FINAL BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT - EIA for Solar Park... · 2013. 3. 4. · 5 x 132 kV lines for the DoE Solar Park; and 2 x (±) 25 km 132 kV lines to Gordonia Substation (Upington)

Directors: S Pillay (Managing Director); N Rajasakran (Director); RGM Heath (Director)

Zitholele Consulting Reg. No. 2000/000392/07

PO Box 6002 Halfway House 1685

South Africa Thandanani Park, Matuka Close

Halfway Gardens, Midrand Tel + (27) 11 207 2060

Fax + (27) 86 674 6121

E-mail : [email protected] BASIC ASSESSMENT NO 3

FOR THE SOLAR PARK INTEGRATION PROJECT:

3 X 132 kV POWER LINE FROM THE ESKOM CSP TO

THE SOLAR PARK SUBSTATION AND

INSTALLATION OF 2 X 20 MVA TRANSFORMERS

WITHIN THE ESKOM SOLAR PARK AREA.

Proponent: Eskom Holdings SOC Limited

Megawatt Park Maxwell Drive, Sunninghill

DEA Reference Number: 12/12/20/2608

NEAS Reference Number: DEA/EIA/0000785/2011

February 2013 Project: 12726

FINAL BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

2

(For official use only)

File Reference Number:

Application Number:

Date Received:

Basic assessment report in terms of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2010, promulgated in terms of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998), as amended.

Kindly note that: 1. This basic assessment report is a standard report that may be required by a competent authority

in terms of the EIA Regulations, 2010 and is meant to streamline applications. Please make sure that it is the report used by the particular competent authority for the activity that is being applied for.

2. This report format is current as of 1 September 2012. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ascertain whether subsequent versions of the form have been published or produced by the competent authority

3. The report must be typed within the spaces provided in the form. The size of the spaces provided is not necessarily indicative of the amount of information to be provided. The report is in the form of a table that can extend itself as each space is filled with typing.

4. Where applicable tick the boxes that are applicable in the report.

5. An incomplete report may be returned to the applicant for revision.

6. The use of “not applicable” in the report must be done with circumspection because if it is used in respect of material information that is required by the competent authority for assessing the application, it may result in the rejection of the application as provided for in the regulations.

7. This report must be handed in at offices of the relevant competent authority as determined by each authority.

8. No faxed or e-mailed reports will be accepted.

9. The signature of the EAP on the report must be an original signature.

10. The report must be compiled by an independent environmental assessment practitioner.

11. Unless protected by law, all information in the report will become public information on receipt by the competent authority. Any interested and affected party should be provided with the information contained in this report on request, during any stage of the application process.

12. A competent authority may require that for specified types of activities in defined situations only parts of this report need to be completed.

13. Should a specialist report or report on a specialised process be submitted at any stage for any part of this application, the terms of reference for such report must also be submitted.

14. Two (2) colour hard copies and one (1) electronic copy of the report must be submitted to the competent authority.


3

15. Shape files (.shp) for maps must be included on the electronic copy of the report submitted to the competent authority.


4

SECTION A: ACTIVITY INFORMATION

Has a specialist been consulted to assist with the completion of this section? YES

If YES, please complete the form entitled “Details of specialist and declaration of interest” for the specialist appointed and attach in Appendix I. 1. PROJECT DESCRIPTION a) Describe the project associated with the listed activities applied for

BACKGROUND AND CONTEXT

The South African Government is currently in the process of establishing the feasibility of a Solar Park Programme in the Upington Area. The Solar Park will use the sun’s energy to eventually generate 5 000 MW (5 GW) of electricity. Eskom is kicking off the development of the Upington Solar Park by constructing a 100 MW Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) plant on the farm Olyvenhouts Drift 451, to be located ~15 km west of Upington in the Northern Cape. This project has already been approved and a Record of Decision (ROD), now referred to as an Environmental Authorisation (EA), was issued on the 14th of September 2007 with an extension of the EA granted on the 9th of July 2012.

The electricity generated at the Upington Solar Park site (by IPP’s and Eskom) will need to be integrated into the National Grid. The purpose of the Solar Park Integration Project is to address the major infrastructural investments that Eskom will need to make in order to tie the Upington Solar Park into the National Grid. The proposed Solar Park Integration Project entails the construction of a substation at the Upington Solar Park, 400 kV transmission lines to the east and south of Upington to feed the electricity into Eskom’s National Grid as well as the construction of a number of 132 kV power lines inter-linking the IPP solar plants with the Eskom Grid and distributing the power generated to the required areas. The major infrastructural investments of the Solar Park Integration Project are listed activities in terms of the National Environmental Management Act ([NEMA] No 107 of 1998) and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations (Government Notice Regulation [GNR] 543 to 546, June 2010) and therefore require Environmental Authorisation (EA) from the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA). In terms of the aforementioned legislation an EIA must be undertaken to obtain an EA. In South Africa provision is made for two types of EIA’s; either a Basic Assessment (BA) or a full Scoping and Environmental Impact Reporting (S&EIR) can be undertaken. This is determined by the EIA Regulations (June 2010).

Currently five EIA processes are being undertaken for the various components associated with the Eskom Solar Park Integration Project. These are outlined in the table provided below.

EA Application

Process Description of the Proposed Activities

DEA Reference Number

S&EIR No 1

Solar Park substation (400 kV and 132 kV);

2 x (±) 125 km 400 kV lines from Solar Park to Aries substation (southwest of Kenhardt) and associated feeder bays;

1 x (±) 70 km 400 kV line from Solar Park to Nieuwehoop substation (northeast of Kenhardt) and associated feeder bays; and

12/12/20/2606


5

Water Use License Application.

S&EIR No 2 1 x (±) 200 km 400 kV line from Solar Park to Ferrum

substation (Kathu) and associated feeder bays. 12/12/20/2607

BA No 1 3 x 132 kV lines for the Eskom Solar Park site and 2 x

20 MVA Transformers at Solar Park site. 12/12/20/2608

BA No 2 3 x 132 kV lines for the IPP’s in Solar Park. 12/12/20/2609

BA No 3

5 x 132 kV lines for the DoE Solar Park; and

2 x (±) 25 km 132 kV lines to Gordonia Substation (Upington).

