Issues and Responses Report (Version 2) i 12726

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENTS AND WATER USE LICENSE APPLICATION Proposed integration of the Concentrated Solar Park (CSP) into the Eskom network

DEA REF: 12/12/20/2606 to 12/12/20/2610 NEAS REF: DEA/EIA/0000767/774/778/785/786/2011

Issues and Responses Report

Version 2

The Issues and Responses Report (IRR) captures the comments and issues raised by stakeholders during the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Water Use License Application processes for the proposed integration of the Concentrated Solar Park (CSP) just outside into the Eskom network.

As part of the announcement, a Background Information Document (BID), with a comment and registration sheet was distributed to potentially interested and affected parties during November 2011. The BID was also handed out and site notices were put up during the second week of November 2011 along the various alternative corridors being investigated for this proposed development. An advertisement was also placed in various newspapers along the proposed corridors during November 2011 to announce this project. Comments received as a result of the announcement process were captured in Version 1 of this report, which is an appendix to the Draft Scoping Report (DSR). The DSR was available for public review from 23 January to 2 March 2012. Stakeholders were notified of the availability of the DSR for comment through the placement of advertisements, notification letters as well as the distribution of a technical summary of the report with a comment sheet. Meetings were also held from 6 to 9 February 2012 in Kathu, Olifantshoek, Upington, , and to discuss the content of the DSR with stakeholders. Comments and issues raised at these meetings and as a result of the public review process of the DSR are captured in Version 2 of this report which will be an appendix to the Final Scoping Report.

Issues and Responses Report (Version 2) ii 12726

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 ENVIRONMENTAL PROCESSES ...... 1 2 ALTERNATIVE ROUTES ...... 2 (2.1) Solar Park to Ferrum (Kathu) ...... 5 (2.2) Solar Park to Nieuwehoop ...... 8 (2.3) Solar Park to Aries (near Kenhardt)...... 10 3 BIOPHYSICAL COMMENTS ...... 12 (3.1) Avi-fauna ...... 12 (3.2) Soils ...... 12 (3.3) Water-related matters ...... 13 (3.4) Climate ...... 14 (3.5) Biodiversity ...... 14 (3.6) Electromagnetic fields ...... 15 (3.7) Ecology ...... 15 (3.8) Visual ...... 15 4 SOCIO-ECONOMIC COMMENTS ...... 16 (4.1) Social ...... 16 (4.2) Land Use ...... 16 (4.3) Health issues ...... 17 5 CONSTRUCTION ...... 17 (5.1) Deterioration of roads ...... 18 6 TRANSMISSION LINE SERVITUDE ...... 18 7 OTHER ISSUES ...... 18 (7.1) Solar Park ...... 19

Issues and Responses Report (Version 2) 1 12726

COMMENTS, QUESTIONS AND COMMENTATOR(S) SOURCE(S) RESPONSE(S) ISSUES 1 ENVIRONMENTAL PROCESSES 1 The feasibility of the proposed project should be Mr Albert van Niekerk, Registration The aim of the EIA and the specialist investigated. In this study, the specific area and Klipkoppies, PO Box 1831, sheet November studies will be to determine the feasibility its special features should be assessed. Upington, 8800 2011 as well as the impacts of the project. 2 Why can the Solar Park not be built where there Mr Theo Spengler, Rooiwal Registration The bulk of the power from the CSP will be is a need for power such as in Sishen? That will Farmers Association, sheet November fed into the Upington area and the Sishen- minimise the length of the proposed power lines Olifantshoek and other 2011 Saldanha railway line, not the mine. In that has to be constructed now. stakeholders addition a solar development has to be in an area where there is enough sunlight to Mr John Becker, Stellaland Public meeting in generate the power, so the location of the Upington at plant was placed in an area with very high 18:00:30 on 7 solar radiation, and water is also vital for February 2012 to this process and the plant needs to be discuss the DSR near a major water source such as the . 3 The local must be invited to these Mr Theo Spengler, Rooiwal Public meeting in All local and district municipalities in the meetings in order to take part in the discussions Farmers Association, Olifantshoek on 6 study area have been invited. regarding proposed projects taking place in the Olifantshoek February 2012 to district. discuss the DSR 4 Who is funding this project? Mr Theo Spengler, Rooiwal Public meeting in Eskom is funding the whole integration Farmers Association, Olifantshoek on 6 project (transmission lines and substation Olifantshoek February 2012 to upgrades and construction). discuss the DSR 5 How do you communicate with the local Stakeholder at meeting. Public meeting in Information on this project has been sent communities and municipalities? Olifantshoek on 6 to affected communities, landowners and February 2012 to municipalities and they were also invited to discuss the DSR attend the stakeholder meetings. 6 Investigate the: Mr Rudi Oosthuizen, PO Box Comment sheet This will all be investigated in the next • impact on my farm, 3, Olifantshoek on 20 February phase of the EIA phase as part of the • the environment, 2012 specialist studies. • the aesthetic impact of a transmission line, • access control, • deterioration of roads and • possible theft.

