and road safety. phase Have a personnel trained in first aid on site to deal with EPC contractor Construction smaller incidents that require medical attention. phase A Community Liaison Officer is to be appointed from the EPC contractor Construction local community as a grievance channel. A method of phase communication is to be implemented whereby procedures to lodge complaints are set out in order for the local community to express any complaints or grievances with the construction process.

» The construction site is appropriately secured with a controlled access Performance system Indicator » Ensure a security company is appointed and appropriate security procedures and measures are implemented » The developer and EPC contractor must monitor the indicators listed Monitoring above to ensure that they have been met for the construction phase

Operation Phase:

Direct employment and skills development during operation phase OBJECTIVE: Maximise opportunities for local employment and skills opportunities associated with the operation phase

94 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

Project Solar energy facility and associated infrastructure component/s Loss of opportunities to stimulate production and employment of the local Potential Impact economy Activity/risk Labour practices employed during operation source Mitigation: Maximise local community employment benefits in the local economy Target/Objective

Mitigation: Action/control Responsibility Timeframe A local employment policy is to be adopted to maximise The Developer & Operation phase the opportunities made available to the local EPC contractor community. The recruitment selection process is to promote gender The Developer & Operation phase equality and the employment of women wherever EPC contractor possible Establish vocational training programs for the local The Developer Operation phase labour force to promote the development of skills

Performance » Percentage of workers that were employed from local communities Indicator » Number of people attending vocational training on an annual basis » The developer must keep a record of local recruitments and information Monitoring on local labour to be shared with the ECO for reporting purposes

Benefits associated with REIPPP socio-economic development plans and community trust OBJECTIVE: Maximise benefits for local communities associated with socio-economic development plans and community trust

Project Solar energy facility and associated infrastructure component/s Potential Impact Loss of socio-economic opportunities for the local area Activity/risk Operation of the solar energy facility and associated infrastructure source Mitigation: Maximise local community benefits in the local economy Target/Objective

Mitigation: Action/control Responsibility Timeframe An in-depth community needs analysis (CNA) will need The Developer Pre-Operation to be carried out on the local area (including the phase settlement of Kanana) to make sure that the real needs of communities are addressed (in line with the local

95 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

government) and the correct representatives of the community are appointed to run the community trust. Engagement and involvement of the local Municipality The Developer Pre-Operation (CMLM) and the Ward Councillor (Ward 28) with social phase responsibility plans.

Performance » Community needs analysis Indicator » Engage and involvement of the Local Municipality in SED & ED process » The developer must keep a record of key stakeholders consultations Monitoring that took place with the Local Municipality and key community members

96 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

APPENDIX B: MINUTES OF MEETINGS DURING SIA STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION PROCESS

Below are the minutes of the meetings that were undertaken during the social stakeholder consultation process. The minutes of the meetings that were undertaken as part of the Public Participation (PP) Process were also taken into consideration in the SIA.

97 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT PROCESS

ORKNEY SOLAR FARM, NORTH WEST PROVINCE

EIA PHASE

Savannah Environmental (Pty) Ltd SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT PROCESS Contact: Gabriele Wood Address: PO Box 148 Sunninghill, 2157 KEY STAKEHOLDERS FOCUS GROUP Tel: 011 656 3237 MEETING Fax: 086 684 0547 E-mail: [email protected]

HELD ON THURSDAY, 8 SEPTEMBER 2016

VENUE ARTS HALL, CITY OF MATLOSANA LOCAL MUNICIPALITY, KLERKSDORP

Notes for the Record prepared by: Savannah Environmental Please address any comments to Gabriele Wood at the above address.

98 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

ORKNEY SOLAR FARM, NORTH WEST PROVINCE

Venue: Arts Hall, City of Matlosana Local Municipality, Klerksdorp Date: Thursday 8 September, 2016 Time: 10:00 to 11:00

WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION

Lisa Opperman of Savannah Environmental welcomed and thanked the key stakeholders for their time. She introduced herself as the Environment Consultant for the Orkney Solar Farm. Lisa introduced Pamela as the social consultant from Savannah Environmental who will be undertaking the social Impact Assessment for the proposed project, as well as Michelle du Toit from Genesis Eco-Energy (applicant). She explained that the purpose of the meeting is to provide an introduction and background information of the project to the key stakeholders as they have jurisdiction and interest in the project. The aim was to establish and record the views and or comments of the key stakeholders regarding the proposed project, as to ensure that all comments and issues raised during the EIA phase is included into the SIA report which will be submitted to DEA. The meeting also provided the opportunity for key stakeholders to ask any questions regarding the development.

MEETING ATTENDEES

Name Organisation & Position Esther Mmanokgabi Nyokeng (EMN) Orkney Public Library – Library Assistant Chris Bester (CB) Ward 28 - Ward Councillor Mabote Ntaopane (MN) Honex Milt Pty Ltd. – Managing Director Ben Ntopane (BN) Vryntaoza Resources - Director Billy Lefu Kgatlhane (BLK) Ward 32 Representative MA Khuzwayo (MAK) City of Matlosana – Deputy Director Planning C.M Mathayna (CMM) City of Matlosana Michelle du Toit (MdT) Genesis Eco-Energy – Project Manager Melvin Rampedi Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality – LED Manager Pamela Sidambe (PS) Savannah Environmental – Social Consultant Lisa Opperman (LO) Savannah Environmental – EAP

APOLOGIES

None

99 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

PROJECT BACKGROUND

Lisa Opperman presented the background and introduction to the project and the Environmental Impact Assessment process being undertaken. The findings of the Scoping Phase were highlighted and explained. A formal power point presentation and the environmental sensitivity map was also referred to in order to provide a visual aid.