12/12/20/2610

PROPOSED ACTIVITY

As documented above there are three BA procedures being undertaken to obtain EA for various components of the Eskom Solar Park Integration Project. This BA Report (BAR) has been compiled in terms of BA No 1 (DEA Ref. Number: 12/12/20/2608) and addresses the following components of the Solar Park Integration Project:

3 x 132 kV lines from the proposed Eskom Solar Park Substation to the Eskom CSP Plant; and

2 x 20 MVA transformers at the Solar CSP Plant.

Additionally, where required it is proposed to construct and maintain access roads adjacent to the proposed power lines.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Eskom proposes to construct three (3) x 132 kV power lines from the proposed Eskom Solar Park substation to the Eskom CSP Plant and 2 x 20 MVA transformers at the Solar CSP Plant (within Solar CSP Plant footprint). Three (3) alignment alternatives are proposed for the 132 kV distribution power line that runs from the proposed substation (either Site 1, Site 5 or Site 6) to the Eskom CSP Plant on the farm Olyvenhouts Drift (refer to Appendix A). These are as follow:

i. Site 6 to Eskom CSP (~16 708 m) (preferred alternative)

ii. Site 5 to Eskom CSP (~15 052 m)

iii. Site 1 to Eskom CSP (~10 459 m)

The three proposed power lines will be constructed parallel to each other along one of the routes identified above.

It should be noted that a separate application has been submitted for the construction of the Solar Park substation (i.e S&EIR No 1). Three alternative sites have been identified for the location of the Solar Park substation (referred to as Site 1, Site 5 and Site 6). Site 6 has been identified as the preferred alternative for the location of the substation in S&EIR No 1. This was concluded based on the findings that the environmental impacts and constrainsts were essentially the same at all three sites, but Site 6 was chosen based on more suitable underlying geology and easier access due to the close proximity to the N14. The final alignment of the power lines being applied for in this application is dependent on which of these three substation sites is approved. The Competent Authority (DEA) should approve the appropriate corridor in this application in accordance with which Solar Park substation site was approved in S&EIR No 1. Therefore, only one of the three alternatives proposed


6

in this application will eventually be constructed.

Each 132 kV line requires pylons that are approximately 18 m high and a servitude of 36 m wide (roughly 18 m on each side). The combined servitude required for the three parallel lines is thus approximately 108 m wide. However, approval is sought for a corridor 500 m wide for the transmission lines in order to allow for deviations within the approved corridor once a final line walk has been undertaken.

The proposed power lines will consist of twin turn cables capable of distributing up to 200 MVA at 132 kV, connected by a series of towers (pylons) located approximately 200 m apart, depending on the terrain and soil conditions. The exact tower (pylon) type to be used will be determined (based on load calculations) during the final design stages of the power line. At this stage, four main tower series are proposed for utilisation for this project (see Appendix C). These include (245A, 273A, 7701) Suspension Tower; Self-supporting Suspension Tower (247A). Strain towers (248A) will be used for the bend points. The pylon footprints for these towers range between 0.36 m3 and 2.35 m3 depending on the structure that is used.

The two proposed 20 MVA transformers at the Solar CSP Plant will be constructed within the existing footprint of the Solar CSP Plant. It is therefore not expected that the two transformers will have any additional impact on the receiving environment.

The construction phase for the proposed project will include the following activities post-authorisation:

Corridor walk-down: To ensure that all site specific sensitivities are avoided. During this process the exact co-ordinates of the proposed towers will be established.

Construction Camps: Construction camps will be sited in areas where least disturbance to potentially sensitive environments will be caused.

Vegetation clearance: A 36 m (18 m on either side of the power line) servitude is required for the proposed 132 kV power line. Therefore, the expected servitude for the three 132 kV power lines running parallel to each other will be approximately 108 m. Tall trees will be cleared along the entire length of the servitude (the vegetation will also be maintained by Eskom in the operational phase of the project).

Pylon footings: Foundations will be laid for the footings of the pylons.

Steelwork structures: The towers will be erected in segments.

Stringing: Once the towers have been erected, cables will be strung between the towers.

During construction the route will be surveyed, pegged and the soil nominations undertaken for each of the potential pylon foundations. The construction team will set up a construction camp in the study area and travel to site each day, transporting steel, workers and equipment to each of the tower sites. In some cases the power line servitude is cleared of vegetation to ease construction activities and to prevent possible electrical faults with nearby trees. The first step is the excavation of the pylon foundations, the reinforcing thereof and finally concreting of the foundations. The equipment required to excavate the foundations can be manual labour, a TLB or in the case of hard rock – a drill rig will be required. The concrete will have to be transported via concrete trucks to the required locations.

After the foundations and footings have been installed the construction team will transport the various steel parts of the towers to the site and start erection of the pylons. This process again requires a lot of manual labour and often mobile cranes are used to assist with the erection of the towers. Once the towers are erected the stringing of the conductor cable commences, from tower to tower and the line is tensioned as per the requirements.


7

Once stringing and tensioning is complete the line is considered constructed, where after it will be tested prior to being commissioned.

The construction phase for the proposed project will take, at most, 60 months to complete (from the time Environmental Authorisation has been received.

During the operational and maintenance phase of the project, Eskom requires access to the servitude for maintenance activities. Maintenance activities are specialised and are, therefore, carried out by Eskom employees. During the operational life of the power line, there will be no people housed along the servitude.

In terms of the decommissioning phase, the following are assumed:

The physical removal of the power line infrastructure would entail the reversal of the construction process.

A rehabilitation programme would need to be agreed upon with the landowners (if applicable) before being implemented.

Materials generated by the decommissioning process will be disposed of according to the Waste Heirarchy i.e. wherever feasible, materials will be reused, then recycled and lastly disposed of. Materials will be disposed of in a suitable manner, in a suitably licensed facility.

All of the aforementioned decommissioning activities would be subject to a separate Environmental Authorisation process at the appropriate time

b) Provide a detailed description of the listed activities associated with the project as

applied for

Listed activity as described in GN R.544, 545 and 546

Description of project activity

Government Notice No. R544 Listing Notice 1 of 2010

Item 10 (i): The construction of facilities or infrastructure for the transmission and distribution of electricity outside urban areas or industrial complexes with a capacity of more than 33 but less than 275 kilovolts.