Issues and Responses Report (Version 2) 2 12726

COMMENTS, QUESTIONS AND COMMENTATOR(S) SOURCE(S) RESPONSE(S) ISSUES

2 ALTERNATIVE ROUTES 1 Please provide us with detailed maps of the Mr Limpho Mongoato, Registration Detailed maps will be provided at the final routes for the proposed power lines. Department of Agriculture, sheet November public meetings planned for February Forestry and Fisheries, 2011 2012. Detailed maps will be sent to the Pretoria different farmer associations to share with their members. 2 Please provide us a detailed map of the routes Mr Andries Bodenstein, Registration Detailed maps will be provided at the for us to provide detailed comment. Transnet Properties, Inland sheet November public meetings planned for February Region 2011 2012. Detailed maps will be sent to the different farmer associations to share with their members. 3 Are these lines only meant to transfer the Mr Donovan Richmond, Public meeting in 400 kV lines will transport the 100MW to energy that will be generated by the Eskom Seeff Properties Upington at 09:30 be generated by Eskom as well as energy CSP into Eskom’s national grid? on 7 February to be generated by the approved 2012 to discuss Independent Power Producers to the west the DSR and the Department of Energy’s site to the east of the Eskom site into Eskom’s national grid. 4 Will there be any additional transmission lines Mr Fanie Lerm, Public meeting in No, only the routes that are being to connect Upington Solar Park with the Middelpost 60 Kakamas on 8 investigated in this study will be needed to national grid? February 2012 to link Solar Park with the grid. discuss the DSR 5 Will the final transmission line routes to be used Mr Nico Hugo, Rosynebos Public meeting in Yes, once the specialist studies have been only be available in March 2013? Kakamas on 8 completed, the final report with the February 2012 to recommended routes will be handed in to discuss the DSR the Department of Environmental Affairs who will then decide which route must be used. 6 We would like to see the final EIA and details Mr C Cloete, Depot Letter on 20 You will be updated as this study relating to the rail crossings when the final plans Engineering Manager February 2012 proceeds. are completed. (Kimberley South), Transnet 7 The South African National Roads Agency Ms Colene Runkel, Statutory Reply sheet on You will be updated as this study Limited (SANRAL) required as final plan of your Control and Land 27 February 2012 proceeds. routes with regards to all national roads. Should Administration, SANRAL, there be the need to cross a national road, then Private Bag X19, Bellville, you have to apply for the necessary 7535 authorisation. Issues and Responses Report (Version 2) 3 12726

COMMENTS, QUESTIONS AND COMMENTATOR(S) SOURCE(S) RESPONSE(S) ISSUES 8 There’s no clear distinction between the Eskom Mr Tieho Motloung, Project Email on 9 March FSR amended to be clearer. CSP plant and the DoE Upington Solar Park in Manager: Solar Park 2012 the reports. Corridor, CEF Group 9 Comments on the Draft Scoping Report – Mr Tieho Motloung, Project Email on 9 March FSR for the Aries – Solar and Nieuwehoop Project 1: Manager: Solar Park 2012 – Solar updated with all questions raised. Corridor, CEF Group • Page 4 – The Government is proposing to establish a solar park at KLIPKRAAL farm and not on Olyvenhoutsdrift. The Government is not going to spend R150 billion but proposing to establish a R150 billion Solar Park programme. • Page 5 – Is Eskom’s plant 100MW or 150MW CSP? What do you mean by ‘kicking off the development of the Solar Park’? Have the park parameters been defined? The Eskom CSP is not the first project in the Solar Park even if it may be the first project to use the Solar Park substation. • Page 5 – can you provide references of World Bank backing for CSP? • Page 5 – The DoE is NOT negotiating with any IPP’s. Furthermore, no technology selection has been finalised yet! The DoE/CEF will execute a feasibility study to determine the viability of the 5GW Solar Park Programme. If this proves to be feasible, the development of the first Solar Park in Upington will begin following Cabinet approval. • Page 7 – The BA (1 and 3) do not indicate clearly which 132KV lines are for Eskom Plant and which are the DoE Solar Park. • Page 19 – Section 3, are you focusing only on the Eskom CSP? • Page 19 – The transformer rating for the Solar Park substation has relevance. Is it Issues and Responses Report (Version 2) 4 12726

COMMENTS, QUESTIONS AND COMMENTATOR(S) SOURCE(S) RESPONSE(S) ISSUES not 132/400KV step up transformer? • Page 21 – Is the standard line voltage 7200 Volts in RSA? • Page 58 – Is the history of the SAN community correct? This is a very sensitive matter. 10 Comments on Draft Scoping Report – Mr Tieho Motloung, Project Email on 9 March FSR for the Ferrum– Solar updated with all Project 2 Manager: Solar Park 2012 questions raised. • Most comments made for Project 1 are Corridor, CEF Group applicable to Project 2. • Page 19 – Is the focus on the Eskom CSP and not the Upington Solar Park(USP). The focus should be on the USP since the Eskom CSP is ancillary to the 1 GW from the USP. • 3. Proposals -CEF to review the preliminary final report for accuracy before it is issued -The Upington Solar Park EAP to liaise closely with Zitholele for the Klipkraal EIA. 11 Comments on: Mr NJ Toerien, Sub- Letter on 13 Noted. All this will be included during the • Project 1 - Solar Park to Aries and Solar Directorate: Sustainable March 2012 specialist studies during the next phase of Park to Nieuwehoop; and Resource Management, this EIA. • Project 2 - Solar Park to Ferrum Department of Agriculture, The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform Land Reform and Rural and Rural Development is guided by Act 43 of Development 1983. With the development of these activities the developer must take care of the following: Article 7.(3)b of Regulation 9238: CONSERVATION OF AGRICULTURE RESOURCES, 1983 (Act 43 of 1983) Utilisation and protection of vleis, marshes, water sponges and water courses 7.(1) “….. no land user shall utilize the vegetation in a vlei, marsh or water sponge or within the flood area of a water course or within 10 meters horizontally outside such flood area in a manner that causes or may cause the Issues and Responses Report (Version 2) 5 12726

COMMENTS, QUESTIONS AND COMMENTATOR(S) SOURCE(S) RESPONSE(S) ISSUES deterioration of or damage to the natural agriculture resources.” 3)(b) “cultivate any land on his farm unit within the flood area of a water course or within 10 meters horizontally outside the flood area of a water course”.

Take also care of the following: Who is the current landowner; will it be a subdivision of land or a lease contract between the developer and the landowner? Rezoning will also be applicable because the land use will change from the current agricultural status. The Department foresee no problems in the development as mentioned above as long as the developer adheres to the articles of Act 43 of 1983.

