ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT PROCESS DRAFT SCOPING REPORT
PROPOSED SPITSKOP EAST WIND FARM NEAR RIEBEEK EAST, EASTERN CAPE PROVINCE (DEA Ref: 14/12/16/3/3/2/691)
DRAFT FOR PUBLIC REVIEW
June 2014
Prepared for: Renewable Energy Systems Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd (RES SA) 1st Floor, Convention Towers Cnr Heerengracht & Walter Sisulu Avenue Foreshore Cape Town 8001
Prepared by:
Unit 10, Building 2, 5 Woodlands Drive Office Park Cnr Woodlands Drive & Western Service Road, Woodmead, Gauteng P.O. Box 148, Sunninghill, 2157 Telephone : +27 (0)11 656 3237 Facsimile : +27 (0)86 684 0547 Email : [email protected] www.savannahsa.com
PROPOSED SPITSKOP EAST WIND FARM NEAR RIEBEEK EAST, EASTERN CAPE PROVINCE Draft Scoping Report June 2014
PROJECT DETAILS
DEA Reference No. : 14/12/16/3/3/2/691
Title : Environmental Impact Assessment Process Draft Scoping Report: Proposed Spitskop East Wind Facility near Riebeek East, Eastern Cape Province
Authors : Savannah Environmental (Pty) Ltd Tebogo Mapinga Jo-Anne Thomas
Sub-consultants : Shawn Johnston (Sustainable Futures ZA)
Project Developer : Renewable Energy Systems Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd (RES SA)
Report Status : Draft Scoping Report for public review
Review Period : June 2014
When used as a reference this report should be cited as: Savannah Environmental (2014) Draft Scoping Report: Proposed Spitskop East Wind Farm near Riebeek East, Eastern Cape Province
COPYRIGHT RESERVED This technical report has been produced for Renewable Energy Systems Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd (RES SA). The intellectual property contained in this report remains vested in Savannah Environmental and Renewable Energy Systems (RES) Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd. No part of the report may be reproduced in any manner without written permission from Savannah Environmental (Pty) Ltd and Renewable Energy Systems Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd (RES SA).
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EIA INFORMATION LIST – DEA & LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
According to the requirements of the DEA, site, technical and environmental information on the proposed project is to be included in the scoping / EIA reports or to be appended to these reports.
1. DEA Requirements as detailed in the Acceptance of the Application for Authorisation
1. GENERAL SITE
No. Information Provided / Reference 1.1 Descriptions of all affected farm portions Refer to Chapter 1 & 2 of this report. 1.2 21 digit Surveyor General codes of all affected farm Appendix B portions 1.3 Wind Energy design specifications including: Refer to Chapter 2 of this » Type of technology report. » Structure height » Surface area to be covered (including associated infrastructure such as roads) » Structure orientation » Laydown area dimensions (construction period and thereafter) » Generation capacity of the facility as a whole at delivery points
2. SITE MAPS AND GIS INFORMATION
No. Information Provided 2.2 All affected farm portions must be indicated Refer to Figure 1.1 of this report – locality map and Appendix F 2.3 The exact site of the application must be indicated Refer to Figure 1.1 of this (the areas that will be occupied by the application) report – locality map and Appendix F 2.4 A status quo map/layer must be provided that includes the following: Current use of the land on site including: 2.4.1 Buildings and other structures Refer to Figure 7.1 2.4.2 Agricultural fields Refer to Figure 7.1 2.4.3 Grazing areas Refer to Figure 7.1 2.4.4 Natural vegetation areas (natural veld not Refer to Figure 7.2 cultivated for the preceding 10 years) with an indication of the vegetation quality as well as fine
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No. Information Provided scale mapping in respect of Critical Biodiversity Areas and Ecological Support areas 2.4.5 Critical Biodiversity Areas that occur on site See figure 7.4 2.4.6 Bare areas which may be susceptible to soil To be identified in the EIA erosion phase 2.4.7 Cultural historical sites and elements To be identified in the EIA phase 2.4.8 Rivers, streams and water courses To be identified in the EIA phase 2.4.9 Ridgelines and 20m continuous contours with To be identified in the EIA height references in the GIS database phase 2.4.10 Fountains, boreholes, dams (in-stream as well To be identified in the EIA as off-stream) and reservoirs phase 2.4.11 High potential agricultural areas as defined by To be identified in the EIA the Department of Agriculture, Forestry & phase Fisheries 2.4.12 A slope analysis map / layer that include the To be provided in the EIA following slope ranges: phase less than 8% slope between 8% and 12% slope between 12%and 14% slope steeper than 18 %slope 2.4.14 A map/layer that indicate locations of birds To be identified in the EIA and' bats including roosting and foraging phase areas (specialist input required) 2.5/* A site development proposal map(s)/layer(s) that Figure 2.1 and Appendix F. indicates: The preliminary layout 2.5.1 Position of wind facility included in this scoping phase indicates the 2.5.2 Foundation footprint location of the substation, 2.5.3 Internal road indicating width (construction power line route period width and operation period width) and alternatives and turbine with numbered sections between the other positions. A detailed layout site elements which they serve (to make map will be provided commenting on sections possible) during the EIA Phase. 2.5.4 River, stream and water crossing of roads and cables indicating the type of bridging structures that will be used 2.5.5 Substation (s) and/ transformer (s) sites including their entire footprint 2.5.6 Cable routes and trench dimensions (where they are not long internal roads) 2.5.7 Connection routes to the distribution / transmission network 2.5.8 Cut and fill areas along roads and at substation
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No. Information Provided /transformer sites indicating the expected volume of each cut and fill 2.5.9 Borrow pits 2.5.10 Spoil heaps (temporary for topsoil & subsoil and permanently for excess material) 2.5.11 Buildings including accommodation
3. REGIONAL MAP AND GIS INFORMATION
No. Information Provided 3.1 All maps/information layers must also be provided in Maps contained in the CD ESRI Shapefile format version of this report submitted to DEA & Appendix F 3.2 The map/layer must cover an area of 20km around Maps contained in the CD the site version of this report submitted to DEA & Appendix F 3.3 Indicate the following: Refer to Appendix F » roads including their types (tarred or gravel) and category (national, provincial, local or private) » Railway lines and stations » Industrial areas » Harbours and airports » Electricity transmission and distribution lines and substations » Pipelines » Water sources to be utilizes during the construction and operational phases » Critical Biodiversity Areas and Ecological Support Areas » Critically Endangered and Endangered vegetation areas » Agricultural fields » Irrigated areas » An indication of new road or changes and upgrades that must be done to existing roads in order to get equipment onto the site including cut and fill areas and crossings of rivers and streams
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2. Requirements in terms of Section 28 of GNR543
NEMA REGULATIONS 543, SECTION 28 CROSS REFERENCE IN REQUIREMENTS FOR THE CONTENT OF SCOPING THIS SCOPING REPORT REPORTS (a) details of— Chapter 1: Section 1.3 (i) the EAP who prepared the report; and (ii) the expertise of the EAP to carry out scoping procedures (b) a description of the proposed activity Chapter 1 (c) a description of any feasible and reasonable alternatives Chapter 2 that have been identified (d) a description of the property on which the activity is to Chapter 1 be undertaken and the location of the activity on the property, or if it is— (i) a linear activity, a description of the route of the activity; or (ii) an ocean-based activity, the coordinates where the activity is to be undertaken
(e) a description of the environment that may be affected by Chapter 7 the activity and the manner in which activity may be affected by the environment (f) an identification of all legislation and guidelines that have Chapter 5 and 6 been considered in the preparation of the scoping report (g) a description of environmental issues and potential Chapter 7and 8 impacts, including cumulative impacts, that have been identified (h) details of the public participation process conducted in terms of regulation 27(a), including— (i) the steps that were taken to notify potentially Chapter 8 interested and affected parties of the application
(ii) proof that notice boards, advertisements and Appendix D notices notifying potentially interested and affected parties of the application have been displayed, placed or given (iii) a list of all persons or organisations that were Appendix C identified and registered in terms of regulation 55 as interested and affected parties in relation to the application (iv) a summary of the issues raised by interested Appendix E4 and affected parties, the date of receipt of and the response of the EAP to those issues
(i) a description of the need and desirability of the proposed Chapter 2: Section activity
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NEMA REGULATIONS 543, SECTION 28 CROSS REFERENCE IN REQUIREMENTS FOR THE CONTENT OF SCOPING THIS SCOPING REPORT REPORTS (j) a description of identified potential alternatives to the Chapter 2: Section proposed activity, including advantages and disadvantages that the proposed activity or alternatives may have on the environment and the community that may be affected by the activity (k) copies of any representations, and comments received in Not available at this stage connection with the application or the scoping report from interested and affected parties (l) copies of the minutes of any meetings held by the EAP Not available at this stage with interested and affected parties and other role players which record the views of the participants (m) any responses by the EAP to those representations and Appendix E4 comments and views; (n) a plan of study for environmental impact assessment Chapter 10 which sets out the proposed approach to the environmental impact assessment of the application, which must include— (i) a description of the tasks that will be undertaken as part of the environmental impact assessment process, including any specialist reports or specialised processes, and the manner in which such tasks will be undertaken (ii) an indication of the stages at which the competent authority will be consulted
(iii) a description of the proposed method of assessing the environmental issues and alternatives, including the option of not proceeding with the activity (iv) particulars of the public participation process that will be conducted during the environmental impact assessment process
(o) any specific information required by the competent No additional information has authority been requested at this stage (p) any other matters required in terms of sections 24(4)(a) No additional information has and (b) of the Act. been requested at this stage (2) In addition, a scoping report must take into account any Chapter 4 and 5 guidelines applicable to the kind of activity which is the subject of the application. (3) The EAP managing the application must provide the Chapter 2 competent authority with detailed, written proof of an investigation as required by section 24(4)(b)(i) of the Act and motivation if no reasonable or feasible alternatives, as contemplated in sub-regulation (1)(c), exist.
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PURPOSE OF THE DRAFT SCOPING REPORT
Renewable Energy Systems Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd (RES SA) is proposing to establish a commercial wind energy facility and associated infrastructure on a site located approximately 6km north-west of Riebeek East and approximately 15km north-west of Alicedale in the Eastern Cape Province. The project site covers an area which falls mostly within the Makana Local Municipality and partially within the Blue Crane Route Local Municipality. RES SA has appointed Savannah Environmental, as independent environmental consultants, to undertake the EIA. The EIA process is being undertaken in accordance with the requirements of the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA; Act No. 107 of 1998).
Scoping is an important part of the EIA process, as it helps to ensure that the impact assessment is appropriately focussed. The main objectives of the Scoping process are:
» To engage with stakeholders at an early stage of the development so that they may contribute their views with regards to the proposed project; » To identify potential issues and impacts associated with the proposed development; » To define the scope of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA); » To define the methodology that is required for the EIA; and » To describe the plan of study for the EIA.
In terms of NEMA, the Scoping Report is submitted to the competent authority (i.e. the National Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA)) as part of the decision-making process with regard to the proposed wind farm. The Scoping Report is also intended to provide sufficient background information to other Organs of State, non-statutory bodies, the general public, organisations and local communities in order to obtain their commentary and input on the proposed development. The Scoping Phase of the EIA process identifies and describes potential issues associated with the proposed project, and defines the extent of the studies required within the EIA Phase of the process. The EIA Phase will assess those identified potential environmental impacts and benefits associated with all phases of the project including design, construction, operation and decommissioning, and will recommend appropriate mitigation measures for potentially significant environmental impacts.
The Scoping Report consists of eight sections:
» Chapter 1 provides background to the proposed wind energy facility and associated infrastructure, and the environmental impact assessment. » Chapter 2 describes the scope of the proposed project and alternatives.
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» Chapter 3 describes the wind generation option and provides insight to technologies for wind turbines. » Chapter 4 provides the Regulatory and Planning Context. » Chapter 5 outlines the process which was followed during the Scoping Phase of the process and outlines the regulatory and legal context. » Chapter 6 describes the public participation process undertaken » Chapter 7 describes the existing biophysical and socio-economic environment affected by the proposed project. » Chapter 8 provides the description of the potential environmental issues and potential impacts identified to be associated with the project, including potential cumulative impacts. » Chapter 9 presents the conclusions of the scoping evaluation. » Chapter 10 describes the Plan of Study for EIA. » Chapter 11 provides references used to compile the Scoping Report.
The Draft Scoping Report provides the public with an opportunity to verify that all potential issues associated with the proposed project have been identified through this scoping study, and provides an opportunity for additional key issues for consideration to be raised. The Final Scoping Report will incorporate all comments received prior to submission to the National Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA).
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INVITATION TO COMMENT ON THE DRAFT SCOPING REPORT
Members of the public, local communities and stakeholders are invited to comment on the Draft Scoping Report which has been made available for public review and comment at the following locations from 24 June 2014 to 04 August 2014:
» Public Libraries Riebeek East Library; Grahamstown Library, Alicedale Library, and Bedford Public Library. » Farmers Co-ops Eastern Cape Agricultural Co-op –Buchner Street, Paterson, Eastern Cape Agricultural Co-op – Charles Street, Somerset East, and Humansdorp Co-op – Station Street, Golden Valley. » www.savannahSA.com
Please submit your comments to Shawn Johnston of Sustainable Futures ZA PO Box 749, Rondebosch, Cape Town, 7701
Tel: 083 325 9965 Fax: 086 510 2537 E-mail: [email protected] The due date for comments on the Draft Scoping Report is 31 July 2014
Comments can be made as written submission via fax, post or e-mail.
The Public Open Day meeting will be held on 16 July 2014 at the Riebeeck East Community Hall in the town of Riebeeck East from 09:00-19:00 at the following:
Riebeeck East Community Hall Von Behren Street Kwa Nomzamo Riebeeck East
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SUMMARY
Background and Project Overview » Wind turbines and concrete or Renewable Energy Systems Southern rock adaptor foundations to Africa (Pty) Ltd (RES SA) is support them. It is proposing to establish a commercial anticipated that the turbines wind energy facility and associated to be utilised will have a hub infrastructure on a site located height of up to 122m, and a approximately 6km north-west of rotor diameter of up to up to Riebeek East and approximately 133 m (i.e. each blade up to 15km north-west of Alicedale in the 65 m in length). The Eastern Cape Province. The project individual turbines’ generating site covers an area which falls mostly up to 6.15 MW each in within the Makana Local Municipality capacity are being considered and partially within the Blue Crane for the site however this is Route Local Municipality. subject to change depending on technology availability at An EIA process for a larger project the time of turbine supply named “Spitskop” was initiated in contracting; January 2011. However, the EIA » Possibly small transformer process for this project ceased due to outside each turbine tower, a number of changes to the project, depending on the make and and the application was withdrawn. A model of turbine deemed new EIA process has been initiated most suitable for the site. for the Spitskop East Wind Energy External transformers would Facility project. An application for have their own foundation authorisation for this project was and housing around it; submitted to the DEA and reference » Crane hardstandings; number 14/12/16/3/3/2/691 has » Internal access roads to each been allocated. turbine; » Cabling between the turbines, The Spitskop Wind Energy Facility is to be laid underground and proposed to comprise of up to 57 alongside the internal access wind turbines to be constructed over roads where practical; an area of approximately 200km2 in » Buildings and dedicated areas extent. The facility is proposed to for workshops, control have a generating capacity of systems, maintenance and approximately 140 MW, depending storage with parking areas on the final turbine selected. The where required; proposed wind energy facility site is » Temporary construction proposed to accommodate the compound and temporary site following infrastructure: offices;
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» Temporary and permanent RE 1/262, RE 6/262, 11/262 Witte meteorological masts for Poort; 1/263 Commadagga; 590 calibration and site Steenkampsberg; 597 Farm(refer to monitoring; Figure 1 & Figure 2) . » An on-site substation to facilitate the connection The nature and extent of this facility, between the wind energy as well as potential environmental facility and the grid; impacts associated with the » Security huts and gates at construction of a facility of this site entrances. nature is explored in more detail in this Scoping Report. In order to connect the wind energy facility to the electricity grid, a new The Scoping Study for the proposed overhead power line is proposed. Spitskop Wind Energy Facility near There are three general options for Riebeek East in the Eastern Cape the connection point of this power Province has been undertaken in line, i.e.: accordance with the EIA Regulations » Eskom’s existing Poseidon published in Government Notice Substation near Cookhouse 33306 of GN R543, R544, R545 and » the new Kopleegte Substation R546 (18 June 2010), in terms of near Bedford, or Section 24(5) of the National » the existing power lines in close Environmental Management Act proximity to the site. (NEMA; Act No 107 of 1998).
Figure 2 provides an indication of the Environmental Impact Assessment specific proposed power line corridors under consideration. All three of The scoping phase for the proposed these general options are being project forms part of the EIA process considered within the EIA process for and has been undertaken in this project. accordance with the EIA Regulations. The Scoping Report aimed to identify The development envelope for the potential issues associated with the wind energy facility comprises the proposed project, and define the following farm portions which extent of studies required within the exceeds 20 000ha in extent: RE 60, EIA. This was achieved through an RE 1/60, 2/60, 3/60 Junction Drift; evaluation of the proposed project RE 61, 1/61 Buffels Drift; Farm 66; involving specialists with expertise 2/138, 3/138 Groot Fontein; RE relevant to the nature of the project 1/139 Bronkos Fontein; RE 1/140, and the study area, the project 2/140, 3/140 Groot Fontein; RE proponent, as well as a consultation 141, RE 1/141, 2/141 Ebenezer; RE process with key stakeholders that 143, 1/143 Bosch Fontein; RE 144, included both relevant government 3/144, 4/144; 1/145, 2/145, RE authorities and interested and 145; RE 1/261, 2/261 Brak Fontein; affected parties (I&APs).
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infrastructure, operational and A comprehensive public participation maintenance costs, as well as social process is being undertaken in and environmental impacts. Local accordance with Regulation 54 of level environmental and planning Government Notice No R543 of 2010 issues will now be considered within during the Scoping phase of this EIA site-specific studies to be process. This public participation undertaken as part of the EIA for the process comprises the following: project. The assessments through the EIA process will assist in » Notification of the EIA delineating areas of environmental Process in printed media and on sensitivity within the broader site site, as well as through written and ultimately inform the placement notification to identified of the wind turbines, power line and stakeholders and affected associated infrastructure on the site landowners. in order to minimise impacts on the » Identification and registration environment. of I&APs and key stakeholders. » Compilation and distribution of a Issues identified through this scoping Background Information study as being potentially associated Document (BID) to all identified with the proposed Spitskop Wind I&APs and key stakeholders. Energy Facility, power line and » On-going consultation with associated infrastructure near identified I&APs and Riebeek East are summarised below. stakeholders, including Telephonic communication, Focus Positive potential impacts related to Group and Public Meetings and the construction/ one-one-one meetings. Decommissioning phases of the » Compilation and maintenance of wind farm include, inter alia: a database containing the » Positive: Social Impacts names and addresses of all * Opportunistic labour in- identified I&APs and key migration stakeholders. * Skills development » Preparation of a Comments and * Job creation Response Report detailing key issues raised by I&APs as part of Negative potential impacts related the EIA Process. to the construction and Decommissioning phases of the Evaluation of the Proposed Project wind facility, power line and associated infrastructure include, The overarching objective for the inter alia: wind energy facility planning process » Visual impacts associated with is to maximise electricity production the construction of the wind through exposure to the wind energy facility and associated resource, while minimising infrastructure;
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» Impacts on Soils and Agricultural * Increased mortality of Potential; birds/bats due to collision » Impacts on Vegetation and with turbine blades. terrestrial Fauna; * Increased mortality of » Impacts on Avifauna; birds/bats due to » Impacts on Bats; Electrocution with associated » Impacts on Heritage; power lines » Impacts on Noise sensitive * Habitat loss receptors; and » Noise impacts » Social Impacts. » Social Impacts: * impacts on existing tourism Positive potential impacts related to and tourism potential of the the operation of the wind energy area facility power line and associated infrastructure include, inter alia: The majority of potential impacts » Provision of a clean, renewable identified to be associated with the energy source for the national construction and operation of the grid. proposed wind farm are anticipated » Stabilisation of power supply in to be localised and restricted to the the Eastern Cape. proposed site. No environmental » Social Impacts: fatal flaws were identified to be * Creation of opportunities to associated with the site. However, local business during the areas of potential sensitivity were operational phase, including identified through the scoping phase. but not limited to, provision These areas of sensitivity are of security, staff transport, illustrated in the sensitivity map and other services. (Refer to Figure 3). * Potential up and down-stream economic opportunities for The potentially sensitive areas/ the local, regional and environmental features that have national economy. been identified include: » Assistance towards provision of secure power supply in South » Areas of visual exposure within Africa. (but not restricted to) 4 km of the proposed wind energy facility site Negative potential impacts related such as homesteads and to the operation of the wind facility, observers travelling along major power line and associated and gravel roads; infrastructure include, inter alia: » Potentially sensitive noise » Visual impacts indicated in Figure 3; * Visual exposure of wind » Areas of flora/fauna sensitivity as turbines and associated indicated in Figure 3; and infrastructure » Areas of Agricultural sensitivity. » Impacts on Avifauna and bats
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The sensitivity map is a rough scale estimate of sensitivity on the site, and these areas will be subject to survey and ground-truthing during the EIA phase of the project. These potentially sensitive areas will, therefore, be further investigated and assessed through detailed specialist studies (including field surveys) during the EIA phase.
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Figure 1: Locality map of proposed area for the establishment of the Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility north-west of Riebeek East, Eastern Cape Province.
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Figure 2: Locality map of proposed area for the establishment of the Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility and the alternative power line routes being considered to connect the wind energy facility to the electricity grid. (Note that potential alternative substations are not shown on this map)
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Figure 3: Environmental Sensitivity Map for the proposed Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility. (Note that potential alternative substations are not shown on this map)
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TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE
EIA INFORMATION LIST – DEA & LEGAL REQUIREMENTS ...... II
1. GENERAL SITE ...... II 2. SITE MAPS AND GIS INFORMATION ...... II 3. REGIONAL MAP AND GIS INFORMATION ...... IV
PURPOSE OF THE DRAFT SCOPING REPORT ...... VII
SUMMARY ...... X
DEFINITIONS AND TERMINOLOGY ...... XXII
ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS ...... XXVI
CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION ...... 27
1.1. PROJECT OVERVIEW ...... 28 1.2. REQUIREMENT FOR AN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT PROCESS ...... 32 1.3. DETAILS OF ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PRACTITIONER ...... 33
CHAPTER 2 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT ...... 35
2.1. COMPONENTS OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT...... 37 2.2. LOCATION OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT ...... 38 2.3. THE NEED AND DESIRABILITY FOR THE PROPOSED WIND ENERGY FACILITY PROJECT ...... 38 2.4. SITE SELECTION AND PRE-FEASIBILITY ANALYSIS ...... 40 2.5. PROJECT ALTERNATIVES ...... 46 2.5.1. Site Alternatives ...... 46 2.5.2. Technology Alternatives ...... 46 2.5.3. Site-specific or Layout Design Alternatives ...... 47 2.5.4. The ‘do-nothing’ Alternative ...... 47 2.6. ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITATIONS OF THE EIA PROCESS ...... 48
CHAPTER 3 WIND ENERGY AS POWER GENERATION OPTION ...... 49
3.1 WIND ENERGY AS A POWER GENERATION TECHNOLOGY ...... 49 3.1.1. How do wind turbines function ...... 51 3.1.2. Main Components of a Wind Turbine ...... 52 3.1.3 2. Operating Characteristics of a Wind Turbine ...... 55 3.2. PROJECT CONSTRUCTION PHASE ...... 56 3.2.2. Conduct Surveys ...... 56 3.2.3. Establishment of Access Roads to the Site ...... 56 3.2.4. Undertake Site Preparation ...... 57 3.2.5. Establishment of Laydown Areas on Site ...... 57 3.2.6. Construct Foundation ...... 57 3.2.7. Transport of Components and Equipment to Site ...... 58 3.2.8. Construct Turbine ...... 59 3.2.9. Construct Substation ...... 59 3.2.10. Connection of Wind Turbines to the Substation ...... 59 3.2.11. Establishment of Ancillary Infrastructure ...... 60
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3.2.12. Connect Substation to Power Grid ...... 60 3.2.13. Undertake Site Rehabilitation ...... 60 3.4. PROJECT OPERATION PHASE ...... 60 3.5. PROJECT DECOMMISSIONING PHASE ...... 61 3.5.1. Site Preparation ...... 61 3.5.2. Disassemble and Remove Turbines ...... 61
CHAPTER 4 REGULATORY AND PLANNING CONTEXT ...... 29
4.1. STRATEGIC ELECTRICITY PLANNING IN SOUTH AFRICA ...... 29 4.1.1 The Kyoto Protocol, 1997 ...... 29 4.1.1. White Paper on the Energy Policy of the Republic of South Africa, 1998 30 4.1.2 The National Energy Act (2008) ...... 30 4.1.3. Renewable Energy Policy in South Africa ...... 31 4.1.3. Final Integrated Resource Plan 2010 - 2030 ...... 32 4.1.4. Department of Energy process for Independent Power Producers (IPP) . 33 4.2 PROVINCIAL AND LOCAL LEVEL DEVELOPMENTAL POLICY ...... 34 4.2.1. Eastern Cape Province Provincial Growth and Development Strategy (PGDS) (2004-2014) ...... 34 4.2.2 Cacadu District Municipality Guidelines and Policies...... 35 4.2.2 Blue Crane Route Local Municipality Integrated Development Plan (2013/14) 36 4.2.3 Makana Local Municipality Integrated Development Plan (2012/17) .... 37 4.3. PROJECT PLANNING AND THE SITE-SPECIFIC ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT ...... 38
CHAPTER 5 APPROACH TO UNDERTAKING THE SCOPING PHASE ...... 39
5.1. OBJECTIVES OF THE SCOPING PHASE ...... 40 5.2. OVERVIEW OF THE SCOPING PHASE ...... 40 5.2.1. Authority Consultation and Application for Authorisation ...... 41 5.3 REGULATORY AND LEGAL CONTEXT ...... 45 5.3.1. Regulatory Hierarchy ...... 45 5.3.2 Legislation and Guidelines that have informed the preparation of this Scoping Report ...... 47
CHAPTER 6 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS ...... 63
6.1 I&AP IDENTIFICATION, REGISTRATION AND THE CREATION OF AN ELECTRONIC DATABASE ...... 63 6.2 NOTIFICATION OF THE EIA PROCESS ...... 64 6.3 PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT AND CONSULTATION ...... 64 6.4 IDENTIFICATION AND RECORDING OF ISSUES AND CONCERNS ...... 65 6.4.1. Evaluation of Issues Identified through the Scoping Process ...... 65 6.4.2. Public Review of the Revised Draft Scoping Report ...... 67 3.2.5. Final Scoping Report ...... 67
CHAPTER 7 DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT ...... 68
7.1 REGIONAL SETTING ...... 68 7.2 LOCATION OF THE STUDY AREA ...... 68 LOCATION AND CHARACTER OF THE STUDY AREA ...... 68
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7.3 LAND-USE AND LAND-COVER OF THE STUDY AREA ...... 69 7.4 TOPOGRAPHY ...... 71 7.5 CLIMATIC CONDITIONS ...... 71 7.6 HYDROLOGY ...... 71 7.7 GEOLOGY AND SOILS ...... 71 7.8 AGRICULTURAL POTENTIAL ...... 72 7.9 ECOLOGICAL PROFILE OF THE STUDY AREA ...... 73 7.9.1. Vegetation ...... 73 7.10 CONSERVATION PLANNING ...... 75 7.10.1 The Albany Centre of Endemism ...... 75 7.10.2 Important Biodiversity Areas ...... 77 7.11. TERRESTRIAL FAUNA...... 80 7.12. BATS ...... 80 7.13. AVIFAUNA ...... 82 7.14. HERITAGE SITES ...... 83 7.14.1. The Early Stone Age (ESA) ...... 83 7.14.2. The Middle Stone Age ...... 83 7.14.3. The Later Stone Age (LSA) and Pastoralism within the last 2000 years 84 7.14.4. Rock Art (Paintings) ...... 86 7.14.5. Late Iron Age and the Historical Period ...... 86 7.15. VISUAL LANDSCAPE ...... 86 7.16. SOCIAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE STUDY AREA AND SURROUNDS ...... 87 7.16.1. SOCIO-DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE OF THE STUDY AREA POPULATION ...... 87 7.16.2. Population ...... 87 7.16.3. Education ...... 87 7.16.4. Employment and skills levels ...... 88 7.16.5. Household Income ...... 88
CHAPTER 8 SCOPING OF POTENTIAL ISSUES ...... 59
8.1 EVALUATION OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS ASSOCIATED WITH THE CONSTRUCTION PHASE...... 61 8.1.1 Potential impact on Biodiversity ...... 61 8.1.2 Potential impact on birds ...... 67 8.1.3 Potential impact on bats ...... 69 8.1.4 Potential impact on agricultural and erosion potential ...... 70 8.1.5 Potential impacts on heritage resources ...... 71 8.1.6 Potential impacts on sensitive noise receptors ...... 72 8.1.7 Potential impacts on visual aesthetics and sense of place ...... 75 8.1.8 Impacts on the socio-economic environment ...... 76 8.2 EVALUATION OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS ASSOCIATED WITH THE OPERATIONAL PHASE ...... 78 8.2.1 Potential impact on Biodiversity ...... 78 8.2.2 Potential impact on birds ...... 79 8.2.3 Potential impact on bats ...... 80 5.2.4 Potential impact on agricultural and erosion potential ...... 81 8.2.5 Potential impact on sensitive noise receptors ...... 83 8.2.6 Potential impacts on visual aesthetics and sense of place ...... 84 8.2.7 Impacts on the socio-economic environment ...... 85
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8.3 EVALUATION OF POTENTIAL CUMULATIVE IMPACTS ...... 86
CHAPTER 9 CONCLUSIONS ...... 82
9.1. CONCLUSIONS DRAWN FROM THE EVALUATION OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT ...... 83 9.2. EVALUATION OF THE POTENTIAL ISSUES WITH ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE - POWER LINE, INVERTORS, SUBSTATION AND ACCESS ROADS ...... 83 9.3. POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF THE PROPOSED SPITSKOP EAST WIND ENERGY FACILITY ...... 82 9.4. CONCLUSIONS ...... 83
CHAPTER 10 PLAN OF STUDY FOR EIA PHASE ...... 85
10.1. AIMS OF THE EIA PHASE ...... 85 10.2. AUTHORITY CONSULTATION ...... 85 10.3. CONSIDERATION OF ALTERNATIVES ...... 86 10.4. ASSESSMENT OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS REGARDING MITIGATION MEASURES ...... 86 10.5 METHODOLOGY FOR THE ASSESSMENT OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS ...... 95 10.6. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS ...... 97 10.7. KEY MILESTONES OF THE PROGRAMME FOR THE EIA ...... 98
CHAPTER 11 REFERENCES ...... 99
APPENDICES
Appendix A: EIA Project Consulting Team CVs Appendix B: Correspondence with Authorities Appendix C: Stakeholder Database Appendix D: Site Notice & Adverts Appendix E: Public Participation Information Appendix E1: BID, Reply Forms & Stakeholder Notification Letter Appendix E2 : Proof of Notification Appendix E2: Stakeholder Letter Appendix E3: Stakeholder Consultation and Responces Appendix E4 : Comment and Responces Report Appendix F: Maps
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DEFINITIONS AND TERMINOLOGY
Alternatives: Alternatives are different means of meeting the general purpose and need of a proposed activity. Alternatives may include location or site alternatives, activity alternatives, process or technology alternatives, temporal alternatives or the ‘do nothing’ alternative.