Construction of three (3) x 132kV power lines in parallel alignment from the approved Eskom CSP site to the Eskom Substation (located at either Site 1, Site 5 or Site 6).

Item 22: The construction of a road, outside urban areas,

(i) with a reserve wider than 13,5 meters or,

(ii) where no reserve exists where the road is wider than 8 metres, or

for which an environmental authorisation was obtained for the route determination in terms of activity 5 in Government Notice 387 of 2006 or activity 18 in Notice 545 of 2010.

The construction and maintenance of the power line will require an access road be established. In most cases a single lane road of 6m would be sufficient, however in some places a wider road will be required.


8

2. FEASIBLE AND REASONABLE ALTERNATIVES “alternatives”, in relation to a proposed activity, means different means of meeting the general purpose and requirements of the activity, which may include alternatives to— (a) the property on which or location where it is proposed to undertake the activity; (b) the type of activity to be undertaken; (c) the design or layout of the activity; (d) the technology to be used in the activity; (e) the operational aspects of the activity; and (f) the option of not implementing the activity. Describe alternatives that are considered in this application as required by Regulation 22(2)(h) of GN R.543. Alternatives should include a consideration of all possible means by which the purpose and need of the proposed activity (NOT PROJECT) could be accomplished in the specific instance taking account of the interest of the applicant in the activity. The no-go alternative must in all cases be included in the assessment phase as the baseline against which the impacts of the other alternatives are assessed. The determination of whether site or activity (including different processes, etc.) or both is appropriate needs to be informed by the specific circumstances of the activity and its environment. After receipt of this report the, competent authority may also request the applicant to assess additional alternatives that could possibly accomplish the purpose and need of the proposed activity if it is clear that realistic alternatives have not been considered to a reasonable extent. The identification of alternatives should be in line with the Integrated Environmental Assessment Guideline Series 11, published by the DEA in 2004. Should the alternatives include different locations and lay-outs, the co-ordinates of the different alternatives must be provided. The co-ordinates should be in degrees, minutes and seconds. The projection that must be used in all cases is the WGS84 spheroid in a national or local projection. a) Site alternatives

The proposed power lines will connect two points (i.e. the Solar Park Substation and the Eskom CSP Electricity Evacuation Bay). The position of these two points has been the subject of separate EIA studies, and their positions have been determined separately.

The position of the 20 MVA transformers has been fixed in the approved Eskom CSP Record of Decision (ROD), DEA Reference number 12/12/20/777. The GPS co-ordinates of the 20 MVA transformers are 28°27'54.53"S and 21°4'50.58"E. The location of the second point where 20 MVA transformers is to be positioned in the required Solar Park Substation site, is currently not fixed. Three site alternatives have been proposed in the S&EIR No 1, which is currently underway. The location of the approved substation site (either Site 1, Site 5 or Site 6) will thus be the determining factor of the route alignment for the proposed 132kV power lines addressed in this application. Site 6 is the preferred alternative and forms the basis for this basic assessment. As part of the assessments that were undertaken no fatal flaws were identified and therefore this area is considered favourable.


9

In the case of linear activities: Alternative: Latitude (S): Longitude (E): Alternative S1 (Three transmission lines extending from Solar CSP Plant to Substation Site 6)

Starting point of the activity 21°04'24.579" E 28°27'11.842" S

Middle/Additional point of the activity 21°04'10.895" E 28°30'01.388" S

End point of the activity 21°07'58.378" E 28°32'42.084" S

Alternative S2 (Three transmission lines extending from Solar CSP Plant to Substation Site 5)




Alternative S3 (Three transmission lines extending from Solar CSP Plant to Substation Site 1)




It should be noted that although three alternative route alignments are provided for the three proposed 132kV power lines, the decision on which route will be used is solely dependent on which Solar Park substation location is approved (i.e. Site 1, Site 5 or Site 6) – this is currently the subject of consideration as part of S&EIR No 1 (referenced earlier in this report). Site 6, and therefore the proposed Site 6 corridors are the preferred alternative.

For route alternatives that are longer than 500m, please provide an addendum with co-ordinates taken every 250 meters along the route for each alternative alignment.

Refer to Appendix A for the co-ordinates taken every 250 m for each alternative.

In the case of an area being under application, please provide the co-ordinates of the corners of the site as indicated on the lay-out map provided in Appendix A. b) Lay-out alternatives

“Layout alternatives” in the context of this application refers to the spatial configuration or alignment of the proposed power lines. All three potential route alignments are shown on the layout map in Appendix A.

c) Technology alternatives

Tower ‘Pylon’ Design The footprint for 132kV towers ranges between 0.36 m2 and 2.35 m2 depending on the structure that is used. The average span between two towers would be approximately 200 m, but can vary between 250 m and 375 m depending on the ground profile and the terrain to be spanned. The servitude width for a 132 kV distribution line is approximately 36 m (18 m on either side of the centre line of the power line). The minimum vertical clearance to buildings, poles and structures not forming part of the power line must be 3.8 m, while the minimum vertical clearance between the conductors and the ground is 6.7 m. The towers considered for this project are the guyed-lattice series and the steel monopole series.


10

Please see Appendix B for tower drawings.

Alternative 1 – Preferred Alternative

The guyed lattice series: The lattice mast is aesthetically pleasing and consists of multi-path earthling enhancing the line performance. The guyed lattice mast tower has a 440 m windspan and 660 m weightspan using kingbird conductors and earthwire. The guyed suspension structure is typically used along the straight sections of the power line, while the self-supporting angle strain structures are used where there is a bend in the power line alignment.

Alternative 2

The steel monopole series: These towers have a height of between 18 m and 24 m and the poles weigh approximately 1200 kg. The footprint ranges between 0.6 m2 and 1.5 m2 depending on the type of structure used. The average span of the tower is 200 m but can vary depending on the terrain to be spanned. For straight sections the self-supporting structure is typically used and guyed suspension or strain structures are use where power alignment is to bend.

d) Other alternatives (e.g. scheduling, demand, input, scale and design alternatives)

None considered.

e) No-go alternative

Without the 132kV power lines connecting the Eskom CSP to the Solar Park Substation the electricity generated at the CSP cannot be evacuated to the national grid. This would effectively render the CSP and all monies invested in this project wasted. The potential positive impacts associated with the development of renewable energies in the area would be lost. This alternative is not a feasible option and doesn’t render any positive outcomes.