DISCUSSION SESSION

Question / Comment Response MAK: There are people that should be involved in MdT: The whole idea about today’s meeting was this process that are not in this meeting. Some of to meet with as many people as possible, so we them I had invited them, I am not sure if they are gather their opinions or concerns about the running late or they made a mistake with dates proposed project and time. LO: If you know of anyone who may be interested or affected by this project please let them know that they should register on the project database. This will ensure that they are consulted throughout the EIA process. Public participation will also form part of the EIA phase within which further consultation will be taking place. MAK: What positive role can we as a municipality CB: From our side we need to also set-up a play? You also need to get hold of the Department meeting with the farming community to hear if the of Spatial Development Framework and inform project will be a problem for them. them about the project, so they take it into consideration in their plans MAK: Please send me the presentation as I would LO: I will forward the presentation to you. like to share it with the council at the first council meeting and also share it with the community because without the community’s support it will be difficult to get approval for the project. CB: If the project goes to the community everyone LO: We do not want to raise expectations in the starts calling and asking for a job or contract to community as the project is still in the planning provide goods or services. phase. The EIA phase still needs to be completed and the Environmental Authorisation granted. After the Environmental Authorisation is granted the project would need to be granted preferred bidder status by the Department of Energy for the development to commence. MAK: We are trying to shorten the process, so by MdT: The purpose of this meeting was to get all the time the Department of Energy gives the go key stakeholders involved and registered on the ahead as a preferred bidder, you don’t wait project database to ensure that all relevant stakeholders are aware and informed about the

100 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

Question / Comment Response another 3 years before implementation of the project. However, it must be understood that it is project. a very lengthy process that takes years before the MAK: The North West Department of project is actually implemented. Environmental Affairs is responsible for this area, so I want to engage them right away that’s why I need the presentation MAK: The Tau Lekoa mine was also invited to this PS: Thank you, I will get the number from you meeting. They should be involved as they are after this meeting and contact the mine. affected by the proposed development. You will need to get hold of Chopper. LO: The mine has been notified about the proposed project, they are situated in Beijing. However, no comments have been submitted by them. We do have a contact person for the mine (Mr. Jimmy Lonergan). He will be consulted throughout the EIA process. BN: Does the project fall within the boundary of LO: The boundaries of the mine end at the farm the mine or not? I think the Department of Mineral Goedgenoeg, which is located directly adjacent to resources should also be involved. the east of the project site. Therefore, the affected properties fall outside of the mining boundary. CB: Mining tunnels are underground, I do not think LO: The soil specialist has indicated that the type solar panels will have an effect, but I think the of soil in the area is not suitable for land cultivation Department of Agriculture should be contacted as and has a low agricultural potential. they might have an issue with the project being in MdT: With mining happening mainly underground, a farming community. However, the area is I think the solar project can co-exist with the mine. primarily used for cattle farming. CB: You need to contact the landowner who is PS: Comment noted, this will be taken into about 15km from the proposed site as they run a consideration. big Rhino farm. We don’t want to speak on their behalf, they might be affected by the development. PS: As a representative and ward councillor of the CB: I think community members will benefit from affected area do you foresee any of impact of the this project. Many of our people are currently development on the surrounding communities? unemployed due to challenges and a reduction within the mining sector. There are qualified people in the community, including trained welders with certificates and others that have been involved in the mining sector. PS: Do you have a register of the people that CB: No, there is no register. However, when the require employment within your ward? need arises for employment I can contact my ward committee to inform the communities of the available opportunities. Through a screening process and according to the available skills, the correct workers can be employed. I just need to emphasise that local people should be

101 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

Question / Comment Response acknowledged throughout the project. When it comes to job opportunities, the locals should be considered first. Local companies should also be used to supply products except where specialised equipment and products are needed. We have big steel companies that can supply a lot of construction material. PS: Do you have any safety and security concerns CB: If local people are used, safety and security with the proposed development? will not be an issue as we know our people and can control them. PS: There will be an increase in traffic from CB: People in this area are used to those big trucks construction vehicles and trucks on the regional that transport machinery and equipment due to road (R502). Is this a concern for you and would the strong mining sector within the area, this interrupt daily movement patterns of the therefore, it will not be an issue at all. The community? important thing is for the delivery vehicles to make use the main roads within the area. PS: Mr Khuzwayo, in terms of the municipality’s MAK: I will forward the presentation to all the capacity in supply of basic services, do you think relevant departments, so we get an official the municipality will be able to accommodate the comment about the state of affairs regarding requirements of this project? provision of basic services. PS: Do you have any other questions or social CB: I do not have any other questions concerns? MAK: No PS: Are you in support of the proposed CB: This project is important for our people and development? will provide opportunities for growth and upliftment. MR: I have no objection to the project, the mines are going closing down and more people are left unemployed. PS: The bulk of opportunities will be limited to the CB: Yes, we are aware of the construction phase construction phase which is likely to be 12 to 18 period. months. LO: I just want to remind you that the scoping MAK: Thank you, I will let the relevant people report is out for review until the 21st of September know. 2016. All the comments received will be incorporated into the final Scoping report that will be submitted to DEA

WAY FORWARD AND CLOSURE

The meeting closed and all parties agreed that the project information will be shared with all interested and affected parties, so they can register on Orkney Solar Farm project database. Lisa thanked the meeting attendees for availing themselves for the meeting and the meeting closed at 11:00am.