Ambient sound level: The reading on an integrating impulse sound level meter taken at a measuring point in the absence of any alleged disturbing noise at the end of a total period of at least 10 minutes after such meter was put into operation.
Betz Limit: It is the flow of air over the blades and through the rotor area that makes a wind turbine function. The wind turbine extracts energy by slowing the wind down. The theoretical maximum amount of energy in the wind that can be collected by a wind turbine's rotor is approximately 59%. This value is known as the Betz Limit
Cumulative impacts: Impacts that result from the incremental impact of the proposed activity on a common resource when added to the impacts of other past, present or reasonably foreseeable future activities (e.g. discharges of nutrients and heated water to a river that combine to cause algal bloom and subsequent loss of dissolved oxygen that is greater than the additive impacts of each pollutant). Cumulative impacts can occur from the collective impacts of individual minor actions over a period of time and can include both direct and indirect impacts.
Cut-in speed: The minimum wind speed at which the wind turbine will generate usable power.
Cut-out speed: The wind speed at which shut down occurs.
Direct impacts: Impacts that are caused directly by the activity and generally occur at the same time and at the place of the activity (e.g. noise generated by blasting operations on the site of the activity). These impacts are usually associated with the construction, operation or maintenance of an activity and are generally obvious and quantifiable
Disturbing noise: A noise level that exceeds the ambient sound level measured continuously at the same measuring point by 7 dB or more.
‘Do nothing’ alternative: The ‘do nothing’ alternative is the option of not undertaking the proposed activity or any of its alternatives. The ‘do nothing’
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Endangered species: Taxa in danger of extinction and whose survival is unlikely if the causal factors continue operating. Included here are taxa whose numbers of individuals have been reduced to a critical level or whose habitats have been so drastically reduced that they are deemed to be in immediate danger of extinction.
Endemic: An "endemic" is a species that grows in a particular area (is endemic to that region) and has a restricted distribution. It is only found in a particular place. Whether something is endemic or not depends on the geographical boundaries of the area in question and the area can be defined at different scales.
Environment: the surroundings within which humans exist and that are made up of: i. the land, water and atmosphere of the earth; ii. micro-organisms, plant and animal life; iii. any part or combination of (i) and (ii) and the interrelationships among and between them; and iv. the physical, chemical, aesthetic and cultural properties and conditions of the foregoing that influence human health and well-being.
Environmental Impact: An action or series of actions that have an effect on the environment.
Environmental impact assessment: Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), as defined in the NEMA EIA Regulations and in relation to an application to which scoping must be applied, means the process of collecting, organising, analysing, interpreting and communicating information that is relevant to the consideration of that application.
Environmental management: Ensuring that environmental concerns are included in all stages of development, so that development is sustainable and does not exceed the carrying capacity of the environment.
Environmental management programme: An operational programme that organises and co-ordinates mitigation, rehabilitation and monitoring measures in order to guide the implementation of a proposal and its ongoing maintenance after implementation.
Generator: The generator is what converts the turning motion of a wind turbine's blades into electricity
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Indigenous: All biological organisms that occurred naturally within the study area prior to 1800
Indirect impacts: Indirect or induced changes that may occur as a result of the activity (e.g. the reduction of water in a stream that supply water to a reservoir that supply water to the activity). These types of impacts include all the potential impacts that do not manifest immediately when the activity is undertaken or which occur at a different place as a result of the activity.
Interested and Affected Party: Individuals or groups concerned with or affected by an activity and its consequences. These include the authorities, local communities, investors, work force, consumers, environmental interest groups and the general public.
Nacelle: The nacelle contains the generator, control equipment, gearbox and anemometer for monitoring the wind speed and direction.
Rare species: Taxa with small world populations that are not at present Endangered or Vulnerable, but are at risk as some unexpected threat could easily cause a critical decline. These taxa are usually localised within restricted geographical areas or habitats or are thinly scattered over a more extensive range. This category was termed Critically Rare by Hall and Veldhuis (1985) to distinguish it from the more generally used word "rare".
Red data species: Species listed in terms of the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species, and/or in terms of the South African Red Data list. In terms of the South African Red Data list, species are classified as being extinct, endangered, vulnerable, rare, indeterminate, insufficiently known or not threatened (see other definitions within this glossary).
Regional Methodology: The Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (DEA&DP) have developed a guideline document entitled Strategic Initiative to Introduce Commercial Land Based Wind Energy Development to the Western Cape - Towards a Regional Methodology for Wind Energy Site Selection (Western Cape Provincial Government, May 2006). The methodology proposed within this guideline document is intended to be a regional level planning tool to guide planners and decision-makers with regards to appropriate areas for wind energy development (on the basis of planning, environmental, infrastructural and landscape parameters).
Rotor: The portion of the wind turbine that collects energy from the wind is called the rotor. The rotor converts the energy in the wind into rotational energy to turn
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Significant impact: An impact that by its magnitude, duration, intensity or probability of occurrence may have a notable effect on one or more aspects of the environment.
Tower: The tower, which supports the rotor, is constructed from tubular steel and/or concrete. It is approximately 80-122 m tall. The nacelle and the rotor are attached to the top of the tower. The tower on which a wind turbine is mounted is not just a support structure. It also raises the wind turbine so that its blades safely clear the ground and so it can reach the stronger winds at higher elevations. Large modern wind turbines are usually mounted on towers ranging from 80 to 130 m tall. The tower must be strong enough to support the wind turbine and to sustain vibration, wind loading and the overall weather elements for the lifetime of the wind turbine.
Wind power: A measure of the energy available in the wind.
Wind rose: The term given to the diagrammatic representation of joint wind speed and direction distribution at a particular location. The length of time that the wind comes from a particular sector is shown by the length of the spoke, and the speed is shown by the thickness of the spoke.
Wind speed: The rate at which air flows past a point above the earth's surface.
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ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS
BID Background Information Document CBA Critical Biodiversity Area CBOs Community Based Organisations CDM Clean Development Mechanism CSIR Council for Scientific and Industrial Research
CO2 Carbon dioxide D Diameter of the rotor blades DAFF Department of Forestry and Fishery DEA National Department of Environmental Affairs DME Department of Minerals and Energy DOT Department of Transport DWA Department of Water Affairs EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EMP Environmental Management Plan GIS Geographical Information Systems GG Government Gazette GN Government Notice GWh Giga Watt Hour Ha Hectare I&AP Interested and Affected Party IDP Integrated Development Plan IEP Integrated Energy Planning km2 Square kilometres km/hr Kilometres per hour kV Kilovolt m2 Square meters m/s Meters per second MW Mega Watt NEMA National Environmental Management Act (Act No 107 of 1998) NERSA National Energy Regulator of South Africa NHRA National Heritage Resources Act (Act No 25 of 1999) NGOs Non-Governmental Organisations NIRP National Integrated Resource Planning NWA National Water Act (Act No 36 of 1998) SAHRA South African Heritage Resources Agency SANBI South African National Biodiversity Institute SANRAL South African National Roads Agency Limited SDF Spatial Development Framework SKA Square Kilometre Array EC DED&EA Eastern Cape Department of Economic Development and Environmental Affairs
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INTRODUCTION CHAPTER 1
Renewable Energy Systems Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd (RES SA) is proposing to establish a commercial wind energy facility and associated infrastructure on a site located approximately 6km north-west of Riebeek East and approximately 15km north-west of Alicedale in the Eastern Cape Province. The project site falls mostly within the Makana Local Municipality and partially within the Blue Crane Route Local Municipality. The project is to be known as the Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility.
The nature and extent of the proposed facility, as well as potential environmental impacts associated with the construction, operation and decommissioning phases of a facility of this nature is described in this Draft Scoping Report.
This Scoping Report consists of eleven chapters:
» Chapter 1 provides background to the proposed wind energy facility and associated infrastructure, and the environmental impact assessment. » Chapter 2 describes the scope of the proposed project and alternatives. » Chapter 3 describes the wind generation option and provides insight to technologies for wind turbines. » Chapter 4 provides the regulatory and planning in South Africa » Chapter 5 outlines the process which was followed during the Scoping Phase of the process and outlines the regulatory and legal context. » Chapter 6 describes the public participation process undertaken » Chapter 7 describes the existing biophysical and socio-economic environment affected by the proposed project. » Chapter 8 provides the description of the potential environmental issues and potential impacts identified to be associated with the project, including potential cumulative impacts. » Chapter 9 presents the conclusions of the scoping evaluation. » Chapter 10 describes the Plan of Study for EIA. » Chapter 11 provides references used to compile the Scoping Report.
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1.1. Project Overview
The Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility is proposed to comprise of up to 57 wind turbines to be constructed over an area of approximately 200km2 in extent. The facility is proposed to have a generating capacity of approximately 140 MW, depending on the final turbine selected. The proposed wind energy facility is proposed to accommodate the following infrastructure:
» Wind turbines and concrete or rock adaptor foundations to support them. It is anticipated that the turbines to be utilised will have a hub height of between 80 m and 122 m, and a rotor diameter of up to approximately 133 m (i.e. each blade up to maximum of approximately 65 m in length, allowing for a hub of 2-3m). The generating capacity of the individual turbines will be determined by the technology on offer at the time of contracting and the project components, amongst other technical and engineering factors. » Possibly small transformer outside each turbine tower, depending on the make and model of turbine deemed most suitable for the site. External transformers would have their own foundation and housing around it. » Crane hardstandings associated with each turbine position. » Internal access roads to each turbine. » Cabling between the turbines, to be laid underground and alongside the internal access roads where practical. » Buildings and dedicated areas for workshops, control systems, maintenance and storage with parking areas where required. » Temporary construction compound and temporary site offices. » Temporary and permanent meteorological masts for calibration and site monitoring. » An on-site substation to facilitate the connection between the wind energy facility and the grid. » Security huts and gates at site entrances.
In order to connect the wind energy facility to the electricity grid, new overhead power line is proposed. There are three options for the connection point of this power line, i.e.:
» Eskom’s existing Poseidon Substation near Cookhouse; » the new Kopleegte Substation near Bedford, or » the existing power lines in close proximity to the site.
Figure 1.2 provides an indication of the proposed power line corridors under consideration. All three of these options are being considered within the EIA process for this project.
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The development envelope for the wind energy facility comprises the following farm portions: RE 60, RE 1/60, 2/60, 3/60 Junction Drift; RE 61, 1/61 Buffels Drift; Farm 66; 2/138, 3/138 Groot Fontein; RE 1/139 Bronkos Fontein; RE 1/140, 2/140, 3/140 Groot Fontein; RE 141, RE 1/141, 2/141 Ebenezer; RE 143, 1/143 Bosch Fontein; RE 144, 3/144, 4/144; 1/145, 2/145, RE 145; RE 1/261, 2/261 Brak Fontein; RE 1/262, RE 6/262, 11/262 Witte Poort; 1/263 Commadagga; 590 Steenkampsberg; 597 Farm (refer to Figure 1.1) .
Introduction Page 29 PROPOSED SPITSKOP EAST WIND FARM NEAR RIEBEEK EAST, EASTERN CAPE PROVINCE Draft Scoping Report June 2014
Figure 1.1: Locality map of proposed area for the establishment of the Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility north-west of Riebeek East, Eastern Cape Province
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Figure 1.2: Locality map of proposed area for the establishment of the Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility and the alternative power line routes being considered to connect the wind energy facility to the electricity grid (Note: Multiple alternative power line routes are shown but only one will actually be required. Proposed alternative substation locations are too small to see on this map – refer to Figure 2.1 for their locations)
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1.2. Requirement for an Environmental Impact Assessment Process
The proposed project is subject to the requirements of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations (EIA Regulations) published in terms of Section 24(5) of the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA, No 107 of 1998). An EIA process for a larger project named “Spitskop” was initiated in January 2011. However, the EIA process for this project ceased due to a number of changes to the project, and the application was withdrawn. A new EIA process has been initiated for the Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility project. An application for authorisation for this project was submitted to the DEA and reference number 14/12/16/3/3/2/691 has been allocated.
This section of the report provides a brief overview of EIA Regulations and their application to this project. More details regarding the process undertaken for this proposed project is provided in Chapter 5.
NEMA is the national legislation that provides for the authorisation of certain controlled activities known as “listed activities.” In terms of Section 24(1) of the NEMA, the potential impact on the environment associated with these listed activities must be considered, investigated, assessed and reported on to the competent authority (the decision-maker) charged by NEMA with granting of the relevant environmental authorisation. The National Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) is the competent authority for this project1. Through the decision- making process, the DEA will be supported by the Eastern Cape Department Economic Development and Environmental Affairs (Eastern Cape DED&EA).
The need to comply with the requirements of the EIA Regulations ensures that decision-makers are provided the opportunity to consider the potential environmental impacts of a project early in the project development process, and assess if environmental impacts can be avoided, minimised or mitigated to acceptable levels. Comprehensive, independent environmental studies are required to be undertaken in accordance with the EIA Regulations to provide the competent authority with sufficient information in order for an informed decision to be taken regarding the project. RES has appointed Savannah Environmental (Pty) Ltd to conduct the independent EIA process for the proposed project.
An EIA is also an effective planning and decision-making tool for the project proponent. It allows the environmental consequences resulting from a technical facility during its establishment and its operation to be identified and appropriately managed. It provides the opportunity for the developer to be forewarned of potential environmental issues, and allows for resolution of the
1 DEA has been delegated as the competent authority for applications for power generation projects
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1.3. Details of Environmental Assessment Practitioner
Savannah Environmental was contracted by RES SA as an independent environmental consultant to undertake an EIA process for the proposed project, as required by the NEMA EIA Regulations. Savannah Environmental is not a subsidiary of or affiliated to RES SA. Furthermore, Savannah Environmental does not have any interests in secondary developments that may arise out of the authorisation of the proposed project.
Savannah Environmental is a specialist environmental consulting company providing a holistic environmental management service, including environmental assessment and planning to ensure compliance and evaluate the risk of development; and the development and implementation of environmental management tools. Savannah Environmental benefits from the pooled resources, diverse skills and experience in the environmental field held by its team.
The Savannah Environmental team have considerable experience in environmental assessment and environmental management, and have been actively involved in undertaking environmental studies for a wide variety of projects throughout South Africa. Strong competencies have been developed in project management of environmental EIA processes, as well as strategic environmental assessment and compliance advice, and the identification of environmental management solutions and mitigation/risk minimising measures.
Savannah Environmental has gained extensive knowledge and experience on potential environmental impacts associated with electricity generation projects through their involvement in related EIA processes. They have successfully managed and undertaken EIA processes for power generation projects, including numerous other wind energy facilities, throughout South Africa. The following team members have been responsible for the compilation of this report:
» Jo-Anne Thomas - a registered Professional Natural Scientist and holds a Master of Science degree. She is the principle Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP) on the project. She has 16 years of consulting experience in the environmental field. Her key focus is on strategic environmental assessment and advice; management and co-ordination of environmental projects, which includes integration of environmental studies and environmental processes into larger engineering-based projects and ensuring compliance to legislation and guidelines; compliance reporting; the identification of environmental management solutions and mitigation/risk minimising measures; and strategy and guideline development. She is
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currently responsible for the project management of EIAs for several renewable energy projects across the country. » Tebogo Mapinga – is a Senior Environmental Consultant, holds a BSc degree with 7 years of experience in the environmental field in both public and private sectors. Her competencies lie in environmental impact assessments, compliance monitoring and public participation for small and large scale projects. She is currently in the process of completing her honours degree in Environmental Management.
Refer to Appendix A for the curricula vitae of the project team.
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DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT CHAPTER 2
RES SA is proposing to establish a commercial wind energy facility and associated infrastructure on a site located approximately 6km north-west of Riebeek East and approximately 15km north-west of Alicedale in the Eastern Cape Province. The project site covers an area which falls mostly within the Makana Local Municipality and partially within the Blue Crane Route Local Municipality. The site would include up to 57 turbines with an individual rated capacity of up to 6.15 MW each however this is subject to change depending on technology availability at the time of turbine supply contracting. The final turbine capacity and model will be dependent on what is deemed suitable for the site in relation to, among other things, further studies of the wind regime, terrain, and potential environmental constraints. However, due to a limitation in available grid capacity, the maximum total installed capacity for the proposed facility will be 140 MW.
The overarching objective for the wind farm planning process is to maximise electricity production through exposure to the wind resource, while minimising infrastructure, operational and maintenance costs, as well as social and environmental impacts. The development should also aim to minimise pressure on the surrounding environment, without threatening the natural area or any conservation measures, in line with national legislation.
A preliminary layout has been developed for the site by RES SA on the basis of known environmental sensitivities on the site and wind resource available (refer to Figure 2.1). Local level issues are now being considered further through the EIA process in order to delineate areas of sensitivity within the broader area and inform the final layout. Following the completion of the scoping study, a more detailed preliminary layout of the components of the wind farm will be developed by RES SA for assessment within the EIA Phase of the project. This preliminary layout will take the environmental sensitivities identified in the scoping phase into account.
Once environmentally constraining factors have been determined through the EIA process, and long-term site-specific wind data is available from the wind monitoring on site, the layout of the wind turbines and associated infrastructure can be appropriately planned. Specialist software is available to assist developers in selecting the optimum position for each turbine before the project is constructed. This layout will then inform the positioning of other infrastructure such as the internal substation and access roads.
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Figure 2.1: Preliminary Layout for the proposed Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility (Note: Multiple alternative substations and power line routes are shown but only one of each will actually be required.)
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2.1. Components of the Proposed Project
The broader site is proposed to accommodate both the wind turbines as well as the associated infrastructure which is required for such a facility including, but not limited to:
» 57 Wind turbines and concrete or rock adaptor foundations to support them. It is anticipated that the turbines to be utilised will have a hub height of between 80 m and 122 m, and a rotor diameter of up to approximately 133 m (i.e. each blade up to maximum of approximately 65 m in length, allowing for a hub of 2-3m). The generating capacity of the individual turbines will be determined by the technology on offer at the time of contracting and the project components, amongst other technical and engineering factors. » Possibly small transformer outside each turbine tower, depending on the make and model of turbine deemed most suitable for the site. External transformers would have their own foundation and housing around it. » Crane hardstandings associated with each turbine position. » Internal access roads to each turbine. » Cabling between the turbines, to be laid underground and alongside the internal access roads where practical. » Buildings and dedicated areas for workshops, control systems, maintenance and storage with parking areas where required. » Temporary construction compound and temporary site offices. » Temporary and permanent meteorological masts for calibration and site monitoring. » An on-site substation to facilitate the connection between the wind energy facility and the grid. » Security huts and gates at site entrances.
In order to connect the wind energy facility to the electricity grid, new overhead power lines are proposed. There are three options for the connection point of this power line, i.e.:
» Eskom’s existing Poseidon Substation near Cookhouse; » The new Kopleegte Substation near Bedford; or » The existing power lines in close proximity to the site.
Only one of these options is to be implemented. The preferred option will be informed by Eskom’s requirements in terms of point of connection as well as the finding of the EIA process.
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2.2. Location of the Proposed Project
The study area is located approximately 6km north-west of Riebeek East and approximately 15km north-west of Alicedale which falls within the jurisdiction of the Makona Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province (Figure 1.1 and Figure 1.2). The development envelope for the wind energy facility comprises the following farm portions: RE 60, RE 1/60, 2/60, 3/60 Junction Drift; RE 61, 1/61 Buffels Drift; Farm 66; 2/138, 3/138 Groot Fontein; RE 1/139 Bronkos Fontein; RE 1/140, 2/140, 3/140 Groot Fontein; RE 141, RE 1/141, 2/141 Ebenezer; RE 143, 1/143 Bosch Fontein; RE 144, 3/144, 4/144; 1/145, 2/145, RE 145; RE 1/261, 2/261 Brak Fontein; RE 1/262, RE 6/262, 11/262 Witte Poort; 1/263 Commadagga; 590 Steenkampsberg; 597 Farm. The potential alternative power line options extend between the wind energy facility site and the Poseidon or Kopleegte substations in the north, or to T-off lines that pass close to or over the site..
2.3. The Need and Desirability for the Proposed Wind Energy Facility Project
Internationally there is increasing pressure on countries to increase their share of renewable energy generation due to concerns such as climate change and the need to reduce the dependence upon fossil fuels, oil and coal, for energy and thus reduce the volume of greenhouse gasses emitted into the atmosphere. Grid connected renewable energy is one of the fastest growing sectors in the global energy market, and wind energy is the most economic of the sources of renewable energy. Installed global wind capacity was in the order of 90GW in 2008, with total world installed capacity having doubled since 2004.
In order to meet the long-term goal of a sustainable renewable energy industry, a goal of 17,8GW of renewables by 2030 has been set by the Department of Energy (DoE) within the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) 2010. This energy will be produced mainly from wind, solar, biomass, and small-scale hydro (with wind and solar comprising the bulk of the power generation capacity). This amounts to ~42% of all new power generation being derived from renewable energy forms by 2030. This is however dependent on the assumed learning rates and associated cost reductions for renewable options.
To contribute towards this target and towards socio-economic and environmentally sustainable growth, and kick start and stimulate the renewable energy industry in South Africa, the need to establish an appropriate market mechanism was identified, and Feed-in Tariffs (FIT) have been set. FIT are, in essence, guaranteed prices for electricity supply rather than conventional consumer tariffs. The basic economic principle underpinning the FITs is the establishment of a tariff (price) that covers the cost of generation plus a
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"reasonable profit" to induce developers to invest. This is quite similar to the concept of cost recovery used in utility rate regulation based on the costs of capital. Feed-in tariffs to promote renewable energy have now been adopted in over 36 countries around the world. The establishment of the Renewable Energy Feed-In Tariff (REFIT) in South Africa provides the opportunity for an increased contribution towards the sustained growth of the renewable energy sector in the country, the region and internationally, and promote competitiveness for renewable energy with conventional energies in the medium- and long-term. Under the National Energy Regulator Act, 2004 (Act No 40 of 2004), the Electricity Regulation Act, 2006 (Act No 4 of 2006) and all subsequent relevant Acts of Amendment, the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) has the mandate to determine the prices at and conditions under which electricity may be supplied by licence. In this regard, South Africa differs from the rest of the world in that the amount of Renewable Energy that can qualify for the REFIT is capped and proponents have to go through a tendering system to qualify. In the case of wind, the draft Integrated Resource Plan of 2010 allows 4500 MW until 2019.
Renewable energy is recognised internationally as a major contributor in protecting the climate, nature, and the environment as well as providing a wide range of environmental, economic and social benefits that will contribute towards long-term global sustainability. In South Africa, this would also remove 92,000 round trips made by coal trucks travelling between the colliery and the power station.
South Africa is an arid country and availability of water is a severe constraint on both the agriculture and the energy sectors. Unlike coal-fired or nuclear power generation, wind power requires no water to generate electricity.
The proposed Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility is proposed as a commercial power generation facility, and would add new capacity for generation of renewable energy to the national electricity mix, thereby aiding in achieving the government’s goal of a 42% share of all new power generation being derived from renewable energy forms, as targeted by the Department of Energy (DoE) (Integrated Resource Plan 2010 – 2030).
This proposed project is in line with the Local Municipality goals for economic growth and development within the region as a result of the significant investment RES will make in the area, as well as through the possible employment and business opportunities for local communities. In addition, the project will generate an income through the sale of the electricity produced, which can supplement the income of the marginally productive farms on which it is proposed to be located, and can be used to fund local community development projects.
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The proposed Spitikop East Wind Energy Facility is a potential Strategic Infrastructure Project (SIP 8: Green energy in support of the South African Economy) and would only become a SIP project if selected as preferred bidder project by the Department of Energy. SIP 8 support sustainable green energy initiatives on a national scale through a diverse range of clean energy options as envisaged in the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP2010) and support bio-fuel production facilities.
It is considered therefore viable that long-term benefits for the community and/or society in general can be realised should the site identified by RES SA prove to be acceptable from a technical and environmental perspective for the potential establishment of a wind energy facility. In the event of a development such as the Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility being developed, it will contribute to and strengthen the existing electricity grid for the region. In addition, the implementation of the proposed project will aid in achieving the goal of a 30% share of all new power generation being derived from independent power producers (IPPs), as targeted by the Department of Energy (DoE).
The need for more wind energy projects will continue as energy demand increases through further electrification and social upliftment as well as a need to increase the decarbonisation of electricity supply. Whilst there are many wind projects already authorised by the DEA, many stand little chance of ever being built due to: » not being located in a good enough wind regime to be economically attractive in the highly competitive market created by the Department of Energy’s REIPPPP; or » not being located in an area with feasible grid connection and/or grid capacity.
Due to the excellent wind resource, multiple feasible grid connections, high level of project development already undertaken and environmentally suitable location, the Spitskop East project stands a good chance of success in the competitive market and therefore the need and desirability criteria should be met.
2.4. Site Selection and Pre-Feasibility Analysis The plaement of a Wind Energy Facility is highly dependent on technical factors – that is the available wind resource and the terrain. The technical considerations must, therefore, be weighed against other considerations (including environmental considerations) in the determination of a feasible site for the establishment of a viable wind energy facility.
In order to identify potentially suitable locations for wind energy facility development, RES SA undertook a rigorous process considering various sites
Overview of the Proposed Project Page 40 PROPOSED SPITSKOP EAST WIND FARM NEAR RIEBEEK EAST, EASTERN CAPE PROVINCE Draft Scoping Report June 2014 across the country. Prior to 2009, a local South African renewable energy development company conducted a broad investigation for potentially suitable wind farm sites through regions of South African known for their good wind strength. At the time there were no wind maps of the regions and therefore the local developer erected a series of 15m meteorological masts at locations throughout the Northern, Western and Eastern Cape in order to obtain an indication of the wind resource. The 15m meteorological mast locations were initially identified with a general view of the regional and local wind regimes learnt through experience of flying the regions as a certified pilot.
The electrical grid infrastructure was next identified to establish which windy areas were close enough to be connected without excessive construction of overhead power lines. Areas of inhabitation were next identified so as to be avoided. Through consideration of these criteria, potential land started to be identified.
The local development company then investigated the potential for development of wind farms on these areas. Criteria considered included, but was not limited to, constraints such as proximity to National Parks and other areas with environmental protection. Landowners within potentially suitable areas were then approached and, those who were willing, signed agreements to allow on-site investigation with the possibility of continuing to propose the development and construction of a wind energy project.
In 2009, RES SA was formed and registered as a South African company. The aforementioned local development company offered to sell fledgling projects from a broad portfolio to RES SA. RES SA used its 25+ years’ experience of developing, constructing and operating wind farms to comparatively assess the selection of sites offered by the local developer. RES SA performed a detailed Due Diligence on the portfolio of sites including site visits with experienced technical, environmental, commercial and engineering personnel. RES SA’s refined site selection modelling techniques were employed to rate the feasibility of the sites with the following criteria:
» Wind regime assessment with highly refined meso-scale computer modelling including assessment of turbulence; » Electrical grid infrastructure proximity; and » Known environmental constraints such as National Parks, Protected areas, CBAs etc.
From this analysis, the Spitskop East site was identified as a potentially suitable site for development. A series of 80m meteorological masts have been installed on the site over the period from May 2011 to date. The data received from these masts has confirmed the wind resource on the Spitskop
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East site to be very good in comparison with other areas of South Africa. Mean wind strengths of over 8m/s have been confirmed which translate into the project being technically viable and very competitive from an economic perspective in the current market.
The selection of the Spitskop East site is given extra credence by the Wind Atlas of South Africa which shows the Spitskop East area to have very good wind resource (refer to Figure 2.2 (highlighting of the Spitskop East area added afterwards to aid location of the site)).
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Figure 2.2: Wind Atlas of South Africa
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Whilst the WASA map shows that there are many other areas with high wind resource it must be remembered that many of these areas will be unsuitable for wind energy development due to engineering, technical, environmental and social constraints.
Strategic Environmental Assessment for wind Further credence is given to the selection of the Spitskop East site as a suitable wind project location by the Department of Environmental Affairs Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) for wind which has considered engineering, technical, environmental and social constraints. The SEA has identified Strategic Search Areas for wind energy and subsequently Focus Areas for wind energy (refer to Figure 2.3). These areas are currently being investigated for their potential to be designated as Renewable Energy Development Zones (REDZ) where renewable energy projects shall be encouraged.
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Spitskop area within DEA SEA Strategic Search Area and Focus Area
Figure 2.3: Google Earth snapshot showing Department of Environmental Affairs Strategic Environmental Assessment for wind Strategic Search Areas (shown with blue outline) for wind energy and subsequently Focus Areas (shown as pink shaded area)
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2.5. Project Alternatives
In accordance with the requirements of the EIA Regulations, project alternatives have been considered within the EIA process. These are detailed below.
2.5.1. Site Alternatives
The proposed Spitskop East site was selected by RES SA for the development of a wind energy facility based on the lengthy and thorough pre-feasibility and site selection process described in 2.3 earlier. Multiple alternative locations around South Africa were compared before the Spitskop area was identified for closer assessment. An area larger than Spitskop East was then considered by RES SA for the proposed project but through consideration of environmental and technical factors (including the wind resource), the currently proposed development site was selected for further investigation. RES SA considers the site to be highly preferred for wind energy facility development from a technical perspective. The environmental feasibility of the site for the proposed development is to be determined through the EIA process currently being undertaken for the site.
2.5.2. Technology Alternatives
As RES SA is an renewable energy project developer, only renewable energy technologies are being considered. Due to the local resources available for such technologies, the site is considered most suitable for the establishment of a wind energy facility. This has been confirmed through the on-site wind measurements undertaken by the developer.
Once environmental constraining factors have been determined through the EIA process, RES SA will be considering various wind turbine options. The preferred option will be informed by efficiency as well as environmental impact (such as noise associated with the turbine). In addition, the most optimal layout will be determined in order to maximise the capacity of the site. The turbines are proposed to have a hub height between 80 m and 122 m, and a rotor diameter of up to 133 m (i.e. each blade up to maximum of approximately 65 m in length, allowing for a hub of 2-3m). The generating capacity of the individual turbines will be determined by the technology on offer at the time of contracting and the project components, amongst other technical and engineering factors.
No technology alternatives are available for power lines.
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2.5.3. Site-specific or Layout Design Alternatives
An indicative layout for the wind energy facility has been provided for scoping purposes (refer to Figure 2.1). This layout is considered in the context of the broader site and environmental sensitivities for the full extent of the site have been determined in this scoping study. Once sufficient information is available from an environmental and planning perspective for the broader site, a detailed micro-siting exercise will be undertaken to effectively design the wind farm, including the turbine positions and all associated infrastructure (including, but not limited to, access roads, laydown areas, power line and substation site) within the broader study area. Through the process of determining constraining factors and environmentally sensitive areas, the layout of the wind turbines and infrastructure can be planned and adjusted if necessary. A more detailed preliminary facility layout will be developed by RES SA and will be available in the EIA phase. .
Planning and design for the transmission of the power generated at the wind farm is currently being undertaken. This will be informed through understanding the local power requirements and the stability of the local electricity network. Electricity from the wind energy facility will be transmitted in one of the following ways:
» 132 kV connection options: two route options are being considered to connect the onsite substation to either Eskom’s existing Poseidon Substation near Cookhouse; or the new Kopleegte Substation near Bedford. » 132 kV power line to connect to the existing Poseidon/Albany132 kV power line, located to the east of the site, via a loop-in loop-out connection. » 220 kV connection option: 2 route options are being considered to connect the onsite substation to the existing Rippon/Doornkom 220 kV power line, either to the south or the west of the site, via a loop-in loop-out connection. » 400kV connection option: to connect the onsite substation to the Grassridge Poseiden 400 kV power line, which is located on the proposed site, via a loop- in loop-out connection.