11

Paragraphs 3 – 13 below should be completed for each alternative. 3. PHYSICAL SIZE OF THE ACTIVITY a) Indicate the physical size of the preferred activity/technology as well as alternative

activities/technologies (footprints): Alternative: Size of the activity:

Alternative A11 (preferred activity alternative) N/A

Alternative A2 (if any) N/A

Alternative A3 (if any) N/A

or, for linear activities: Alternative: Length of the activity:

Alternative A1 (Three lines extending from Solar

CSP Plant to Substation Site 6) ~ 16,7 km


CSP Plant to Substation Site 5) ~ 15,1 km


CSP Plant to Substation Site 1) ~10,5 km

b) Indicate the size of the alternative sites or servitudes (within which the above footprints

will occur): Alternative: Size of the site/servitude:


CSP Plant to Substation Site 6) ~181 ha





4. SITE ACCESS

Does ready access to the site exist? YES

If NO, what is the distance over which a new access road will be built N/A

Describe the type of access road planned:

Ready access to the site exists, however, access roads may need to be constructed where ready success is required.

Include the position of the access road on the site plan and required map, as well as an indication of the road in relation to the site.

1 “Alternative A..” refer to activity, process, technology or other alternatives.


12

5. LOCALITY MAP

An A3 locality map must be attached to the back of this document, as Appendix A. The scale of the locality map must be relevant to the size of the development (at least 1:50 000. For linear activities of more than 25 kilometres, a smaller scale e.g. 1:250 000 can be used. The scale must be indicated on the map.). The map must indicate the following:

an accurate indication of the project site position as well as the positions of the alternative sites, if any;

indication of all the alternatives identified;

closest town(s;)

road access from all major roads in the area;

road names or numbers of all major roads as well as the roads that provide access to the site(s);

all roads within a 1km radius of the site or alternative sites; and

a north arrow;

a legend; and

locality GPS co-ordinates (Indicate the position of the activity using the latitude and longitude of the centre point of the site for each alternative site. The co-ordinates should be in degrees and decimal minutes. The minutes should have at least three decimals to ensure adequate accuracy. The projection that must be used in all cases is the WGS84 spheroid in a national or local projection).

6. LAYOUT/ROUTE PLAN A detailed site or route plan(s) must be prepared for each alternative site or alternative activity. It must be attached as Appendix A to this document. The site or route plans must indicate the following:

the property boundaries and numbers of all the properties within 50 metres of the site;

the current land use as well as the land use zoning of the site;

the current land use as well as the land use zoning each of the properties adjoining the site or sites;

the exact position of each listed activity applied for (including alternatives);

servitude(s) indicating the purpose of the servitude;

a legend; and

a north arrow. 7. SENSITIVITY MAP The layout/route plan as indicated above must be overlain with a sensitivity map that indicates all the sensitive areas associated with the site, including, but not limited to:

watercourses;

the 1:100 year flood line (where available or where it is required by DWA);

ridges;

cultural and historical features;

areas with indigenous vegetation (even if it is degraded or infested with alien species); and

critical biodiversity areas.


13

The sensitivity map must also cover areas within 100m of the site and must be attached in Appendix A. 8. SITE PHOTOGRAPHS Colour photographs from the centre of the site must be taken in at least the eight major compass directions with a description of each photograph. Photographs must be attached under Appendix B to this report. It must be supplemented with additional photographs of relevant features on the site, if applicable. 9. FACILITY ILLUSTRATION A detailed illustration of the activity must be provided at a scale of at least 1:200 as Appendix C for activities that include structures. The illustrations must be to scale and must represent a realistic image of the planned activity. The illustration must give a representative view of the activity. 10. ACTIVITY MOTIVATION Motivate and explain the need and desirability of the activity (including demand for the activity):

1. Is the activity permitted in terms of the property’s existing land use rights?

YES Please explain

A positive Record of Decision (ROD) was issued for the Eskom CSP Plant. Other solar power plants will also be built by Independent Power Producers (IPP’s) on adjacent properties. The proposed 132 kV power lines are an associated activity, and will provide the means by which to evacuate the power generated at the Eskom CSP and adjacent IPP’s into the national grid.

2. Will the activity be in line with the following?

(a) Provincial Spatial Development Framework (PSDF) YES Please explain

The proposed development of these power lines is located within the proposed Industrial Development Zone (IDZ) demarcated in the Provincial SDF surrounding Upington. The project is also squarely located within the Solar Corridor – delineated within the Provincial SDF.

(b) Urban edge / Edge of Built environment for the area YES Please explain

The proposed development is situated rurally, but within the Provincial IDZ located around Upington.

(c) Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and Spatial Development Framework (SDF) of the Local Municipality (e.g. would the approval of this application compromise the integrity of the existing approved and credible municipal IDP and SDF?).

YES Please explain

The current Local Municipal SDF makes reference and delineates clearly the boundaries of the Eskom CSP site. This project is required as part of the integration of the currently recognised CSP’s into the national grid. The project is also squarely located within the Solar Corridor – delineated within the Municipal SDF.

(d) Approved Structure Plan of the Municipality YES Please explain

The project is also squarely located within the Solar Corridor – delineated within the Municipal SDF.


14

(e) An Environmental Management Framework (EMF) adopted by the Department (e.g. Would the approval of this application compromise the integrity of the existing environmental management priorities for the area and if so, can it be justified in terms of sustainability considerations?)

YES Please explain

The infrastructure proposed in this project is associated infrastructure to the Eskom CSP – a key project in the overall promotion of environmental sustainability in South Africa. The promotion of renewable energy generation in South Africa is key to the reduction of the country’s dependence on coal fired power stations. Solar Power Plants are amongst the most favoured sources of alternative energies in South Africa. Besides the national and provincial contribution to environmental sustainability brought on by the implementation of CSP’s and their associated infrastructure. The construction of this power line can be done in such a manner that it avoids impacts to sensitive environments on site.