102 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT PROCESS

ORKNEY SOLAR FARM, NORTH WEST PROVINCE

EIA PHASE

Savannah Environmental (Pty) Ltd SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT Contact: Gabriele Wood Address: PO Box 148 PROCESS Sunninghill, 2157 Tel: 011 656 3237 Fax: 086 684 0547 FOCUS GROUP MEETING E-mail: [email protected]

HELD ON THURSDAY, 8 SEPTEMBER 2016

VENUE GOEDGENOEG 24/433 & GOEDGENOEG RE/11/433, ORKNEY

Notes for the Record prepared by: Savannah Environmental Please address any comments to Gabriele Wood at the above address.

103 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

ORKNEY SOLAR FARM PROJECT, NORTH WEST PROVINCE

Venue: Farm Goedgenoeg 24/433 and Goedgenoeg RE/11/433 Date: Thursday 8 September, 2016 Time: 12:00 to 13:00

WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION

Lisa Opperman of Savannah Environmental welcomed and thanked Jimmy Lonergan for his time. She introduced herself as the Environment Consultant for the Orkney Solar Farm. Lisa introduced Pamela as the social consultant from Savannah Environmental who will be undertaking the social Impact Assessment for the proposed project, as well as Michelle du Toit from Genesis Eco-Energy (applicant). She explained that the purpose of the meeting is to provide an introduction and background information of the project to him as he is a tenant residing on an adjacent property. The aim was to establish and record the views and or comments of the tenant regarding the proposed project, as to ensure that all comments and issues raised during the EIA phase is included into the SIA report which will be submitted to DEA.

MEETING ATTENDEES

Name Organisation & Position Jimmy Lonergan (JL) Goedgenoeg 24/433 & Goedgenoeg RE/11/433 - Tenant Michelle du Toit (MdT) Genesis Eco-Energy – Project Manager Pamela Sidambe (PS) Savannah Environmental – Social Consultant Lisa Opperman (LO) Savannah Environmental – EAP

APOLOGIES

None

PROJECT BACKGROUND

Lisa Opperman presented the background and introduction to the project and the Environmental Impact Assessment process being undertaken. The findings of the Scoping Phase was highlighted and explained. An environmental sensitivity map was also referred to in order to provide a visual aid.

104 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

DISCUSSION SESSION

Question / Comment Response JL: Where exactly will this project be located? LO: At this stage of the EIA process we do not know the exact location of the project within the proposed project site, this will only be determined after the Scoping Phase is complete and a layout has been provided by the applicant. MdT: At the moment we are gathering the JL: I understand, I know these processes take comments and inputs from various people, then in time. the EIA phase a detailed analysis will be conducted. LO: Do you have any issues regarding the project? JL: I do not have any issues with the proposed project. PS: Do you reside on the farm? JL: Yes, I, my wife and my son live at this farm. PS: Are there any farm workers that reside on this JL: Yes, three farm workers. I will be able to farm? provide their contact details to you. PS: What activities are currently taking place in JL: I keep cattle and sheep. your farm? PS: Where do you source water and other basic JL: We get water from the Vaal River and we make services such as sewage/septic tank facilities? use of a septic tank. There are no sewage facilities present. PS: Do you foresee any issues relating to the JL: There is no water in this area, vegetation is development in terms of the farming activities struggling to survive as well as animals. I have taking place on your property? moved some of my cattle to another area to avoid losing them. My biggest fear hence with this project is the fact that I may start getting complaints about my cattle having gone into the solar farm. The developer will have to fence the project site in order to avoid losing our livestock. PS: Are there any telecommunications JL: No, there is nothing of concern in that regard. infrastructure or masts, power lines, airstrips or any other significant features located on your farm or planned for the future? PS: Do you have any safety and security concerns YL: Will the development have an impact on my with the proposed development? livestock? How will wind fires be dealt with? We do not want to find ourselves with burnt farms. LO: In the EIA phase recommendations will be YL: Appropriate mitigation for fires is important as included in an environment management plan. the area gets quite windy. This plan will provide recommendations in terms of dealing with fires. The development footprint of the solar farm will be fenced for safety and security reasons PS: There will be an increase in traffic from YL: There would not be so many trucks to affect construction vehicles and trucks on the regional me as the farm house is located far away from the

105 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

Question / Comment Response road (R502). Is this a concern for you and would road. Traffic will be on the regional road, as long this interrupt any of your daily movement as the access does not affect the farm then I do patterns? not have a problem. PS: There will be construction noise and dust from YL: No, that will not affect me as I live quite a the development. Would the noise and dust have distance from the proposed project site. an impact on your farming activities or lifestyle? PS: The visual appearance or sense of place might YL: This area already has bad visual outlook due change with the implementation of the solar farm; to mine dumps in the area. Hence solar arrays will do you have any issues regarding appearance of not make much of a difference. We are used to the place? the disturbed outlook. PS: Do you have any other questions or social YL: No further questions from my side. concerns? PS: Are you in support of the proposed YL: Yes development? LO: I just want to remind you that the scoping YL: Comment noted report is out for public comment until the 21st of September 2016. If you have any other comments or questions, please contact Gabriele Wood from Savannah. All the comments received will be incorporated into the final scoping report that will be submitted to DEA

WAY FORWARD AND CLOSURE

The meeting closed and Lisa explained that the comments were to be incorporated into the SIA report. The Savannah team thanked the meeting attendees for availing themselves for the meeting and the meeting closed at 13:00pm.