The point of connection will be informed through understanding the local power requirements and the stability of the local electricity network, and will depend on the final grid connection agreement with Eskom. The preferred route for that particular option will be informed by the specialist studies to be undertaken in the EIA Phase.
2.5.4. The ‘do-nothing’ Alternative
The ‘do-nothing’ alternative is the option of not constructing the Wind Energy Facility on the proposed site. This alternative would result in no environmental
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2.6. Assumptions and Limitations of the EIA Process
Wind energy facilities are a new development in South Africa and have not been implemented on a large scale, to date. Therefore certain gaps in knowledge, assumptions, and uncertainties are likely to occur during the EIA process. In conducting this EIA process, the following general assumptions have been made:
» The motivation for the selection of the proposed development site (including details pertaining to the wind resource etc.) provided by RES is sufficient and defendable. » Only one site is available for the establishment of the proposed facility and will be considered in the EIA, and no other sites are available to be included as alternative sites in the EIA. This is based on wind analysis (with specific measurements on site planned) as well as on land availability, access to the site, grid connectivity, etc. » It is assumed that the development site identified by RES represents a technically suitable site for the establishment of a wind energy facility and associated infrastructure. » The EIA study is conducted based on a preliminary layout of the wind energy facility and the associated infrastructure that will be provided by RES during the EIA Phase.
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WIND ENERGY AS POWER GENERATION OPTION CHAPTER 3
This chapter describes all required elements of the project and necessary steps for the project to be developed. The scope of the project includes construction, operation and decommissioning activities.
3.1 Wind Energy as a Power Generation Technology
Wind power is the conversion of wind energy into a useful form, such as electricity, using wind turbines. The use of wind for electricity generation is a non-consumptive use of a natural resource, and produces an insignificant quantity of greenhouse gases in its lifecycle. Wind power consumes no fuel for continuing operation, and has no emissions directly related to electricity production.
Wind energy is one of the fastest growing electricity generating technologies and features in energy plans worldwide. Operation does not produce carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide, mercury, particulates, or any other type of air pollution, as do fossil fuel power sources.
Environmental pollution and the emission of CO2 from the combustion of fossil fuels constitute a threat to the environment. The use of fossil fuels is reportedly responsible for ~70% of greenhouse gas emissions worldwide. The climate change challenge needs to include a shift in the way that energy is generated and consumed. Worldwide, many solutions and approaches are being developed to reduce emissions. However, it is important to acknowledge that the more cost effective solution in the short-term is not necessarily the least expensive long- term solution. This holds true not only for direct project cost, but also indirect project cost such as impacts on the environment. Renewable energy is considered a ‘clean source of energy’ with the potential to contribute greatly to a more ecologically, socially and economically sustainable future. The challenge now is ensuring wind energy projects are able to meet all economic, social, and environmental sustainability criteria.
Wind energy has the attractive attribute that the fuel is free. The economics of a wind energy project crucially depend on the wind resource at the site. Detailed and reliable information about the speed, strength, direction, and frequency of the wind resource is vital when considering the installation of a wind farm, as the wind resource is a critical factor to the success of the installation.
Wind speed is the rate at which air flows past a point above the earth's surface. Average annual wind speed is a critical siting criterion, since this determines the cost of generating electricity. With a doubling of average wind speed, the power
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Wind power is a measure of the energy available in the wind.
Wind direction at a site is important to understand as it influences the turbulence over the site, and therefore the potential energy output. However, wind turbines can extract energy from any wind direction as the nacelle automatically turns to face the blades into the predominant wind direction at any point in time.
South Africa in general can be considered as having a moderate wind resource as compared to Northern Europe (Scandinavia), Great Britain and Ireland, New Zealand and Tasmania. Typical annual wind speeds range from 15 km/hr to 25 km/hr (4 m/s to 7 m/s) around South Africa’s southern, eastern and western coastlines (with more wind typically along the coastline).
The wind speed measurements taken at a particular site are affected by the local topography (extending to a few tens of kilometres from the mast) or surface roughness. This is why local on-site monitored wind speed data is so important for detailed wind farm design. The effect of height variation/relief in the terrain is seen as a speeding-up/slowing-down of the wind due to the topography. Elevation in the topography exerts a profound influence on the flow of air, and results in turbulence within the air stream, and this has to be taken into account in the placement of turbines.
A wind resource measurement and analysis programme is planned to provide measured data and a prediction of the facility’s expected energy production over its lifetime. The design (and micro-siting) of a wind farm is sensitive to the predominant wind directions and wind speeds for the site. Although modern wind turbines are able to yaw to the direction of the wind, the micro-siting must consider the wind direction and strength of the wind in the optimal positioning of the turbines.
Wind turbines typically need to be spaced approximately 2 to 3xD apart, and 5 to 7xD where a turbine is behind another (D = the diameter of the rotor blades).
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This is required to minimise the induced wake effect that the turbines might have on each other. The micro-sitting of the turbines will be determined using industry software systems once a viable footprint for the establishment of the wind farm has been determined (through the consideration of both technical and environmental criteria), which will automatically consider the spacing requirements.
3.1.1. How do wind turbines function
Wind turbines, like windmills, are mounted on a tower to capture the most energy. The kinetic energy of wind is used to turn a wind turbine to generate electricity. At increased height above ground, they can take advantage of the faster and less turbulent wind. Turbines catch the wind's energy with their propeller-like blades. Usually, two or three blades are mounted on a shaft to form a rotor. Generally a wind turbine consists of three rotor blades and a nacelle mounted at the top of a tapered supporting tower. The mechanical power generated by the rotation of the blades is transmitted to the generator within the nacelle via a gearbox and drive train.
Turbines are able to operate at varying speeds. The amount of energy a turbine can harness depends on both the wind velocity and the length of the rotor blades. It is anticipated that the turbines utilised for the proposed will have a hub height of up to 122m, and a rotor diameter of up to up to 133 m (i.e. each blade up to 65 m in length). Wind turbines can start generating at wind speed of between 10 km/hr to 15 km/hr (~3 m/s to 4 m/s), with nominal wind speeds required for full power operation varying between approximately ~45 km/hr and 60 km/hr (12.5 m/s and 17 m/s).
The capacity of the wind energy facility will depend on the wind turbine selected by RES SA (turbine capacity and model that will be deemed most suitable for the site). Turbines from up to 6.15 MW each in capacity are being considered for the site however this is subject to change depending on technology availability at the time of turbine supply contracting. . Up to a maximum of 57 turbines are estimated for the Spitskop East site.
The length of the construction phase of the wind farm is dependent on the number of turbines erected and is estimated at a maximum of approximately 24 months (including all infrastructure). The lifespan of the facility is approximated at 20 to 25 years.
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3.1.2. Main Components of a Wind Turbine
The turbine consists of the following major components (as shown in Figure 3.1):
» The rotor » The nacelle » The tower » The foundation unit
Figure 3.1: Illustration of the main components of a wind turbine
The Rotor The portion of the wind turbine that collects energy from the wind is called the rotor. The rotor comprises of three rotor blades (the approximate rotor diameter is in the range of 133 m, (i.e. each blade up to maximum of approximately 65 m in length, allowing for a hub of 2-3m)). The rotor blades use the latest advances in aeronautical engineering materials science to maximise efficiency. The greater the number of turns of the rotor the more electricity is produced. The rotor converts the energy in the wind into rotational energy to turn the generator. The rotor has three blades that rotate at about 15 to 28 revolutions per minute (rpm). The speed of rotation of the blades is controlled by turning the blades to face into the wind (‘yaw control’), and changing the angle of the blades (‘pitch control’) to make the most use of the available wind.
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The rotor blades function in a similar way to the wing of an aircraft, utilising the principles of lift (Bernoulli). When air flows past the blade, a wind speed and pressure differential is created between the upper and lower blade surfaces. The pressure at the lower surface is greater and thus acts to "lift" the blade. When blades are attached to a central axis, like a wind turbine rotor, the lift is translated into rotational motion. Lift-powered wind turbines are well suited for electricity generation.
The rotation of the rotor blades produces a characteristic ‘swishing’ sound as the blades pass in front of the tower roughly once a second. The other moving parts, the gearbox and generator, cannot be heard unless the observer is physically inside the turbine tower.
The nacelle The nacelle contains the generator, control equipment, gearbox, and anemometer for monitoring the wind speed and direction (as shown in Figure 3.2)
Figure 3.2: Detailed structure of a typical nacelle of a wind turbine (refer to windenergypros.org)
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The generator is what converts the turning motion of a wind turbine's blades into electricity. Inside this component, coils of wire are rotated in a magnetic field to produce electricity. The generator's rating, or size, is partly dependent on the length of the wind turbine's blades because more energy is captured by longer blades.
The tower The tower is a hollow structure allowing access to the nacelle (up to 122m in height) (refer to Figure 3.3). The height of the tower is a key factor in determining the amount of electricity a turbine can generate. Small transformers may occur outside each turbine tower, depending on what make and model of turbine is deemed most suitable for the site. Such a transformer would have its own foundation and housing around it. Alternatively, the transformer could be housed within the tower. The transformers convert the electricity to the correct voltage for transmission into the grid.
The tower on which a wind turbine is mounted is not just a support structure. It also raises the wind turbine so that its blades safely clear the ground and so it can reach the stronger winds at higher elevations. The tower must be strong enough to support the wind turbine and to sustain vibration, wind loading and the overall weather elements for the lifetime of the wind turbine.
Figure 3.3: Tower on which a wind turbine is mounted
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3.1.3 2. Operating Characteristics of a Wind Turbine
A turbine is designed to operate continuously, unattended and with low maintenance for more than 20 years or >120 000 hours of operation. Once operating, a wind farm can be monitored and controlled remotely, with a mobile team for maintenance, when required.
The cut-in speed is the minimum wind speed at which the wind turbine will generate usable power. This wind speed is typically between 10 and 15 km/hr (~3 m/s and 4 m/s).
At very high wind speeds, typically over 90 km/hr (25 m/s), the wind turbine will cease power generation and shut down. The wind speed at which shut down occurs is called the cut-out speed. Having a cut-out speed is a safety feature which protects the wind turbine from damage. Normal wind turbine operation usually resumes when the wind drops back to a safe level.
It is the flow of air over the blades and through the rotor area that makes a wind turbine function. The wind turbine extracts energy by slowing the wind down. The theoretical maximum amount of energy in the wind that can be collected by a wind turbine's rotor is approximately 59%. This value is known as the Betz Limit. If the blades extracted 100% of the wind’s energy, a wind turbine would not work because the air, having given up all its energy, would entirely stop. So, if a blade were 100% efficient then it would extract 59% of the energy as this is the maximum (due to Betz law). In practice, the collection efficiency of a rotor is not 100%. A more typical efficiency is 35% to 45%. A complete wind energy system incurs losses through friction etc. and modern systems end up converting between 20-25% of the energy in the air into electricity which equates to 34 - 42% of the maximum (due to Betz Law).
However, because the energy in the air is free, describing how efficiently the energy is converted is only useful for system improvement and monitoring purposes. A more useful measurement is the Capacity Factor which is also represented as a percentage. The Capacity Factor % is calculated from the actual MWh output of electricity from the entire wind farm over 1 year divided by the nameplate maximum theoretical output for the same period. It therefore also takes wind resource, wind variability and system availability (downtime, maintenance and breakdowns) into account. RES SA has initial predictions for Capacity Factors of between 35-40%. This figure will be predicted more accurately when more on-site wind data has been recorded.
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Wind turbines can be used as stand-alone applications, or they can be connected to a utility power grid. For utility-scale sources of wind energy, a large number of wind turbines are usually built close together to form a wind energy facility.
3.2. Project Construction Phase
The construction phase of the wind farm is dependent on the number of turbines to be erected, but can be estimated at up to 24 months. The project will create direct construction employment opportunities over this period.
The most suitable accommodation for construction workers will be identified prior to construction. No on-site labour camps are envisaged. It is expected that construction workers will be accommodated in the nearby towns and transported to and from site on a daily basis. Overnight on-site worker presence would be limited to security staff. Construction is envisaged to begin in 2016 should the project be approved by DEA, a generating license issued by NERSA, and a Power Purchase Agreement secured with Eskom. In order to construct the proposed wind energy facility and associated infrastructure, a series of activities will need to be undertaken. The construction process is discussed in more detail below.
3.2.2. Conduct Surveys
Prior to initiating construction, a number of surveys will be required including, but not limited to, geotechnical survey, site survey and confirmation of the turbine micro-siting footprint, survey of the on-site substation site and survey of power line servitude (if applicable) to determine tower locations and all other associated infrastructure.
3.2.3. Establishment of Access Roads to the Site
The site has a network of main and secondary gravel roads (such as the N10 and R400) around it. Access/haul roads to the site as well as internal access roads within the site are required to be established. As far as possible, existing access roads to the site would be utilised, and upgraded where required. Within the site itself, access will be required between the turbines for construction purposes (and later limited access for maintenance). The internal service road alignment will be informed by the final micro-siting/positioning of the wind turbines. These access roads will have to be constructed in advance of any components being delivered to site, and will remain in place after completion for future access, access for replacement of parts if necessary and decommissioning. The final layout of the site specific access roads will be determined following the identification of site related sensitivities.
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3.2.4. Undertake Site Preparation
Site preparation activities will include clearance of vegetation at the footprint of each turbine, establishment of laydown areas (refer to 2.6.4 below), the establishment of internal access roads and excavations for foundations. These activities will require the stripping of topsoil, which will need to be stockpiled, backfilled and/or spread on site.
Site preparation will be undertaken in a systematic manner to reduce the risk of open ground to erosion. In addition, site preparation will include search and rescue of floral species of concern (where required), as well as identification and excavation of any sites of cultural/heritage value (where required).
3.2.5. Establishment of Laydown Areas on Site
Laydown areas will need to be established at each turbine position for the storage of wind turbine components. The laydown area will need to accommodate the cranes required in tower/turbine assembly. Laydown and storage areas will be required to be established for the normal civil engineering construction equipment which will be required on site.
A large laydown area will be required at each position where the main lifting crawler crane may be required to be erection and/or disassembled. Each turbine needs a flat and hardened lay-down area of approximately 40 m x 40 m (depending on the turbine selected), needed during the construction process, though this can be less in difficult access terrain. This area would be required to be compacted and levelled to accommodate the assembly crane.
3.2.6. Construct Foundation
Concrete foundations will be constructed at each turbine location. Foundation holes will be mechanically excavated to a depth of approximately 4-5 m, depending on the local geology. Concrete may to be brought to site as ready-mix or batched on site if no suitable concrete suppliers are available in the vicinity. The reinforced concrete foundation of approximately 22m x 22m x 4m (depending on the turbine selected) will be poured and will support a mounting ring (refer to Figure 2.7). The foundation will then be left up to a week to cure.
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Figure 3.4: Reinforced concrete foundation
3.2.7. Transport of Components and Equipment to Site
The wind turbine, including tower, will be brought on site by the supplier in sections on flatbed trucks. The equipment will be transported to the site using appropriate National and Provincial routes, and the dedicated access/haul road to the site itself. The transportation study will deal with external roads in this regard.
Turbine units which must be transported to site consist of a tower comprised of segments, a nacelle weighing approximately 100 tons, and three rotor blades (each of up to 65 m in length). The individual components are defined as abnormal loads in terms of Road Traffic Act (Act No 29 of 1989)2 by virtue of the dimensional limitations (abnormal length of the 65 m blades) and load limitations (i.e. the nacelle). In addition, components of various specialised construction, lifting equipment and counter weights etc. are required on site (e.g. 200 ton mobile assembly crane and a 750 ton main lift crawler crane) to erect the wind turbines and need to be transported to site.
In addition to the specialised lifting equipment, the normal civil engineering construction equipment will need to be brought to the site for the civil works (e.g. excavators, trucks, graders, compaction equipment, cement mixers, etc.).
2 A permit may be required for the transportation of these loads on public roads.
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The components required for the establishment of the substation (including transformers) as well as the power line (including towers and cabling) will also be transported to site as required.
The dimensional requirements of the load during the construction phase (length/height) may require alterations to the existing road infrastructure (widening on corners, removal of traffic islands), accommodation of street furniture (electricity, street lighting, traffic signals, telephone lines etc.) and protection of road-related structures (bridges, culverts, portal culverts, retaining walls etc.) as a result of abnormal loading.
3.2.8. Construct Turbine
A large lifting crane will be brought on site. It will lift the tower sections into place. The nacelle, which contains the gearbox, generator and yawing mechanism, will then be placed onto the top of the assembled tower. The next step will be to assemble or partially assemble the rotor (i.e. the blades of the turbine) on the ground. It will then be lifted to the nacelle and bolted in place. A small crane will likely be needed for the assembly of the rotor while a large crane will be needed to put it in place.
3.2.9. Construct Substation
A 33/132 kV substation will be constructed within the site footprint. The turbines will be connected to the substation via underground cabling wherever possible and practical. The position of the substation will be informed by the final micro- siting/positioning of the wind turbines. The layout of the turbines will determine the optimum position for the construction of a substation. The substation will be constructed within a maximum footprint of 100m x 100m.
The construction of the substation would require a survey of the site; site clearing and levelling and construction of access road/s to the substation site (where required); construction of substation terrace and foundations; assembly, erection and installation of equipment (including transformers); connection of conductors to equipment; and rehabilitation of any disturbed areas and protection of erosion sensitive areas.
3.2.10. Connection of Wind Turbines to the Substation
Each wind turbine will be connected to an optimally positioned substation on site by underground electrical cables (normally 22 or 33 kV). The installation of these
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3.2.11. Establishment of Ancillary Infrastructure
A workshop as well as a contractor’s equipment camp may also be required to be constructed. Temporary storage areas and a construction compound (sizes and numbers to be confirmed later in process). Service building(s) (number, size and location to be confirmed later in process) are also required. The establishment of these facilities/buildings will require the clearing of vegetation and levelling of the development site and the excavation of foundations prior to construction. A laydown area for building materials and equipment associated with these buildings will also be required.
3.2.12. Connect Substation to Power Grid
A new overhead power line will connect the onsite substation to the electricity distribution network/grid at one of the connection points detailed above. The grid connection point and associated power line route will be determined on the basis of technical and environmental considerations. A final route for the power line/s will be assessed, surveyed and pegged prior to construction.
3.2.13. Undertake Site Rehabilitation
As construction is completed in an area, and as all construction equipment is removed from the site, the site will be rehabilitated where practical and reasonable. On full commissioning of the facility, any access points to the site which are not required during the operation phase will be closed and prepared for rehabilitation.
3.4. Project Operation Phase
It is not known at this stage exactly how many people will be responsible for monitoring and maintenance of the facility. It is anticipated that there could be security and maintenance staff required on site.
Each turbine within the wind farm will be operational except under circumstances of mechanical breakdown, inclement weather conditions, or maintenance activities. The wind turbine will be subject to periodic maintenance and inspection. Periodic oil changes will be required. Any waste products (e.g. oil) will be disposed of in accordance with relevant waste management legislation.
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3.5. Project Decommissioning Phase
The turbine infrastructure which will be utilised for the proposed Wind farm is expected to have a lifespan of approximately 20 - 25 years (with maintenance). Equipment associated with this facility would only be decommissioned once it has reached the end of its economic life. The following decommissioning activities have been considered to form part of the project scope.
3.5.1. Site Preparation
Site preparation activities will include confirming the integrity of the access to the site to accommodate required equipment and lifting cranes, preparation of the site (e.g. lay down areas, construction platform) and the mobilisation of construction equipment.
3.5.2. Disassemble and Remove Turbines
A large crane will be brought on site. It will be used to disassemble the turbine and tower sections. These components will be reused, recycled, or disposed of in accordance with regulatory requirements. It is anticipated that all parts of the turbine would be considered reusable or recyclable except for the blades.
Any decommissioning activities will be required to comply with the legislation relevant at the time.
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REGULATORY AND PLANNING CONTEXT CHAPTER 4
4.1. Strategic Electricity Planning in South Africa
The need to expand electricity generation capacity in South Africa is based on national policy and is informed by on-going strategic planning undertaken by the Department of Energy (DoE). The hierarchy of policy and planning documentation that support the development of renewable energy projects such as wind facilities is illustrated in Figure 4.1. These policies are discussed in more detail in the following sections, along with the provincial and local policies or plans that have relevance to the development of the proposed wind energy facility.
Figure 4.1: Hierarchy of electricity policy and planning documents
4.1.1 The Kyoto Protocol, 1997
South Africa’s electricity mainly comes from coal. South Africa accounts for
~38 % of Africa’s CO2 (a greenhouse gas contributing to climate change) from burning of fossil fuels and industrial processes. The Kyoto Protocol is an international agreement linked to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. South Africa ratified the Kyoto Protocol in 2002. The Kyoto Protocol requires developing countries to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions through actively cutting down on using fossil fuels, or by utilising more renewable resources. Therefore certain guidelines and policies (discussed further in the sections below) were put in place for the Government's plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The development of renewable energy projects (such
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4.1.1. White Paper on the Energy Policy of the Republic of South Africa, 1998
Development within the energy sector in South Africa is governed by the White Paper on a National Energy Policy (the National Energy Policy), published by DME in 1998. This White Paper identifies five key objectives for energy supply within South Africa, i.e.:
» increasing access to affordable energy services; » improving energy sector governance; » stimulating economic development; » managing energy-related environmental impacts; and » securing supply through diversity.
Furthermore, the National Energy Policy identifies the need to undertake an Integrated Energy Planning (IEP) process and the adoption of a National Integrated Resource Planning (NIRP) approach. Through these processes, the most likely future electricity demand based on long-term southern African economic scenarios can be forecasted, and provide the framework for South Africa to investigate a whole range of supply and demand side options.
4.1.2 The National Energy Act (2008)
The National Energy Act was promulgated in 2008 (Act No 34 of 2008). One of the objectives of the Act was to promote diversity of supply of energy and its sources. In this regard, the preamble makes direct reference to renewable resources, including wind:
“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.
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4.1.3. Renewable Energy Policy in South Africa
Internationally there is increasing development of the use of renewable technologies for the generation of electricity due to concerns such as climate change and exploitation of resources. In response, the South African government ratified the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in August 1997 and acceded to the Kyoto Protocol, the enabling mechanism for the convention, in August 2002. In addition, national response strategies have been developed for both climate change and renewable energy.
Investment in renewable energy initiatives, such as the proposed wind energy facility, is supported by the National Energy Policy (DME, 1998). This policy recognises that renewable energy applications have specific characteristics which need to be considered. The Energy Policy is “based on the understanding that renewables are energy sources in their own right, and are not limited to small- scale and remote applications, and have significant medium- and long-term commercial potential.” In addition, the National Energy Policy states that “Renewable resources generally operate from an unlimited resource base and, as such, can increasingly contribute towards a long-term sustainable energy future”.
The White Paper on Renewable Energy (DME, 2003) supplements the Energy Policy, and sets out Government’s vision, policy principles, strategic goals and objectives for promoting and implementing renewable energy in South Africa. It also informs the public and the international community of the Government’s vision, and how the Government intends to achieve these objectives; and informs Government agencies and organs of their roles in achieving the objectives.
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 from a fuel resource perspective (i.e. the cost of fuel in generating electricity from such technology); more so when social and environmental costs are taken into account. In spite of this range of resources, the National Energy Policy acknowledges that the development and implementation of renewable energy applications has been neglected in South Africa.
Government policy on renewable energy is therefore concerned with meeting the following challenges:
» Ensuring that economically feasible technologies and applications are implemented; » 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; and
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» Addressing constraints on the development of the renewable industry.
In order to meet the long-term goal of a sustainable renewable energy industry, the South African Government has set the following 10-year target for renewable energy: “10 000 GWh (0.8 Mtoe) renewable energy contribution to final energy consumption by 2013 to be produced mainly from biomass, wind, solar and small- scale hydro. The renewable energy is to be utilised for power generation and non-electric technologies such as solar water heating and bio-fuels. This is approximately 4% (1 667 MW) of the estimated electricity demand (41 539 MW) by 2013” (DME, 2003).
The White Paper on Renewable Energy states “It is imperative for South Africa to supplement its existing energy supply with renewable energies to combat Global Climate Change which is having profound impacts on our planet.”
4.1.3. Final Integrated Resource Plan 2010 - 2030
The Energy Act of 2008 obligates the Minister of Energy to develop and publish an integrated resource plan for energy. Therefore, the Department of Energy (DoE), together with the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) has compiled the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) for the period 2010 to 2030. The objective of the IRP is to develop a sustainable electricity investment strategy for generation capacity and transmission infrastructure for South Africa over the next twenty years. The IRP is intended to:
» Improve the long term reliability of electricity supply through meeting adequacy criteria over and above keeping pace with economic growth and development; » Ascertain South Africa’s capacity investment needs for the medium term business planning environment; » Consider environmental and other externality impacts and the effect of renewable energy technologies; and » Provide the framework for Ministerial determination of new generation capacity (inclusive of the required feasibility studies).
The objective of the IRP is to evaluate the security of supply, and determine the least-cost supply option by considering various demand side management and supply-side options. The IRP also aims to provide information on the opportunities for investment into new power generating projects.
The current iteration of the IRP for South Africa outlines the proposed generation new-build fleet for South Africa for the period 2010 to 2030. This scenario was derived based on the cost-optimal solution for new-build options (considering the
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The Policy-Adjusted IRP includes the same amount of coal and nuclear new builds as the RBS, while reflecting recent developments with respect to prices for renewables. In addition to all existing and committed power plants (including 10 GW committed coal), the plan includes 9,6 GW of nuclear; 6,3 GW of coal; 17,8 GW of renewables; and 8,9 GW of other generation sources. The Policy-Adjusted IRP has therefore resulted in an increase in the contribution from renewables from 11.4 GW to 17.8 GW.
4.1.4. Department of Energy process for Independent Power Producers (IPP)
Globally there is increasing pressure on countries to increase their share of renewable energy generation due to concerns such as exploitation of non- renewable resources. In order to meet the long-term goal of a sustainable renewable energy industry and to diversify the energy-generation mix in South Africa, a goal of 17.8GW of renewables by 2030 has been set by the Department of Energy (DoE) within the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) 2010. This energy will be produced mainly from wind, solar, biomass, and small-scale hydro (with wind and solar comprising the bulk of the power generation capacity). This amounts to ~42% of all new power generation being derived from renewable energy forms by 2030.
In responding to the growing electricity demand within South Africa, as well as the country’s targets for renewable energy, RES SA proposes the establishment of a wind energy facility and associated infrastructure on a site near Riebeek East in the Eastern Cape Province to add new capacity to the national electricity grid. RES SA will be required to apply for a generation license from the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA), as well as a power purchase agreement from Eskom or other relevant parties (i.e. typically for a period of 20 - 25 years) in order to build and operate the proposed solar energy facility. As part of the agreement, RES SA would be remunerated per kWh by Eskom or a subsequent authority/market operator. Depending on the economic conditions following the lapse of this period, the facility can either be decommissioned, or the power purchase agreement renegotiated and extended.
The IPP will participate in a bidding process called the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producers Procurement Programme (REIPPP), in which the Department of Energy (DoE) will determine preferred bidders. A Preferred Bidder will be held to compliance with the price and economic development proposals in its bid, with regular reporting to demonstrate compliance during the life of the project.
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The DoE REIPPP is currently underway. The first IPP Bid submission was in November 2011, the second submission was in March 2012 and the third submission was in August 2013. RES SA intends bidding the proposed project to the DoE in Round 5 and/or subsequent rounds. Following the Round 1, Round 2 and Round 3 bid submissions to the DoE, a total of 22 wind energy facility projects and 33 solar projects were awarded preferred bidders status. A number of these projects are in the Eastern Cape Province.
4.2 Provincial and Local Level Developmental Policy
4.2.1. Eastern Cape Province Provincial Growth and Development Strategy (PGDS) (2004-2014)
The Provincial Growth and Development Plans’ analysis of the constraints and opportunities of the Eastern Cape suggest a strategic approach to growth and development that will deal with: the spread and incidence of poverty and unemployment; and the spatial inequality between different regions of the Province.
In developing the argument for a strategy framework, three options for growth and development are considered:
» Continuing with the current emphasis on the manufacturing sector for growth. » The viability of aggressive capital investment for growth and development. » The importance of growing the agrarian economy for the poor.
Consideration of these options clearly reveals the limitations of each and shows clearly desirability of a strategy that builds on existing strengths while pursuing agrarian transformation and targeting public expenditure towards the poor. It is clear that a comprehensive strategic response is needed to tackle poverty and the associated structural constraints to growth and development. While continued growth of the manufacturing sector is needed, a stronger priority is industrial diversification, promotion of linkages into other sectors with growth potential, and promotion of regional linkages. Manufacturing growth must not be limited to a modern, export-oriented enclave, but must develop strong supply and value chain linkages to agriculture and agro- processing. The agriculture sector has high growth potential in the former homelands as a source of income and employment. Provincial agricultural resources have to be mobilised to:
» Improve the food security of poor households. » Promote agricultural growth for employment and to provide raw materials for agro-processing and natural resource based industries.
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» To lay the foundations for economic growth in the rural parts of the Province and hence change the spatial inequality of growth and development.
A third strategic priority is the development of the Province’s tourism potential, especially the promotion of community-based tourism that will allow for broader distribution of the benefits of tourism. Tourism development must draw, in a sustainable manner, on the rich heritage and natural resources in the Province. One of the logical developments of such a broad strategic approach is the prioritisation of different sectors based on their potential to contribute to poverty eradication and to regional equity in growth and development. This requires prioritisation of interventions in the manufacturing, agriculture and tourism sectors that will:
» Optimise the use of Provincial resources to facilitate poverty eradication and job creation. » Leverage additional public and private resources, particularly for capital investment. » Develop social and economic infrastructure to address backlogs. » Lead to sustained increases in domestic savings. » Support technological and workplace innovation. » Build institutional capacity to plan for and guide economic development. » Optimise the role of Local Government in identifying local economic development opportunities, in facilitating targeting of those opportunities, and in coordinating service delivery.
4.2.2 Cacadu District Municipality Guidelines and Policies
The Cacadu District Municipality is currently in the process of working towards the development of a guiding document for the province, to be entitled ‘Towards Positioning the Eastern Cape as the Epicentre of Renewable Energy in South Africa’. This is being facilitated through Renewable Energy working group workshops which aims at encouraging dialogue between major role-players to ensure that the region takes full advantage of the opportunities in the renewable energy sector. At this stage, three focus areas have been identified:
1. Renewable Energy component manufacturing 2. Regulatory environment 3. Research, development and training
As part of the Regulatory environment, the municipality is intending to develop an efficient enabling system for renewable energy decisions. This will include a provincial strategic environmental assessment and municipal mechanisms to
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As part of the initiative to plan for renewable energy, the Cacadu District Municipality developed a Land Use and Locational Policy for Renewable Energy Projects. This policy is intended to be a tool and guideline to assist Local Authorities in decision-making as a point of departure for land use applications in the Cacadu District. The CDM adopted the policy in September 2011.
4.2.2 Blue Crane Route Local Municipality Integrated Development Plan (2013/14)
The Integrated Development Plan (IDP) enables Local Municipalities like the Blue Crane Route Local Municipality to manage and measure their progress in terms of meeting their development goals.