(2.1) Solar Park to Ferrum (Kathu) 1 Our environment is extremely sensitive for the Mr Theo Spengler, Rooiwal Registration The shortest route between two points is construction of new roads. As far as possible, Farmers Association, sheet November always chosen at first. Then the alternative construct the proposed power line next to Olifantshoek 2011 and email routes will be deviated to avoid major existing roads or alternatively on farm on 16 February obstacles such as mountains, dams, boundaries. Farms should not be cut in half by 2012 human settlements, etc. However the aim transmission lines. of the EIA and the specialist studies will be to align the EIA routes as best possible within the proposed corridors. Please note that a 2km corridor will be investigated and once approved a servitude will be negotiated with the landowner inside that corridor. 2 The proposed power lines should be built as Mr Koos Becker, Farms Registration An optional alternative route next to the close as possible to the to keep away from Smalhoek, Koupan and sheet November N14 was discussed with Eskom. This was the sensitive Kalahari dunes (Duineveld). Witboom 2011 and email approved and included in the FSR. There are existing Eskom lines running parallel on 22 February with the N14. Maybe that servitude can be used Mr Theo Spengler, Rooiwal 2012 for this line. Farmers Association, Olifantshoek Public meeting in Issues and Responses Report (Version 2) 6 12726

COMMENTS, QUESTIONS AND COMMENTATOR(S) SOURCE(S) RESPONSE(S) ISSUES Olifantshoek on 6 February 2012 to discuss the DSR and email on 16 February 2012 3 According to my knowledge of the terrain the Mr Elias Laubscher, PO Box Email on 27 Noted. Ferrum Solar 2 will be the best route to use. 225, Olifantshoek, 8450 December 2011 4 The proposed line from Pearsons Hunt to Kathu Mr Gerrit Nell, PO Box Registration Noted and this will be confirmed during the will clash with existing servitudes for water 28,Olifantshoek, 8450 sheet December next phase of this study. pipelines 2011 5 Near Gringley the planned alternative will cross Mr Gerrit Nell, PO Box Public meeting in Thank you. This will be investigated during a ridge at S27 40 48 E22 30 11. If the proposed 28,Olifantshoek, 8450 Olifantshoek on 6 the next phase of this study. route is moved one kilometre south to S27 41 February 2012 to 28.5 E 22 30 20, the Kalahari Water Pipeline discuss the DSR will be avoided. 6 Why do you have two routes on your map Mr Freddie Drotskie, Gasep Public meeting in Only one of the two will eventually be between Solar Park and Ferrum? Olifantshoek on 6 used, but both are being investigated to February 2012 to find the route with the least impact. As discuss the DSR part of the EIA process route alternatives have to be provided. 7 Which route is the better option at this stage? Mr Wouter Snyman, Public meeting in This is still not known, because the Watermeyer Olifantshoek on 6 specialist studies during the next phase February 2012 to will determine the route with the least discuss the DSR impact. 8 The proposed route will cross our private line Mr Riaan Liebenberg, Public meeting in Crossing another line is not a problem and going to the Kalahari farms. Koupan Farmers Association Upington at 09:30 happens regularly. The engineers will on 7 February ensure that the crossing is appropriately 2012 to discuss designed so that it does not interfere with the DSR the existing line. 9 The red ‘Duineveld’ (sand dune veldt) is very Mr Nico de Wet, Public meeting in This is one of the main reasons why an sensitive and does not recover very well after Environmental Committee, Upington at 14:00 additional alternative route along the N14 an impact. For example, the Kalahari pipeline Orange Agricultural Union on 7 February will be investigated. This route was added was built in 1985 and now (27 years later) 2012 to discuss to the FSR. erosion is still a problem. There is only 2% clay the DSR in the soil. Please find a route that does not go through the ‘duineveld’. 10 I understand that an Environmental Control Mr Nico de Wet, Public meeting in The Environmental Management Officer (ECO) will monitor the construction and Environmental Committee, Upington at 14:00 Programme (EMProg) is the only Issues and Responses Report (Version 2) 7 12726

COMMENTS, QUESTIONS AND COMMENTATOR(S) SOURCE(S) RESPONSE(S) ISSUES prevent any environmental impacts. However, Orange Agricultural Union on 7 February mechanism there is to protect the my experience from a line that was built over 2012 to discuss environment during construction. Maybe my farm is that the ECO and the contractor the DSR an Eskom employee should supervise the socialised every night. Eskom must find a way contractor as well. The ECO must be from to oversee its contractors during the an independent company. construction phase. The EMProg will contain a list of telephone numbers of Eskom personnel that can be contacted if a landowner is unhappy about something during the construction and operational phases. Eskom also does internal audits without warning a contractor. The Green Scorpions of the Department of Environmental Affairs can also be contacted if something illegal is taking place during construction or even operations. 11 I would like to comment on the Solar Ferrum 2 Mr GFD Becker, chairperson Email on 9 March All these points will be investigated during line. of the Dwaalhoek Farmers 2012 the next phase of this study. Erosion: The proposed route runs through the Association soft Kalahari dunes that have grass veld vegetation. This area is very sensitive to impacts and heavy machinery necessary for construction will damage these dunes and veld permanently. This will result in erosion. A good example of this is the Kalahari East pipeline that was built 20 years ago with light machinery. Today erosion is still a problem where the pipeline was built.

Properties: The proposed Solar Ferrum 2 route will cut many small farms about 30 to 60km outside Upington in two which will have a detrimental effect on farming activities. This could also be the case just outside Kathu where there are small farms outside the town.

Roads: Our gravel roads are already in a fragile state due to no maintenance. Even the addition Issues and Responses Report (Version 2) 8 12726

COMMENTS, QUESTIONS AND COMMENTATOR(S) SOURCE(S) RESPONSE(S) ISSUES of a few trucks will destroy the gravel top layer. These roads are our line to the outside world and very valuable to us.