106 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT PROCESS

ORKNEY SOLAR FARM, NORTH WEST PROVINCE

EIAPHASE

Savannah Environmental (Pty) Ltd SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT Contact: Gabriele Wood Address: PO Box 148 PROCESS Sunninghill, 2157 Tel: 011 656 3237 Fax: 086 684 0547 FOCUS GROUP MEETING E-mail: [email protected]

HELD ON THURSDAY, 8 SEPTEMBER 2016

VENUE WOLVEHUIS FARM RE/7/114 & RE/21/114, ORKNEY

Notes for the Record prepared by: Savannah Environmental Please address any comments to Gabriele Wood at the above address.

107 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

ORKNEY SOLAR FARM, NORTH WEST PROVINCE

Venue: RE/7/114 and RE/21/114 of the farm Wolvehuis 114 Date: Thursday 8 September, 2016 Time: 14:30 to 15:30

WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION

Lisa Opperman of Savannah Environmental welcomed and thanked the affected landowner (Mr Johannes Meyer) and his daughter (Maxie Stander) for their time. She introduced herself as the Environment Consultant for the Orkney Solar Farm. Lisa introduced Pamela as the social consultant from Savannah Environmental who will be undertaking the social Impact Assessment for the proposed project, as well as Michelle du Toit from Genesis Eco-Energy (applicant). She explained that the purpose of the meeting is to provide an introduction and background information of the project to them as they are directly impacted by the development. The aim was to establish and record the views and or comments of the affected landowners regarding the proposed project, as to ensure that all comments and issues raised during the EIA phase is included into the SIA report which will be submitted to DEA.

MEETING ATTENDEES

Name Organisation & Position Johannes Willem, B. Meyer (JWBM) Wolvehuis Farm RE/7/114 & RE/21/114 – Affected landowner Maxie Stander (MS) Wolvehuis Farm RE/7/114 & RE/21/114- Affected landowner’s daughter (residing on the farm) Michelle du Toit (MdT) Genesis Eco-Energy – Project Manager Pamela Sidambe (PS) Savannah Environmental – Social Consultant Lisa Opperman (LO) Savannah Environmental – EAP

APOLOGIES

None

PROJECT BACKGROUND

108 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

Lisa Opperman presented the background and introduction to the project and the Environmental Impact Assessment process being undertaken. The findings of the Scoping Phase were highlighted and explained. An environmental sensitivity map was also referred to in order to provide a visual aid.

DISCUSSION SESSION

Question / Comment Response LO: Are there any issues or concerns regarding JWBM: My only concern is water and sewage. We the development of the Orkney Solar Farm? have identified areas within the property for these services. PS: Do you reside on the farm Mr Meyer? JWBM: No, I do not live on this farm. I have seven farms in total. My daughter Maxie and her children reside on this farm (i.e. the Remaining Extent of Portion 7 and Portion 21 of the farm Wolvehuis 114). PS: How many people reside on the farm? MS: There are five residents and three farm workers residing on the farm. PS: Do you lease any portions of the farm? JWBM: Yes, I have a tenant in the house located next to the Vaal River. He has been residing there for 5 or 6 years. LO: So what are the terms for leasing? JWBM: It’s a long term lease. PS: How many people reside at the leased house? MS: It’s just a man and his wife. PS: Can I get the details of the farm workers and MS: I will give you all the details when we finish. the tenant leasing from you? PS: What activities are taking place on the farm? MS: We keep cattle, sheep and game. There is Is there any cultivation happening? no cultivation taking place in this area as a result of the severely dry climate. PS: Do you foresee any issues relating to the JWBM: Not at all. This farm is big enough for the development in terms of the farming activities development of the Orkney Solar Farm taking place on your property? PS: What will happen to the livestock when the JWBM: The livestock will be relocated to one of my development of the solar farm commences? other farms. LO: Do you have a preferred area for the proposed JWBM: I don’t know where you want to put it, but development within your farm? I think the best place is to the north, next to main gate and in close proximity to the Eskom substation located along the regional road (R502). LO: Will the development have an effect on your JWBM: Not at all. business? PS: There are sensitive features such as wetlands JWBM: Yes, there are wetlands present, but they on your property that have been identified at are mostly dry. desktop level that may be impacted by the proposed development. These will be taken into account during the EIA phase.