(f) Any other Plans (e.g. Guide Plan) NO Please explain

None considered.

3. Is the land use (associated with the activity being applied for) considered within the timeframe intended by the existing approved SDF agreed to by the relevant environmental authority (i.e. is the proposed development in line with the projects and programmes identified as priorities within the credible IDP)?

YES Please explain

Construction is proposed within the next 2 – 5 year window.

4. Does the community/area need the activity and the associated land use concerned (is it a societal priority)? (This refers to the strategic as well as local level (e.g. development is a national priority, but within a specific local context it could be inappropriate.)

YES Please explain

This project is a national priority. The electricity generated at the Eskom CSP Plant needs to be distributed in order to meet the electricity demand and to reduce the dependence on coal fired power stations.

5. Are the necessary services with adequate capacity currently available (at the time of application), or must additional capacity be created to cater for the development? (Confirmation by the relevant Municipality in this regard must be attached to the final Basic Assessment Report as Appendix I.)

YES Please explain

The power lines do not need any municipal services other than access roads to tower positions for

maintenance of the power line; and the site is easily accessible via existing roads. The Proponent will

be responsible for the design and construction of required access roads.


15

6. Is this development provided for in the infrastructure planning of the municipality, and if not what will the implication be on the infrastructure planning of the municipality (priority and placement of services and opportunity costs)? (Comment by the relevant Municipality in this regard must be attached to the final Basic Assessment Report as Appendix I.)

YES Please explain

This project is an infrastructure upgrade project for Eskom.

7. Is this project part of a national programme to address an issue of national concern or importance?

YES Please explain

Electricity shortage and growing demand for electricity is a national concern and priority. There is also

a need to reduce the dependency on coal fired power stations and implement and promote renewable

energy.

8. Do location factors favour this land use (associated with the activity applied for) at this place? (This relates to the contextualisation of the proposed land use on this site within its broader context.)

YES Please explain

The Eskom CSP / IPP CSP’s / DoE CSP and Solar Park Substation are all located within the

Department of Energy’s Solar Park Project study area earmarked for solar power generation. The

power lines are ideally located on the site to allow for maximum development of the site, and still

serve the purpose of connecting the relevant CSPs to the national grid.

9. Is the development the best practicable environmental option for this land/site?

YES Please explain

There are no better alternatives for the transfer of electricity into the grid. The location of the power

lines has taken many factors into account, and the most preferred location alternative has been

recommended.

10. Will the benefits of the proposed land use/development outweigh the negative impacts of it?

YES Please explain

The power line is required for the evacuation of solar-generated electricity into the Eskom grid. This

in turn will serve to strengthen the grid in the area, and assist in the small-scale alleviation of

electricity generation from coal-fired power stations. For this reason and the economic benefits with

this project it can be said that the positive impacts will outweigh the negative impacts.

11. Will the proposed land use/development set a precedent for similar activities in the area (local municipality)?

NO Please explain

The area has already been earmarked for the development of electricity generation and transmission

infrastructure. The combined generation potential of the entire Solar Park is envisaged to be 5 GW.

12. Will any person’s rights be negatively affected by the proposed activity/ies?

NO Please explain

The properties will be purchased through a willing buyer willing seller principal. No relocation of

people will be required. All process has followed an extensive stakeholder consultation process.


16

13. Will the proposed activity/ies compromise the “urban edge” as defined by the local municipality?

NO Please explain

The proposed activity will not compromise the urban edge as set out in the provincial SDF.

14. Will the proposed activity/ies contribute to any of the 17 Strategic Integrated Projects (SIPS)?

YES Please explain

This Solar Park Integration Project is a Presidential Initiative in support of the following SIPS:

SIP 8: Green Energy in support of the South African economy.

SIP 9: Electricity Generation to support socio-economic development.

SIP 10: Electricity Transmission and Distribution for all.

15. What will the benefits be to society in general and to the local communities?

Please explain

The construction of three 132 kV power lines will have the following benefits locally and nationally:

The electricity generated by the CSP can be distributed to local and national sub-stations for electricity supply;

Job creation and opportunities;

Economic benefits to the local communities.

16. Any other need and desirability considerations related to the proposed activity?

Please explain

Without this project the Eskom CSP, a key component of the Solar Park Project, cannot link into the national grid. The proposed project forms part of the Solar Integration Project, which is part of Eskom strategy to meet future energy consumption through the use of renewable energy. South Africa is one of the largest greenhouse gas emitters in Africa, thus this project is significant in reducing the need for coal powered electricity generation.

The following project motivations are relevant:

The demand for electricity locally and nationally in South Africa to maintain current development growth rate;

The combined production of the Solar Park will generate an additional 5 GW of power using solar power;

The energy from the solar park has to be integrated and connected with the local and provincial electricity grid to be able to provide power to the users;

Economical benefits to the surrounding communities; and

Job creation and opportunities.

17. How does the project fit into the National Development Plan for 2030? Please explain

This project will contribute to the shift to a low carbon transition set to be reached in Chapter 5 of the National Development Plan.


17

18. Please describe how the general objectives of Integrated Environmental Management as set out in section 23 of NEMA have been taken into account.

The project has gone through several systematic stages of planning and authorisation designed to take into account the biophysical or “natural” environment, the socio-economic condition and cultural heritage of the receiving environment, to adequately predict impacts, identify alternatives and inform mitigation measures.

1. In the first instance an SEA was undertaken to determine the strategic feasibility and desirability of implementing the Solar Park Project. Out of this process the Upington Area, and Solar Corridor was identified as being highly suitable. This informed spatial development planning and objective setting at all spheres of government (National – Provincial – Local Government all reflect the same vision for the area).

2. An EIA was then undertaken to identify the proposed site and development extent of the proposed Eskom CSP. This process took into account various technology alternatives and site evaluations. The environmental sensitivities and concerns were considered and informed the selection of the site and conditions of establishment.

3. Thereafter once the CSP site was selected and the CSP design approved through international peer review and an EIA processes, the power line configurations and alignments were determined. The siting of the power lines has been taken in context of the overall project, the location of existing infrastructure and proposed future development, the goals and objectives of the national, provincial, and local social development objectives, and the environmental limitations of the site.