Your last paragraph in the Draft Scoping Report Agriculture and land is a good summary of the fears of the local landowners: “The loss of agricultural land will most probably be significant for individual landowners….”

I ask on behalf of the whole community that your proposed line be built near an existing tar road and to stay away from the sensitive Kalahari dunes.

(2.2) Solar Park to Nieuwehoop 1 Could we please be provided with a map Mr Brennie Wiehahn, Registration Detailed maps were provided at the public showing the detail of exactly where the power Rodelande Boedery, sheet November meetings in February 2012. Detailed lines are proposed? We would like a detailed Kanoneiland 2011 maps will be sent to the different farmer map showing the alternatives from the Solar associations to share with their members. Park to Nieuwehoop substation. 2 We are situated between the Solar Park and the Mr Fanie Lerm, Registration Detailed maps were provided at the public proposed Nieuwehoop substation, could you Middelpost 60 sheet November meetings in February 2012. Detailed please provide us with a detailed map? 2011 maps will be sent to the different farmer associations to share with their members. 3 Please choose a route running next to the Mr Nico Heyns, Rateldraai Public meeting in This was suggested to Eskom and this Kenhardt road, because the current and Mr Albert van Niekerk, Upington at 09:30 stakeholder alternative was added to the alternative runs down the middle of my farm. Klipkoppies, PO Box 1831, on 7 February FSR and will be investigated along with the Upington, 8800 2012 to discuss other routes during the detailed studies. the DSR and comment sheet on 25 February 2012 4 Cross the Orange River along existing bridges. Mr Nico Heyns, Rateldraai Public meeting in This will be investigated during the next Upington at 09:30 phase of this study. on 7 February 2012 to discuss the DSR Issues and Responses Report (Version 2) 9 12726

COMMENTS, QUESTIONS AND COMMENTATOR(S) SOURCE(S) RESPONSE(S) ISSUES 5 I have an airfield on my farm and the one Mr Kobus Luttig, Duinveld Public meeting in This will be confirmed in the EIA, but the alternative runs near the airfield as well as my Upington at power line cannot be built close to any house. 18:00:30 on 7 registered airfields as the lines provide a February 2012 to flight hazard. discuss the DSR 6 I cannot exactly see where the line will run Mr Barend Louw, Wildekeur Public meeting in It is still too early in the process to pinpoint through my farm. Upington at the exact route of a line. The line on the 18:00:30 on 7 map is a two kilometre wide corridor that February 2012 to will be investigated during the next phase discuss the DSR of the study. 7 The Orange River is very wide where you would Mr Kobus Luttig, Duinveld Public meeting in That is one of the main reasons of these like to cross it with your transmission line. Upington at public meetings. To get comments and 18:00:30 on 7 suggestions from landowners and affected February 2012 to people on what is the best possible discuss the DSR solution to a problem. These routes will be studied in great detail during the next phase of this study. A desktop assessment was utilised for the Scoping Report and the crossings indicated on the study area map. 8 Build the lines next to existing roads. Mr John Becker, Stellaland Public meeting in This will be investigated. Transmission and Mr Albert van Niekerk, Upington at lines may not be constructed in the road Klipkoppies, PO Box 1831, 18:00:30 on 7 servitude and must be at least 95 metres Upington, 8800 February 2012 to away from a tar road. discuss the DSR However as per the earlier request, this suggestion was take to Eskom and additional stakeholder alternatives were added to the FSR. 9 I have started in September 2011 with the Mr Gerhard Kuhn, Farm Letter on 1 March Noted, at this stage there are 5 possible process of sub-dividing Remainder 345/38 and Swartkop, Louisvale, PO Box 2012 crossings of the Orange River and the Portion 192/38 into 22 properties which are 2431, Upington, 8800 adjacent properties. At each crossing a 2 valued at R250 000 each for a total value of km wide corridor will be investigated for R5.5 million. suitability for use as a crossing point. The The proposed power line route goes directly land value and developments will be across these properties. (A map has been included in the social and land use attached and will be included in the report). assessments completed during the EIA phase. Issues and Responses Report (Version 2) 10 12726

COMMENTS, QUESTIONS AND COMMENTATOR(S) SOURCE(S) RESPONSE(S) ISSUES

(2.3) Solar Park to Aries (near Kenhardt) 1 Why does Eskom need two 400kV lines to Mr John Becker, Stellaland Public meeting in The two lines are needed to transport Aries? Upington at electricity to Aries due to a planned 100% 18:00:30 on 7 increase in iron ore export on the Sishen February 2012 to Saldanha railway line. One line is not discuss the DSR sufficient to transport that amount of power. 2 This proposed line will run over our property, Mr Michael Stoeltzing, Solar Comment sheet Noted, at this stage there are 2 Olyvenkolk. Energy Land, Olywenkolk. on 14 February Nieuwehoop and 3 Aries possible 2012 corridors. Each corridor is 2 km wide and will be investigated for suitability and the potential impact to man and environment. The land value and impacts to the land will be included in the social and environmental assessments completed during the EIA phase. 3 I am involved with the planning of a solar photo Mr Johann Strauss, Email on 16 Thank you for your email, which makes a voltaic (PV) plant(s) close to Aries in the consultant to Solar Energy February 2012 lot of sense from a planning perspective. . The developers have Land The Aries-Neuwehoop issue will be raised purchased the farm known as Olywenkolk with the Negotiator and the Environmental directly bordering the substation to the east. Advisor involved establishing if your The portion of the farm right next to the proposed alternatives are within the EIA substation is where the PV plant development is study area done for that line. It seems as if planned. the “Second Alternative Aries We have left a considerable corridor of about Nieuwehoop” is the most viable option as it 200 m wide between our western and southern only affects one property. border fence and where Section A starts. I will Regarding the Solar Aries 2 x 400kV line explain why we did this below. you are also providing valuable There are mainly two issues that I would like to information, which I think Eskom’s bring under your attention and/or that I would Substation Design Department needs to like to address in some or other way. tackle as soon as possible. Normally the The first issue concerns the route of the final substation designs are made planned line between Aries and the new available later in the EIA phase. As an substation Nieuwehoop. The current route goes affected party you also provide very across the southern part where we would like to practical options, which are greatly develop the plant. We would like to know appreciated. whether it is possible to reroute the planned line ______Issues and Responses Report (Version 2) 11 12726