109 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

Question / Comment Response PS: Are there any telecommunications MS: No except for the Eskom power lines located infrastructure or masts, power lines, airstrips or within the project site and also the Telkom line any other significant features located on your farm located in close proximity to the main gate. or planned for the future? PS: Do you have any safety and security concerns MS: Not at all in terms of the proposed development? PS: Where do you source water and how is the MdT: I have been in contact with one of your water situation in this area? During the daughters and she advised that we can buy water construction and operation phases water will be for construction from you, we just have to required. establish the volumes required. JWBM: I have more than enough water here, they will get water from me. I have a pump that is utilised to take water from the River. MS: We have a borehole; and we pump water from the Vaal River. No municipal water is used. PS: In terms of sewage, do you have sewage JWBM: There is a septic tank within the farm and services or a septic tank? And do you have another one will be located next to the site when capacity for 400 or so workers during construction starts. construction? PS: There will be an increase in traffic from MS: No, I do not foresee any issues in this regard. construction vehicles and trucks on the regional road (R502). Is this a concern for you and would this interrupt any of your daily movement patterns? PS: There will be construction noise and dust from MS: That will not affect us at all. the developments. Would the noise and dust have an impact on your farming activities or lifestyle? PS: Do you have any other questions or social JWBM: I just want to inform you that we own a concerns? security company. We also offer building and other maintenance services. Can the developer also consider us when they start with construction? LO: Michelle is here from the developer’s side, but MS: Thank you, our security company is we will also include it in the report that you would registered. like to be considered. PS: Are you in support of the proposed JWBM: Yes, I am in support. development? MS: Yes, I fully support the development. LO: I just want to remind you that the scoping JWBM: I will have a look at the report. report is out for public comment until the 21st of September 2016. All the comments received will be incorporated into the final Scoping report that will be submitted to DEA

WAY FORWARD AND CLOSURE

110 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

The meeting closed and Lisa explained that the landowner’s comments will be incorporated into the SIA report. The Savannah team thanked the meeting attendees for availing themselves for the meeting and the meeting closed at 15:30pm.

111 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT PROCESS

ORKNEY SOLAR FARM, NORTH WEST PROVINCE

EIA PHASE

Savannah Environmental (Pty) Ltd SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT Contact: Gabriele Wood Address: PO Box 148 PROCESS Sunninghill, 2157 Tel: 011 656 3237 Fax: 086 684 0547 FOCUS GROUP MEETING E-mail: [email protected]

HELD ON THURSDAY, 8 SEPTEMBER 2016

VENUE WOLVEHUIS FARM RE/7/114 & RE/21/114, ORKNEY

Notes for the Record prepared by: Savannah Environmental Please address any comments to Gabriele Wood at the above address.

112 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

ORKNEY SOLAR FARM, NORTH WEST PROVINCE

Venue: RE/7/114 and RE/21/114 of the farm Wolvehuis 114 Date: Thursday 8 September, 2016 Time: 15:30 to 16:00

WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION

Pamela Sidambe of Savannah Environmental introduced herself to the farm workers of the affected property and explained that an EIA process is being undertaken for the development of the Orkney Solar Farm on the Remaining Extent of the Portion 7 and the Remaining Extent of Portion 21 of the farm Wolvehuis 114.

MEETING ATTENDEES

Name Organisation & Position Tshowe Joel (TJ) Wolvehuis Farm RE/7/114 & RE/21/114 – Farm Worker George Makas (GM) Wolvehuis Farm Re/7/114 & RE/21/114 - Farm Worker Pamela Sidambe (PS) Savannah Environmental – Social Consultant

APOLOGIES

None

PROJECT BACKGROUND

Pamela Sidambe presented the background and introduction to the project and the Environmental Impact Assessment process. The findings of the Scoping Phase from an was highlighted and explained.

DISCUSSION SESSION

Question / Comment Response PS: Where do you live? TJ: I live on the farm with my wife and child. GM: I also live on the farm. PS: Are you aware of the proposed development GM & TJ: Yes, we know a solar farm is planned to of the Orkney Solar farm? be developed on the farm.

113 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

Question / Comment Response TJ: Will the development be located within the PS: Yes, the entire farm is considered as the farm? project site, and then within the broader project site the development will be placed. PS: How will the development of the solar farm GM: I just hope we won’t lose our jobs with the impact you? development of the solar farm.

TJ: Mr Meyer said he will own the farm, so I don’t foresee any issues. As long as we continue to work here I am ok. PS: Do you have any safety or security concerns GM: No, the only concern will be livestock theft on during the construction phase of the the farm. development? About 400 employees will be TJ: Livestock theft will be the major concern, as present for about 12 to 18 months well as strangers coming into the farm. . PS: Do you have any other questions or social GM: No concerns? TJ: No, will they give us piece jobs when we are not working? PS: That would depend on the EPC contractor and TJ: Comment noted Mr Meyer. GM: When will construction commence? PS: The project is still in the very early stages. Before the construction can commence the project would require Environmental Authorisation and be chosen as a preferred bidder as per the REIPPP programme of the Department of Energy. PS: Are you in support of the proposed GM: Yes development? TJ: Yes

WAY FORWARD AND CLOSURE

Pamela thanked the meeting attendees for availing themselves for the meeting and the meeting closed at 16:00pm.

114 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT PROCESS

ORKNEY SOLAR FARM, NORTH WEST PROVINCE

EIA PHASE

Savannah Environmental (Pty) Ltd SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT PROCESS Contact: Gabriele Wood Address: PO Box 148 LANDOWNER CONSULTATION Sunninghill, 2157 Tel: 011 656 3237 K. PIENAAR, WOLVEHUIS RE/6/114 Fax: 086 684 0547 E-mail: [email protected] HELD ON TUESDAY, 20 SEPTEMBER 2016

Telephonic Discussion

Notes for the Record prepared by: Savannah Environmental Please address any comments to Gabriele Wood at the above address.