Each phase of the project has been undertaken through a transparent EIA process considering the social, natural and economic environment. This was undertaken in consultation with stakeholders.

Specialists were appointed to identify the impacts to the environment in the specific study area. Mitigation and rehabilitation recommendations were made accordingly.

19. Please describe how the principles of environmental management as set out in section 2 of NEMA have been taken into account.

The principals outlined in Section 2 of NEMA pertain specifically to the promotion of development in South Africa for the interest of her people in a sustainable manner. The very heart of this project is to contribute to the diversification of the energy mix in South Africa, detracting from the country’s over reliance on unsustainable coal fired technologies and the introduction of greener renewable energy technologies.

11. APPLICABLE LEGISLATION, POLICIES AND/OR GUIDELINES List all legislation, policies and/or guidelines of any sphere of government that are applicable to the application as contemplated in the EIA regulations, if applicable:

Title of legislation, policy or guideline

Administering authority Date

National Environmental Management Act (Act No 107 of 1998)

National and Provincial Department of Environmental Affairs

1998

Environmental Impact Assessment National and Provincial Department of 2010


18

Regulations (GN R543-546 of 2010) Environmental Affairs

National Environmental Management: Biodiveristy Act (Act No

National and Provincial Department of Environmental Affairs

2004

National Heritage Resources Act (Act No 25 of 1999)

South African Heritage Resources Agency

1999

Nationl Forests Act (Act 84 of 1998) Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF)

1998

National Veld and Forest Fires Act (Act 101 of 1998)

Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF)

1998

Electricity Regulations Act (Act 4 of 2006)

NERSA 2006

National Energy Act (Act 34 of 2008) South African National Energy Development Institute.

2008

Promotion of Access to Information Act (Act No 2 of 2000)

National Department of Environmental Affairs

2000

Northern Cape Nature Conservation Act (Act 9 of 2009)

Department of Environment and Nature Conservation (DENC)

2009

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

N/A 1998

The White Paper on Renewable Energy (November 2003)

N/A 2003

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

N/A 1998

12. WASTE, EFFLUENT, EMISSION AND NOISE MANAGEMENT a) Solid waste management

Will the activity produce solid construction waste during the construction/initiation phase?

YES

If YES, what estimated quantity will be produced per month?

Based on tower type 245A for a 132 kV line, with the footprint dimension of :

2 m deep foundations (Height)

3,575 m (L & B) Therefore Volume = L x B x Height (3,575 m x 3,575 m ) x 2 m 12. 78 x 2 = 25.56 m3 for one tower. No of towers required for approximately 17 km @ 300 m stand 17,000 m / 300 = 57 towers 25.56 m3 x 57 towers = 1456.92 m3 of soil (spoils) x 3 lines Grand total 4370.76 m3 of spoils (soil) will be generated.


19

Total estimated solid waste produced per month: 4370.76 m3 / 12 months (estimated construction period) = 364.24 m3 per month

How will the construction solid waste be disposed of (describe)?

Waste generated during the construction phase will be collected in designated areas, in facilities designed to safely store the waste. Once sufficient volumes have been collected, or once a month, whichever occurs first, the waste will be taken on a purpose built vehicle to the nearest suitably licensed waste facility. Receipts / waybills will be obtained from the facility for record purposes.

Where will the construction solid waste be disposed of (describe)?

Waste will be disposed of at a registered Landfill or waste site near Upington. Registered Waste disposal sites near Upington are shown below:

Permit Number Waste Disposal Site

Classification: General waste (G),Communal landfill (C), Small Landfill (S),

Medium Landfill (M) ,Large Landfill (L), B- (No significant leachate

produced)

P 307 Raaswater G.S.B-

P 322 Mata-Mata G.C.B-

P 323 Nossob G.C.B-

P 350 Kalksloot G.S.B-

P 353 Loeriesfontein G.C.B-

P 354 Onseepkans Melkbosrand G.C.B-

P 355 Onseepkans Sending G.C.B-

P 68 Die Duine G.M.B-

P 301 Swartmodderweg G.S.B-

P 306 Wegdraai G.S.B-

P 309 Grootdrink G.S.B-

P 313 Leerkrans G.S.B-

Will the activity produce solid waste during its operational phase? NO

If YES, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? 0 m3

How will the solid waste be disposed of (describe)?

N/A

If the solid waste will be disposed of into a municipal waste stream, indicate which registered landfill site will be used.

N/A

Where will the solid waste be disposed of if it does not feed into a municipal waste stream (describe)?

N/A

If the solid waste (construction or operational phases) will not be disposed of in a registered landfill site or be taken up in a municipal waste stream, then the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA.

Can any part of the solid waste be classified as hazardous in terms of the NEM:WA? NO

If YES, inform the competent authority and request a change to an application for scoping and EIA. An application for a waste permit in terms of the NEM:WA must also be submitted with this application.


20

Is the activity that is being applied for a solid waste handling or treatment facility? NO

If YES, then the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA. An application for a waste permit in terms of the NEM:WA must also be submitted with this application.


21

b) Liquid effluent

Will the activity produce effluent, other than normal sewage, that will be disposed of in a municipal sewage system?

NO

If YES, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? 0 m3

Will the activity produce any effluent that will be treated and/or disposed of on site? NO

If YES, the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA.

Will the activity produce effluent that will be treated and/or disposed of at another facility?

NO

If YES, provide the particulars of the facility:

Facility name: N/A

Contact person:

N/A

Postal address:

N/A

Postal code: N/A

Telephone: N/A Cell: N/A

E-mail: N/A Fax: N/A

Describe the measures that will be taken to ensure the optimal reuse or recycling of waste water, if any:

N/A

c) Emissions into the atmosphere

Will the activity release emissions into the atmosphere other than exhaust emissions and dust associated with construction phase activities?

NO

If YES, is it controlled by any legislation of any sphere of government? NO

If YES, the applicant must consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA. If NO, describe the emissions in terms of type and concentration:

Emissions expected will be exhaust emissions and dust associated with construction phase activities. Reasonable mitigation measures will be implemented as per the EMP or Environmental Authorisation conditions

d) Waste permit

Will any aspect of the activity produce waste that will require a waste permit in terms of the NEM:WA?