The strategic development of Blue Crane Local Municipality is driven through the Integrated Development Plan of Blue Crane Route Local Municipality. The Blue Crane Route Local Municipality set five strategic development priorities for the five year IDP (2013/14), namely:
» Priority 1: Infrastructure » Priority 2: Community services » Priority 3: Local economic development » Priority 4: Financial management » Priority 5: Governance and institutional transformation
These priorities address the outcome of an analysis of the status quo across numerous sectors within the Municipality and, in turn, inform the 5 key priorities and their associated objectives and strategies.
In order for Blue Crane Route Municipality to achieve its goals of effective and efficient service delivery, the municipality needs to respond to challenges identified through the situation analysis exercise. These challenges range from institutional capacity, economic as well as maintenance of new and existing infrastructure.
Therefore the proposed wind energy facility is considered to be compatible with the local level policy regarding infrastructure and economic development in this region.
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4.2.3 Makana Local Municipality Integrated Development Plan (2012/17)
Makana Local Municipality adopted the Integrated Development Process Plan in order to guide the development of the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) for the new electoral term of 2012/2017. Some of the key priorities that have emerged from the consultation processes and that have shaped this IDP include the following:
» Provision and expedition of basic service delivery » Crime prevention » Water quality » Ageing infrastructure » Elimination of illegal dumping » Provision of quality housing » Provision of community amenities and facilities » Development, provision and maintenance of infrastructure » Poverty eradication and job creation » Provision of health services and combating diseases such as TB, HIV and AID
The Makana Local Municipality set five strategic development priorities for the five year IDP (2012/17), namely: » Priority 1: Basic Service Delivery and Infrastructure Development » Priority 2: Community Development & Social Cohesion » Priority 3: Local Economic Development » Priority 4: Institutional Development » Priority 5: Good governance support rural development and vulnerable groups.
The extent of the challenges still prevailing within the municipal operating environment required external assessment. The Municipality consistently and continuously strives to improve its capacity to better facilitate service delivery. To achieve this and compliance to its constitutional mandate, Municipality strives within its financial and administrative capacity to improve social and economic development.
In 2008 the Makana municipality had a backlog in electricity provision amounting to 3500 households, or equivalent to 27.17% of the desired RDP level. This backlog primarily takes the form of provision of energy for cooking and lighting that household makes use of. With regards to eradication of this backlog, it should be noted that Eskom, the national supplier, has severe electricity generation capacity constraints to meet the demand for electricity in South Africa, which are expected to continue at least until 2014.
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This limit the additional supply local municipalities are able to offer in their localities. The implication of this is that as much the scope for increased supply may be limited, the municipality may still facilitate the provision of infrastructure that will allow eventual connection of households to the national grid. The following community development priority issues have been identified:
» Electrification of formal and informal areas. » Provision of High Mast and street. » Provision of free basic service. » Provision of electricity in rural areas. » Electricity cuts.
Therefore the proposed wind energy facility is considered to be compatible with the local level policy regarding infrastructure and economic development in this region and contribute to the strained electricity generation capacity within the Makana Local Municipality.
4.3. Project Planning and the site-specific Environmental Impact Assessment
In terms of the EIA Regulations under NEMA, a Scoping and EIA report (including an Environmental Management Programme (EMPr)) are required to be compiled for this proposed project. The EIA is considered as an effective planning and decision-making tool in the planning process of a new power generation facility. It allows potential environmental consequences resulting from a technical facility during its establishment and its operation to be identified and appropriately managed through project design and implementation. The level of detail at a site-specific level is refined through the process, and allows for resolution of potential issue(s) through dialogue with affected parties.
The relationship between project development and the environmental assessment and management process is depicted in the figure below.
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APPROACH TO UNDERTAKING THE SCOPING PHASE CHAPTER 5
An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process refers to that process (dictated by the EIA Regulations) which involves the identification of and assessment of direct, indirect, and cumulative environmental impacts associated with a proposed project. The EIA process comprises two phases: i.e. Scoping Phase and EIA Phase. The EIA process culminates in the submission of an EIA Report (including an environmental management programme (EMPr)) to the competent authority for decision-making. The EIA process is illustrated below:
EIA PROCESS
The Scoping Phase for the proposed Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility has been undertaken in accordance with the EIA Regulations published in Government Notice 33306 of 18 June 2010, in terms of Section 24(5) of the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA; Act No 107 of 1998). This scoping process aimed at identifying potential issues associated with the proposed project, and defining the extent of studies required within the EIA. This was achieved through an evaluation of the proposed project considering existing information for the area, input from the project team with experience on similar projects, and a consultation process with key stakeholders, relevant government authorities and interested and affected parties (I&APs).
This chapter serves to outline the process which has been followed to date for the Scoping Phase of the EIA process.
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5.1. Objectives of the Scoping Phase
This Scoping Phase aims to:
» Describe the pre-construction environment which may be affected by the proposed project. » Identify and evaluate potential environmental (biophysical and social) impacts (direct, indirect and cumulative impacts) and benefits of all phases of the proposed development (including design, construction, operation and decommissioning) within the broader study area through a desk-top review of existing baseline data and public participation. » Define potentially significant impact which require further study, and the scope of studies to be undertaken within the EIA process. » Provide the authorities with sufficient information in order to make a decision regarding the scope of issues to be addressed in the EIA process, as well as regarding the scope and extent of specialist studies that will be required to be undertaken as part of the EIA Phase of the process. » Identify potentially sensitive environmental features and areas on the site to inform the preliminary design process of the facility.
Within this context, the objectives of this Scoping Phase are to:
» Describe the scope and nature of the proposed activities. » Describe the reasonable and feasible project-specific alternatives to be considered through the EIA process, including the “do nothing” option. » Describe the need and desirability for the proposed project. » Identify and evaluate key environmental issues/impacts associated with the proposed project, and through a process of broad-based consultation with stakeholders and desk-top specialist studies identify those issues to be addressed in more detail in the Impact Assessment Phase of the EIA process, as well as potentially sensitive environmental features and areas which should be considered in the preliminary design phase. » Conduct an open, participatory, and transparent public involvement process and facilitate the inclusion of stakeholders’ concerns regarding the proposed project into the decision-making process.
5.2. Overview of the Scoping Phase
Key tasks undertaken within the scoping phase included:
» Consultation with relevant decision-making and regulating authorities (at National, Provincial and Local levels).
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» Submission of a completed application for authorisation in terms of Regulation 12 and 21 of Government Notice No R543 of 2010 to the competent authority (DEA). » Undertaking of a thorough public involvement process throughout the Scoping process in accordance with Regulation 54 of Government Notice No R543 of 2010 in order to identify issues and concerns associated with the proposed project. » Preparation of a Comments and Response Report detailing key issues raised by I&APs as part of the EIA Process (in accordance with Regulation 57 of Government Notice No R543 of 2010). » Identification of potential environmental impacts associated with all components of the proposed project (in accordance with Regulation 28(g) of Government Notice No R543 of 2010). » Preparation of a Draft Scoping Report and Plan of Study for EIA in accordance with the requirements of the Regulation 28 Government Notice No R543 of 2010.
5.2.1. Authority Consultation and Application for Authorisation
As this is an energy generation project the National Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) is the competent authority for this application. As the project falls within the Eastern Cape Province, the Eastern Cape Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (Eastern Cape DEDEAT) acts as a commenting authority for the project. Consultation with these authorities has been undertaken during the Scoping Phase. This consultation has included the following:
» Consultation with DEA regarding the proposed project and the EIA process to be undertaken. » Submission of an application for authorisation to DEA, with a copy submitted to Eastern Cape DEDEAT. This application was accepted and the reference number 14/12/16/3/3/2/691 allocated to the project. Authorisation was therefore granted to continue with the Scoping Phase of the project.
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In terms of sections 24 and 24D of NEMA, as read with the EIA Regulations of GNR543; GNR544; GNR545; and GNR546, the following ‘listed activities’ are triggered by the proposed wind farm and were included as part of the application submitted to the DEA.
Government Activity Description of listed Applicability to the Project Notice No activity GN544,18 11 The construction of The wind energy facility will June 2010 (iii) bridges; include the construction of (iv) dams; bridges, buildings (such as (x)buildings exceeding 50 storage room) and other square metres in size; or infrastructure within 32m of a (xi) infrastructure or watercourse. structures covering 50 square metres or more
Where such construction occurs within a watercourse or within 32 metres of a watercourse, measures from the edge of a watercourse. GN544,18 18 The infilling or depositing of The construction of the wind June 2010 any material of more than 5 energy facility will include cubic metres into, or the excavation of soil in a dredging, excavation, watercourse (drainage line) removal or moving of soil, that may exceed 5 cubic sand, shells, shell grit, metres. pebbles or rock or more than 5 cubic metres from (i) a water course GN544,18 22 The construction of a road, The wind energy facility will June 2010 outside urban areas, require access roads to be (ii) where no road reserve constructed which are likely to exists where the road is wider be wider than 8m in extent. than 8 metres. GN 544, 18 26 Any process or activity The site may / may not have June 2010 identified in terms of section sensitive / conservation worthy 53(1) of the National vegetation, protected under Environmental Management: the NEM:BA, this is to be Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act confirmed during the EIA. No. 10 of 2004). GN 544, 18 39 The expansion of Existing bridges may need to June 2010 (iii) bridges within a be expanded/ widened. watercourse or within 32 metres of a watercourse, measured from the edge of a watercourse, where such
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Government Activity Description of listed Applicability to the Project Notice No activity expansion will result in an increased development footprint GN 544, 18 47 The widening of a road by Existing farm (gravel) access June 2010 more than 6 metres, or the roads may be widened or lengthening of a road by lengthened. more than 1 kilometre – (i) where the existing road reserve is wider than 13.5 metres; or (ii) where no reserve exists, where the existing road is wider than 8 metres. GN545,18 1 The construction of facilities The wind energy facility will June 2010 or infrastructure, for the consist of wind turbines for generation of electricity electricity generation of more where the output is 20 than 20 megawatts. megawatts or more. GN545,18 8 The construction of facilities A new overhead power line is June 2010 or infrastructure for the being proposed in order to transmission and distribution connect the proposed facility of electricity with a capacity into the Eskom grid of 275 kilovolts or more, outside an urban area or industrial complex. GN545,18 15 Physical alteration of The site for the proposed wind June 2010 undeveloped, vacant or energy facility is currently used derelict land for residential, for farming, and the footprint retail, commercial, of the facility will be recreational, industrial or transformed to an electricity institutional use where the generation facility on an area total area to be transformed greater than 20 hectares. is 20 hectares or more; GN546,18 4 The construction of a road The wind energy facility will June 2010 wider than 4 metres with a require roads to be reserve less than 13,5 metres constructed which are wider in the Eastern Cape, than 4m. The site falls outside (ii) outside urban areas, in of an urban area and parts of (ee) Critical biodiversity areas the site fall within a CBA area. as identified in systematic biodiversity plans adopted by the competent authority or in bioregional plans. GN546,18 10 The construction of facilities Fuel storage during or infrastructure for the construction is likely to exceed
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Government Activity Description of listed Applicability to the Project Notice No activity storage, or storage and 30 cubic metres. The site falls handling of a dangerous outside of an urban area and good, where such storage parts of the site fall within a occurs in containers with a CBA area. combined capacity of 30 but not exceeding 80 cubic metres in the Eastern Cape (ii) outside urban areas, in (ee) Critical biodiversity areas as identified in systematic biodiversity plans adopted by the competent authority or in bioregional plans. GN546,18 12 The clearance of an area of The development will require June 2010 300 square metres or more of the clearance of natural vegetation where 75% or vegetation in excess of 300m2 more of the vegetative cover in areas of natural vegetation. constitutes indigenous Parts of the site fall within a vegetation CBA area. (b) Within critical biodiversity areas identified in bioregional plans. GN546,18 14 The clearance of an area of 5 Construction of the wind June 2010 hectares or more of energy facility will require vegetation where 75% or clearance of indigenous more of the vegetative cover vegetation. The site is located constitutes indigenous in a rural area in the Eastern vegetation Cape. (a) In the Eastern Cape i. All areas outside urban areas. GN546,18 19 The widening of a road by The project will be taking place June 2010 more than 4 metres, or the outside urban areas and 75% lengthening of a road by or more of the vegetative more than 1 kilometre in the cover constitutes natural Eastern Cape vegetation. (ii) outside urban areas, in (ee) Critical biodiversity areas as identified in systematic biodiversity plans adopted by the competent authority or in bioregional plans. GN546,18 24 The expansion of Existing infrastructure within June 2010 (d) infrastructure where the 32m of a watercourse may infrastructure will be need to be expanded by more
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Government Activity Description of listed Applicability to the Project Notice No activity expanded by 10 square than 10m2 for the project. metres or more where such The site falls outside of an construction occurs within a urban area and parts of the watercourse or within 32 site fall within a CBA area. metres of a watercourse, measured from the edge of a watercourse, excluding where such construction will occur behind the development setback line. In the Eastern Cape: (ii) Outside urban areas, in: (ee) Critical biodiversity areas as identified in systematic biodiversity plans adopted by the competent authority or in bioregional plans. A record of all authority consultation undertaken prior to and within the Scoping Phase is included within Appendix B.
5.3 Regulatory and Legal Context
The South African energy industry is evolving rapidly, with regular changes to legislation and industry role-players. The regulatory hierarchy for an energy generation project of this nature consists of three tiers of authority who exercise control through both statutory and non-statutory instruments – that is National, Provincial and Local levels. As wind energy development is a multi-sectoral issue (encompassing economic, spatial, biophysical, and cultural dimensions) various statutory bodies are likely to be involved in the approval process for wind energy facility project and the related statutory environmental assessment process.
5.3.1. Regulatory Hierarchy
The South African energy industry is evolving rapidly, with regular changes to legislation and industry role-players. The regulatory hierarchy for an energy generation project of this nature consists of three tiers of authority who exercise control through both statutory and non-statutory instruments – that is National, Provincial and Local levels. As wind energy development is a multi-sectoral issue (encompassing economic, spatial, biophysical, and cultural dimensions) various statutory bodies are likely to be involved in the approval process for wind energy facility project and the related statutory environmental assessment process.
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At National Level, the main regulatory agencies are:
» Department of Energy (DOE): This Department is responsible for policy relating to all energy forms, including renewable energy, and are responsible for forming and approving the IRP (Integrated Resource Plan for Electricity). Wind and solar energy projects are considered under the White Paper for Renewable Energy (2003) and the Department undertakes research in this regard. It is the controlling authority in terms of the Electricity Regulation Act (Act No 4 of 2006). » National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA): This body is responsible for regulating all aspects of the electricity sector, and will ultimately issue licenses for wind energy developments to generate electricity. » Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA): This Department is responsible for environmental policy and is the controlling authority in terms of NEMA and the EIA Regulations. The DEA is the competent authority for this project, and charged with granting the relevant environmental authorisation. » The South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA): The National Heritage Resources Act (Act No 25 of 1999) and the associated provincial regulations provides legislative protection for listed or proclaimed sites. » South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA): This Department is responsible for aircraft movements and radar, which are aspects that influence project’s location and planning. » Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF): This Department is the custodian of South Africa’s agriculture, fisheries and forestry resources and is primarily responsible for the formulation and implementation of policies governing the Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Sector. This Department has published a guideline for the development of wind farms on agricultural land. » Department of Mineral Resources: Approval from the Department of Mineral Resources (DMR) may be required to use land surface contrary to the objects of the Act in terms of section 53 of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, (Act No 28 of 2002): In terms of the Act approval from the Minister of Mineral Resources is required to ensure that proposed activities do not sterilise a mineral resources that might occur on site. » South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL): This agency of the Department of Transport is responsible for all National road routes. » Department of Water Affairs: This Department is responsible for evaluating and issuing licenses pertaining to water use.
At Provincial Level, the main regulatory agencies are:
» Eastern Cape – Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT). This department is the commenting authority for this project.
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» Department of Transport and Public Works -Eastern Cape. This department is responsible for roads and the granting of exemption permits for the conveyance of abnormal loads on public roads. » Eastern Cape Provincial Heritage Resources Authority (ECPHRA). ECPHRA is responsible for issuing of permits for removal or destruction of heritage resources in the Eastern Cape.
At Local Level the local and municipal authorities are the principal regulatory authorities responsible for planning, land use and the environment. In the Eastern Cape, both Municipalities i.e. Makana Local Municipality and Blue Crane Local Municipality and District Municipalities (i.e. Cacadu Municipality) play a role.
» In terms of the Municipal Systems Act (Act No 32 of 2000) it is compulsory for all municipalities to go through an Integrated Development Planning (IDP) process to prepare a five-year strategic development plan for the area under their control. » Bioregional planning involves the identification of priority areas for conservation and their placement within a planning framework of core, buffer and transition areas. These could include reference to visual and scenic resources and the identification of areas of special significance, together with visual guidelines for the area covered by these plans. » By-laws and policies have been formulated by local authorities to protect visual and aesthetic resources relating to urban edge lines, scenic drives, special areas, signage, communication masts, etc.
There are also numerous non-statutory bodies such as Wind Energy Associations and environmental lobby groups that play a role in various aspects of planning and the environment that will influence wind energy development.
5.3.2 Legislation and Guidelines that have informed the preparation of this Scoping Report
The following legislation and guidelines have informed the scope and content of this draft Scoping Report:
» National Environmental Management Act (Act No 107 of 1998) » EIA Regulations, published under Chapter 5 of the NEMA (GNR R543 in Government Gazette 33306 of 18 June 2010) » Guidelines published in terms of the NEMA EIA Regulations, in particular: Companion to the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations of 2010 (Final Guideline; DEA, 2010) Public Participation in the EIA Process (DEA, 2010) Integrated Environmental Management Information Series (published by DEA)
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» International guidelines – the Equator Principles and the International Finance Corporation and World Bank Environmental, Health, and Safety Guidelines for Wind Energy (2007)
Several other Acts, standards, or guidelines have informed the project process and the scope of issues evaluated in the scoping report, and to be addressed in the EIA Phase. A listing of relevant legislation is provided in Table 5.1.
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Table 5.1: Initial review of relevant policies, legislation, guidelines, and standards applicable to the proposed project
Legislation Applicable Requirements Relevant Authority Compliance requirements National Legislation National Environmental » NEMA requires, inter alia, that: » National Department of » The Final Scoping Report is to be Management Act (Act No. Development must be socially, Environmental Affairs submitted to the DEA for review and 107 of 1998) environmentally, and » Eastern Cape DEDEAT decision making. economically sustainable. » The EC DEDEAT will act as the Disturbance of ecosystems and commenting authority. loss of biological diversity are avoided, or, where they cannot be altogether avoided, are minimised and remedied. A risk-averse and cautious approach is applied, which takes into account the limits of current knowledge about the consequences of decisions and actions. » EIA Regulations have been promulgated in terms of Chapter 5. Activities which may not commence without an environmental authorisation are identified within these Regulations. » In terms of S24(1) of NEMA, the potential impact on the environment associated with these listed activities
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Legislation Applicable Requirements Relevant Authority Compliance requirements must be considered, investigated, assessed and reported on to the competent authority charged by NEMA with granting of the relevant environmental authorisation. » In terms of GNR 543 of 18 June 2010, a Scoping EIA Process is required to be undertaken for the proposed project. National Environmental » A project proponent is required to » National Department of » While no permitting or licensing Management Act (Act No. consider a project holistically and to Environmental Affairs requirements arise directly, the holistic 107 of 1998) consider the cumulative effect of consideration of the potential impacts of potential impacts. the proposed project has found » In terms of the Duty of Care provision application in the BA process. in S28(1) the project proponent must » The implementation of mitigation ensure that reasonable measures are measures will be included as part of the taken throughout the life cycle of this Draft EMPr and will continue to apply project to ensure that any pollution or throughout the life cycle of the project. degradation of the environment associated with a project is avoided, stopped or minimised. National Environmental » In terms of the Biodiversity Act, the » National Department of Specialist ecological Assessment will be Management: Biodiversity developer has a responsibility for: Environmental Affairs undertaken as part of the EIA process. Act (Act No. 10 of 2004) The conservation of endangered » A permit may be required should any ecosystems and restriction of listed plant species on site be disturbed activities according to the or destroyed as a result of the proposed categorisation of the area (not development.
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Legislation Applicable Requirements Relevant Authority Compliance requirements just by listed activity as specified in the EIA regulations). The application of appropriate environmental management tools to ensure integrated environmental management of activities. Limit further loss of biodiversity and conserve endangered ecosystems. » In terms of S57, a person may not carry out a restricted activity involving a specimen of a listed threatened or protected species without a permit issued in terms of Chapter 4. In this regard the Minister of Environmental Affairs has published a list of critically endangered, endangered, vulnerable, and protected species in GNR 151 in Government Gazette 29657 of 23 February 2007 and the regulations associated therewith in GNR 152 in GG29657 of 23 February 2007, which came into effect on 1 June 2007. » In terms of S75, (1) The control and eradication of a listed invasive species must be carried out by means of methods that are appropriate for the
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Legislation Applicable Requirements Relevant Authority Compliance requirements species concerned and the environment in which it occurs. (2) Any action taken to control and eradicate a listed invasive species must be executed with caution and in a manner that may cause the least possible harm to biodiversity and damage to the environment. (3) The methods employed to control and eradicate a listed invasive species must also be directed at the offspring, propagating material and re-growth of such invasive species in order to prevent such species from producing offspring, forming seed, regenerating, or re-establishing itself in any manner. » In terms of GNR 152 of 23 February 2007: regulations relating to listed threatened and protected species, the relevant specialists must be employed during the EIA Phase to incorporate the legal provisions as well as the regulations associated with listed threatened and protected species (GNR 152) into specialist reports in order to identify permitting requirements. » In terms of GNR 1477 of 2009: Draft
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Legislation Applicable Requirements Relevant Authority Compliance requirements National List of Threatened Ecosystems published under S52(1)(a) of the Act provides for the listing of threatened or protected ecosystems based on national criteria. The list of threatened terrestrial ecosystems supersedes the information regarding terrestrial ecosystem status in the National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment (2004). » GNR1187 Amendment of Critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable and Protected Species List published under S56(1)of the Act. National Environmental » The Minister may by notice in the » National Department of Water » As no waste disposal site is to be Management: Waste Act, Gazette publish a list of waste and Environmental Affairs associated with the proposed project, 2008 (Act No. 59 of 2008) management activities that have, or » Eastern Cape DEDEAT no permit is required in this regard. are likely to have, a detrimental effect » Waste handling, storage and disposal on the environment. during construction and operation is » In terms of the regulations published required to be undertaken in in terms of this Act (GN 921, 29 accordance with the requirements of November 2013), a Basic Assessment this Act. This will be detailed in the or Environmental Impact Assessment EMPr for the project. is required to be undertaken for » The volumes of waste to be generated identified listed activities. and stored on the site during » Any person who stores waste must at construction and operation of the power
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Legislation Applicable Requirements Relevant Authority Compliance requirements least take steps, unless otherwise line will not require a waste license provided by this Act, to ensure that (provided these remain below the (a) The containers in which any waste prescribed thresholds). is stored, are intact and not corroded or in any other way rendered unlit for the safe storage of waste; (b) Adequate measures are taken to prevent accidental spillage or leaking; (c) The waste cannot be blown away; (d) Nuisances such as odour, visual impacts and breeding of vectors do not arise; and (e) Pollution of the environment and harm to health are prevented. National Environmental » S18, S19 and S20 of the Act allow » National Department of » While no permitting or licensing Management: Air Quality certain areas to be declared and Environmental Affairs requirements arise from this legislation, Act (Act No. 39 of 2004) managed as “priority areas” » Eastern Cape DEDEAT this Act will find application during the » Declaration of controlled emitters construction phase of the project. (Part 3 of Act) and controlled fuels » The Air Emissions Authority (AEL) may (Part 4 of Act) with relevant emission require the compilation of a dust standards management plan. » The Act provides that an air quality officer may require any person to submit an atmospheric impact report if there is reasonable suspicion that the person has failed to comply with
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Legislation Applicable Requirements Relevant Authority Compliance requirements the Act. » Dust control regulations promulgated in November 2013 may require the implementation of a dust management plan. National Water Act (Act No. » Under S21 of the act, water uses must » National Department of Water » A water use license is required to be 36 of 1998) be licensed unless such water use falls Affairs applied for or obtained, if infrastructure into one of the categories listed in S22 » Eastern Cape Department of such as access roads or cabling cross of the Act or falls under the general Water Affairs watercourses, or for infrastructure authorisation. within 500m of a wetland or » In terms of S19, the project proponent watercourse (Section 21 c and i). must ensure that reasonable measures are taken throughout the » If ground or surface water is planned to life cycle of this project to prevent and be abstracted for use at the facility remedy the effects of pollution to (either during construction or water resources from occurring, operation), this may also require a continuing, or recurring. water use licence (Section 21 a). Environment Conservation » National Noise Control Regulations » National Department of » There is no requirement for a noise Act (Act No. 73 of 1989) (GN R154 dated 10 January 1992) Environmental Affairs permit in terms of the legislation. A » Local Authorities Noise Impact Assessment is required to be undertaken in accordance with SANS 10328. This must be completed as part of the EIA process for the project. Minerals and Petroleum » A mining permit or mining right may » Department of Minerals and » If borrow pits are required for the Resources Development Act be required where a mineral in Energy construction of the facility, a mining (Act No. 28 of 2002) question is to be mined (i.e. materials permit or right is required to be from a borrow pit) in accordance with obtained.
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Legislation Applicable Requirements Relevant Authority Compliance requirements the provisions of the Act. » Approval in terms of S53 will be » Requirements for Environmental required to be obtained. Management Programmes and Environmental Management Plans are set out in S39 of the Act. » S53 Department of Mineral Resources: Approval from the Department of Mineral Resources (DMR) may be required to use land surface contrary to the objects of the Act in terms of section 53 of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, (Act No 28 of 2002): In terms of the Act approval from the Minister of Mineral Resources is required to ensure that proposed activities do not sterilise a mineral resource that might occur on site. National Heritage Resources » S38 states that Heritage Impact » South African Heritage » A Phase 1 heritage impact assessment Act (Act No. 25 of 1999) Assessments (HIAs) are required for Resources Agency is required to be undertaken as part of certain kinds of development including the EIA process. » The construction of a road, power » A permit may be required should line, pipeline, canal or other identified cultural or heritage sites on similar linear development or site be required to be disturbed or barrier exceeding 300 m in destroyed as a result of the proposed length; development. » Any development or other activity
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Legislation Applicable Requirements Relevant Authority Compliance requirements which will change the character of a site exceeding 5 000 m2 in extent » The relevant Heritage Authority must be notified of developments such as linear developments (i.e. roads and power lines), bridges exceeding 50 m, or any development or other activity which will change the character of a site exceeding 5 000 m2; or the re- zoning of a site exceeding 10 000 m2 in extent. This notification must be provided in the early stages of initiating that development, and details regarding the location, nature and extent of the proposed development must be provided. » Stand alone HIAs are not required where an EIA is carried out as long as the EIA contains an adequate HIA component that fulfils the provisions of S38. In such cases only those components not addressed by the EIA should be covered by the heritage component. National Forests Act (Act » In terms of S5(1) no person may cut, » Department of Agriculture, » A permit would need to be obtained for No. 84 of 1998) disturb, damage or destroy any Forestry and Fisheries any protected trees that are affected by
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Legislation Applicable Requirements Relevant Authority Compliance requirements protected tree or possess, collect, the proposed project. remove, transport, export, purchase, sell donate or in any other manner acquire or dispose of any protected tree or any forest product derived from a protected tree, except under a license granted by the Minister to an (applicant and subject to such period and conditions as may be stipulated”. » GN 1042 provides a list of protected tree species. National Veld and Forest » Provides requirements for veldfire » Department of Agriculture, » While no permitting or licensing Fire Act (Act 101 of 1998) prevention through firebreaks and Forestry and Fisheries requirements arise from this legislation, required measures for fire-fighting. this act will find application during the Chapter 4 places a duty on operational phase of the project in landowners to prepare and maintain terms of fire prevention and firebreaks, and Chapter 5 places a management. duty on all landowners to acquire equipment and have available personnel to fight fires. » In terms of S12 the applicant would be obliged to burn firebreaks to ensure that should a veldfire occur on the property, that it does not spread to adjoining land. » In terms of S12 the firebreak would need to be wide and long enough to
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Legislation Applicable Requirements Relevant Authority Compliance requirements have a reasonable chance of preventing the fire from spreading, not causing erosion, and is reasonably free of inflammable material. » In terms of Section 17, the applicant must have such equipment, protective clothing, and trained personnel for extinguishing fires. Hazardous Substances Act » This Act regulates the control of » Department of Health » It is necessary to identify and list all the (Act No. 15 of 1973) substances that may cause injury, or Group I, II, III, and IV hazardous ill health, or death due to their toxic, substances that may be on the site and corrosive, irritant, strongly sensitising, in what operational context they are or inflammable nature or the used, stored or handled. generation of pressure thereby in certain instances and for the control of certain electronic products. To provide for the rating of such substances or products in relation to the degree of danger; to provide for the prohibition and control of the importation, manufacture, sale, use, operation, modification, disposal or dumping of such substances and products. » Group I and II: Any substance or mixture of a substance that might by reason of its toxic, corrosive etc.,
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Legislation Applicable Requirements Relevant Authority Compliance requirements nature or because it generates pressure through decomposition, heat or other means, cause extreme risk of injury etc., can be declared to be Group I or Group II hazardous substance; » Group IV: any electronic product; » Group V: any radioactive material. » The use, conveyance, or storage of any hazardous substance (such as distillate fuel) is prohibited without an appropriate license being in force. National Road Traffic Act The Technical Recommendations for » Provincial Department of An abnormal load/vehicle permit may be (Act No 93 of 1996) Highways (TRH 11): “Draft Guidelines for Transport (provincial roads) required to transport the various Granting of Exemption Permits for the » South African National Roads components to site for construction. These Conveyance of Abnormal Loads and for Agency Limited (national include: other Events on Public Roads” outline the roads) » Route clearances and permits will be rules and conditions which apply to the required for vehicles carrying transport of abnormal loads and vehicles abnormally heavy or abnormally on public roads and the detailed dimensioned loads. procedures to be followed in applying for » Transport vehicles exceeding the exemption permits are described and dimensional limitations (length) of 22m. discussed. » Depending on the trailer configuration and height when loaded, some of the
power station components may not Legal axle load limits and the restrictions meet specified dimensional limitations imposed on abnormally heavy loads are (height and width). discussed in relation to the damaging
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Legislation Applicable Requirements Relevant Authority Compliance requirements effect on road pavements, bridges and culverts.
» The general conditions, limitations and escort requirements for abnormally dimensioned loads and vehicles are also discussed and reference is made to speed restrictions, power/mass ratio, mass distribution and general operating conditions for abnormal loads and vehicles. Provision is also made for the granting of permits for all other exemptions from the requirements of the National Road Traffic Act and the relevant Regulations. Development Facilitation Provides for the overall framework and Makana and Blue Crane Route The applicant must submit a land Act (Act No 67 of 1995) administrative structures for planning Local Municipalities development application in the prescribed throughout the Republic. manner and form as provided for in the Act. A land development applicant who wishes to Sections 2- 4 provide general principles establish a land development area must for land development and conflict comply with procedures set out in the DFA. resolution.
Provincial Legislation Nature Conservation » Article 63 prohibits the picking of » Eastern Cape DEDEAT » Permitting or licensing requirements Ordinance (Act No. 19 of certain fauna (including cutting, may arise from this legislation for the 1974) chopping, taking, and gathering, proposed activities to be undertaken for
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Legislation Applicable Requirements Relevant Authority Compliance requirements uprooting, damaging, or destroying). the proposed project. » Schedule 3 lists endangered flora and Schedule 4 lists protected flora. » Articles 26 to 47 regulate the use of wild animals.