COMMENTS, QUESTIONS AND COMMENTATOR(S) SOURCE(S) RESPONSE(S) ISSUES by shifting the line slightly to the south. Our preference is that of the first alternative, but this Your comments have been forwarded to rerouting will then be subject to the permission the Substation Design Department. They by the neighbouring land owner I suppose. have not started with the designs as yet, The second alternative route is however entirely however in light of your enquiry they have within our borders. This is part of the reason promised to start with the preliminary why we left a southern 200 m corridor. The designs which will determine if an other reason has to do with another developer extension of Aries substation is required or to our south that is also planning a power plant not and the extent thereof. I will notify you of substantial size. In discussions with Riaan as soon as these designs become Smit (Chief network planner – Western Region) available. we did come to the conclusion that a second The matter regarding the Aries line from Hydra via Kronos to Aries may be Nieuwehoop line cutting across your necessary somewhere in future. It might just be property has also been forwarded to the that with all of the planned plants in the Aries relevant persons who worked on the EIA region, especially the one to the south that I for that line. They are also looking into the have just mentioned, no room will be left to matter. Should you have any other queries bring in another line from the south/south-east. regarding the Aries Nieuwehoop line you Our 200 m corridor will at least make sure that can contact the following persons directly: such an option remains possible. Now, how do we proceed to have the current planned route • Vuledzani Thanyani – Eskom Senior rerouted? Environmental Advisor Phone: 011 800 5601 The second issue is related to the planned Email: [email protected] Solar Park at Upington and the planned two • Wimpie Henning – Eskom Senior transmission lines running down to Aries. Here Advisor, Negotiations the position of the feeder bay of the line running Office: 011 800 2962 to Namibia is important. Eskom basically has Email: [email protected] two options. Either you cross at least the line to ______Namibia (very close to Aries) or you expand the 400 kV busbars to the east, i.e. towards our We have established that your property is land, since the line to Namibia is fed by the within the approved corridor. We have most eastern feeder bay. My opinion is that you also established that it is possible to shift will have to expand the busbars in this case. the line (within your property boundary), Now, to expand the busbars you have two however because the negotiations on this further options, namely to not shift your security line (Aries Nieuwehoop) has already been fences to the east that will leave you with a completed and the options signed and fairly narrow security buffer, or to expand your exercised the cost of any deviation or fences into our land. We have in principle shifting of the line shall be paid by the Issues and Responses Report (Version 2) 12 12726

COMMENTS, QUESTIONS AND COMMENTATOR(S) SOURCE(S) RESPONSE(S) ISSUES decided to make this possible by leaving the person proposing the deviation. Your western 200 m corridor. proposed alternatives to shift the line We would however like to discuss this with towards the boundary necessitate the Eskom as soon as possible to come to some addition of two (2) bend towers and the sort of an agreement. My opinion is that you minor addition on the length of the line. will have to make a decision now already as The approximate cost for your proposed part of the EIA processes that was started, alternatives could be around R2 million. A since it will definitely have an impact on the more accurate quotation may be provided routing of the lines in the Aries area that will on request. have a direct influence on us, as well as all possible future developments that we might envisage. I would like to propose that we approach this issue proactively, to ensure that the EIA process is not prolonged unnecessary. (The full correspondence plus map has been attached to the report) 3 BIOPHYSICAL COMMENTS

(3.1) Avi-fauna 1 What will be the impact of the proposed lines on Mr Brennie Wiehahn, Registration Avi-fauna have known issues with power birds, especially in the area where the Orange Rodelande Boedery, sheet November lines including electrocutions and flying River has to be crossed? Kanoneiland 2011 into the lines. In order to adequately identify the impact to avi-fauna a specialist study will be conducted in 2012. 2 The sociable weavers make nests in any Mr Theo Spengler, Rooiwal Email on 16 This will be investigated as part of the upright structure they can find. We also get a lot Farmers Association, February 2012 specialist studies to be conducted in 2012. of lightning strikes in this area and veld fires Olifantshoek when these nests are set alight. This will increase our fire insurance. 3 There is a breeding pair of fish eagles on an Mr Gerhard Kuhn, Farm Letter on 1 March Noted, this information will be given to the island that forms part of Portion 104/38. Swartkop, Louisvale, PO Box 2012 specialist who will investigate the avi- 2431, Upington, 8800 fauna.