NO

If YES, please submit evidence that an application for a waste permit has been submitted to the competent authority


22

e) Generation of noise

Will the activity generate noise? YES

If YES, is it controlled by any legislation of any sphere of government? NO

If YES, the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA. If NO, describe the noise in terms of type and level:

Sources of noise during construction and operational phases include vehicular traffic noise, and maintenance facility noise in addition to the noise generated by construction machinery and equipment. The construction phase, however, is temporary and the associated nuisance noise will also be temporary. There are no sensitive noise receptors identified in the study area.

13. WATER USE Please indicate the source(s) of water that will be used for the activity by ticking the appropriate box(es):

Municipal Water board Groundwater River, stream, dam or lake

Other The activity will not use water

If water is to be extracted from groundwater, river, stream, dam, lake or any other natural feature, please indicate the volume that will be extracted per month:

0 litres

Does the activity require a water use authorisation (general authorisation or water use license) from the Department of Water Affairs?

NO

If YES, please provide proof that the application has been submitted to the Department of Water Affairs. 14. ENERGY EFFICIENCY Describe the design measures, if any, that have been taken to ensure that the activity is energy efficient:

The proposed facility will not require energy during the operational phase.

Describe how alternative energy sources have been taken into account or been built into the design of the activity, if any:

N/A


23

SECTION B: SITE/AREA/PROPERTY DESCRIPTION Important notes: 1. For linear activities (pipelines, etc) as well as activities that cover very large sites, it may be

necessary to complete this section for each part of the site that has a significantly different environment. In such cases please complete copies of Section B and indicate the area, which is covered by each copy No. on the Site Plan.

The study area is generally uniform and there is no significant difference between any of the alternatives considered and for that reason this section is not duplicated.

Section B Copy No. (e.g. A): A

2. Paragraphs 1 - 6 below must be completed for each alternative.

3. Has a specialist been consulted to assist with the completion of this section? YES

If YES, please complete the form entitled “Details of specialist and declaration of interest” for each specialist thus appointed and attach it in Appendix I. All specialist reports must be contained in Appendix D. Property description/physical address:

Province Northern Cape

District Municipality

Siyanda District Municipality

Local Municipality Khara Hais Municipality

Ward Number(s) 11

Farm name and number

Eskom CSP to Substation Site 6

Olyvenhouts Drift 451.

MC Taggarts Camp 452 portion 12.

Turgsten Lodge 638. Eskom CSP to Substation Site 5

MC Taggarts Camp 452 portion 12. Eskom CSP to Substation Site 1

MC Taggarts Camp 452 portion 12.

Rooipunt 617.

Portion number N/A

SG Code C02800130000108000000

Where a large number of properties are involved (e.g. linear activities), please attach a full list to this application including the same information as indicated above.

Current land-use zoning as per local municipality IDP/records:

Special Zone

In instances where there is more than one current land-use zoning, please attach a list of current land use zonings that also indicate which portions each use pertains to, to this application.

Is a change of land-use or a consent use application required? NO


24

1. GRADIENT OF THE SITE Indicate the general gradient of the site. Alternative S1:

Flat 1:50 – 1:20 1:20 – 1:15 1:15 – 1:10 1:10 – 1:7,5 1:7,5 – 1:5 Steeper than 1:5

Alternative S2 (if any):


Alternative S3 (if any):


2. LOCATION IN LANDSCAPE Indicate the landform(s) that best describes the site:

2.1 Ridgeline 2.4 Closed valley 2.7 Undulating plain / low hills

2.2 Plateau 2.5 Open valley 2.8 Dune

2.3 Side slope of hill/mountain 2.6 Plain √ 2.9 Seafront

3. GROUNDWATER, SOIL AND GEOLOGICAL STABILITY OF THE SITE Is the site(s) located on any of the following? Alternative S1: Alternative S2

(if any): Alternative S3

(if any):

Shallow water table (less than 1.5m deep) NO NO NO

Dolomite, sinkhole or doline areas NO NO NO

Seasonally wet soils (often close to water bodies)

NO

NO

NO

Unstable rocky slopes or steep slopes with loose soil

NO

NO

NO

Dispersive soils (soils that dissolve in water) NO NO NO

Soils with high clay content (clay fraction more than 40%)

YES

YES

YES

Any other unstable soil or geological feature NO NO NO

An area sensitive to erosion YES YES YES

If you are unsure about any of the above or if you are concerned that any of the above aspects may be an issue of concern in the application, an appropriate specialist should be appointed to assist in the completion of this section. Information in respect of the above will often be available as part of the project information or at the planning sections of local authorities. Where it exists, the 1:50 000 scale Regional Geotechnical Maps prepared by the Council for Geo Science may also be consulted.


25

4. GROUNDCOVER Indicate the types of groundcover present on the site. The location of all identified rare or endangered species or other elements should be accurately indicated on the site plan(s).

Natural veld - good conditionE

Natural veld with scattered aliensE

Natural veld with heavy alien infestationE

Veld dominated by alien speciesE

Gardens

Sport field Cultivated land Paved surface Building or other structure

Bare soil

If any of the boxes marked with an “E “is ticked, please consult an appropriate specialist to assist in the completion of this section if the environmental assessment practitioner doesn’t have the necessary expertise. 5. SURFACE WATER Indicate the surface water present on and or adjacent to the site and alternative sites?

Perennial River NO

Non-Perennial River YES

Permanent Wetland NO

Seasonal Wetland NO

Artificial Wetland NO

Estuarine / Lagoonal wetland NO

If any of the boxes marked YES or UNSURE is ticked, please provide a description of the relevant watercourse.