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PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS CHAPTER 6
The aim of the public participation process conducted in the scoping phase of the process was primarily to ensure that:
» All potential stakeholders and I&APs are identified and consulted regarding the project. » Information containing all relevant facts in respect of the application is made available to potential stakeholders and I&APs. » Participation by potential I&APs is facilitated in such a manner that all potential stakeholders and I&APs are provided with a reasonable opportunity to comment on the application and identify issues to be addressed in the EIA process. » Comment received from stakeholders and I&APs is recorded.
6.1 I&AP Identification, Registration and the Creation of an Electronic Database
The first step in the public involvement process was to identify relevant stakeholders and interested and affected parties (I&APs). This process was undertaken through existing contacts and databases, field research, recording responses to site notices and newspaper advertisements, as well as through the process of networking. Stakeholder groups identified include:
» Provincial and local government departments (including DoE, Eastern Cape DED&EA, South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA), Department of Water Affairs (DWA), Department of Agriculture, South African Roads Agency (SANRAL), etc.); » Government Structures (including the Department of Transport Eastern Cape, municipal planning departments, Telkom National and Eastern Cape etc.) ; » Cacadu District Municipality, Makana Local Municipality and Blue Crane Local Municipality » Potentially affected and neighbouring landowners and occupiers; » Local authorities; » Conservation authorities and groupings; » Industry and business; and » Community Based Organisations (CBOs) and other Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs).
All relevant stakeholder and I&AP information has been recorded within a database of affected parties (refer to Appendix C for a listing of recorded parties3 and Figure 6.1). While
3 Note that contact details for registered parties have not been provided in order to respect the privacy of these individuals
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I&APs have been encouraged to register their interest in the project from the start of the process, the identification and registration of I&APs will be on-going for the duration of the EIA process. Every reasonable effort has been made to identify and register affected and neighbouring landowners and occupiers. In some instances it has not yet been possible to identify these parties. The project database will be updated on an on-going basis throughout the project process, and will act as a record of the parties involved in the public involvement process.
6.2 Notification of the EIA Process
In order to notify and inform the public of the proposed project and to invite members of the public to register as interested and affected parties (I&APs) newspaper adverts in English, Afrikaans and isiXhosa were placed in the following newspapers (refer to Appendix D):
» The Herald - English and isiXhosa adverts (22 & 26 May 2014 respectively); and » Somerset Budget - Afrikaans advert (22 May 2014).
In accordance with the requirements of the EIA Regulations, site notices in English, Afrikaans and isiXhosa were places on the fence of all farm portions affected by the proposed wind facility and the proposed power line alternatives, the local municipalities, as well as at public places in the study area from the 02- 04 June 2014 (refer to Appendix D for proof of advertisements). In addition to the advertisements and notices, key stakeholders and registered I&APs were notified in writing of the commencement of the EIA process though the distribution of a stakeholder letter and Background Information Document (BID) (refer to Appendix E1-E4).
6.3 Public Involvement and Consultation
In order to accommodate the varying needs of stakeholders and I&APs within the study area, as well as capture their views, issues and concerns regarding the project, various opportunities have been and will continue to be provided for I&APs to have their issues noted after the release of the Draft Scoping Report for public review, as follows:
» Focus group meetings (pre-arranged and stakeholders invited to attend); » Public Open Days in the study area (advertised meetings to which the general public are invited) » One-on-one consultation meetings where required (for example with directly affected or surrounding landowners);
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» Telephonic consultation sessions (consultation with various parties from the EIA project team, including the project participation consultant, lead EIA consultant as well as specialist consultants); and » Written, faxed or e-mail correspondence.
Through consultation with key stakeholders and I&APs undertaken to date as well as through on-going consultation to be undertaken during the review period for the draft Scoping Report, issues for inclusion within the issues-based scoping study are identified. Networking with I&APs will continue throughout the duration of the EIA process.
6.4 Identification and Recording of Issues and Concerns
Issues and concerns raised by I&APs during the scoping process to date have been consolidated in a Comments and Responses Report which has been included as part of this Draft Scoping Report. Issues raised during the review period of the Draft Scoping Report will be incorporated into the Comments and Responses report which will be included in the final Scoping Report for submission to DEA. The Comments and Responses Report will include responses from members of the EIA project team and/or the project developer to indicate how issues will be addressed in the EIA process, or provide clarification. Where issues are raised that the EIA team considers beyond the scope and purpose of this EIA process, clear reasoning for this view will be provided.
6.4.1. Evaluation of Issues Identified through the Scoping Process
Issues (both direct and indirect environmental impacts) associated with the proposed project have been identified within the scoping process based on the experience of the project team within the area and on other wind energy developments, as well as from inputs from the public participation process.
In order to evaluate issues and assign an order of priority, it was necessary to identify the characteristics of each potential issue/impact:
» The nature, which includes a description of what causes the effect, what will be affected and how it will be affected » The extent, wherein it is indicated whether the impact will be local (limited to the immediate area or site of development) or regional
The evaluation of the issues resulted in a statement regarding the potential significance of the identified issues, as well as recommendations regarding further studies required within an EIA.
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Figure 6.1: Landowner notification map for the proposed Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility
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6.4.2. Public Review of the Revised Draft Scoping Report
This is the current stage of the Scoping Phase. The draft Scoping Report has been made available for public review for a 40 day period from 24 June 2014 at 04 August 2014 the following locations:
» Public Libraries Riebeek East Library; Grahamstown Library, Alicedale Library, and Bedford Public Library. » Farmers Co-ops Eastern Cape Agricultural Co-op –Buchner Street, Paterson, Eastern Cape Agricultural Co-op – Charles Street, Somerset East, and Humansdorp Co-op – Station Street, Golden Valley. » Website - www.savannahSA.com/projects
In addition, all registered I&APs were notified of the availability of the report in writing (refer to the Notification Letter in Appendix E).
An Open Day Meeting will be held on the 16 July 2014 at the Riebeeck East Community Hall in the town of Riebeeck East from 09:00-19:00 at the following venue:
Riebeeck East Community Hall Von Behren Street Kwa Nomzamo Riebeeck East
3.2.5. Final Scoping Report
The final stage in the Scoping Phase will entail the capturing of responses from stakeholders and I&APs on the Draft Scoping Report in order to refine this report. It is this final report upon which the decision-making environmental authorities provide comment, recommendations, and acceptance to undertake the EIA Phase of the process.
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DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT CHAPTER 7
This section of the Draft Scoping Report provides a description of the environment that may be affected by the proposed Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility and associated infrastructure in the Eastern Cape Province. This information is provided in order to assist the reader in understanding the possible effects of the proposed project on the environment. Aspects of the biophysical, social and economic environment that could be directly or indirectly affected by, or could affect, the proposed development have been described. This information has been sourced from both existing information available for the area, and aims to provide the context within which this EIA is being conducted.
7.1 Regional Setting
The proposed site for the Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility is located approximately 6km north-west of Riebeek East and approximately 15km north- west of Alicedale in the Eastern Cape Province.
7.2 Location of the Study Area
Location and Character of the Study Area
The N10 traverse south-western section of the study area, which also includes a number of main roads (i.e. the R335, the R400 and the R350). Reibeek East is the nearest settlement to the site. The study area has a rural character and the broader study area includes the towns of Grahamstown (~35 km south-east of the site), Alicedale (~15 km south of the site), Paterson (~16 km south of the site) and Cookhouse (~33 km north of the site). Port Elizabeth lies ~78 km south of the site. The site occurs ~20km north-east-of the Addo Elephant Park and Sundays River Valley.
Agricultural activity within the study area tends to be limited to defined areas along the Great Fish River and its tributaries. Industrial infrastructure in the broader study area includes the Poseidon and Golden Valley Substations near Cookhouse and the Doornkom Substation near Alicedale. The existing 132kV, 220kV and 400kV power lines cross the wind energy facility study area in a predominantly northerly direction to converge at the Poseidon Substation.
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7.3 Land-use and Land-cover of the study area
Both the Makana and Blue Crane Route Local Municipalities are characterised as largely rural municipalities with fairly small urban components (i.e. Grahamstown, Somerset East). The land cover map (refer to Figure 7.1) shows that the study area for the proposed wind energy facility and power line consists mainly on natural thicket natural grassland, scattered forest plantation on the far northern boundary of the wind energy facility and a small portion of cultivated land on the western power line corridor.
The rural parts of these municipalities are primarily used for either commercial agricultural activities (i.e. livestock, game farming) or conservation. The area surrounding the proposed Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility is used almost exclusively for livestock farming (sheep, goats) and to a lesser extent game farming and eco-tourism. Several formal reserves occur in the region including: » The East Cape Game Farm (~3km to the north of the site boundary) » Frontier Game Farm (~3km to the south of the site boundary). » Game Reserves include the Woodlands GR (~8km to the north east), Kwandwe Private game reserve (~23km to the east of the site boundary), Shamwari game reserve (~15km to the south of the site boundary) and Kuzuko game reserve (~30km to the south west of the site boundary). » Rockdale Game Ranch located (~4km to the south east of the site boundary).
Statutory conservation areas in the region include the Aylesbury Nature Reserve located ~4km to the east of the site and Addo Elephant National Park located ~17km to the south west of the site boundary.
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Figure 7.1: Land cover map of the Spitskop East study area
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7.4 Topography
The proposed study area is situated on gently undulating to mountainous terrain with some high relief areas. The altitude range across the site is from 400m to 933m AMSL and the highest peak is on the Farm Grootfontein 140 just north of Riebeek-East. The study area where the new power line alternatives are located is generally characterised by a mountainous and flat terrain. The proposed wind turbines are to be located along the prominent ridges at relatively high altitudes to maximise wind resources.
7.5 Climatic Conditions
The climate of the area is temperate with hot summer days and cool winter days but frost and even snow is common at higher altitudes during winter. Annual rainfall increases westwards to an average of approximately 450mm per annum recorded in the nearby major town of Grahamstown.
7.6 Hydrology
There are two major rivers which occur on or near the site, the Klein-Vis in the north and the Swartwaters in the south. The Swartwaters is especially sensitive and has been identified as a priority river under the Fresh Water Ecosystems Priority Areas Assessment (Nel et al 2011). There are numerous smaller drainage lines within the study area which are also considered sensitive and should be avoided as much as possible. Outside of the drainage lines there are not many wetlands present, apart from a few small pans on the tops of the hills in the south eastern part of the site.
7.7 Geology and Soils
The study area and power line routes to Poseidon are underlain by folded sedimentary formations of the Witteberg Group (Cape Supergroup), Dwyka Formation and Ecca Groups (Karoo Supergroup). The oldest rocks in the area are the quartzites of the Witpoort Formation of the Witteberg Group (estimated at approximately 350-450 Ma old). These rocks are significantly harder than the surrounding rocks and are more resistant to weathering thus forming prominent ridges in the area. The Witpoort Formation is overlain by the Lake Mentz Formation sandstones and shales (the uppermost member of the Witteberg Group) which are generally more argillaceous (finer grained, containing more clay) and softer than the underlying Witpoort Formation. This is a function of the depositional history of the rocks. The Witteberg Group is overlain by the Dwyka Formation tillite which is the basal member of the Karoo Supergroup. The Dwyka tillite was deposited in a glacial environment during the Permo-Triassic era. The tillite is overlain by the Ecca Group shales consisting of the Collingham, Whitehill, Prince Albert, Ripon and Fort brown shales which were deposited in a deep-sea or fluvial delta environment typical of the Karoo Supergroup.
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Quaternary sediments are mapped along major rivers where thick accumulations of unconsolidated alluvium have accumulated.
The topography of the study area is largely controlled by the geology and specifically the resistance to weathering of the different rock types. The mountain ridges are generally formed by harder rocks such as quartzite from the Witteberg Group and tillite of the Dwyka Formation. The lower relief areas are generally underlain by softer sandstone and shale from the Ecca and Witteberg Groups.
The Cape rocks were subjected to significant compressional stress episodes during the collision of the African and South American tectonic plates approximately 250Ma ago. This has led to the spectacular folding and faulting seen in these rocks along many of the mountain passes leading to the interior from the coast. Several subsequent tectonic deformation episodes have been attributed to the folding and faulting seen in the overlying Karoo rocks, although this is, by comparison, less pervasive. The conspicuous east-west trending mountain ridges in the area are a result of this tectonic activity.
There are no major geological faults mapped on the 1:250 000 scale in the study area or in the immediate vicinity thereof. The nearest major fault system is the Coega Fault which occurs approximately 70km southwest of the study area. The activity of this fault system is presently unconfirmed. The anticipated seismic intensity in the study area is rated as V on the Modified Mercalli Scale and peak horizontal ground accelerations are typically less than 50cm/s with a 10% chance of being exceeded at least once in a 50 year period.
Analysis of the geological maps and aerial photography indicates that hard rock outcrops are widespread in the upland areas of high relief. Shallow rock is expected over much of the study area, covered by a thin soil veneer of mixed origin.
7.8 Agricultural Potential
The proposed wind energy facility and power line routes are located on agricultural land, most of which consists of natural grazing and is utilized by sheep, cattle and game with intensive agriculture only occurring on the flat alluvial areas along the Little and Great Fish Rivers and their tributaries. Sheep are mainly Merino and Dohne Merino breeds for wool production and cattle are mainly for beef production. A variety of game occurs on the farms as well as within enclosed game camps within the study area. Maize and wheat is planted, as well as lucerne for pastures and hay production.
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7.9 Ecological Profile of the Study Area
7.9.1. Vegetation
The broader study area falls within an area consisting of the following vegetation types: » Albany Broken Veld (Nama-Karoo Biome); » Kowie Thicket (Albany Thicket Biome); » Great Fish Thicket (Albany Thicket Biome); » Southern Karoo Riviere (azonal vegetation); » Suurberg Quartzite Fynbos (Fynbos Biome); and » Suurberg Shale Fynbos (Fynbos Biome).
In terms of the general sensitivity of the different vegetation types present, the Southern Karoo Riviere, Southern Mistbelt Forest and Cape Inland Salt Pans vegetation types are considered highly sensitive in principle, on account of their ecological characteristics and known biodiversity values. The fynbos vegetation types are also considered reasonably sensitive, followed by the thicket types, with Albany Broken Veld being considered the least sensitive on account of the drier conditions and likely lower biodiversity values associated with this vegetation type.
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Table 7.1: The different vegetation types which occur in the vicinity of the study area, including their conservation status and their extent nationally and within the study area.
Vegmap Name Extent in Biome Bioregion Veg Type Conservation Protected Remaining Status Code Study Extent Target (formal Area (ha) (km2) /informal) NKl 4 Albany Broken Veld 29367 Nama-Karoo Lower Karoo 1648 16% 0.2% 97% Least Bioregion (+11.8%) threatened Gs 18 Bedford Dry 0 Grassland Sub- 2051 23% 0% 96.80% Least Grassland Escarpment (+1.1%) threatened Grassland Bioregion AZi 9 Cape Inland Salt Pans 0 Azonal Inland Saline 85 24% 20% 79.60% Vulnerable Vegetation Vegetation (+2.6%) AT 11 Great Fish Thicket 1808 Albany Thicket Albany Thicket 6763 19% 6.1% 96% Least (+4.5%) threatened AT 8 Kowie Thicket 13492 Albany Thicke Albany Thicket 2249 19% 4.4% 91.70% Least (+13.8%) threatened AZi 6 Southern Karoo 3291 Azonal Inland Saline 5299 24% 1.4% 88.20% Least Riviere Vegetation Vegetation (+1.6%) threatened FOz 3 Southern Mistbelt 0 Forests Zonal & 1100 30% 7.9% 94.90% Least Forest Intrazonal (+5%) threatened Forests FFq 6 Suurberg Quartzite 5313 Fynbos Eastern Fynbos- 885 23% 15% 98.60% Least Fynbos Renosterveld (+16%) threatened Bioregion FFh 10 Suurberg Shale 1264 Fynbos Eastern Fynbos- 515 23% 38.4% 98.60% Least Fynbos Renosterveld (+6.1%) threatened Bioregion
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7.10 Conservation Planning
7.10.1 The Albany Centre of Endemism
The study site occurs within the Albany Centre of Floristic Endemism (van Wyk & Smith 2001) (Figure 7.2). This region was originally defined as the whole of the drainage area of the Great Fish River (Croizat 1965) and is recognised as an important centre of plant diversity and endemism in Africa (Davis et al. 1994). This area is also one of the earth’s 25 hotspots, i.e. geographical areas that contain the world’s greatest plant and animal diversity while also being subjected to high levels of pressure from development and/or degradation (Mittermeier et al. 2000, Steenkamp et al. 2004, 2005).
The Albany Centre comprises a diverse mosaic of floristic and vegetation elements. Thicket is the most conspicuous component of this Centre and there is a high degree of endemism amongst succulent plants in this Centre of Endemism. However, the region is at the convergence of five phytochoria (White 1983) and there are at least 40 vegetation types that have been mapped in the recently compiled vegetation map of South Africa (Mucina, Rutherford & Powrie 2005) of a total of 435 vegetation types of the whole country that occur within the Albany Centre. The study area is within the core of the Albany Centre of Endemism and contains two thicket vegetation types.
Figure 7.2: Relationship of the Albany Centre to the study area (red circle)
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7.10.2 The Cape Floristic Region
The study area occurs within the Cape Floristic Region (refer to Figure 7.3), which is recognised as one of the principal centers of diversity and endemism in Africa (van Wyk & Smith 2001). Moreover, it is one of the earth’s 25 hotspots, i.e. geographical areas that contain the world’s greatest plant and animal diversity while also being subjected to high levels of pressure from development and/or degradation (Mittermeier et al. 2000). The Cape Floristic region is also the only hotspot that encompasses an entire Floristic Kingdom. This region has the greatest extratropical concentration of plant species in the world, with 9000 plant species, 6210 of which are endemics (Cowling & Pierce 2000). Diversity and endemism are high at the generic and familial level as well, with five of South Africa’s 12 endemic plant families.
Figure 7.3: Relationship of the Fynbos Biome to the study area (red circle).
The characteristic and most widespread vegetation of the Cape Floristic Region (CFR) is fynbos, consisting of hard-leaved, evergreen, fire-prone shrubs. Other vegetation types occurring in the CFR are Renosterveld, Succulent Karoo, Subtropical Thicket and Afromontane forest, although only Fynbos and Renosterveld are considered to be the main vegetation types in the CFR. Fynbos is associated with the nutrient poor soils of the Cape fold Belt Mountains. It is species rich, with over 75% of the CFR species associated with it, including all the endemic families and most of the endemic genera (van Wyk & Smith 2001). The vegetation type is characterized by a preponderance of Restionaceae, Ericaceae and Proteaceae and a paucity of annuals and grasses. Fynbos is rich in geophytes, notably from the families Liliaceae, Iridaceae and Orchidaceae, and is
Description of the Affected Environment Page 76 PROPOSED SPITSKOP EAST WIND FARM NEAR RIEBEEK EAST, EASTERN CAPE PROVINCE Draft Scoping Report June 2014 thought to harbour the richest geophyte flora in the world (Cowling & Richardson 1995). Different types of Fynbos vegetation are recognised: a total of 78 fynbos and 38 renosterveld vegetation types have been mapped in the recently compiled vegetation map of South Africa (Mucina, Rutherford & Powrie 2005) of a total of 435 vegetation types of the whole country (more than a quarter of the total). The Fynbos Biome and the CFR are largely concurrent and also match the boundaries of the two main vegetation types, fynbos and renosterveld.
Permanent and complete transformation of habitat has affected 33% of the CFR hotspot. Less than 20% of the total area covered by the CFR hotspot can be considered close to the pristine state in the sense that it is entirely free of alien plants and subjected to appropriate fire and grazing regimes (Cowling & Pierce 2000). The study area is within this hotspot area near its eastern end (refer to Figure 7.3) and, although the hotspot contains a wide variety of vegetation types, the study area contains vegetation types that are typical of the areas of concern within the hotspot.
7.10.2 Important Biodiversity Areas
There have been a number of regional conservation assessments produced within the Eastern Cape Province, including the following: » Subtropical Thicket Ecosystem Programme (STEP); » Succulent Karoo Ecosystems Programme (SKEP); » National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment (NSBA); and » Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (ECBCP).
These studies identify patterns and processes that are important for maintaining biodiversity in the region. Unfortunately, many of these studies have been done using coarse scale satellite imagery that does not provide spatial or spectral accuracy at the scale of the present study. They are, however, useful for understanding broad issues and patterns within the area. The ECBCP has integrated all previous studies and is a useful reference for identifying conservation issues in the study area and surrounds.
The ECBCP identifies Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBAs), which are terrestrial and aquatic features in the landscape that are critical for conserving biodiversity and maintaining ecosystem functioning (Berliner & Desmet 2007). The ECBCP identifies CBAs at different levels with decreasing biodiversity importance, as follows (for the study area and surroundings):
» PA: Protected areas. » CBA 1: Critically Endangered and irreplaceable biodiversity areas (areas definitely required to meet conservation targets).
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» CBA 2: Endangered vegetation types, ecological corridors, forest patches that do not fall into CBA 1, 1 km coastal buffer, irreplaceable biodiversity areas that do not fall into CBA 1. » CBA 3: Vulnerable vegetation types.
The proposed site for the wind energy facility falls within CBA 2 and the power line corridors fall within the CBA 2 and 3 (refer to Figure 7.4).
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Figure 7.4: Critical Biodiversity Sites identified within the proposed Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility and power line routes
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7.11. Terrestrial Fauna
Mammals The study area lies within the distribution range of 65 mammals, indicating that the mammalian diversity at the study area is likely to be high. Given the wide variety of habitats present, which vary from low karoo scrubland to thicket and grassland to dense riparian forest, the majority of potential species are likely to occur within the area. Three species of conservation concern potentially occur, i.e. the White-tailed Mouse (Endangered), Leopard (Near Threatened) and the Honey Badger (SA RDB Endangered). All three potentially occur within the study area, and could be impacted by the development.
The eastern half of the development to the east of the N10 is identified as being more sensitive for mammals than the more arid part of the site west of the N10. There is greater habitat diversity in this section and the variety and abundance of mammals present is likely to be higher than in the rest of the site. It is also important to recognise that it is not just the variety of habitats present that is important but also their proximity and arrangement that is important for mammals within the eastern section of the site.
Reptiles The study area lies within the distribution range of as many as 51 different reptiles, suggesting that the reptile diversity of the area is potentially high. Furthermore, given the high diversity of habitats at the site, a large proportion of the species which potentially occur in the area are likely to be present at the site.
Amphibians The study area lies within the distribution range of 16 amphibian species, which is a high total for a semi-arid area. A number of different species have been confirmed for the wind energy facility ite, including Bubbling Kassinia, Snoring Puddle Frog, Common Platanna, Bronze Caco and Common River Frog. No species of conservation concern are known from the area. Pans present in the study area are considered highly sensitive as they are unique and provide important breeding habitat for amphibians within a local environment without other such opportunities.
7.12. Bats
The study area has a complex topography and the local habitat is largely undisturbed. Thickets, fynbos, Karoo veld, forest, riparian strips, dams and cultivated fields provide a variety of foraging habitats for bats within the study area. Potential roost sites include lines of cliffs and gorges rock overhangs, fissures and crevices, old bird nests, caves, culverts, buildings, aardvark and
Description of the Affected Environment Page 80 PROPOSED SPITSKOP EAST WIND FARM NEAR RIEBEEK EAST, EASTERN CAPE PROVINCE Draft Scoping Report June2014 other burrows and stands of trees (dense foliage, trunks, loose bark) and aloes (bases of leaves).
Based on Monadjem et al. (2010), 27 bat species could occur in the Wind Energy Facility area (Table 7.2). This total includes four fruit batsOf the 27 species, in South Africa three are considered threatened and nine considered Near Threatened, while globally, one is listed as Near Threatened.
Most of the species potentially present in the study area are clutter or clutter- edge foragers and are thus more likely to forage on the edge of vegetation patches rather than on exposed hilltops. The exceptions are Taphozous mauritianus and Tadarida aegyptiaca, which are open air foragers.
Topographical features such as ridges are often used during migration. In South Africa, at least three bat species migrate: Miniopterus natalensis, Myotis tricolor and Rousettus aegyptiacus.
Table 7.2: Potential bat species at the Spitskop WEF site, from Monadjem et al., 2010. Global status based on IUCN, 2012. Species with a high probability of occurrence are highlighted green, and those with a medium to low probability of occurrence are highlighted yellow. Scientific name Common name *SA *Global Endemic, status status southern Africa African straw-coloured Eidolon helvum fruit bat NE NT no Epomophorus Peter’s epauletted fruit near- crypturus bat DD LC endemic Epomophorus Wahlberg’s epauletted whalbergi fruit bat LC LC no Rousettus aegyptiacus Egyptian rousette LC LC no Percival’s short-eared Cloeotis percivali trident bat CR LC no Sundevall's leaf-nosed Hipposideros caffer bat DD LC no Rhinolophus capensis Cape horseshoe bat NT LC yes Rhinolophus clivosus Geoffroy's horseshoe bat NT LC no Rhinolophus darlingii Darling's horseshoe bat NT LC no Rhinolophus swinnyi Swinny's horseshoe bat EN LC no Taphozous mauritianus Mauritian tomb bat LC LC no Nycteris thebaica Egyptian slit-faced bat LC LC no Mops midas1 Midas free-tailed bat LC LC no Tadarida aegyptiaca Egyptian free-tailed bat LC LC no Miniopterus fraterculus Lesser long-fingered bat NT LC yes Miniopterus natalensis Natal long-fingered bat NT LC no Cistugo lesueuri Lesueur’s wing-gland bat NT LC yes Eptesicus hottentotus Long-tailed serotine LC LC yes Hypsugo anchietae2 Anchieta's pipistrelle NT LC no Kerivoula argentata Damara woolly bat EN LC no
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Scientific name Common name *SA *Global Endemic, status status southern Africa Kerivoula lanosa Lesser woolly bat NT LC no Myotis tricolor Temminck's myotis NT LC no Neoromicia capensis Cape serotine LC LC no Neoromicia nana3 Banana bat LC LC no Neoromicia zuluensis Zulu serotine LC LC no Pipistrellus hesperidus Dusky pipistrelle LC LC no Scotophilus dinganii Yellow bellied house bat LC LC no Alternative names following IUCN, 2012:1Tadarida midas. 2Pipistrellus anchieta. 3Pipistrellus nanus *Status: CR-Critically Endangered. EN-Endangered. VU-Vulnerable. NT-Near Threatened. LC-Least Concern. DD-Data Deficient. NE-Not Evaluated.
7.13. Avifauna
The study area has a complex topography and the local habitat is largely undisturbed. Thickets, fynbos, Karoo veld, forest, riparian strips, dams and cultivated fields provide a variety of habitats for a diverse avifauna. Lines of cliffs and gorges provide habitat for raptors, particularly cliff-nesting species.
Over 290 bird species are considered likely to occur within the study area, including:
» 72 endemic or near-endemic species; » 21 red-listed species; and » 6 species which are both endemic and red-listed, i.e. Knysna Woodpecker, Ludwig’s Bustard, Blue Crane, Cape Vulture, Black Harrier and possibly Melodius Lark (Barnes 1998, 2000, Young et al. 2003).
The birds of greatest potential relevance and importance in terms of the possible impacts are likely to be:
» Large terrestrial birds – including Ludwig’s Bustard, Denham’s Bustard and Kori Bustard, White-bellied Korhaan, Blue Crane and Grey-crowned Crane, breeding and/or foraging in and commuting across the open uplands of the study area. » Raptors (and possibly storks) nesting either on the cliffs along the rivers in the area, in the larger trees along the river valleys, or in the mountains to the north – including Cape Vulture, Verreaux’s Eagle, Martial Eagle, African Crowned Eagle, Black Harrier, Secretarybird, Lesser Kestrel Peregrine Falcon, Lanner Falcon, and possibly Black Stork. » Waterbirds living on and/or commuting along the Great Fish River and its tributaries, especially Black Stork.
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» Populations of smaller threatened endemics (Knysna Woodpecker and Melodius Lark).
7.14. Heritage Sites
Little is known about the archaeology of the area, mainly because no systematic archaeological research has been conducted within the area proposed for the Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility. The pre-colonial archaeological record of the Grahamstown region and its immediate surrounds includes the Early Stone Age (ESA), the Middle Stone Age (MSA), the Later Stone Age (LSA) as well as pastoralism within the last 2000 years, Later Iron Age farming communities and colonial/historical archaeology. Grahamstown and the wider regions are rich in archaeological remains and sites and include many caves, rock shelters and rock paintings.
7.14.1. The Early Stone Age (ESA)
The Early Stone Age spans a period of between 1.5 million and 250 000 years ago and refers to the earliest that Homo sapiens sapiens predecessors began making stone artefacts. The earliest stone tool industry was referred to as the Olduwan Industry originating from stone artefacts recorded at Olduvai Gorge, Tanzania. The Acheulian Industry which replaced the Olduwan Industry approximately 1.5 million years ago is attested to in diverse environments and over wide geographical areas. The hallmark of the Acheulian Industry is its large cutting tools (LCTs or bifaces), primarily handaxes and cleavers. Bifaces emerged in East Africa more that 1.5 million years ago but have been reported from a wide range of areas, from South Africa to northern Europe and from India to the Iberian coast. Yet the end products were astonishingly similar across the geographical and chronological distribution of the Acheulian techno-complex: large flakes that were suitable in size and morphology for the production of handaxes and cleavers perfectly suited to the available raw materials (Sharon 2009). The most well know Early Stone Age site in southern Africa is Amanzi Springs, situated about 10km north-east of Uitenhage, near Port Elizabeth (Deacon 1970). In a series of spring deposits a large number of stone tools were found in situ to a depth of 3-4 metres. Wood and seed material preserved remarkably very well within the spring deposits, and possibly date to between 800 000 to 250 000 years old.
7.14.2. The Middle Stone Age
The Middle Stone Age spans a period from 250 000-30 000 years ago and focuses on the emergence of modern humans through the change in technology, behaviour, physical appearance, art and symbolism. Various stone artefact industries occur during this time period, although less is known about the time prior to 120 000 years ago, and ample systemic research is being conducted on
Description of the Affected Environment Page 83 PROPOSED SPITSKOP EAST WIND FARM NEAR RIEBEEK EAST, EASTERN CAPE PROVINCE Draft Scoping Report June2014 sites across southern Africa dating within the last 120 000 years (Thompson & Marean 2008). The large handaxes and cleavers were replaced by smaller stone tools called the Middle Stone Age flake and blade industries. Surface scatters of these flake and blade industries occurs widespread across southern Africa although rarely with any associated botanical and fauna remains. It is also common for these stone artefacts to be found between the surface and approximately 50-80cm below ground. Fossil bone may in rare cases be associated with MSA occurrences (Gess 1969). These stone artefacts, like the Earlier Stone Age handaxes are usually observed in secondary context with no other associated archaeological material.
The oldest evidence of the early inhabitants that occurs in surrounding area of the proposed development and wider region are large stone artefacts, called handaxes and cleavers which are from the Earlier Stone Age. According to S.L. Hall (1985), classic Early Stone Age handaxes and cleavers had been found near the Grahamstown golf course probably dating between 1 million and 200 000 years ago. Early Stone Age stone artefacts have also been recorded in the valley south of the proposed area for the wind energy facility.