115 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

RECORD OF TELEPHONIC DISCUSSION

With: Dr Kotie Pienaar (KP) Company: Adjacent Landowner

WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION

Lisa Opperman of Savannah Environmental welcomed Dr Pienaar and thanked him for his time. She introduced herself as the Environment Consultant for the Orkney Solar Farm. Lisa introduced Pamela as the social consultant from Savannah Environmental who will be undertaking the social Impact Assessment for the proposed project. She explained that the purpose of the meeting is to provide an introduction and background information of the project to him as he is an adjacent landowner. The aim was to establish and record the views and or comments of the landowner regarding the proposed project, as to ensure that all comments and issues raised during the EIA phase is included into the SIA report which will be submitted to DEA.

MEETING ATTENDEES

Name Organisation & Position Dr Kotie Pienaar (KP) Wolvehuis Farm Re/6/114 – Adjacent Landowner Pamela Sidambe (PS) Savannah Environmental – Social Consultant Lisa Opperman (LO) Savannah Environmental – EAP

APOLOGIES

None

PROJECT BACKGROUND

A locality map was sent to Dr Pienaar for reference. Lisa Opperman presented the background and introduction to the project and the Environmental Impact Assessment process. The findings of the Scoping Phase from an environmental perspective was highlighted and explained.

116 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

DISCUSSION SESSION

Question / Comment Response KP: How will the project affect me? LO: The impact of the project is being considered as a whole by specialists in different fields, taking into consideration the surrounding areas of the project site. The most likely impact will be from a visual perspective, however a visual specialist will assess the visual impacts of the development during the EIA phase, and propose appropriate mitigation measures in order to reduce the impacts to acceptable levels. All other fields assessed by specialists will include mitigation measures.

KP: Is there going to be a camp for the LO: No, there will not be a man camp associated construction workers? with the project as majority of the employees will be sourced locally from the surrounding communities, including the town of Orkney. The workers will be transported to and from the construction site. KP: When will construction start? LO: The project is still in a very early planning stage. The Scoping Phase is the beginning of the EIA process and the entire process will take 300 days to be completed. After the completion of the EIA process and the granting of the Environmental Authorisation by the National Department of Environmental Affairs the project is still to be bid into the REIPPP programme which is undertaken by the Department of Energy. If awarded preferred bidder status, then only can the project be constructed and operated. All other relevant permits will also need to be in place before commencement. PS: Do you have any concerns regarding the KP: Yes, I do. The construction phase is the presence of construction workers? biggest concern for me as security will be an issue. PS: Do you reside on the farm? KP: No I do not live on the farm. But there is a farm manager and 20 farm workers that reside on the farm. PS: Do you lease any portions of the farm? KP: No. PS: What activities are currently taking place in KP: The land is mainly used for cattle farming and your farm? grazing. PS: Where do you source water from? KP: The water is sourced from the Vaal River.

117 PROPOSED ORKNEY SOLAR FARM AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE SIA REPORT DECEMBER 2016

Question / Comment Response PS: Do you foresee any issues relating to the KP: I would consider it an issues if the development in terms of the farming activities development is going to impact the Vaal River. I taking place on your property? do not want anything disturbing the Vaal River PS: Are there any sensitive telecommunications KP: No there is nothing of concern in that regard. infrastructure or masts, power lines, airstrips or any other significant features located on your farm or planned for the future? PS: Do you have any safety and security concerns KP: I keep cattle, security is my major concern with the proposed developments? during the construction phase. Someone will have to take responsibility for the loss of cattle. PS: The visual appearance or sense of place might KP: I do not have a problem with the visual change with the implantation of the Solar Farm in appearance. But I think the holiday estate next to the area, do you have any issues regarding my farm will definitely be concerned about the appearance of the place? visual appearance. You will have to contact them PS: Thank you for that information, we will KP: No, I do not have that information, you will definitely contact the holiday estate owner, do you have to contact them. have their contact details or the name of the estate? PS: There will be an increase in traffic from KP: Traffic will not affect me. construction vehicles and trucks on the regional road (R502). Is this a concern for you and would this interrupt any of your daily movement patterns? PS: There will be construction noise and dust from KP: No, noise and dust will not impact my farming the developments. Would the noise and dust have activities. an impact on your farming activities or lifestyle? PS: Do you have any other questions? KP: I don’t have any other question. PS: Are you in support of the proposed KP: I have no problem with the project. development? LO: Just to remind you that the scoping report is KP: I will read the report and send my comments out for review and your comments are welcome. through. You can download the report from the Savanah website and send your written comments to Gabriele Wood, our public participation consultant.

WAY FORWARD AND CLOSURE

The meeting was closed and Lisa explained that the comments and concerns identified will be incorporated into the SIA report. The Savannah team thanked the Mr Pienaar for availing himself for the meeting and the meeting closed at 14:30pm.

118 APPENDIX C: DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE AND CV

DETAILS OF SPECIALIST AND DECLARATION OF INTEREST (For official use only) File Reference Number: NEAS Reference Number: DEAT/EIA/ Date Received:

Application for authorisation in terms of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998), as amended and the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2014

PROJECT TITLE Proposed Orkney Solar Farm, North West Province

Specialist: Pamela S Sidambe Contact person: Pamela Sidambe Postal address: PO Box 148, Sunninghill Postal code: 2157 Cell: Telephone: (011) 656 3237 Fax: 086 684 0547 E-mail: [email protected] Professional affiliation(s) (if any)

Project Consultant: Savannah Environmental (Pty) Ltd Contact person: Jo-Anne Thomas / Karen Jodas Postal address: PO Box 148, Sunninghill Postal code: 2157 Cell: Telephone: (011) 656 3237 Fax: 086 684 0547 E-mail: [email protected] / [email protected] 4.2 The specialist appointed in terms of the Regulations_

I, Pamela S. Sidambe , declare that --

General declaration:

» I act as the independent specialists 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 71 and is punishable in terms of section 24F of the Act.