(3.2) Soils 1 The Kalahari Dunes are extremely sensitive for Mr Jacobus Becker, Farms Registration Detailed soil, flora and fauna studies will be Issues and Responses Report (Version 2) 13 12726

COMMENTS, QUESTIONS AND COMMENTATOR(S) SOURCE(S) RESPONSE(S) ISSUES erosion if the proposed construction is Smalhoek, Koupan and sheet November conducted in 2012. As part of the specialist implemented wrongly. Detailed studies with Witboom 2011 studies, mitigation measures, sensitivities regards to the type of soil have to be done. and a recommendation as to the best route Cognisance should also be taken with the low will be given. rainfall, prevalence of dunes and its unique plant species. 2 The impact of the service road that will be built Mr Piet Kotzé, PO Box 69, Public meeting Detailed soil, flora and fauna studies will be for this line must be investigated due to the Olifantshoek, 8450 in Olifantshoek conducted in 2012. As part of the specialist fragile nature of the soil. on 6 February studies, mitigation measures, sensitivities 2012 to discuss and a recommendation as to the best route the DSR will be given. 3 Soil erosion is a big problem and must be Mr Nico Heyns and other Public meeting Noted, same reply as above. investigated for the construction sites and landowners in Upington at access roads. 09:30 on 7 February 2012 to discuss the DSR

(3.3) Water-related matters 1 The amount of water that will be required for the Mr Albert Nicolaas van Registration It will be investigated as part of the construction of the project has to be Niekerk, Farm Klipkoppies sheet November specialist studies to be conducted in 2012. investigated. 2011 and fax on 24 February 2012 2 What will be the impact of the proposed power Mr Brennie Wiehahn, Registration It will be investigated as part of the lines on surface water and wetlands, especially Rodelande Boedery, sheet November specialist studies to be conducted in 2012. where the Orange River will be crossed? Kanoneiland 2011 The main concern is that the river is too wide for the lines to traverse in a single span. If this is the case then a pylon or two will have to be placed inside the water and a water use license applied for at the Department of Water Affairs. If this is the case the WUL will be done as part of this EIA.

3 Please send us information on the application Mrs Sarah Liebenberg, Farm Registration The information, once compiled, will be for a water use licence. Florida sheet November available for public review and comments 2011 prior to submission to DWA. Issues and Responses Report (Version 2) 14 12726

COMMENTS, QUESTIONS AND COMMENTATOR(S) SOURCE(S) RESPONSE(S) ISSUES 4 The amount of water to be used during Mr Andreas Kuhn, Kalkspruit Registration It will be investigated as part of the construction of the power lines has to be Farmers Association sheet November specialist studies to be conducted in 2012. investigated. 2011

(3.4) Climate 1 What will be the impact of the Solar Park on the Mr Brennie Wiehahn, Registration Please refer to the original CSP EIA report micro climate? Rodelande Boedery, sheet November for details on the impacts of the CSP – Kanoneiland 2011 www.eskom.co.za/eia. This project was 2 It is possible that the energy used for the solar Dr David Holtzhausen, Farm Registration completed in 2007 and unfortunately this park may lead to a local high pressure which Mooibult sheet November EIA is only investigating the integration of may impact directly on the rainfall of the area – 2011 the power lines and sub stations, not the this should be investigated in details CSP itself. 3 The impact on our local weather patterns Mr Andreas Kuhn, Kalkspruit Registration should be investigated, especially the possibility Farmers Association sheet November of increased temperatures and less rainfall. 2011

(3.5) Biodiversity 1 Will the impact on our traditional medicines be Mr Collin Louw, South Public meeting in This will be investigated during the investigated when you build the transmission African San Council Upington at 09:30 biodiversity study. lines? I am thinking especially of the area near on 7 February The Environmental Management Nieuwehoop where there is a large 2012 to discuss Programme (EMProg) is used to prescribe concentration of plants used for traditional the DSR to the construction team and the medicines. operations team on how to minimise impact on the environment. Plants used for traditional medicines will be identified. These plants will be avoided as far as possible. Should it be impossible to avoid, then these plants will be moved to another location. All plants classed as sensitive that are found in the servitude will be moved. 2 There are camel thorn trees on Portions 104/38, Mr Gerhard Kuhn, Farm Letter on 1 March Noted. The biodiversity study will identify Remainder 345/38, 193/38 and 192/38. These Swartkop, Louisvale, PO Box 2012 all possible protected trees along the trees are protected. 2431, Upington, 8800 proposed routes that will require permits from DAFF prior to any construction works starting. Issues and Responses Report (Version 2) 15 12726

COMMENTS, QUESTIONS AND COMMENTATOR(S) SOURCE(S) RESPONSE(S) ISSUES

(3.6) Electromagnetic fields 1 Are the electromagnetic fields generated by the Stakeholder. Public meeting in This will be investigated during the transmission lines dangerous? Olifantshoek on 6 specialist studies in the next phase. February 2012 to discuss the DSR

(3.7) Ecology 1 Investigate the impact on the ecology. Ds J P Strauss, PO Box 88, Registration It will be investigated as part of the Groot Brakrivier, 6525 sheet December specialist studies to be conducted in 2012. 2011 2 The Kalahari vegetation is extremely sensitive Mr Theo Spengler, Rooiwal Email on 16 This will be investigated as part of the and some areas of your proposed route have Farmers Association, February 2012 specialist studies to be conducted in 2012. the very rare witgat bome (Sheppard’s trees). Olifantshoek Please also note comment regarding The sandveld is also known to stay bare around protected trees above. new structures and erosion can become a serious problem. Most of the farms on your planned route also have the Kalahari East pipline running over their properties. To have another road running over their farms is asking a lot, because then another strip of land will be bare for a long time while being rehabilitated.

(3.8) Visual 1 What about the visual impact of the Ms Estelle Visser Public meeting in A visual impact assessment will be done transmission lines? We have many tourists Upington at 14:00 during the next phase of this study to visiting this area and these lines could have a on 7 February assess the potential impact of the power major impact on the surroundings. 2012 to discuss lines. the DSR Issues and Responses Report (Version 2) 16 12726

COMMENTS, QUESTIONS AND COMMENTATOR(S) SOURCE(S) RESPONSE(S) ISSUES 2 I am concerned about the visual impact of this Innus Burger, Welgevind Email on 8 proposed project. February 2012

The Kalahari is one of the few unspoilt areas in the world and plays a vital role in eco-tourism. Tourists from all of the word visit the Kalahari for its unspoilt scenery. Hunters also come to the Kalahari to hunt. May we suggest that you keep the proposed line running alongside the N14 to lessen the visial and ecological impacts?