Evidence of Middle Stone Age sites occur throughout the surrounding and wider region of the proposed development. The site of Howieson’s Poort is situated about ten kilometres south-west of Grahamstown and is the archetype site for a distinctive type of Middle Stone Age stone artefact with similar specimens having been documented at the Kasouga River-mouth and at Bell in the Peddie District (Stapleson & Hewitt 1928; Goodwin & Van Riet Lowe 1929; Deacon 1995). Middle Stone Age stone artefacts have also been recorded to occur at the sites in the valley south of proposed wind energy facility.
It is therefore likely that surface scatters of Early Stone Age and Middle Stone Age sites may be encountered within the area proposed for development. Such occurrences may also be found between the surface and proximately 50-80cm below ground. It is rare that these particular stone artefacts are found in association with other archaeological remains and are usually out of context owing to natural disturbances over time and, more recently, owing to human impact.
7.14.3. The Later Stone Age (LSA) and Pastoralism within the last 2000 years
The Later Stone Age spans a period from 30 000 years ago to the historical period (the last 500 years) until 100 years ago and is associated with the archaeology of San hunter-gatherers. The majority of archaeological sites found in the area would date from the past 10 000 years where San hunter-gatherers inhabited the landscape living in rock shelters and caves as well as on the open landscape.
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These latter sites are difficult to find because they are in the open veld and often covered by vegetation and sand. Sometimes these sites are only represented by a few stone tools and fragments of bone. The preservation of these sites is poor and it is not always possible to date them (Deacon and Deacon 1999). Caves and rock shelters, however, in most cases, provide a more substantial preservation record of pre-colonial human occupation.
Some 2 000 years ago Khoekhoen pastoralists entered into the region and lived mainly in small settlements. They were the first food producers in South Africa and introduced domesticated animals (sheep, goat and cattle) and ceramic vessels to southern Africa. Often, these archaeological sites are found close to the banks of large streams and rivers. Large piles of freshwater mussel shell (called middens) usually mark these sites. Precolonial groups collected the freshwater mussel from the muddy banks of the rivers as a source of food. Mixed with the shell and other riverine and terrestrial food waste are also cultural materials. Human remains are often found buried in the middens (Deacon and Deacon 1999).
There is little archaeological evidence for human occupation within the Grahamstown region between 75 000 and 15 000 years ago. However, from about 15 000 years ago populations of hunter-gatherers re-established themselves within the region as is evidenced in the preserved Later Stone Age occupational deposits of the few caves and rock shelters that have been excavated, namely Melkhoutboom in the Suurberg (Deacon 1976) approximately 50km to the south-west of the proposed development, Wilton (Deacon 1972), Roodekrans (unpublished, excavated by W. W. Austin, 1921) (Binneman 1993), Spitskop also yielded human remains that have been radiocarbon dated to 4 700 ± 60 BP (Pta 5979) (Albany Museum records) (Hewitt 1922), Rautenbach’s Drift (Albany Museum records), Welcome Woods (unpublished, first excavated by Hewitt in 1935/8) all occurring to the south between the proposed area for development and Alicedale, and Edgehill and Welgeluk located on the Koonap River some 40km to the north of Grahamstown (Hall 1985, 1990). In addition, most of these sites and many more caves and shelters in the surrounding area for development contain rock paintings.
It is likely that Later Stone Age stone artefacts and Khoekhoen pastoral archaeological remains would occur within the area proposed for development, as surface scatters around the in the open areas, caves and rock shelters. Previously human inhabited caves and rock shelters containing rock art may also be encountered within the area proposed for development.
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7.14.4. Rock Art (Paintings)
Rock art is generally associated with the Later Stone Age period mostly dating from the last 5000 years to the historical period. It is difficult to accurately date the rock art without destructive practices. The southern African landscape is exceptionally rich in the distribution of rock art which is determined between paintings and engravings. Rock paintings occur on the walls of caves and rock shelters across southern Africa.
No systematic research on the occurrence of rock paintings has been conducted within the immediate area proposed for development. However, rock paintings have been recorded at various sites within the Cape Folded Belt Mountains, along the Koonap River and around Grahamstown and it is highly likely that rock art sites may be encountered within the area proposed for development.
7.14.5. Late Iron Age and the Historical Period
The Late Iron Age communities during the second millennium AD moved from settlement in river valleys to the hilltops. Late Iron Age settlements have been formally recorded by the Albany Museum and cover a relatively extended area in comparison with the Early Iron Age settlement patterns within river valleys during the first millennium AD. Although local farmers along the Koonap River approximately 50km north-east of the proposed development have mentioned remnants of huts and pottery that may be associated with Late Iron Age settlement, the Albany Museum holds no records of such investigation within the immediate area proposed for development, the surrounding and wider region.
Historical archaeology refers to the last 500 years when European settlers and colonialism entered into southern Africa. Grahamstown experienced an influx of English settlers from the 1820’s who settled within and surrounding the town. Historical buildings, stonewalling, evidence of historical artefacts such as ceramics and buttons have been recorded within the area to the south of the proposed areas for development and Grahamstown. It is likely that a variety of historical features and artefacts will be encountered within the area for development, owing to early farming activities, the region’s historical settlements, movements and migrations through the area.
7.15. Visual landscape
The proposed wind facility and associated infrastructure will potentially be visible from the arterial roads (i.e. R63, R335, R350, R400 and N10) as well as the secondary roads within the study area. Conservation areas / tourist destinations (such as the formal Kuzuke Game Reserve, Addo Elephant National Park, Shamwari Game Reserve, Frontier Safaris Game Farm, Rockdale Game Ranch,
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Aylesbury Nature Reserve, Woodlands Game Reserve and East Cape Game Farm, and other smaller conservation areas) are also regarded as having sensitive viewer incidence.
7.16. Social Characteristics of the Study Area and Surrounds
7.16.1. Socio-demographic profile of the study area population
The proposed Spitskop East Wind Facility is located mostly within the Makana Local Municipality and partially within the Blue Crane Route Local Municipality. Both municipalities fall within the jurisdiction of the Cacadu District Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province.
7.16.2. Population
The Makana and Blue Crane Route Local Municipalities both fall within the Cacadu District Municipality and collectively account for 25.8% of the population, and 24.8% of the households in the district. Individually however the Makana Local Municipality is the second most populous local municipality after the Kouga Local Municipality, while the Blue Crane Route Local Municipality is the third least populous after the Ikwezi and Baviaans Local Municipalities.
Makana Local Municipality According to Census 2011, Makana Local Municipality has a total population estimated at 80 390, of which 78.0% are black African, 8.7% are white, 12.1% are coloured, and 0.7% are Indian/Asian. The dominant language in the municipality is Xhosa (85.5%), followed by Afrikaans (13.3%).
Blue Crane Local Municipality According to 2011 census results Blue Crane Route Local Municipality has a total population estimated at 36 002 persons, of which 59,0 % are black African,33,0% are coloured people and the res t are white people, and Indian/Asian. Xhosa is the most widely used language in the region at 50.1%, with Afrikaans not far behind at 42.1%. Only 3.3% of the residents have English as their first language.
7.16.3. Education
According to 2011 census results for Blue Crane Route Local Municipality, out of a population of 36 002 persons only 7.6 % of the population aged 20 years and older %have completed primary school, 38.1% have some secondary education, 18.9% have completed matric, and 6.8% have some form of higher education. Of those aged 20 years and older, 10.5% have no form of schooling.
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The Census 2011 results for Makana Local Municipality revealed that of a population of 80 390 persons only 6.3% of the population aged 20 years and older, have completed primary school, 36.5% have some secondary education, 22,9% have completed matric, and 12.0% have some form of higher education. Only 6.3% of those aged 20 years and older have no form of schooling.
7.16.4. Employment and skills levels
The employment profile of the both municipalities indicates that almost a third of the economic active population within these municipalities is unemployed. The unemployment rates and labour force participation rates in the Makana and Blue Crane Route Local Municipalities were also notably worse than that of the Cacadu District Municipality (Unemployment rate: 24.9%; Labour force participation rate: 54.8%).
Makana Local Municipality There are 28 494 people who are economically active (employed or unemployed but looking for work) people in the municipality, 32.5% are unemployed. Of the 7 777 economically active youth (15–34years) in the area, 42.2% are unemployed.
Blue Crane Local Municipality There are 10 734 people who are economically active (employed or unemployed but looking for work); of these 30.7 % are unemployed. Of the 4 884 economically active youth (15–35 years) in the area, 40.0 % are unemployed
The relatively high unemployment rate and lower labour force participation relative to the district averages further suggests that both the Makana and Blue Crane Route Local Municipalities are subject outward migration due to the limited number of employment opportunities available within the local municipality’s.
7.16.5. Household Income
The disposable average monthly income of households in the Makana and Blue Crane Route Local Municipalities is R 2 444 and R 1 637 respectively. This was 63.5% lower than that of the Cacadu District Municipality (R 6 687). According to Census 2011 (StatsSA, 2014) poverty levels within both the Makana and Blue Crane Route Local Municipalities are notably higher than both the district and provincial averages. In these two municipalities the number of households that earn no income is between 42% and 43%. This is compared to a provincial and district figure 15.7% and 12.8% respectively.
These figures are indicative of the high level of poverty within these areas, further highlighted by the fact that only 7.8% of households in the Blue Crane Route
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Local Municipality and 11.6% of households in the Makana Local Municipality earn more than R 3 200 per month.
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SCOPING OF POTENTIAL ISSUES CHAPTER 8
This chapter serves to describe environmental issues and potential impacts (direct, indirect and cumulative impacts) that have been identified to be associated with the proposed wind energy facility and associated infrastructure, and to make recommendations for further studies required to be undertaken in the EIA phase. The scoping process has involved review of existing information, input from the project proponent, stakeholders, and the public.
Environmental issues associated with construction and decommissioning activities associated with the wind energy facility and associated infrastructure (including power lines) may include, among others, noise impacts, soil erosion, impacts on biodiversity, and impacts on the social environment and current land use. Environmental issues specific to the operation of a wind energy facility and power line could include visual impacts; noise produced by the spinning of rotor blades; avian mortality resulting from collisions with blades power lines, and mortality, injury, and disturbance to other faunal species (e.g. bat mortality due to barotrauma).
The significance of impacts associated with a particular wind energy facility and its associated infrastructure is dependent on site-specific factors, and therefore impacts can be expected to vary significantly from site to site. Sections 5.1 and 5.2 provide a summary of the findings of the scoping study undertaken for the construction and operation phases of the proposed project respectively. Impacts of the proposed facility are evaluated, and recommendations are made regarding further studies required within the EIA Phase of the process.
In identifying and evaluating impacts associated with the proposed project, the full scope of the project has been considered. This project will comprise:
» Wind turbines within an individual rated capacity of up to 6.15 MW each, however this is subject to change depending on the technology availability at the time of the turbine supply contracting has been, with a hub height between 80 m and 122 m; » Concrete foundations to support the turbines; » Cabling between the turbines, to be laid underground where practical and alongside the internal access roads where practical; » An on-site substation to facilitate the connection between the wind energy facility and the electricity grid » A new overhead power line connecting the wind energy facility to the electricity grid. There are three options for the connection point of this power line, i.e.: Eskom’s existing Poseidon Substation near Cookhouse;
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The new Kopleegte Substation near Bedford; or The existing power lines in close proximity to the site. » Main access to the site and Internal access roads to each turbine » Workshop area / office for control, maintenance and storage
During construction, an area within the study area of approximately 20 000 ha could suffer some level of disturbance and impact as a result of the required activities on site. However, once construction is complete, it is expected that less than 10% of this area will be permanently impacted by infrastructure associated with the wind farm.
The cumulative impacts associated with the proposed facility are expected to be associated with the scale of the project, i.e. up to a maximum of 57 turbines will be located on the proposed site, as well as with the presence of other similar developments within the region. The potential cumulative impacts associated with the project are expected to be associated predominantly with the potential visual impact, potential noise impacts, potential impacts on ecology, avifauna (birds) and bats in the surrounding area, and impacts on land use and the social environment. These potential impacts are described in this chapter of the report and will be assessed within the EIA phase of the project.
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8.1 Evaluation of potential impacts associated with the Construction Phase
8.1.1 Potential impact on Biodiversity
The following activities could result in impacts to ecosystems » Clearing of land for construction. » Construction of access roads and laying of cables. » Construction of wind turbines and substation. » Establishment of borrow and spoil areas. » Chemical contamination of the soil by construction vehicles and machinery. » Operation of construction camps. » Storage of materials required for construction.
A unique feature of the study area is that it contains vegetation types from five different biomes in close proximity to one another as well as two a zonal vegetation types. This is an important ecological characteristic of the study area that has some implications for the likely potential impacts of the wind energy development and associated infrastructure on the area. The variety of biomes and vegetation types within such close proximity to one another relate to the strong climatic and physical gradients which characterise the area. Such areas with a variety of different biomes adjacent to one another serve as refuges for fauna and flora during times of climate change and contain very high levels of biodiversity at the landscape scale. Activities which disrupt the connectivity of the landscape in such areas are undesirable as this reduces the climate buffering capability of the area.
There is greater habitat diversity in eastern section of the study area and the variety and abundance of mammals present is likely to be higher than in the rest of the site. It is also important to recognise that it is not just the variety of habitats present that is important but also their proximity and arrangement that is important for mammals within the eastern section of the site. The development is not likely to have a large impact on the White- tailed Mouse as the extent of habitat loss would be quite low for this species. Similarly, the Honey Badger is a fairly adaptable species and is not likely to be significantly impacted by the development. Any leopards in the area may be impacted as the development would significantly increase human activity within the site to the extent that any resident leopards might leave the area. However during the operational phase, disturbance would be considerably lower and is not likely to prevent leopards from utilising the area.
The proposed site lies within the planning domain of the Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (Berliner & Desment 2007). This biodiversity assessment identifies Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBAs) which represent biodiversity priority areas which should be maintained in a natural to near natural state. The CBA maps indicate the most efficient selection and classification of land portions requiring safeguarding in order to maintain ecosystem
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functioning and meet national biodiversity objectives. The Critical Biodiversity Areas map for the Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility is illustrated below in Figure 8.1. About two thirds of the site falls within Critical Biodiversity Areas.
Potential impacts on biodiversity identified to be associated with the proposed wind energy facility are evaluated below. Issue Nature of Impact Extent Loss of habitat for threatened Threatened animal species are expected to be affected primarily by the overall loss of habitat, Local and animals. since direct construction impacts can often be avoided due to movement of individuals from the regional path of construction: GN 544, 11(iii)(iv)(x)(xi); GN 544, 18(i);GN 544, 39(iii); GN 545, 15; GN 546, 4 (ii)(ee); GN 546 10 (ii)(ee); GN 546, 12(b); GN R546, 14(a)(i) & GN 546, 24(d)(ii)(ee) (June 2010). Loss of populations of threatened Plant species are especially vulnerable to infrastructure development due to the fact that they Local and plants. cannot move out of the path of the construction activities, but are also affected by overall loss of Regional habitat.
Due to the conservation status of the area (i.e. the study area falls within CBAs), it is expected that species of conservation concern could occur within the development area. In the case of threatened plant species, loss of a population or individuals could lead to a direct change in the conservation status of the species, and possibly extinction. This may arise if the proposed infrastructure is located where it will impact on such individuals or populations: GN 544, 26; GN 545, 1; GN 545, 8; GN 545, 15; GN 546, 4 (ii)(ee); GN 546 10 (ii)(ee); GN 546, 12(b); GN R546, 14(a)(i); GN 546, 19(ii)(ee) & GN 546, 24(d)(ii)(ee) (June 2010) Impacts on protected tree Certain tree species are protected in terms of Government Notice No. 1012 under section 12(I)(d) Local and species. of the National Forests Act, 1998 (Act No. 84 of 1998). In terms of section1 5(1) of the National Regional Forests Act, 1998 “no person may cut, disturb, damage or destroy any protected tree or possess, collect, remove, transport, export, purchase, sell donate or in any other manner acquire or dispose of any protected tree or any forest product derived from a protected tree, except under a license granted by the Minister to an (applicant and subject to such period and conditions as may be stipulated”.
A number of species have a geographic distribution that includes the study area, including the following: Catha edulis, Curtisia dentata, Ocotea bullata, Pittosporum viridiflorum, Podocarpus falcatus, Podocarpus latifolius, Prunus africana and Sideroxylon inerme subsp. inerme. These all
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occur primarily in forest habitat. It is considered possible that they may be found on the proposed site and could be affected by the project if the proposed infrastructure is located where it will impact on such individuals or populations: GN 544, 26; GN 545, 1; GN 545, 8; GN 545, 15; GN 546, 4 (ii)(ee); GN 546 10 (ii)(ee); GN 546, 12(b); GN R546, 14(a)(i); GN 546, 19(ii)(ee) & GN 546, 24(d)(ii)(ee) (June 2010). Loss or fragmentation of Construction of infrastructure may lead to direct loss of indigenous natural vegetation and impacts Local and indigenous natural vegetation on critical biodiversity areas. This will lead to localised or more extensive reduction in the overall Regional and the critical biodiversity extent of vegetation: GN 544, 26; GN 545, 1; GN 545, 8; GN 545, 15; GN 546, 4 (ii)(ee); GN 546 areas. 10 (ii)(ee); GN 546, 12(b); GN R546, 14(a)(i); GN 546, 19(ii)(ee) & GN 546, 24(d)(ii)(ee) (June 2010). Disturbance of fauna. Increased levels of noise, pollution, disturbance and human presence will be detrimental to fauna. Local Sensitive and shy fauna are likely to move away from the area during the construction phase as a result of the noise and human activities present. Some mammals and reptiles such as tortoises would be vulnerable to illegal collection or poaching during the construction phase as a result of the large number of construction personnel that are likely to be present: GN 545, 1; GN 545, 8; GN 545, 15; GN 546 10 (ii)(ee); GN 546, 12(b) & GN R546, 14(a)(i). Damage to rivers, drainage lines Construction may lead to some direct or indirect loss of or damage to wetlands or drainage lines Local and and wetlands. or result in impacts that affect the catchment of these wetlands. This will lead to localised loss of Regional wetland habitat and may lead to downstream impacts that affect a greater extent of wetlands or impact on wetland function.
There are a number of drainage lines in the study area that could support wetland vegetation. There are also significant riparian areas associated with the main rivers and streams. Damage to these areas could have an impact at the site of the impact as well as down-stream and the effect could potentially be long-lasting:GN 544, 11(iii, iv, x & xi) & GN 546, 24(d)(ii) Groundwater contamination The construction of the wind energy facility and the power station, construction vehicles may Local and potentially leak oils and diesel which could impact on local and regional groundwater quality. It is Regional likely that fuel will be stored on site during construction, potential leaks and spills could occur: GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 & GN544 11(iii, iv, x & xi). Wetlands and vegetated areas near water bodies can be damaged by construction, decreasing the water quality benefits that they normally provide. Areas susceptible to erosion, such as steep slopes with loose soil, can be disturbed, causing increased sedimentation flows into
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receiving streams: GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 and GN544 11(iii, iv, x & xi). Obstruction of groundwater Over abstraction of groundwater during the construction phase. It is estimated that up to 400 000 liters are required per day during the construction phase. The groundwater within the area has high iron content. Should water tables be depleted and the dynamic level reaches the main aquifer supplying the borehole, then oxygen results in ferric oxide forming. This in turn results in slimy clogging iron bacteria that infiltrate the aquifer and this ultimately destroys the water resource: GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 & GN544 11(iii, iv, x & xi) (June 2010). Establishment and spread of Alien species are likely to respond to the large amount of disturbance that will accompany the Local declared weeds and alien invader development phase of the project. Invasion of the natural plant communities within the site would plants be undesirable and could impact diversity of fauna and flora as well as affect ecosystem processes. GN 545, 1; GN 545, 8; GN 545, 15; GN 546, 4 (ii)(ee); GN 546 10 (ii)(ee); GN 546, 12(b); GN R546, 14(a)(i); GN 546, 19(ii)(ee) & GN 546, 24(d)(ii)(ee) (June 2010). Gaps in knowledge
» The current study is a desktop study and as such this imposes several limitations on the study. The most significant of which is the fact that the study relies on existing information as available in the various spatial databases and coverage’s.
Recommendations for further study
A full assessment will be conducted during the EIA Phase. Ecological Impacts must be assessed in terms of the EIA Regulations as well as all other relevant guidelines and legislation. It is recommended that: » A site survey be conducted at the appropriate time of the year in order to assess the current state of the vegetation and habitats that will be lost and/or disturbed and the implication thereof. » Sensitive areas must be identified and mitigation measures recommended to minimise impacts on these areas. » Potential alien and invasive species in the area be identified, the accompanying risks assessed and appropriate mitigation recommended. » Sensitive faunal species and habitats must be identified and mitigation measures recommended to minimise impacts.
The sensitivity of the study area will need to be verified during the site visits for the EIA phase of the development, and those areas that should be avoided will need to be identified and mapped where necessary.
The following should be undertaken in the EIA Phase of the study: » Ground-truth sensitivities of the site and compile the ecological sensitivity map of the site and power line routes. Particular attention must be paid to
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mapping the distribution of sensitive ecosystems at the site such as wetlands, rivers and drainage systems. » Evaluate the likely presence of faunal species of conservation concern at the site and identify associated habitats that should be avoided to prevent impact to such species. » Evaluate, based on the site attributes, what the most applicable mitigation measures to reduce the impact of the development on the site would be and if there are any areas which should be avoided and where specific precautions or mitigation measures should be implemented.
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Figure 8.1: Sensitivity Map depicting the Critical Biodiversity Sites identified within the proposed Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility region
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8.1.2 Potential impact on birds
The site is located within the Albany Thicket biome. Avian micro-habitats will be defined more accurately during the EIA phase of the project, but will probably comprise of: » extensive tracts of degraded, lightly wooded grassland, » areas of thicker, thornveld thicket, including riparian strips, and » a network of wetlands, including vleis, rivers and artificial impoundments.
Over 290 bird species are considered likely to occur within the anticipated, broader impact zone of the proposed wind energy facility, including: » 72 endemic or near-endemic species » 21 red-listed species
6 species – Knysna Woodpecker Campethera notate, Ludwig’s Bustard Neotis ludwigii, Blue Crane Anthropoides paradiseus, Cape Vulture Gyps coprotheres, Black Harrier Circus maurus and possibly Melodius Lark Mirafra cheniana which are both endemic and red-listed (Barnes 1998, 2000, Young et al. 2003). Issue Nature of Impact Extent Changes/loss of avifauna habitat. Construction of the wind turbines, substation at the facility, associated power lines and Local access roads and ancillary infrastructure would result in an impact on habitats occurring on the site. Affected taxa include smaller endemics: GN 544, 11(iii)(iv)(x)(xi); GN 544, 18(i);GN 544, 39(iii); GN 545, 1; GN 545, 8;GN 545, 15; GN 546, 12(b); GN R546, 14(a)(i) & GN 546, 24(ii)(ee) (June 2010). Temporary to long-term displacement of Displacement may occur during both the construction (and operational) phase of the Local avifauna due to disturbance. wind energy facility and associated infrastructure as a result of increased levels of noise, pollution, habitat disturbance and human presence. Affected taxa including ground-nesting terrestrial species, raptors and smaller endemics: GN 544, 11(iii)(iv)(x)(xi); GN 544, 18(i);GN 544, 39(iii); GN 545, 1; GN 545, 8;GN 545, 15; GN 546, 12(b); GN R546, 14(a)(i) and GN 546, 24(ii)(ee) (June 2010). Gaps in knowledge
» The current study is a desktop study and as such this imposes several limitations on the study. » It is not possible at this stage to determine with confidence the relative significance of the various potential impacts on avifauna, mainly because too
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little information is available on the relative abundance and movements of local populations of the implicated bird species. Recommendations for further study A full assessment will be conducted during the EIA Phase. Avifauna Impacts must be assessed in terms of the EIA Regulations as well as all other relevant guidelines and legislation. It is recommended that: » A site visit be undertaken by the avifaunal specialist. » Sensitive areas must be identified and mitigation measures recommended to minimise impacts on these areas. » The possible impacts of avifauna on the new infrastructure be assessed and Suitable mitigation measures be recommended for all issues identified as significant. » The extent to which collision and displacement impacts actually occur will need to be determined through rigorous pre and post construction monitoring, and the assessment of impacts should be informed by the results of this study.
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8.1.3 Potential impact on bats
The study area has a complex topography and the local habitat has largely been disturbed by farming activities. Thickets, fynbos, Karoo veld, forest, riparian strips, dams and cultivated fields provide a variety of foraging habitats for bats within the study area. Potential roost sites include lines of cliffs and gorges rock overhangs, fissures and crevices, old bird nests, caves, culverts, buildings, aardvark and other burrows and stands of trees (dense foliage, trunks, loose bark) and aloes (bases of leaves). Bats that migrate between summer and winter roosts may be more at risk from turbine strikes, as they change their movement patterns. Issue Nature of Impact Extent Construction activities The proposed project will result in a certain amount of habitat destruction resulting from the wind Local associated with all turbines, power lines and associated infrastructure:GN 544, 11(iii)(iv)(x)(xi); GN 544, 18(i);GN infrastructure 544, 39(iii); GN 545, 1; GN 545, 8;GN 545, 15; GN 546, 12(b); GN R546, 14(a)(i) & GN 546, 24(ii)(ee) (June 2010). Gaps in knowledge
» The current study is a desktop study and as such this imposes several limitations on the study. Recommendations for further study A full assessment will be conducted during the EIA Phase. Impacts on bats must be assessed in terms of the EIA Regulations as well as all other relevant guidelines and legislation. It is recommended that: » A site visit must be conducted for the EIA phase of this project to more accurately determine bat presence. » Sensitive areas must be identified and mitigation measures recommended to minimise impacts on these areas. » A monitoring program is seen as critical in extending our knowledge of wind energy and bat interactions. It is recommended that a monitoring program be undertaken to collect data on the relevant environmental factors. The assessment of impacts should be informed by the results of this study.
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8.1.4 Potential impact on agricultural and erosion potential
The proposed wind energy facility site and power line are located on agricultural land, most of which consists of natural grazing and is utilized by sheep, cattle and game with intensive agriculture only occurring on the flat alluvial areas along the Little and Great Fish Rivers and their tributaries. Sheep are mainly Merino and Dohne Merino breeds for wool production and cattle are mainly for beef production. A variety of game occurs on the farms as well as within enclosed game camps within the study area.
Issue Nature of Impact Extent Loss of agricultural land Direct occupation by turbines, power line towers and other infrastructure, including roads, will result Local associated with construction in loss of agricultural land for the duration of the project. This will remove affected portions of land activities from agricultural production. This is however expected to be a very small portion of the property (less than 10% of the broader site for the wind energy facility and small areas associated with the power line towers (usually about 1m x 1m)): GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 & GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Land surface disturbance and Construction of turbine foundations, hard standing areas, roads, power line towers, etc., and the Local alteration as a result of resultant potential impact on erosion potential. Uncontrolled erosion will cause loss and construction activities deterioration of soil resources: GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 & GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Loss of topsoil as a result of Poor topsoil management (burial, erosion, etc.) during construction can result in the loss of topsoil Local construction activities from the site. This may result in soil profile disturbance (excavations etc.) and resultant decrease in that soil's agricultural suitability: GN 545, 1; GN 545, 8; GN 545, 4; GN 545, 15; & GN 546, 19 (ii)(ee) (June 2010). Gaps in knowledge
» The current study is a desktop study and as such this imposes several limitations on the study. Recommendations for further study
A full assessment will be conducted during the EIA Phase. Impacts on soils and agricultural potential must be assessed in terms of the EIA Regulations as well as all other relevant guidelines and legislation. The following is recommended: » Identify and assess all potential impacts (direct, indirect and cumulative) and economic consequences of the proposed development on agricultural resources and production. » Describe and map soil types (soil forms) and characteristics (soil depth, soil colour, limiting factors, and clay content of the top and sub soil layers). » Assess the status of the land including erosion, vegetation and degradation.
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» Describe the topography of the site. » Do basic climate analysis and identify suitable crops and their water requirements. » Summarise available water sources for agriculture. » Describe historical and current land use and agricultural infrastructure on and surrounding the site, as well as possible alternative land use options. » Determine and map the agricultural potential of the site. » Provide recommended mitigation measures, monitoring requirements, and rehabilitation guidelines for identified impacts.
In addition to the assessment studies to be undertaken, it is recommended that a geotechnical study be undertake in order to determine the underlying foundation conditions of the site and inform the final design of the facility and power line.
8.1.5 Potential impacts on heritage resources
Archaeological sites have been recorded in the broader study area. Sites potentially occurring in the study area include:
» Early Stone Age and Middle Stone Age: It is likely that surface scatters of Early Stone Age and Middle Stone Age may be encountered within the area proposed for development. Such occurrences may also be found between the surface and approximately 50-80cm below ground. It is rare that these particular stone artefacts are found in association with other archaeological remains and are usually out of context owing to natural disturbances over time and, more recently, owing to human impact. » Late Stone Age: It is likely that Later Stone Age stone artefacts and Khoekhoen pastoral archaeological remains would occur within the area proposed for development, as surface scatters around the and in the open areas, caves and rock shelters. Previously human inhabited caves and rock shelters containing rock art may also be encountered within the area proposed for development. » Rock Art: No systematic research on the occurrence of rock paintings has been conducted within the immediate area proposed for development. However, rock paintings have been recorded at various sites within the Cape Folded Belt Mountains, along the Koonap River and around Grahamstown and it is highly likely that rock art sites may be encountered within the area proposed for development. » Late Iron Age: It is likely that a variety of historical features and artefacts will be encountered within the area for development, owing to early farming activities, the region’s historical settlements, movements and migrations through the area.
In addition, built infrastructure of heritage value (i.e. that older than 60 years), grave sites and paleontological sites (fossils) may be present in the area and could be impacted by the proposed project. Issue Nature of Impact Extent
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Palaeontology (buried fossils) – Disturbance and destruction of fossil material may occur through excavations during Local impacts on fossils construction: GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 & GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Archaeology - Loss of / damage to The main cause of impacts to archaeological sites is physical disturbance of the material Local archaeological resources: itself and its context through excavation: GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 & GN 545, 15 (June 2010).
Rock Art / Graves The nature of impacts to rock art or graves relates to their disturbance and possible Local destruction through excavations: GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 & GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Historic buildings Historic structures are sensitive to physical damage such as demolition during construction: Local GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 & GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Cultural landscape/sense of place. Limited and moderate impacts to the sense of place relates to the addition of man-made Local features to a landscape that has a particular character due to the presence in it of certain features, considering the pastoral character of the study area: GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 & GN 545, 15. Gaps in knowledge
» The current study is a desktop study and as such this imposes several limitations on the study. Recommendations for further study
A full assessment will be conducted during the EIA Phase. Impacts on heritage sites, archaeology and palaeontology must be assessed in terms of the EIA Regulations, National Heritage Resources Act, and all other relevant guidelines and legislation. The following recommended: » Conduct a detailed literature survey to gain a thorough knowledge of any background information pertinent to the affected area. » » Conduct a Phase 1 Archaeological Impact Assessment (AIA) to determine specific sites which might be impacted. Map, record and photograph any heritage sites or objects offered protection by the NHRA or any other object or place considered significant. » Produce an illustrated report describing the findings, defining areas of sensitivity, any further work required and suggesting mitigatory actions for reducing impacts to heritage resources.