Signature of the specialist:

Savannah Environmental (Pty) Ltd Name of company (if applicable):

25 October 2016 Date: SIA Specialist CV

CURRICULUM VITAE Pamela S. Sidambe

Profession : Social Consultant Specialisation : Social Impact Assessments (SIA) Years’ experience : 12 years

• KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Specific responsibilities as a Social Consultant involve social research, community and household profiling, baseline data analysis, conducting field research, stakeholder engagement, socio- economic assessments, analysis of data and communicating the results. This includes managing and coordinating the Social Impact Assessment (SIA) process and compiling SIA reports in line with the country’s guidelines and legislation.

SKILLS BASE AND CORE COMPETENCIES • Social Impact Assessments (SIAs); • Social Impact Management Plans; • Socio-Economic Baseline Studies; • Community needs analysis and profiling; • Community development facilitation; • EIA legislation; • Public participation process; • Project administration and management; • Stakeholder engagement and management; and • Research, report writing and presentation of results.

• EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL STATUS

Degrees:

• MA in Social Impact Assessment, University of Johannesburg (2016) • Honours Development Studies, University of South Africa (2011) • BA in Community Development, University of South Africa (2009)

Courses:

• Certificate in HIV/Aids Care and Counselling. University of South Africa (UNISA) (2007). • Diploma in Community Development. Association of Business Managers and Administrators (ABMA), United Kingdom (UK) (2006). • Certificate in Systemic Family Counselling. Institute of Systemic Therapy/CONNECT (2005). • EMPLOYMENT

• July 2016 – date: Savannah Environmental (Pty) Ltd.; Social Consultant • July 2013 to June 2016: Part-time Socio-Economic Consultant • May 2010 to June 2013: CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation; Divisional Assistant • May 2009 to April 2010: BKS Engineering; Document Management Officer • January 2004 to May 2007: Outreach Development Management; Project Manager

SYNOPSIS OF PROJECT EXPERIENCE

Social Impact Assessment Reports: • September 2016: Specialist SIA report for the proposed Orkney Solar Farm Project and associated infrastructure, North West. • August 2016: Specialist SIA report for the proposed Noupoort CSP Project and associated infrastructure, Umsobomvu, Northern Cape. • August 2016: Specialist SIA report for the proposed 10MW Scuitdrift Solar Energy facility, near Augrabies, Northern Cape. • August 2016: Specialist SIA report for the proposed road realignment project, Pofadder, Northern Cape. • August 2016: Specialist SIA report for the proposed industrial development, Kuruman, Northern Cape. • August 2016: Specialist SIA report for the proposed Solar Reserve Kotulotsatsi PV Facility & associated infrastructure near kenhardt, Northern Cape. • July, 2016. Specialist SIA study for the proposed 400kV power line, Ilanga, Northern Cape Province. • July 2016: Specialist SIA report for the proposed Saldanha Bay strengthening project, Western Cape. • July 2016: Specialist social scoping study for the proposed Karoshoek Solar Valley Development- Power line, near Upington, Northern Cape Province (for FG Emvelo (Pty) Ltd); • July 2016: Specialist SIA report for EIA process for the proposed Karoshoek Solar Valley Development- Power line, near Upington, Northern Cape Province (for FG Emvelo (Pty) Ltd); and • July 2014: Specialist Socio-Economic Assessment for the proposed Cultural Precinct in Sandton, Gauteng Province.

Experience in Community Projects • Community asset profiling and needs analysis; • Stakeholder profiling, partnership building and stakeholder management; • Strategy development, policy reviews and development; • Facilitating community involvement and participation in planning and implementation of development projects; • Project conceptualisation, planning and implementation management; and • Programme and project performance Monitoring and Evaluation. APPENDIX D: EXTERNAL REVIEWER’S REPORT AND CV

Dr. Neville Bews & Associates Social Impact Assessors Committed to building high trust environments

P. O. Box 145412 Tel: +27 11 867-0462 Bracken Gardens Fax: +27 86 621-8345 Alberton Mobile: +27 82 557-3489 South Africa Skype: neville.bews 1452 Email: [email protected] URL: http://www.socialassessment.co.za/

15 January, 2016

Attention: Pamela S. Sidambe Savannah Environmental Pty Ltd 5 Woodlands Drive Office Park Cnr Woodlands Drive and Western Service Road Woodmead

Re: Peer review of the Social Impact Specialists Report for the Proposed Orkney Solar Farm and Associated Infrastructure near Orkney, North West Province

Having reviewed the above report I find that in essence it provides a description of the project and the social environment within which the project will unfold. It also provides an indication of the social impacts that are likely to arise as a result of the proposed project and suggests appropriate optimisation and mitigation measure. The review was concluded on 15 January, 2016 and the following comments are made. 1. The terms of reference are acceptable; 2. The methodology is clearly explained and acceptable; 3. The findings are based on acceptable evidence; 4. The mitigation measures and recommendations are appropriate with recommendations being suggested; 5. No apparent shortcomings are identified; 6. The reference literature is appropriate; 7. No site-inspection was carried out as part of the peer review; 8. The article is well-written and easy to understand.