4 SOCIO-ECONOMIC COMMENTS

(4.1) Social 1 The possible impacts on local labour and Mr Andreas Kuhn, Kalkspruit Registration A detailed social impact assessment will labourers should be investigated. Farmers Association sheet November be conducted in 2012 2011 2 I am concerned that no employment will be Mr Collin Louw, South Public meeting in When constructing long transmission lines, given to the , because the only jobs African San Council Upington at 09:30 Eskom and its sub-contractors always available are always just for highly skilled on 7 February make use of local municipalities when people. 2012 to discuss looking to employ people for semi-skilled Eskom must talk to the San and Khoisan people the DSR and unskilled positions during construction. regarding employment on this project, because The Eskom contractor must employ a we are poor and it is not easy to find certain percentage of local employees employment. during the construction process. 3 The people of Kenhardt do not have many Ms Carin Nel Kenhardt Comment sheet This will be discussed in more detail in the employment opportunities and hopefully this on 7 February EMP. project will bring new employment opportunities 2012 to us.

(4.2) Land Use 1 We farm mainly with sheep and would not like Mr Albert Nicolaas van Registration Noted. Please note that once constructed to experience any disturbances should the Niekerk, Farm Klipkoppies sheet November the grazing can continue under the power proposed project be implemented. 2011 lines. 2 Property prices in this area are high due to the Mr Theo Spengler, Rooiwal Email on 16 This will be investigated as part of the Issues and Responses Report (Version 2) 17 12726

COMMENTS, QUESTIONS AND COMMENTATOR(S) SOURCE(S) RESPONSE(S) ISSUES unspoilt nature. There is a lot of potential for Farmers Association, February 2012 specialist studies to be conducted in 2012. more game farms in the area and a Olifantshoek transmission line will decrease the value of land.

3 We are concerned about the influence the lines Mr Antonie Jacobs, Farms Comment sheet Noted – the impact of the proposed will have on tourism and game farming. We are Spence and Lewis, on 20 February development will be assessed in more totally against the proposed transmission lines. Olifantshoek, PO Box 3206, 2012 detail in the EIA phase. Matieland, 7602

(4.3) Health issues 1 Investigate the impact on human health. Ds J P Strauss, PO Box 88, Registration It will be investigated as part of the Groot Brakrivier, 6525 sheet December specialist studies to be conducted in 2012. 2011 2 If the servitude of a 400kV line is 55 m (27,5m Mr Gerhard Kuhn, Swartkop Public meeting in People can live next to the servitude to either side of the line), what is a safe Upington at without having any problems. That is the distance away for humans to live? 18:00:30 on 7 reason why the transmission lines have February 2012 to high towers – to protect humans and discuss the DSR animals. 3 Will the transmission lines have an impact on Mr Barend Louw, Wildekeur Public meeting in This will be investigated during the people wearing an implantable Parkinson Upington at specialist studies in the next phase – Disease brain device? 18:00:30 on 7 please note that you might be contacted February 2012 to directly for more information related to the discuss the DSR device.

5 CONSTRUCTION 1 The Solar Park to Ferrum route will have to Mr Charles Stafford, Public meeting in The route will be planned to avoid going cross a ridge. How are you going to get all the O’Donoghue Olifantshoek on 6 over high ridges. Should there be no other heavy steel parts of the pylons to the top of the February 2012 to option, then helicopters will be used. The ridge? discuss the DSR pylons/towers are constructed off site and transport in various panels to site where it is assembled. Issues and Responses Report (Version 2) 18 12726

COMMENTS, QUESTIONS AND COMMENTATOR(S) SOURCE(S) RESPONSE(S) ISSUES

(5.1) Deterioration of roads 1 Most of our roads are gravel roads which are Mr Terblanche, Diepdruppel Public meeting in When Eskom starts with the construction not maintained regularly. During construction and many other stakeholders Olifantshoek on 6 phase of a new project, the transport of your trucks will destroy our roads. This February 2012 to equipment and material is discussed with happened during the construction of the discuss the DSR the relevant authority in charge of the road substation near Witsand. The local roads were infrastructure. The possible deteriorating of also left in a bad state of repair due to the roads during construction `will be heavy trucks used during the construction of the discussed with the relevant Northern Cape Kalahari pipeline. authority. 2 All our roads are gravel roads and already in a Mr Theo Spengler, Rooiwal Email on 16 This will be investigated as part of the bad state. Heavy trucks that will be used during Farmers Association, February 2012 construction will destroy our roads. These roads Olifantshoek specialist studies to be conducted in 2012. are vital to our economic survival.

6 TRANSMISSION LINE SERVITUDE 1 Can the Eskom servitude for the transmission Stakeholder Public meeting in No, an agreement regarding the servitude line also be used as a road by the community? Olifantshoek on 6 and who may enter it will be signed by the February 2012 to land owner and Eskom. discuss the DSR 2 Will the servitude be fenced in? Mr Fanie Lerm, Public meeting in No, it will not be fenced in the servitude will Middelpost 60 Kakamas on 8 only have gates at existing fences. February 2012 to discuss the DSR 3 Livestock theft is a serious problem in South Mr Theo Spengler, Rooiwal Email on 16 This will be investigated as part of the Africa. We live in a relatively safe area, because Farmers Association, February 2012 specialist studies to be conducted in 2012. there are very few access roads. A transmission Olifantshoek line will bring in more people which can have a negative impact on our safety.