8.1.6 Potential impacts on sensitive noise receptors
Noise during the construction phase is expected to be of a short term and temporary nature. However, potential noise sensitive receptors such as homesteads could occur in close proximity to the site. During the EIA phase construction activities such as the (potential) borrow pit, concrete
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batching/delivery, foundation preparation, the digging of trenches and increased traffic (deliveries and movement onsite) will be considered in assessing the potential impact, taking cognisance of the worst-case scenario (close proximity to a potential sensitive receptor). Potential noise sources during construction could include:
» Construction activities such as: * construction of access roads, * establishment of turbine tower foundations, power line foundations and electrical substation(s), * the possible establishment, operation and removal of concrete batching plants, * the construction of any buildings, * digging of trenches to accommodate underground power cables; and * erection and assembly of turbine towers . » Construction Equipment: The equipment likely to be required to complete the above tasks will typically include: * excavator/grader, bulldozer, dump trucks, vibratory roller, bucket loader, rock breaker, (potential) drill rig, excavator/grader, bulldozer, dump truck, flat-bed trucks, concrete truck(s), cranes, fork lift and various 4WD and service vehicles. » Material supply - Concrete batching plants and use of borrow pits: Use of concrete trucks, portable concrete batching plants may be required to supply concrete onsite. Batching plant equipment may be relocated between the sites as the works progress to different areas of the site. » Use of a borrow pit (for aggregate material) and a portable rock crusher plant and screen. » Blasting: Blasting may be required as part of the civil works to clear obstacles or to prepare foundations. Should a borrow pit be used to supply rocks for construction purposes, blasting could also be expected. Blasting will not be considered during the EIA phase for the following reasons: * Blasting is highly regulated, and control of blasting to protect human health, equipment and infrastructure will ensure that any blasts will use minimum explosives and will occur in a controlled manner. With regards to blasting in borrow pits, explosives are used with a low detonation speed, reducing vibration, sound pressure levels and air blasts. The breaking of obstacles with explosives is also a specialized field, and when correct techniques are used, it causes less noise than using a rock-breaker. * People are generally more concerned over ground vibration and air blast levels that might cause building damage than the impact of the noise from the blast. * Blasts are an infrequent occurrence, with a loud but a relative instantaneous character. Potentially affected parties normally receive sufficient notice (siren), and the knowledge that the duration of the siren noise as well as the blast will be over relative fast, resulting in a higher acceptance of the noise. » Traffic: Additional traffic to and from the site, as well as traffic on the site is a source of noise. Construction traffic is expected to be generated throughout the construction period, however, the volume and type of traffic generated will be dependent upon the construction activities being conducted, which will vary during the construction period. Issue Nature of Impact Extent
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Noise impacts due to construction Noisy activities and equipment is likely to be associated with: Local equipment and activities » (potential) borrow pit; » concrete batching/delivery; » foundation preparation; and » the digging of trenches. GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 & GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Noise impacts due to blasting (if Noise associated with blasting activities: GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 & GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Local required) Noise impacts from construction Construction traffic is expected to be generated throughout the entire construction period. Local traffic However, the volume and type of traffic generated will be dependent upon the construction activities being conducted, which will vary during the construction period GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 & GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Gaps in knowledge
» The current study is a desktop study and as such this imposes several limitations on the study. Recommendations for further study
» It is recommended that the potential noise impact associated with the construction phase of the proposed wind energy facility and associated infrastructure be investigated in more detail in the Environmental Impact Assessment phase. This should be undertaken in accordance with the requirements of the EIA Regulations, the SANS Guidelines and any other relevant legislation. Appropriate modelling should be used to determine the potential impact.
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8.1.7 Potential impacts on visual aesthetics and sense of place
Regionally, the Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility and associated infrastructure is proposed on a site located approximately 6km north-west of Riebeek East and approximately 15km north-west of Alicedale in the Eastern Cape Province. The N10 traverse south-western section of the study area, which also includes a number of main roads (i.e. the R335, the R400 and the R350). Reibeek East is the nearest settlement to the site. The study area has a rural character and the broader study area includes the towns of Grahamstown (~35 km south-east of the site), Alicedale (~15 km south of the site), Paterson (~16 km south of the site) and Cookhouse (~33 km north of the site). Port Elizabeth lies ~78 km south of the site. The site occurs ~20km north-east-of the Addo Elephant Park and Sundays River Valley. Construction related activities which could impact on the overall visual aesthetics of the study site include construction of access roads and foundations, and establishment of the power line and wind turbines. Potential impacts associated with these activities which have been identified during the Scoping Phase include:
» Impacts on observers travelling along the main or major secondary roads (i.e. N10, R335, R350 and R400) in close proximity to the proposed facility. » Impacts on potentially sensitive receptors including, among others, individual/isolated landowners/homesteads located within areas of potential visual exposure. » The potential visual impact of the construction of associated infrastructure (i.e. wind turbines, power line, substation and internal access roads) on observers in close proximity of the development area. Issue Nature of Impact Extent Construction of the wind energy facility. Potential visual impacts associated with the construction phase on Local observers in close proximity to the facility: GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 and GN 545, 15; GN 546, 12(b); GN R546, 14(a)(i); GN 546, 19(ii)(ee) & GN 546, 24(d)(ii)(ee). Construction of associated infrastructure of the The potential visual impact of the construction of ancillary infrastructure Local wind farm. (i.e. the substation at the facility, access road to the site, internal access roads within the site, power line, etc. as required) on observers residing in close proximity of the development area: GN 544, 11(iii)(iv)(x)(xi)GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8; GN 545, 15, GN 4(ii)(ee); GN 546, 10(ii)(ee); GN 546, 19(ii)(ee) and GN 546, 24(ii)(ee). Gaps in knowledge
» The current study is a desktop study and as such this imposes several limitations on the study.
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Recommendations for further study
» It is recommended that the severity of the potential visual impact be assessed in further detail in the EIA. Appropriate spatial analyses should be undertaken in order to create a visual impact index that will aid in determining potential visual impact. The following should be undertaken Specific spatial criteria need to be applied to the visual exposure of the proposed facility in order to successfully determine visual impact and ultimately the significance of the visual impact. Determine visual distance / observer proximity to the facility. Determine viewer incidence / viewer perception. Determine the Visual Absorption Capacity of the environment. Determine the Visual Impact Index. » In addition, photo simulations of critical viewpoints should be undertaken where required, in order to aid in the visualisation of the anticipated visual impact
8.1.8 Impacts on the socio-economic environment
Impacts on the socio-economic environment during construction are expected to be both positive and negative, and could include:
» Potential positive impacts associated with the construction phase relate to the creation of employment and skills development opportunities. » Potential negative impacts are linked to the presence of construction workers on the site and in the area and the potential impact on local communities, farmers and farm workers, and impacts on surrounding land use. Potential impacts on traffic flows along roads in the study area associated with the movement of heavy equipment onto the site is also likely to be an issue, specifically potential impacts along the N10 and R350. Issue Nature of Impact Extent Employment Employment opportunities could be created which could have some short-term positive impacts, Local - Regional especially if local labour is to be used: GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 & GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Skills development Skills development and training during the construction phase could result in long-term benefits for Local - Regional those involved. If proper enhancement measures are implemented, the positive impacts in this regard could be increased: GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 & GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Influx of construction An increase in the security / fire risk in the area. Furthermore, the influx of job seekers could lead to Local crews and job seekers conflict between individuals seeking work. An inflow of workers and the associated construction activities (vehicle movement, noise, dust) could result in temporary disruptions to the daily living and
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movement patterns of neighbouring private property owners: GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 & GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Impacts on surrounding Intrusion impacts (including noise, dust and visual impacts) associated with the construction of the Local - Regional land uses project could impact on surrounding land uses: GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 & GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Impacts associated with Increased traffic in the study area as a result of the construction activities may impact on road surfaces Local - Regional increased traffic and could present road safety issues: GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 & GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Gaps in knowledge » » The current study is a desktop study and as such this imposes several limitations on the study. Recommendations for further study
A full assessment will be conducted during the EIA Phase. Socio-economic impacts must be assessed in terms of the EIA Regulations as well as all other relevant guidelines and legislation. The following is recommended: » Collection and review of reports and baseline socio-economic data on the area (IDPs, Spatial Development Frameworks etc.); » Site visit and interviews with key stakeholders in the area including affected and surrounding landowners and authorities, local community leaders and councillors, local resident associations and residents, local businesses, community workers etc.; » Identification and assessment of the key socio-economic issues and opportunities. » Recommendations in terms of mitigation and enhancement measures required to be implemented.
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8.2 Evaluation of potential impacts associated with the Operational Phase
8.2.1 Potential impact on Biodiversity
Issue Nature of Impact Extent Disturbance to plant and The operation of the turbines will generate noise which may deter some fauna from the site as well Local animal species as impact the activities of other fauna within the site. Maintenance activities within the wind energy facility and along the power line may impact on surrounding vegetation and result in disturbance of fauna species: GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Loss of connectivity & habitat May result if the facility and/or power line is fenced-off in a manner which limits the movement of Local - Regional fragmentation fauna : GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Impacts on wetlands, drainage Sedimentation of watercourses and wetlands may occurs a result of inappropriate: GN 545, 15 lines and rivers (June 2010). Groundwater contamination During the maintenance of the wind energy facility and the power station, vehicles may potentially Local and leak oils and diesel which could impact on local and regional groundwater quality: GN 545, 15 (June Regional 2010). Gaps in knowledge
» The current study is a desktop study and as such this imposes several limitations on the study. Recommendations for further study
A full assessment will be conducted during the EIA Phase. Ecological Impacts must be assessed in terms of the EIA Regulations as well as all other relevant guidelines and legislation. It is recommended that: » A site survey be conducted at the appropriate time of the year in order to assess the current state of the vegetation and habitats that will be lost and/or disturbed and the implication thereof. » Sensitive areas must be identified and mitigation measures recommended to minimise impacts on these areas. » Potential alien and invasive species in the area be identified, the accompanying risks assessed and appropriate mitigation recommended. » Sensitive faunal species and habitats must be identified and mitigation measures recommended to minimise impacts.
The sensitivity of the study area will need to be verified during the site visits for the EIA phase of the development, and those areas that should be
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avoided will need to be identified and mapped where necessary.
The following should be undertaken in the EIA Phase of the study: » Ground-truth sensitivities of the site and compile the ecological sensitivity map of the site and power line routes. Particular attention must be paid to mapping the distribution of sensitive ecosystems at the site such as wetlands, rivers and drainage systems. » Evaluate the likely presence of faunal species of conservation concern at the site and identify associated habitats that should be avoided to prevent impact to such species. » Evaluate, based on the site attributes, what the most applicable mitigation measures to reduce the impact of the development on the site would be and if there are any areas which should be avoided and where specific precautions or mitigation measures should be implemented.
8.2.2 Potential impact on birds
Impacts during operation of the project relate to:
» Collision with wind turbine blades » Collision with the power line wire » Electrocution on power line infrastructure » Disturbance during maintenance activities
Issue Nature of Impact Extent Bird mortality due to collision with It is expected that the impact zone of the proposed wind energy facility features hilly, Local- Regional blades of wind turbines. lightly wooded, grassy Karoo vegetation, with tall thicket on the slopes of the Little and Great Fish Rivers which traverse the site, and various wetlands, including the rivers themselves and their tributaries. The area is likely to support over 290 bird species, including 21 red-listed species, 72 endemics, and six red-listed endemics: GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Bird mortality associated with power Collisions are one of the biggest single threats posed by overhead power lines to birds Local - Regional lines in southern Africa. Most heavily impacted upon are bustards, storks, cranes and various species of waterbirds. These species are mostly heavy-bodied birds with limited manoeuvrability, which makes it difficult for them to take the necessary
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evasive action to avoid colliding with power lines.
Electrocution refers to the scenario where a bird is perched or attempts to perch on the electrical structure and causes an electrical short circuit by physically bridging the air gap between live components and/or live and earthed components. Species that could be impacted upon include herons and some large eagles (non-Red Data species): GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Disturbance of birds, particularly Maintenance activities associated with the wind energy facility and the power line may Local breeding species. result in disturbance of birds in the region. This is of specific concern for birds breeding in the area: GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Presence of numerous turbines in A form of habitat fragmentation resulting in possible disruption to local fly ways Regional the turbine field and/or migration routes: GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Gaps in knowledge
» The current study is a desktop study and as such this imposes several limitations on the study. » It is not possible at this stage to determine with confidence the relative significance of the various potential impacts on avifauna, mainly because too little information is available on the relative abundance and movements of local populations of the implicated bird species. Recommendations for further study A full assessment will be conducted during the EIA Phase. Avifauna Impacts must be assessed in terms of the EIA Regulations as well as all other relevant guidelines and legislation. It is recommended that: » A site visit be undertaken by the avifaunal specialist. » Sensitive areas must be identified and mitigation measures recommended to minimise impacts on these areas. » The possible impacts of avifauna on the new infrastructure be assessed and Suitable mitigation measures be recommended for all issues identified as significant. » The extent to which collision and displacement impacts actually occur will need to be determined through rigorous pre and post construction monitoring, and the assessment of impacts should be informed by the results of this study. .
8.2.3 Potential impact on bats
Any species that occurs in the area of the proposed wind energy facility is vulnerable to the potentially fatal impacts of wind turbines. The impact of the
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development on bat populations may vary from one season to the next as bats migrate, breed or change foraging patterns. Issue Nature of Impact Extent Blade collisions Collision with turbine blades may result in mortality of bat species. Species which are most Local - Regional vulnerable to this impact are open air foragers. A small percentage of dead bats found at wind farms internationally show signs of physical injury resulting from collision from the blades of wind turbines: GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Changes in flight patterns The presence of the wind energy facility may result in impacts on the flight patterns of bat species Local - Regional in the area. These may be caused by the use of topographical features to migrate, mating behaviour, and the turning off of echolocation systems: GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Barotrauma The sudden drop in air pressure at wind farms potentially causes damage to a bat’s pressure Local - Regional sensitive organs that could result in the death of the bat: GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Gaps in knowledge
» The current study is a desktop study and as such this imposes several limitations on the study. Recommendations for further study
A full assessment will be conducted during the EIA Phase. Impacts on bats must be assessed in terms of the EIA Regulations as well as all other relevant guidelines and legislation. It is recommended that: » A site visit must be conducted for the EIA phase of this project to more accurately determine bat presence. » Sensitive areas must be identified and mitigation measures recommended to minimise impacts on these areas. » A monitoring program is seen as critical in extending our knowledge of wind energy and bat interactions. It is recommended that a monitoring program be planned to collect data on relevant of environmental factors. The assessment of impacts should be informed by the results of this study.
5.2.4 Potential impact on agricultural and erosion potential
During the operation of the wind farm, exposed areas / soil could be susceptible to wind/water erosion in the absence of soil erosion control measures. Soil contamination is possible, however marginal due to limited use of oils, diesel or fuels as maintenance of the wind turbines require little in the way of maintenance.
Erosion is generally considered to be the most important direct negative impact on soil, due to the fact that it can have significant knock-on effects in
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terms of hydrology and agricultural land use. Areas where these factors occur simultaneously are typically considered to be highly sensitive areas. During peak rainfall events, excess run-off may result in significant erosion along drainage lines and in areas that are cleared of vegetation, although in the case of the proposed development, full vegetation clearing is not envisaged across the entire site area. Issue Nature of Impact Extent Degradation of natural resource: soil Soil loss as a result of water and/or wind erosion: GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Local Land that is no longer able to be utilised due to presence of infrastructure (limited to the Loss of agricultural land Local footprint of the wind turbines, power line and ancillary infrastructure) : GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Gaps in knowledge
» The current study is a desktop study and as such this imposes several limitations on the study. Recommendations for further study
A full assessment will be conducted during the EIA Phase. Impacts on soils and agricultural potential must be assessed in terms of the EIA Regulations as well as all other relevant guidelines and legislation. The following is recommended: » Identify and assess all potential impacts (direct, indirect and cumulative) and economic consequences of the proposed development on agricultural resources and production. » Describe and map soil types (soil forms) and characteristics (soil depth, soil colour, limiting factors, and clay content of the top and sub soil layers). » Assess the status of the land including erosion, vegetation and degradation. » Describe the topography of the site. » Do basic climate analysis and identify suitable crops and their water requirements. » Summarise available water sources for agriculture. » Describe historical and current land use and agricultural infrastructure on and surrounding the site, as well as possible alternative land use options. » Determine and map the agricultural potential of the site. » Provide recommended mitigation measures, monitoring requirements, and rehabilitation guidelines for identified impacts.
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8.2.5 Potential impact on sensitive noise receptors
Noise emitted by operational wind turbines can be associated with two types of noise sources. These are aerodynamic sources due to the passage of air over the wind turbine blades and mechanical sources which are associated with components of the power train within the turbine, such as the gearbox and generator and control equipment for yaw, blade pitch, etc. These sources normally have different characteristics and can be considered separately. In addition there are other lesser noise sources, such as the sub-stations, traffic (maintenance) and transmission line noise. The most common sources of noise during the operational phase include: » Aerodynamic noise, which is emitted by a wind turbine blade (sound of the wind turbine “cutting” wind – low frequency noise); » Mechanical noise (from the gear-box / generator); » Transformer noises (substation); » Transmission Line noise (Corona noise); » Low frequency noise; and » Amplitude modulation of the sound emissions from the wind turbines.
Potentially noise sensitive receptors are shown in Figure 8.1 Issue Nature of Impact Extent Noise during the operational phase. The noise will be a combination of the cumulative effects of a number of wind turbines operating Local at night: GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Gaps in knowledge
» The current study is a desktop study and as such this imposes several limitations on the study. Recommendations for further study
» It is recommended that the potential noise impact associated with the construction phase of the proposed wind energy facility and associated infrastructure be investigated in more detail in the Environmental Impact Assessment phase. This should be undertaken in accordance with the requirements of the EIA Regulations, the SANS Guidelines and any other relevant legislation. Appropriate modelling should be used to determine the potential impact.
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8.2.6 Potential impacts on visual aesthetics and sense of place
The visual character of the area is determined by a combination of topography, vegetation, buildings, infrastructural elements and land use patterns. The Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility and associated infrastructure is proposed on a site located approximately 6km north-west of Riebeek East and approximately 15km north-west of Alicedale in the Eastern Cape Province. The N10 traverses the study area, which also includes a number of main roads (i.e. the R400 and the R350). Reibeek East is the nearest settlement to the site. The broader study area includes the towns of Grahamstown (~35 km south-east of the site), Alicedale (~15 km south of the site), Paterson (~16 km south of the site) and Cookhouse (~33 km north of the site). Port Elizabeth lies ~78 km south of the site. The sites occurs ~20km north-east-of the Addo Elephant Park and Sundays River Valley.
It is envisaged that the proposed Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility will have a visual impact on a number of potentially sensitive visual receptors especially within (but not restricted to) a 5 - 10km radius of the facility. Such visual receptors include local residents, people travelling along roads and residing in towns and tourists visiting conservation areas or other destinations in the region. Issue Nature of Impact Extent The visibility of the wind energy facility and power line to, Visual exposure to wind turbines and associated infrastructure: GN 545, Local and Regional and potential visual impact on, observers travelling along 15 (June 2010). the arterial and secondary roads within the study area. The visibility of the wind energy facility and power line to, Visual exposure to wind turbines and associated infrastructure: GN 545, Local and Regional and visual impact on settlements (such as Riebeek East) 15 (June 2010). and homesteads. The visibility of the wind energy facility and power line to, Visual exposure to wind turbines and associated infrastructure: GN 545, Local and Regional and visual impact on protected and/conservation areas 15 (June 2010). and their buffer zones. The potential impact of the wind energy facility and Visual exposure to wind turbines and associated infrastructure: GN 545, Local and Regional power line on the visual character or sense of place of the 15 (June 2010). region, with specific reference to the tourist routes and tourist destinations. Visual exposure to associated infrastructure Visual exposure to wind turbines and associated infrastructure: GN 545, Local and Regional 15 (June 2010). Gaps in knowledge
» The current study is a desktop study and as such this imposes several limitations on the study.
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Recommendations for further study
It is recommended that the severity of the potential visual impact be assessed in further detail in the EIA. Spatial analyses should be undertaken in order to create a visual impact index that will further aid in determining potential visual impact. Specific spatial criteria need to be applied to the visual exposure of the proposed facility in order to successfully determine visual impact and ultimately the significance of the visual impact. In addition, photo simulations of critical viewpoints should be undertaken where required, in order to aid in the visualisation of the anticipated visual impact. This recommended work must be undertaken during the Environmental Impact Phase of reporting for this proposed project. In this respect, the proposed Plan of Study for EIA is as follows: » Determine visual distance / observer proximity to the facility; » Determine viewer incidence / viewer perception; » Determine the Visual Absorption Capacity of the environment; and » Determine the Visual Impact Index.
8.2.7 Impacts on the socio-economic environment
Potential impacts associated with the operational phase of the wind energy facility and associated infrastructure are expected to be both positive and negative, and could include:
» Potential positive impacts associated with the operational phase relate to the creation of employment opportunities, local economic upliftment, the promotion of clean, renewable energy, and the benefits associated with the establishment of a Community Trust. » The potential negative impacts are linked to the impact on the rural sense of place and scenic integrity of the landscape. These impacts can in turn impact on land use and the tourism sector in the area. Issue Nature of Impact Extent of Impact Creation of employment Employment opportunities (particularly of local people) such as security and maintenance Local opportunities services would lead to long-term positive impacts (i.e. for the duration of the operational phase). Potential impacts on existing Impact closely linked to visual impacts, associated with turbines and associated infrastructure, Local – Regional tourism and tourism potential of particularly the power line. the area. Contribution towards the On a global scale the project is anticipated to have positive social and health related impacts Regional - National
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generation of clean energy through the “greener” technology that will be used (no noise / no emissions and so forth). Impacts on sense of place Potential impacts in this regard relate to: Local (aesthetic value) » Noise and shadow flicker » Visual impact GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Impacts on existing farm » Trade-off between income and current farming activities and wind farming and power line. Local operations » Security and crime impacts GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Value of surrounding properties The proposed wind energy facility and associated infrastructure could impact on property Local values in the vicinity of the project: GN 545, 15 (June 2010). Gaps in knowledge
» The current study is a desktop study and as such this imposes several limitations on the study Recommendations for further study
A full assessment will be conducted during the EIA Phase. Socio-economic impacts must be assessed in terms of the EIA Regulations as well as all other relevant guidelines and legislation. The following is recommended: » Collection and review of reports and baseline socio-economic data on the area (IDPs, Spatial Development Frameworks etc.). » Site visit and interviews with key stakeholders in the area including affected and surrounding landowners and authorities, local community leaders and councillors, local resident associations and residents, local businesses, community workers etc. » Identification and assessment of the key socio-economic issues and opportunities. » Recommendations in terms of mitigation and enhancement measures required to be implemented. 8.3 Evaluation of potential cumulative impacts Cumulative Impacts
The cumulative impacts associated with the Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility and power line at a site level are expected to be associated with the scale of the project (i.e. 140MW in total over 20 000 hectares in total extent). The potential direct cumulative impacts associated with the project at a site level are expected to be associated predominantly with the potential ecology impact, potential soil impacts, potential bats and avifauna impact, potential noise and potential impacts on visual and social in the surrounding area. These cumulative effects can only be assessed once a preliminary layout is amended based on the environmental sensitivities identified in the detailed specialist studies to be undertaken in the EIA phase.
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In addition to cumulative impacts at a site level, cumulative impacts are expected to be associated with this proposed development and the powerline and other similar developments in the area. The following wind energy facilities have been authorised through the EIA process (Refer to Figure 8.2): » Cookhouse Wind Energy Facility EIA (~30 km north of the Spitskop East site); » Golden Valley Wind Energy Facility (~ 20.km North East of the Spitskop East site); » Middleton Project Wind Energy Facility (north of and next to the Spitskop East Site); and » Amakhala Emoyeni project (~13km north of Spitskop).
The following power lines are located within the vicinity of the proposed facility: » Poseidon/Albany132 kV power line, located to the east of the site; » Rippon/Doornkom 220 kV power line, located to the south of the site; and » Grassridge Poseiden 400 kV power line, which is located on the proposed site.
The cumulative impacts associated with the proposed Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility and associated infrastructure primarily refers to those impacts associated with ecology, soil, avifauna, bats, noise, visual and social impacts, and are mainly associated with the proposed facility in the area. Potential cumulative impacts associated with numerous wind farm developments and power lines within the study area are expected to be associated with:
» Ecology –the study area is dominated by natural vegetation. The Spitskop East site is in a CBA area and there are a number of conservation areas in the Although a wind farm generally results in permanent disturbance of less than 10% of a development site, any impacts on natural vegetation in this area are considered significant. Therefore, numerous developments (regardless of their nature) within the study area are expected to have an impact on vegetation at a regional level. It could be possible to avoid this impact through the careful placement of infrastructure outside of natural vegetation and sensitive habitats. However cumulative habitat loss and fragmentation in the area can be expected. » Avifauna– The study area is known to support a number of threatened bird species, and could also associated with important bird flight paths. Therefore, cumulative impact on birds as a result of the development of turbines and power lines within the study area could be significant. » Bats – Approximately 27 bat species could occur in the Wind Energy Facility area. Three of the identified species are considered threatened and nine considered Near Threatened, while globally, one is listed as Near Threatened. Therefore the cumulative impact on bats as a result of the development of turbines and power line within the study area could be significant. » Noise – The study areas lies a few approximately 2km from formal settlements (such as Riebeek East) and approximately 10m from the closest homesteads. The development of numerous wind farms could results in noise pollution for people residing in the area. » Visual impacts – The most significant impact associated with these projects and associated infrastructure is the visual impact on the scenic resources and cultural landscape of this region imposed. The development of numerous wind energy facilities and power lines could significantly alter the visual character of the area.
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» Social – The development of numerous wind farms within the study area will have a cumulative impact on several existing issues within the area, predominately associated with the potential influx of workers and job seekers. With the increased population density, this may lead to a cumulative impact on housing requirements, services (i.e. water, electricity and sanitation), health issues, safety and security. New informal townships are unlikely to have the required infrastructure and services. With the existing rural settlements in the area this will have a cumulative impact on the environment and health (i.e. in terms of ablution facilities). The main social impact, however, will be in terms of visual impacts and associated impacts on sense of place. » Positive impacts - The development of renewable energy facilities will have a positive impact at a national and international level through the generation of “green energy” which would lessen South Africa’s dependency on coal generated energy and the impact of such energy sources on the bio-physical environment. The proposed project would fit in with the government’s aim to implement renewable energy projects as part of the country’s energy generation mix over the next 20 years as detailed in the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP).
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Figure 8.2: Wind Energy Facilities within the region of the proposed Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility
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CONCLUSIONS CHAPTER 9
RES SA is proposing to establish a commercial wind energy facility and associated infrastructure on a site located approximately 6km north-west of Riebeek East and approximately 15km north-west of Alicedale in the Eastern Cape Province. The project site covers an area which falls mostly within the Makana Local Municipality and partially within the Blue Crane Route Local Municipality.
It is proposed that a cluster of up to 57 wind turbines (described as a wind energy facility or a wind farm), with a generating capacity of up to 140 MW be constructed over an area of approximately 20 000 ha in extent. This facility is to be known as the Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility Wind Farm.
The proposed area for the development of the Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility (~20 000 ha in extent) includes the following farm portions: RE 60, RE 1/60, 2/60, 3/60 Junction Drift; RE 61, 1/61 Buffels Drift; Farm 66; 2/138, 3/138 Groot Fontein; RE 1/139 Bronkos Fontein; RE 1/140, 2/140, 3/140 Groot Fontein; RE 141, RE 1/141, 2/141 Ebenezer; RE 143, 1/143 Bosch Fontein; RE 144, 3/144, 4/144; 1/145, 2/145, RE 145; RE 1/261, 2/261 Brak Fontein; RE 1/262, RE 6/262, 11/262 Witte Poort; 1/263 Commadagga; 590 Steenkampsberg; 597 Farm.
In order to connect the wind energy facility to the electricity grid, new overhead power line is proposed. There are eight options for the connection of this power line, i.e.:
» 2 options to Eskom’s existing Poseidon Substation near Cookhouse; » 2 options to the new Kopleegte Substation near Bedford, or » 4 options to the existing power lines in closer proximity to the site.
Only one of these options is to be implemented. The preferred option will be informed by Eskom’s requirements in terms of point of connection as well as the finding of the EIA process. This Scoping Study has been undertaken in accordance with the EIA Regulations published in Government Notice 33306 of GN R543, R544, R545 and R546 (18 June 2010, as amended), in terms of Section 24(5) of the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA; Act No 107 of 1998). The proposed project was registered with the National Department of Environmental Affairs under application reference No.: 14/12/16/3/3/2/691.
This Draft Scoping Report is aimed at detailing the nature and extent of this facility, identifying and describing potential issues associated the proposed project, and defining the extent of studies required within the EIA. This is achieved through an evaluation of the proposed project, considering existing
Conclusions Page 82 PROPOSED SPITSKOP EAST WIND FARM NEAR RIEBEEK EAST, EASTERN CAPE PROVINCE Draft Scoping Report June 2014 information for the area, input from the project team with experience on similar projects, and a public consultation process with key stakeholders (including government authorities) and interested and affected parties (I&APs).. In accordance with the requirements of the EIA Regulations, feasible project-specific alternatives (including the “do nothing” option) have been identified for consideration within the EIA process.
The conclusions and recommendations of this Draft Scoping Report are the result of on-site inspections and desk-top evaluations of impacts identified by the project team, and the parallel process of public participation. A summary of the conclusions of the evaluation of the potential impacts identified to be associated with the proposed project is provided below. Recommendations regarding investigations required to be undertaken within the EIA are provided within the Plan of Study for EIA, contained within Chapter 10 of this report.
9.1. Conclusions drawn from the Evaluation of the Proposed Project
In identifying and evaluating impacts associated with the proposed wind farm and associated infrastructure, it has been assumed that although during operation, the area affected will comprise up to 57 turbines (depending on which turbine type is ultimately selected by the developer), access roads and a substation, during construction much of the approximately 20 000 ha of the proposed site could suffer some level of disturbance. However, once construction is complete, only a small portion of this area (~10%) will be permanently impacted by infrastructure associated with the wind energy facility. Impacts during construction associated with the proposed power line are expected to be limited to the servitude. During the operational phase it is expected that the noise and visual impacts will extend beyond the site boundaries.
General potential issues identified through this scoping study associated with the proposed wind energy facility and associated infrastructure are summarised in Tables 9.1 and 9.2.