1

It can be concluded in considering the SIA scoping report that that the process and assessment followed was adequate providing a fair indication of the social impacts likely to arise as a result of the project. Attached is a schedule, in accordance with Appendix 6 of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (ACT NO. 107 OF 1998). Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2014, indicating the level of compliance of the report in respect of this regulation.

DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE

I, Neville Bews, as authorised representative of Dr Neville Bews & Associates hereby confirm my independence as a specialist and declare that neither I nor Dr Neville Bews & Associates have any interest, be it business, financial, personal or other, in any proposed activity, application or appeal in respect of which Dr Neville Bews & Associates was appointed as social impact assessment specialists in terms of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998), other than fair remuneration for work performed. This declaration is specifically in connection with the review of the Social Impact Report for the Proposed Orkney Solar Farm and Associated Infrastructure near Orkney, North West Province.

Signed: Date: 15 January, 2016

2 NEVILLE BEWS CURRICULUM VITAE

Details and Experience of Independent Consultant

Qualifications: University of South Africa: B.A. (Honours) – 1984 Henley Management College, United Kingdom: The Henley Post-Graduate Certificate in Management – 1997 Rand Afrikaans University: M.A. (cum laude) – 1999 Rand Afrikaans University: D. Litt. et Phil. – 2000

Projects: The SIA for the Gautrain Rapid Rail Link; The impact assessment for the Australian – South African sports development programme; SIA for Kumba Resources, Sishen South Project; Evaluation of a Centre for Violence Against Women for The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime; SIAs for the following Exxaro Resources Ltd.’s mines, Leeuwpan Coal Mine Delmas, Glen Douglas Dolomite Mine Henley-on-Klip, Grootegeluk Open Cast Coal Mine Lephalale; SIA for the South African National Road Agency Limited (SANRAL) on Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP); SIA for SANRAL on the N2 Wild Coast Toll Highway; Research into research outputs of the University for the University of Johannesburg; SIA for Waterfall Wedge housing and business development in Midrand Gauteng; SIA for the Environmental Management Plan for Sedibeng District Municipality; Social and Labour Plan for the Belfast Project on behalf of Exxaro Resources Ltd; SIA for the Transnet New Multi- Product Pipeline (Commercial Farmers) on behalf of Golder Associates Africa (Pty) Ltd; SIA for the Proposed Vale Moatize Power Plant Project in Mozambique on behalf of Golder Associates Africa (Pty) Ltd; SIA for Kumba Resources Ltd.’s proposed Dingleton Resettlement Project at Sishen Iron Ore Mine on behalf of Water for Africa (Pty) Ltd; SIA for Gold Fields West Wits Project for EcoPartners; SIA for the Belfast Project for Exxaro Resources Ltd; SIA for Eskom Holdings Ltd.’s Proposed Ubertas 88/11kV Substation on behalf of KV3 Engineers (Pty) Ltd; SIA for the Mokolo and Crocodile River (West) Water Augmentation Project (MCWAP) for the Department of Water Affairs on behalf of Nemai Consulting and the Trans Caledonian Water Authority; Assisted Octagon Consulting with the SIA for Eskom’s Nuclear 1 Power Plant on behalf of Arcus GIBB Engineering & Science. SIA for the 150MW Photovoltaic Power Plant and Associated Infrastructure for Italgest Energy (Pty) Ltd, on behalf of Kalahari Survey Solutions cc. SIA for Eskom Holdings Limited, Transmission Division’s Neptune-Poseidon 400kV Power Line on behalf of Nemai Consulting. Ncwabeni Off-Channel Storage Dam for security of water supply in Umzumbe, KwaZulu-Natal. Social Impact assessment for Eskom Holdings Limited, Transmission Division, Forskor-Merensky 275kV±130km Powerline and Associated Substation Works in Limpopo Province. Social impact assessment for the proposed infilling of the Model Yacht Pond at Blue Lagoon, Stiebel Place, Durban. ABC Prieska Solar Project; Proposed 75 MWp Photovoltaic Power Plant and its associated infrastructure on a portion of the remaining extent of ERF 1 Prieska, Northern Cape. Sekoko Wayland Iron Ore, Molemole Local Municipalities in Limpopo Province. Langpan Chrome Mine, Thabazimbi, Limpopo; Jozini Nodal Expansion Implementation Project, KwaZulu-Natal, on behalf of Nemai Consulting; SIA for Glen Douglas Dolomite Burning Project, Midvaal Gauteng, on behalf of Afrimat Limited; SIA for Lyttelton Dolomite mine Dolomite Burning Project, Marble Hall Limpopo on behalf of Afrimat Limited. Tubatse Strengthening Phase 1 – Senakangwedi B Integration for Eskom Transmission on behalf of Nsovo Environmental Consulting; Department of Water and Sanitation, South Africa (2014). Environmental Impact Assessment for the Mzimvubu Water Project: Social Impact Assessment DWS Report No: P WMA 12/T30/00/5314/7.

Regularly lecture in the Department of Sociology at the University of Johannesburg and collaborated with Prof. Henk Becker of Utrecht University, the Netherlands, in a joint lecture to present the Social Impact Assessment Masters course via video link between the Netherlands and South Africa and regularly lecture on this course. Presented papers on Social Impact Assessments at both national and international seminars. Published on both a national and international level.

Affiliation: The International Association for Impact Assessment Southern Africa.

Registered on the database for scientific peer review of iSimangaliso GEF project outputs.