7 OTHER ISSUES 1 Where can we discuss problems regarding the Stakeholder at meeting. Public meeting in All electricity problems can be discussed lack of electricity? Olifantshoek on 6 with the relevant Eskom customer service February 2012 to centre. The details for the Northern Cape discuss the DSR are: email - [email protected] and Fax - 051 404 2627. Issues and Responses Report (Version 2) 19 12726

COMMENTS, QUESTIONS AND COMMENTATOR(S) SOURCE(S) RESPONSE(S) ISSUES 2 Why is a substation needed at Nieuwehoop? Mr Nico Heyns, Rateldraai Public meeting in This iron ore exported via the Sishen Upington at 09:30 Saldanha railway line will be doubled on 7 February during the next few years and five new 2012 to discuss substations will be built to provide double the DSR the electricity as needed by this line. 3 What about lightning strikes on the transmission Mr Riaan Liebenberg, Public meeting in All pylons are earthed and this will not line? Koupan Farmers Association Upington at 09:30 present a problem. In actual fact the on 7 February pylons provide better lightning 2012 to discuss management by earthing all strikes. the DSR

4 We were under the impression that the Solar Mr Stanley Peterson, Public meeting in Nieuwehoop is being built to double the Park will only provide electricity for Nieuwehoop National Griqua Tribal Upington at 09:30 current load of the Sishen Saldanha substation. Council on 7 February railway line and will be one of the entry 2012 to discuss points into the national energy grid of the the DSR energy generated by the Upington Solar Park. Other points include Aries, Ferrum and Gordonia substations.

(7.1) Solar Park 1 When will the Concentrated Solar Park (CSP) Ms Lizette Slabber, Public meeting in Eskom is currently running a separate be finished? Volksblad Upington at 09:30 Environmental Impact Assessment to on 7 February increase the size of the CSP from 400 to 2012 to discuss 800 ha. It is expected that the CSP will the DSR start delivering energy in 2016. 2 Property prices as far as 40 km from Solar Park Mr Donovan Richmond, Public meeting in At this stage only energy generated by are going through the roof and land is becoming Seeff Properties Upington at 09:30 Eskom, the Independent Power Producers very expensive. on 7 February on the western border of Eskom’s property 2012 to discuss and the Department of Energy’s site on the the DSR eastern border will be connected to the national grid by the infrastructure included in this study. 3 A lot of discussion is currently taking place Mr Stanley Peterson, Public meeting in Eskom and the Department of Energy met around Solar Park and other proposed solar National Griqua Tribal Upington at 09:30 with the Khara Hais in developments in the Northern Cape. It is very Council on 7 February Upington during last year to discuss this confusing due to all the new developments and 2012 to discuss project. many rumours are currently floating around the the DSR Three IPPs (Abengoa, Solar Reserve with Northern Cape. The local municipality should the third one to be announced in the near Issues and Responses Report (Version 2) 20 12726

COMMENTS, QUESTIONS AND COMMENTATOR(S) SOURCE(S) RESPONSE(S) ISSUES become involved to communicate what is really future) have been given permission to happening regarding solar energy generation. develop to the west of Eskom’s property. Only these three IPPs and the companies chosen by the Department of Energy for its site, will have contracts to supply Eskom with energy. Any new development must first go through an Environmental Impact Assessment process, which involves a public participation process to inform people of the new development. 4 Will Solar Park need water? Mr Stanley Peterson, Public meeting in Yes, Eskom will apply for a Water Use National Griqua Tribal Upington at 09:30 License Application to use water for a Council on 7 February turbine necessary during the energy 2012 to discuss generation process as well as water to the DSR clean the heliostats (mirrors). 5 Everybody is tapping into solar energy and Mr Harry Bosman, Khoisan Public meeting in The impact on the environment was nobody knows what this will do to the Community Upington at 09:30 investigated during the EIA done on the environment. There are many companies trying on 7 February Solar Park. to get into solar energy and it is creating a lot of 2012 to discuss The Department of Environmental Affairs confusion. the DSR is the regulator for renewable energy. 6 We are worried about the land the Khara Hais Mr Stanley Peterson, Public meeting in The development of this land must be Municipality bought on behalf of the Department National Griqua Tribal Upington at 09:30 preceded by an Environmental Impact of Energy to the east of Eskom’s property at Council on 7 February Assessment, which will give you the Upington Solar Park. 2012 to discuss opportunity to raise your issues regarding the DSR this development. 7 Why do you build Solar Park in Upington if the Mr Nico de Wet, Public meeting in The Upington district has the highest electricity is needed in other cities and towns? Environmental Committee, Upington at 14:00 concentration of solar radiation in South Orange Agricultural Union on 7 February Africa and the Orange River can provide 2012 to discuss the water needed for the development. the DSR The project will also strengthen the national electricity grid in the Northern Cape. 8 When did the Upington Solar Park project Ms Estelle Visser Public meeting in The Environmental Impact Assessment started? Upington at 14:00 started in 2005 and an authorisation was on 7 February received in 2007. 2012 to discuss the DSR Issues and Responses Report (Version 2) 21 12726

COMMENTS, QUESTIONS AND COMMENTATOR(S) SOURCE(S) RESPONSE(S) ISSUES 9 Will this Environmental Impact Assessment Mr Inus Longland Public meeting in No, this EIA is only for the integration of (EIA) also include the area where the Upington at 14:00 the Upington Solar Park into the national Independent Power Producers (IPP) will be on 7 February energy grid. It is there for only for the placed? 2012 to discuss transmission lines that will run from the DSR Upington Solar Park east to Ferrum (Kathu), down south to Nieuwehoop and also south to Aries near Kenhardt. The IPPs will each have to do a separate EIA for their respective developments. 10 How many power producers will there be at the Mr Barend Louw, Wildekeur Public meeting in It will be Eskom and the Department of Upington Solar Park? Upington at Energy to the east of Eskom that will 18:00:30 on 7 search for Independent Power Producers February 2012 to (IPP) to put up plants on its property. discuss the DSR Three IPPs (Abengoa, Solar Reserve with the third one to be announced in the near future) have been given permission to develop to the west of Eskom’s property. Only these three IPPs and the companies chosen by the Department of Energy for its site will have contracts to supply Eskom with energy.