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Figure 9.1: Locality map of proposed area for the establishment of the Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility and the alternative power line routes being considered to connect the wind energy facility to the electricity grid
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Table 9.2: Potential impacts associated with the Construction/ Decommissioning Phase with the proposed Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility
Construction / Decommissioning Impacts Extent Applicable listed activities (GN 544, 545 &546 of 18 June 2010) Impacts on vegetation, listed plant species and critical biodiversity GN 544, 26; GN 545, 1; GN 545, 8; GN 545, 15; GN 546, 4 (ii)(ee); areas R GN 546 10 (ii)(ee); GN 546, 12(b); GN R546, 14(a)(i); GN 546, 19(ii)(ee) and GN 546, 24(d)(ii)(ee) Ecological Degradation GN 544, 26; GN 545, 1; GN 545, 8; GN 545, 15; GN 546, 4 (ii)(ee); L GN 546 10 (ii)(ee); GN 546, 12(b); GN R546, 14(a)(i); GN 546, 19(ii)(ee) and GN 546, 24(d)(ii)(ee) Ground Water obstruction and contamination L-R GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 and GN 545, 15 Direct Faunal Impacts GN 545, 1; GN 545, 8; GN 545, 15; GN 546 10 (ii)(ee); GN 546, L 12(b); GN R546, 14(a)(i) Disturbance of Birds, particularly breeding species GN 544, 11(iii)(iv)(x)(xi); GN 544, 18(i);GN 544, 39(iii); GN 545, 1; L GN 545, 8;GN 545, 15; GN 546, 12(b); GN R546, 14(a)(i) and GN 546, 24(ii)(ee) Habitat destruction GN 544, 11(iii)(iv)(x)(xi); GN 544, 18(i);GN 544, 39(iii); GN 545, L 15; GN 546, 4 (ii)(ee); GN 546 10 (ii)(ee); GN 546, 12(b); GN R546, 14(a)(i) and GN 546, 24(d)(ii)(ee) GN 544, 11(iii)(iv)(x)(xi); GN 544, 18(i);GN 544, 39(iii); GN 545, 1; L GN 545, 8;GN 545, 15; GN 546, 12(b); GN R546, 14(a)(i) and GN Impacts on bats 546, 24(ii)(ee) GN 544, 11(iii)(iv)(x)(xi); GN 544, 18(i);GN 544, 39(iii); GN 545, 1; L GN 545, 8;GN 545, 15; GN 546, 12(b); GN R546, 14(a)(i) and GN Impacts on Avifauna 546, 24(ii)(ee) Loss of agricultural land L GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 and GN 545, 15 Land surface disturbance and alteration L GN 546, 12(b); GN R546, 14(a)(i) and GN 546, 24(ii)(ee) GN 545, 1; GN 545, 8; GN 546, 12(b); GN R546, 14(a)(i); GN L Loss of topsoil 546, 19(ii)(ee) and GN 546, 24(d)(ii)(ee)
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Disturbance of cultivation practices and agricultural activities GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 and GN 545, 15 L (ploughing, planting, harvesting) Loss of / damage to archaeological, heritage and cultural resources L GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 and GN 545, 15 Loss of / damage to palaeontological resources L GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 and GN 545, 15 Noise impacts due to construction equipment and activities L GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 and GN 545, 15 Noise impacts due to blasting (if required) L GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 and GN 545, 15 Noise impacts from traffic L GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 and GN 545, 15 Potential visual impacts associated with the construction phase on GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 and GN 545, 15; GN 546, 12(b); GN R546, L observers in close proximity to the facility. 14(a)(i); GN 546, 19(ii)(ee) and GN 546, 24(d)(ii)(ee) The potential visual impact of the construction of ancillary GN 544, 11(iii)(iv)(x)(xi)GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8; GN 545, 15, GN infrastructure (i.e. the substation at the facility, access road to the 4(ii)(ee); GN 546, 10(ii)(ee); GN 546, 19(ii)(ee) and GN 546, L site, internal access roads within the site, etc. as required) on 24(ii)(ee) observers residing in close proximity of the facility. Employment L-R GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 and GN 545, 15 Skills development L-R GN 545, 1, GN 545, 8 and GN 545, 15 Influx of construction crews and job seekers L
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Table 9.2: Potential impacts associated with the Operational Phase with all three phases of the proposed Spitskop East Wind Energy facility Operational Impacts Extent Applicable listed activities (GN 544, 545 &546 of 18 June 2010) Disturbance or loss of indigenous natural vegetation L GN 545, 15 Loss of connectivity & habitat fragmentation L GN 545, 15 Disturbance to migration routes and associated impacts to species GN 545, 15 L populations Establishment and spread of declared weeds and alien invader GN 545, 15 L plants Ground water contamination L-R Long term loss of arable land L-R GN 545, 15 Soil erosion L GN 545, 15 Operational impact: Bird mortality due to turbines and power lines L-R GN 545, 15 Operational impact: Bat mortality due to turbines and power lines L-R GN 545, 15 Degradation of natural resource: soil L GN 545, 15 Disturbance to flow pattern of run-off water L GN 545, 15 Noise during the operational phase. L GN 545, 15 Visual exposure to wind turbines and associated infrastructure L GN 545, 15 Employment opportunities during operation and maintenance L GN 545, 15 Tourism impact (renewable energy tourism versus disturbing the L GN 545, 15 natural environment) Contribution of clean energy R-N GN 545, 15 Impact on sense of place (aesthetic value) L-R GN 545, 15 Impacts on existing farm operations L GN 545, 15 Impacts on value of surrounding properties L GN 545, 15 Potential impact on climate change I GN 545, 15
L Local R Regional N National I International
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Potentially sensitive areas have been identified to be associated with the wind energy facility and power line. The potentially sensitive areas/environmental features/issues that have been identified for more detailed investigation include:
» Areas containing untransformed natural vegetation (Fynbos, Thicket or other), high diversity or habitat complexity, Red List organisms or systems (such as rivers or wetlands) as vital to sustaining ecological functions are considered sensitive. The ecological sensitivity of the site relates to the presence of pans, wetlands and major rivers, as well as the location of the site and power line routes within a CBA2 area and the potential presence of plant and animal species of conservation concern. » The study area could support more than 290 priority bird species including 72 endemic or near-endemic species, 21 red-listed species and 6 species - Knysna Woodpecker, Ludwig’s Bustard, Blue Crane, Cape Vulture, Black Harrier and possibly Melodius Lark which are both endemic and red-listed). Avian micro-habitats will be defined more accurately during the EIA phase of the project, but will probably comprise of extensive tracts of degraded, lightly wooded grassland, areas of thicker, thornveld thicket, including riparian strips, and a network of wetlands, including vleis, rivers and artificial impoundments which would be sensitive areas. Impacts on avifauna should be informed by the results of the pre-construction monitoring being undertaken or the site. » The presence of sensitive bat species that are most likely to be found on the site such as the African straw-coloured fruit bat, Lesser long-fingered bat, Natal long-fingered bat, Lesueur’s wing-gland bat, Lesser woolly bat and Temminck's myotis » The presence of noise sensitive receptors (farm homesteads) has been determined at a desktop level at this stage. Noise modelling will provide more input for turbine positioning and noise mitigation for potential noise sensitive receptors, if necessary. » Visual impacts could be an issue for observers within, but not limited to the area within 8km of the proposed facility and the associated infrastructure specifically tourist places such as game farms and reserves in the study area. » In terms of agricultural potential, only two land types have a proportion of deeper soils, with a consequent high agricultural potential, i.e. Ia82 (along the rivers in the north of the site) and Ae207 (in the south of the site) and can be considered as sensitive. » There have been heritage sites recorded in the broader study area. Their presence provides an indication that heritage sites could occur within the Spitskop East site and warrant further investigation in the EIA phase. » From a socio-economic perspective, the proposed wind facility might have negative impacts on the surrounding game farmers, however the positive impacts will be largely concentrated in the local and national economies.
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RES SA developed the preliminary layout for the proposed wind energy facility in consultation with environmental specialists with the aims of avoiding areas of high sensitivity. RES SA will refine infrastructure layout for consideration within the EIA phase through detailed specialist investigations (refer to Chapter 10 for details of these studies).
9.2. Evaluation of the Potential Issues with Associated Infrastructure - Power Line, Invertors, Substation and Access Roads
In order to connect the Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility to the power grid, the developer intends to construct an on-site substation and a new overhead power line. Various options are being considered for the power line from the wind energy facility:
» 132 kV connection options: two route options are being considered to connect the onsite substation to Eskom’s existing Poseidon Substation near Cookhouse; » 132 kV connection options: two route options are being considered to connect the onsite substation to Eskom’s new Kopleegte Substation near Bedford; » 132 kV power line to connect to the existing Poseidon/Albany132 kV power line, located to the east of the site, via a T-off or loop-in loop-out connection; » 220 kV connection option: 2 route options are being considered to connect the onsite substation to the existing Rippon/Doornkom 220 kV power line, located to the south and west of the site, via a loop-in loop-out connection; » 400kV connection option: to connect the onsite substation to the Grassridge Poseiden 400 kV power line, which is located near the proposed site, via a loop-in loop-out connection.
The point of connection will be informed through understanding the local power requirements and the stability of the local electricity network, and will depend on the final grid connection agreement with Eskom. The preferred route for that particular option will be informed by the specialist studies to be undertaken in the EIA Phase.
Through the scoping study, potential issues identified to be associated with a proposed overhead power line, substation, access roads and inverters include impacts on flora, fauna and ecological processes, impacts on avifauna as a result of collisions and electrocutions with the power line, potential impacts on heritage sites and visual impacts. The potential impacts associated with the power line, substation, access roads and inverters will be considered in detail within the EIA phase. Recommendations regarding preferred locations for this infrastructure and appropriate mitigation measures (if required) will be made.
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Figure 9.2: Environmental Sensitivity Map for the proposed Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility
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9.3. Potential Benefits of the Proposed Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility
At present, South Africa is in the infancy stage of exploiting the benefits from renewable energy and from achieving a considerable market share in the renewable energy industry. South Africa’s electricity supply remains heavily dominated by coal based power generation, with the country’s significant renewable energy potential largely untapped to date.
Through research, the technical viability of a wind farm has been established at the proposed site, and RES SA proposes that up to 57 turbines can be established as part of the Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility. Potential benefits associated with the proposed wind farm development include:
» Increased energy security: The current electricity crisis in South Africa highlights the significant role that renewable energy can play in terms of supplementing the power available. In addition, given that renewables can often be deployed in a decentralised manner close to consumers, they offer the opportunity for improving grid strength and supply quality, while reducing expensive transmission and distribution losses. » Natural Resource saving: Conventional coal-fired power plants are major consumers of water during cooling processes and power generation process. It is estimated that the achievement of the targets in the Renewable Energy White Paper will result in water savings of approximately 16.5 million kilolitres, when compared with wet-cooled conventional coal-fired power stations. This translates into a revenue saving of R26.6 million. As an already water stressed nation, it is critical that South Africa engages in a variety of water conservation measures, particularly as the detrimental effects of climate change on water availability are expected to be experienced in the future. » Exploitation of renewable energy resource: At present, valuable national resources (including biomass by-products, solar insulation and wind) remain largely unexploited within South Africa. The use of these energy flows will strengthen energy security within the country through the development of a diverse energy portfolio. » Particulate emission avoidance: The release of by-products from fossil fuel burning for electricity generation has a particularly hazardous impact on human health through impacts on air quality, and contributes to ecosystem degradation. Renewable energy generation is not associated with such emissions to air. » Climate friendly development: The uptake of renewable energy offers the opportunity to address energy needs in an environmentally responsible manner, contributing to the mitigation of climate change through the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. South Africa as a nation is estimated to be responsible for 1% of global GHG emissions and is currently
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ranked 9th worldwide in terms of per capita CO2 emissions. The recent application for a World Bank loan to finish the Medupi Power Station was opposed by international NGOs on the basis that South Africa’s grid is ‘dirty’ and without significant renewables. » Support for international agreements and enhanced status within the international community: The effective deployment of renewable energy provides a tangible means for South Africa to demonstrate its commitment to its international agreements under the Kyoto Protocol, and for cementing its status as a leading player within the international community. » Employment creation- : The sale, development, installation, maintenance and management of renewable energy facilities have significant potential for job creation on a local scale as well as in South Africa. » Acceptability to society: Renewable energy offers a number of tangible benefits to society including reduced pollution concerns, improved human and ecosystem health and climate friendly development. » Support to a new industry sector: The development of renewable energy offers an opportunity to establish a new industry within the South African economy. » Protecting the natural foundations of life for future generations: Actions to reduce South Africa’s disproportionate carbon footprint can play an important part in ensuring the country’s role in preventing dangerous anthropogenic climate change; thereby securing the natural foundations of life for generations to come. » Establishment of community trust: The establishment of community trust by successful bidders is a requirement of the Department of Energy’s (DoE). Renewable Energy Independent Power Producers Procurement Programme (REIPPP), stipulates that trusts must be set up in all areas of operations by all bidders. The Department requires renewable energy project developers to invest in communities living within a 50 kilometre radius of each project to stimulate local economic development.
These and other potential benefits associated with the proposed project will be considered further and assessed in more detail in the EIA phase of the process.
9.4. Conclusions
The findings of the Draft Scoping Report were based on a desktop assessment therefore fatal flows associated with the proposed wind energy facility have not been identified at this stage. Further investigation is required. It is recommended that the proposed site can be considered in an EIA phase assessment according to the Plan of Study contained in this report (refer to Chapter 10).
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PLAN OF STUDY FOR EIA PHASE CHAPTER 10
A detailed description of the nature and extent of the proposed Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility and associated infrastructure, details regarding the Scoping Process followed, as well as the issues identified and evaluated thus far have been included in this Scoping Report.
This Plan of Study describes how the EIA Phase for the proposed wind facility project will proceed. The EIA Phase includes detailed specialist studies for those impacts recorded to be of potential significance. The key findings of the Scoping Phase (which includes inputs from authorities, the public and the proponent), are used to inform the Plan of Study together with the requirements of the NEMA EIA Regulations and applicable guidelines.
10.1. Aims of the EIA Phase
The EIA Phase will aim to achieve the following:
» Provide an overall assessment of the social and biophysical environments affected by the proposed project. » Assess potentially significant impacts (direct, indirect and cumulative, where required) associated with the proposed wind energy facility and associated infrastructure. » Identify and recommend appropriate mitigation measures for potentially significant environmental impacts. » Undertake a fully inclusive public involvement process to ensure that I&APs are afforded the opportunity to participate, and that their issues and concerns are recorded.
The EIA Phase will address potential environmental impacts and benefits (direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts) associated with all phases of the project including design, construction, and operation and decommissioning, and will aim to provide the environmental authorities with sufficient information to make an informed decision regarding the proposed project. All feasible alternatives (including the ‘do nothing’ alternative) will be assessed.
10.2. Authority Consultation
Consultation with the regulating authorities (i.e. DEA and Eastern Cape DEDEA&T) will be undertaken and will continue throughout the EIA process. On-going consultation will include the following:
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» Submission of a final Scoping Report following a 40-day public review period (and consideration of comments received). » An opportunity for authorities to visit and inspect the site. » Submission of a final Environmental Impact Assessment Report following a 40-day public review period.
10.3. Consideration of Alternatives
The following project alternatives will be investigated in the EIA:
i. The ‘do nothing’ alternative: RES SA does not establish the Spitskop East Wind Energy Facility and associated infrastructures (maintain status quo). ii. Site-specific alternatives: in terms of actual turbine positions and positions of the associated infrastructure on the site (i.e. access roads, substation, etc. over a 20 000 ha area). iii. Alternative servitudes for power line routing: the planning and design for the transmission of the power generated at the wind farm is currently being undertaken. This will be informed through understanding the local power requirements and the stability of the local electricity network. Electricity from the wind energy facility will be transmitted in one of the following 8 ways:
» 132 kV connection options: two route options are being considered to connect the onsite substation to Eskom’s existing Poseidon Substation near Cookhouse; and two route options are being considered to connect the onsite substation to the new Kopleegte Substation near Bedford. » 132 kV power line to connect to the existing Poseidon/Albany132 kV power line, located to the east of the site, via a loop-in loop-out connection. » 220 kV connection option: 2 route options are being considered to connect the onsite substation to the existing Rippon/Doornkom 220 kV power line, located to the south of the site, via a loop-in loop-out connection. » 400kV connection option: to connect the onsite substation to the Grassridge Poseiden 400 kV power line, which is located on the proposed site, via a loop- in loop-out connection.
10.4. Assessment of Potential Impacts and Recommendations regarding Mitigation Measures
A summary of the issues which require further investigation within the EIA Phase, as well as the proposed activities to be undertaken in order to assess the significance of these potential impacts is provided within Table 10.1. The
Plan of Study for EIA Page 86 PROPOSED SPITSKOP EAST WIND FARM NEAR RIEBEEK EAST, EASTERN CAPE PROVINCE Draft Scoping Report June 2014 specialists involved in the EIA Phase are also reflected in Table 10.1, specialist CV’s have been included as Appendix A. These specialist studies will consider the site proposed for the development of the wind energy facility and all associated infrastructure (including alternatives with regards to design, layout and technology), as well as any feasible alternative alignments of the proposed overhead power line and access road/s.
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Table 10.1: Summary of the issues which require further investigation within the EIA Phase and activities to be undertaken in order to assess the significance of these potential impacts Specialist Issue Activities to be undertaken in order to assess significance of impacts Simon Todd Potential impact on The assessment will be conducted according to the EIA Regulations, published by the Department of Environmental (Simon Todd Fauna and flora Affairs and Tourism (April 1998) in terms of the Environmental Conservation Act No. 73 of 1989 as well as within the Consulting cc) best-practice guidelines and principles for biodiversity assessment as outlined by Brownlie (2005) and De Villiers et al. (2005).
The study will include data searches, desktop studies, site walk-overs / field survey of the property and baseline data collection, describing: » the broad ecological characteristics of the site and its surrounds in terms of any mapped spatial components of ecological processes and/or patchiness, patch size, relative isolation of patches, connectivity, corridors, disturbance regimes, ecotones, buffering, viability, etc.
In terms of vegetation pattern, the following will be identified or described: » Community and ecosystem level The main vegetation type, its aerial extent and interaction with neighbouring types, soils or topography; and Threatened or vulnerable ecosystems (cf. new SA vegetation map/National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment1, fine-scale systematic conservation plans, etc.). » Species level Red Data Book species (giving location if possible using GPS) The viability of an estimated population size of the RDB species that are present (include the degree of confidence in prediction based on availability of information and specialist knowledge, i.e. High=70-100% confident, Medium 40-70% confident, low 0-40% confident) The likelihood of other RDB species, or species of conservation concern, occurring in the vicinity (include degree of confidence). » Other pattern issues Any significant landscape features or rare or important vegetation associations such as seasonal wetlands, alluvium, seeps, quartz patches or salt marshes in the vicinity. The extent of alien plant cover of the site, and whether the infestation is the result of prior soil disturbance
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Specialist Issue Activities to be undertaken in order to assess significance of impacts such as ploughing or quarrying (alien cover resulting from disturbance is generally more difficult to restore than infestation of undisturbed sites). The condition of the site in terms of current or previous land uses.
» Fauna Describe and assesses the terrestrial fauna present in the area that will be affected by the proposed development. Conduct a faunal assessment that can be integrated into the ecological study. Describe the existing impacts of current land use as they affect the fauna. Clarify species of special concern (SSC) and that are known to be: endemic to the region; that are considered to be of conservational concern; that are in commercial trade (CITES listed species); and or, are of cultural significance. » Provide monitoring requirements as input into the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for faunal related issues.
In terms of process, the following will be identified or described: » The key ecological “drivers” of ecosystems on the site and in the vicinity, such as fire. » Any mapped spatial component of an ecological process that may occur at the site or in its vicinity (i.e. corridors such as watercourses, upland-lowland gradients, migration routes, coastal linkages or inland-trending dunes, and vegetation boundaries such as edaphic interfaces, upland-lowland interfaces or biome boundaries). » Any possible changes in key processes, e.g. increased fire frequency or drainage/artificial recharge of aquatic systems. » Cumulative impacts » Furthermore, any further studies that may be required during or after the EIA process will be outlined. » All relevant legislation, permits and standards that would apply to the development will be identified. » The opportunities and constraints for development will be described and shown graphically on an aerial photograph, satellite image or map delineated at an appropriate level of spatial accuracy.
Johann Lanz Potential impact on Soil » Identify and assess all potential impacts (direct, indirect and cumulative) and economic consequences of
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Specialist Issue Activities to be undertaken in order to assess significance of impacts (Johann Lanz and Agricultural the proposed development on soils and agricultural potential. Consultants) Potential » Describe and map soil types (soil forms) and characteristics (soil depth, soil colour, limiting factors, and clay content of the top and sub soil layers). » Map soil survey points. » Describe the topography of the site. » Undertake basic climate analysis and identify suitable crops and their water requirements. » Summarise available water sources for agriculture. » Describe historical and current land use, agricultural infrastructure, as well as possible alternative land use options. » Describe the erosion, vegetation and degradation status of the land. » Determine and map, if there is variation, the agricultural potential across the site. » Determine and map the agricultural sensitivity to development across the site. » Assess potential impacts associated with the proposed project (including direct, indirect and cumulative impacts) » Provide recommended mitigation measures, monitoring requirements, and rehabilitation guidelines for all identified impacts. Andrew Pearson Potential impact on » Description of the site baseline with regard to avifauna, focussing on the characteristics which may be (Arcus Avifauna impacted upon by the proposed development type during construction and operation. Consulting) » Describe the sensitivity of the baseline environment with regard to avifauna specifically with regard to the conservation status of species. » Identify the nature of potential impacts (positive and negative, including cumulative impacts if relevant) of the proposed development on avifauna during construction and operation. » Identify information gaps and limitations. » Assess the significance of the impacts associated with the proposed project (including direct, indirect and cumulative impacts). » Identify mitigation or enhancement measures to minimise impacts to avifauna from the proposed development. » The extent to which collision and displacement impacts actually occur will need to be determined through rigorous pre and post construction monitoring, which will be completed to inform the impact assessment. » Make recommendations regarding post construction monitoring.
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Specialist Issue Activities to be undertaken in order to assess significance of impacts Jonathan Potential impact on bats » Description of the site baseline with regard to bats, focussing on the characteristics which may be Aronson impacted upon by the proposed development type during construction and operation. (Arcus » Describe the sensitivity of the baseline environment with regard to bats specifically with regard to the Consulting) conservation status of species. » Identify the nature of potential impacts (positive and negative, including cumulative impacts if relevant) of the proposed development on bats during construction and operation. » Identify information gaps and limitations. » Assess the significance of the impacts associated with the proposed project (including direct, indirect and cumulative impacts). » Identify mitigation or enhancement measures to minimise impacts to bats from the proposed development. » The extent to which impacts actually occur will need to be determined through rigorous pre and post construction monitoring, which will be completed to inform the impact assessment. » Make recommendations regarding post construction monitoring.
Celeste Booth Potential impacts on » Conduct a field survey of the proposed facility and power line route alternatives. (Booth Heritage heritage resources » Establish the range and importance of the exposed and in situ archaeological, heritage material remains, Consulting) sites and features. » Assess the potential impact of the development (including direct, indirect and cumulative impacts). » Make recommendations to minimize possible damage to the archaeological heritage.
A Phase 1 Archaeological Impact Assessment (AIA) report will be compiled that will include appropriate recommendations and assessment of the significance of archaeological material remains, features, and sites documented during the survey, as well the potential impact of the development. Depending on the outcome/s and finding/s during the survey and the appropriate recommendations made in the report, possible Phase 2 mitigation and/or Phase 3 conservation may have to be conducted. John E Almond Potential impacts on Preparation of desktop study on fossil heritage of study area based on: (Natura Viva cc) palaeontology » Review of all relevant palaeontological and geological literature, including geological maps, previous assessment reports. » Data on proposed development provided by the developer (e.g. location of footprint, depth and volume of bedrock excavation envisaged).
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Specialist Issue Activities to be undertaken in order to assess significance of impacts » Analysis of satellite images and topographical maps. Field assessment » Detailed field examination of representative natural and artificial exposures of potentially fossil-bearing sediments (rock outcrops, quarries, roadcuts etc) within or in the region of the development area Recording of observed fossils and associated sedimentological features of palaeontological relevance photos, maps, aerial or satellite images, GPS co-ordinates, stratigraphic columns).
Final report & feedback » Illustrated, fully-referenced review of palaeontological heritage within study area based on desktop study and new data from fieldwork and analysis. » Identification and ranking of highlights and sensitivities to development of fossil heritage within study area (Assessment of impact significance, including direct, indirect and cumulative impacts). » Specific recommendations for any further palaeontological studies or mitigation (EIA or EMP).
Morne de Jager Potential impacts on » A brief description of the planned development or the changes that are being considered; ((Environmental sensitive noise receptors » A brief description of the existing environment including, where relevant, the topography, surface Acoustic conditions and meteorological conditions during measurements; Research) » The identified noise sources together with their respective sound pressure levels or sound power levels (or both) and, where applicable, the operating cycles, the nature of sound emission, the spectral composition and the directional characteristics; » The identified noise sources that were not taken into account and the reasons as to why they were not investigated; » The identified Potentially Sensitive Receptors and the noise impact on them; » Where applicable, any assumptions, with references, made with regard to any calculations or determination of source and propagation characteristics; » An explanation, either by a brief description or by reference, of all measuring and calculation procedures that were followed, as well as any possible adjustments to existing measuring methods that had to be made, together with the results of calculations; » An explanation, either by description or by reference, of all measuring or calculation methods (or both) that were used to determine existing and predicted rating levels, as well as other relevant information, including a statement of how the data were obtained and applied to determine the rating level for the area
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Specialist Issue Activities to be undertaken in order to assess significance of impacts in question. » The location of measuring or calculating points in a sketch or on a map. » Quantification of the noise impact with, where relevant, reference to the literature consulted and the assumptions made. » Alternatives that were considered and the results of those that were investigated. » A list of all the interested or affected parties that offered any comments with respect to the environmental noise impact investigation (if comments are received). » A detailed summary of all the comments received from interested or affected parties as well as the procedures and discussions followed to deal with them (if comments are received.; » Conclusions that were reached. » Proposed recommendations including potential mitigation measures. » Any follow-up investigation which should be conducted at completion of the project as well as at regular intervals after the commissioning of the project so as to ensure that the recommendations of this report will be maintained in the future. » Assess the contribution of the proposed activity to the cumulative impact of the development in the area. Lourens du Potential impacts on » Undertake a survey of the site and surrounding areas to identify potential visual sensitive receptors. Plessis visual aesthetics and » Prepare a specialist report detailing the environmental issues and potential impacts. (MetroGIS) sense of place » Assess the potential direct and indirect impacts using a weighting system that assigns a value to the categories (extent, duration, magnitude, probability) and arrives at a total which depicts the significance of the particular impact. » Assess the contribution of the proposed activity to the cumulative impact of the development in the area. » Comparatively assess any feasible alternatives (if any). » Provide mitigating measures to input into the EMP. Matthew Keeley Impacts on the social- » Assess the positive economic and social impacts resulting from the construction and operation of the wind (Urban-Econ economic environment energy facility and power line on the local community and economy. Development » Assess the negative consequences that the project may have for local game farms in the area, Economists) particularly those that are adjacent to the site and within visual proximity to the turbines. » Assess the positive and negative impacts on the value of adjacent properties. » Assess the result formulation and investment of new community projects in the area. » Develop a socio-economic profile of the affected environment using secondary information. » Review the project in context and identify the potential negative impacts that can be exerted in
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Specialist Issue Activities to be undertaken in order to assess significance of impacts consultation with other specialists. » Identify the socio-economic receptors of the impacts and determine the changes in the livelihoods and economic activities that can ensued from the project. » Interpret the expected changes in terms of socio-economic impacts. Evan Chipps Impact on groundwater » Desk Study that includes a review of information from the Groundwater Resource Information Project (Water Resource (GRIP). Development) » A review of existing hydrogeological literature, and more importantly recent assessments in the project area. » Geological and associated structural interpretations will be completed. » Conduct a site investigation that will concentrate on a basic hydrocensus, but more importantly the actual geological formations, alluvial thicknesses, saturation of the soil and soil type. » Compile a report that will include further literature reviews and the IWULA requirements, taking the National Water Act of 1998 into consideration. Martin Mould Geotechnical investigation » The geotechnical report will not be assessing impacts but will describe the geological conditions of the (RES Group) site. » Review existing geological information. » Conduct a site screening exercise at a regional level. » Compile a Geotechnical Assessment Report. Carel de Beer Peer review of » Review the Geotechnical Report provided by RES Group. (Geotechnical Geotechnical Report » Compile a Review Report. Consult Services)
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10.5 Methodology for the Assessment of Potential Impacts
Direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts of the above issues, as well as all other issues identified will be assessed in terms of the following criteria:
» 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 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).
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» 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 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), » > 60 points: High (i.e. where the impact must have an influence on the decision process to develop in the area).
As RES SA has the responsibility to avoid or minimise impacts, and plan for their management (in terms of the EIA Regulations), the mitigation of significant impacts will be discussed. Assessment of impacts with mitigation will be made in order to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed mitigation measures. The results of the specialist studies and other available information will be integrated and synthesised by the Savannah Environmental project team. The EIA Report will include:
» Detailed description of the proposed activity » A description of the property on which the activity is to be undertaken and the location of the activity on the property(ies) » A description of the environment that may be affected by the activity and the manner in which the physical, biological, social, economic and cultural aspects of the environment may be affected by the proposed activity » Details of the public participation process conducted, including: Steps undertaken in accordance with the plan of study for EIA;
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A list of persons, organisations and organs of state that were registered as interested and affected parties; A summary of comments received from, and a summary of issues raised by registered interested and affected parties, the date of receipt of these comments and the response to those comments; and Copies of any representations, objections and comments received from registered interested and affected parties » A description of the need and desirability of the proposed project and identified potential alternatives to the proposed activity, including advantages and disadvantages that the proposed activity or alternatives may have on the environment and the community that may be affected by the activity » An indication of the methodology used in determining the significance of potential environmental impacts » A description and comparative assessment of all alternatives identified during the environmental impact assessment process » A summary of the findings and recommendations of specialist reports » A description of all environmental issues that were identified during the environmental impact assessment process, an assessment of the significance of each issue and an indication of the extent to which the issue could be addressed by the adoption of mitigation measures » An assessment of each identified potentially significant impact » A description of any assumptions, uncertainties and gaps in knowledge » An environmental impact statement which contains: A summary of the key findings of the EIA; and A comparative assessment of the positive and negative implications of the proposed activity and identified alternatives » A draft Environmental Management Programme » Copies of specialist reports
The draft EIA Report will be released for a 40-day public review period. The comments received from I&APs will be captured within a Comments and Response Report, which will be included within the final EIA Report, for submission to the authorities for decision-making.
10.6. Public Participation Process
A public participation process will be undertaken by Savannah Environmental. Consultation with key stakeholders, affected landowners and occupiers, and I&APs will be on-going throughout the EIA process. Through this consultation process, stakeholders and I&APs will be encouraged to identify additional issues of concern or highlight positive aspects of the project, and to comment on the findings of the EIA process.
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In order to accommodate the varying needs of stakeholders and I&APs within the study area, as well as capture their inputs regarding the project, various opportunities will be provided for stakeholders and I&APs to be involved in the EIA phase of the process, as follows:
» Focus group and Open Day Sessions (pre-arranged and stakeholders invited to attend). » One-on-one consultation meetings (for example with directly affected landowners). » Telephonic consultation sessions (consultation with various parties from the EIA project team, including the project participation consultant, lead EIA consultant as well as specialist consultants). » Written, faxed or e-mail correspondence.
The draft EIA report will be made available for public review for a 40-day period prior to finalisation and submission to the DEA for review and decision-making. In order to provide an overview of the findings of the EIA process and facilitate comments from stakeholders, a public meeting and key stakeholder meeting will be held during this public review period.
10.7. Key Milestones of the programme for the EIA
The envisaged key milestones of the programme for the EIA phase of the project are outlined in Table 7.2.
Table 10.2: Envisaged key milestones of the programme for the EIA phase of the project Key Milestone Activities Proposed completion date4 Public review period for draft Scoping report 24 June 2014 – 31 July 2014 40 day review period Finalisation and Submission of Scoping Report to August 2014 DEA
Authority acceptance of the Environmental September 2014 Scoping Report and Plan of Study to undertake the EIA Undertake detailed specialist studies and public September – November 2014 participation process Make draft EIA Report and draft EMP available to January 2015 the public, stakeholders and authorities Submit Final EIA Report to DEA for review and February 2015 decision-making
4 Indicative dates only
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