There are many non-perennial and ephemeral drainage lines shown in the 1:50 000 topocadastral map. A site visit by a wetland specialist was undertaken and it was confirmed that all drainage lines can be easily spanned without impacting on the water courses. Refer to the Biophysical Report Attached in Appendix D

6. LAND USE CHARACTER OF SURROUNDING AREA Indicate land uses and/or prominent features that currently occur within a 500m radius of the site and give description of how this influences the application or may be impacted upon by the application:

Natural area Dam or reservoir Polo fields

Low density residential Hospital/medical centre Filling station H

Medium density residential School Landfill or waste treatment site

High density residential Tertiary education facility Plantation

Informal residentialA Church Agriculture

Retail commercial & warehousing Old age home River, stream or wetland

Light industrial Sewage treatment plantA Nature conservation area


26

Medium industrial AN Train station or shunting yard N Mountain, koppie or ridge

Heavy industrial AN Railway line N Museum

Power station Major road (4 lanes or more) N Historical building

Office/consulting room Airport N Protected Area

Military or police base/station/compound

Harbour Graveyard

Spoil heap or slimes damA Sport facilities Archaeological site

Quarry, sand or borrow pit Golf course Other land uses (describe)

If any of the boxes marked with an “N “are ticked, how will this impact / be impacted upon by the proposed activity?

N/A

If any of the boxes marked with an "An" are ticked, how will this impact / be impacted upon by the proposed activity? Specify and explain:

N/A

If any of the boxes marked with an "H" are ticked, how will this impact / be impacted upon by the proposed activity? Specify and explain:

N/A

Does the proposed site (including any alternative sites) fall within any of the following:

Critical Biodiversity Area (as per provincial conservation plan) NO

Core area of a protected area? NO

Buffer area of a protected area? NO

Planned expansion area of an existing protected area? NO

Existing offset area associated with a previous Environmental Authorisation? NO

Buffer area of the SKA? NO

If the answer to any of these questions was YES, a map indicating the affected area must be included in Appendix A.


27

7. CULTURAL/HISTORICAL FEATURES

Are there any signs of culturally or historically significant elements, as defined in section 2 of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999, (Act No. 25 of 1999), including Archaeological or paleontological sites, on or close (within 20m) to the site? If YES, explain:

NO

N/A

If uncertain, conduct a specialist investigation by a recognised specialist in the field (archaeology or palaeontology) to establish whether there is such a feature(s) present on or close to the site. Briefly explain the findings of the specialist:

A Heritage Impact Assessment was undertaken for the farm Olyvenhouts Drift as a component of the EIA for the Eskom CSP, and a second study was undertaken for the Solar Park Integration Project (attached as Appendix D the following relevant findings were made:

Archaeology

Three Stone Age sites were identified. None were located in proximity to the proposed substation sites (Site 1, Site 5 or Site 6).

One possible Historic Site was identified close to Site 5, but Site 5 will have no impact on the possible Historic Site).

Built environment

Occupational structures were identified on the southern boundary of the site.

Paleontology – Sub-surface paleontological finds are possible but unlikely.

Cultural Landscape – None

Will any building or structure older than 60 years be affected in any way? NO

Is it necessary to apply for a permit in terms of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act 25 of 1999)?

NO

If YES, please provide proof that this permit application has been submitted to SAHRA or the relevant provincial authority. The following table identifies different landscape types that could possibly be present in the study area.

Landscape Type Description Occurrence

still possible?

Likely occurrence?

1 Paleontological Mostly fossil remains. Remains include microbial fossils such as found in Baberton Greenstones

Yes, sub-surface

Unlikely

2 Archaeological Evidence of human occupation associated with the following phases – Early-, Middle-, Late Stone Age, Early-, Late Iron Age, Pre-Contact Sites, Post-Contact Sites

Yes Unlikely

3 Historic Built Environment

- Historical townscapes/streetscapes - Historical structures; i.e. older than 60 years - Formal public spaces - Formally declared urban conservation areas - Places associated with social

No No


28

8. SOCIO-ECONOMIC CHARACTER a) Local Municipality Please provide details on the socio-economic character of the local municipality in which the proposed site(s) are situated. Level of unemployment: 24.1%

Economic profile of local municipality:

Level of education:

Literacy Levels Total %

Totally Illiterate 5 285 6.98%

Functionally Illiterate 12 059 15.91%

Some secondary schooling 14 613 19.31%

Complete Grade 12 8 821 11.65%

Higher Education 2 467 3.26%


29

b) Socio-economic value of the activity

What is the expected capital value of the activity on completion?

2 x 20 MVA transformer @ R 12m each = R 24m 11kV feeder bay = R 4m 11kV busbar = R 1m 11kV transformer breaker = R 2m 132kV transformer breaker = R 16m 132kV busbar = R 3m 132kV feeder bay = R 24m TOTAL = R 74m (for the 2 x 20 MVA and associated infrastructure A 132 kV line @ R 3m per km for 17 km (3 x 17 = R 51m) x 3 lines = R 153m. Therefore R 74m (2 x 20 MVA) + R 153m (3 x 132 kV lines) Grand Total = R 227m

What is the expected yearly income that will be generated by or as a result of the activity?

The infrastructure is to provide services and no direct yearly income will be generated.

Will the activity contribute to service infrastructure?

YES

Is the activity a public amenity? NO

How many new employment opportunities will be created in the development and construction phase of the activity/ies?

Temporary employment may be created during construction for unskilled labour, approximately 50 persons. During the development, no new permanent employment opportunities will be created as most of the highly technical assignments will require skilled labour and technical knowledge.

What is the expected value of the employment opportunities during the development and construction phase?

If 50 temporary persons are employed at R 2274.84 each for a period of 12 months (duration of the construction phase) then: 50 x R 2274.84 * = R 113,742.00 X 12 Months = R 1,364,904.00 * R 2274.84 is based on the Minimum wages per month in the Farm worker sector.

Minimum wages for Farm Workers in South Africa

Minimum Rate for the period

Minimum Rate for the period

1 March 2013 to 28 February 2014

1 March 2014 to 29 February 20151

Monthly Weekly Hourly Monthly Weekly Hourly

R 2274.84 R 525.00 R 11.66

Previous years minimum wage +CPI +1.5%

*The CPI to be utilised is the available CPI for the lowest quantile as released by the Statistics South Africa six weeks prior to the increment date.

What percentage of this will accrue to previously disadvantaged individuals?

Unknown


30

How many permanent new employment opportunities will be created during the operational phase of the activity?

None

What is the expected current value of the employment opportunities during the first 10 years?

None

What percentage of this will accrue to previously disadvantaged individuals?

0%

9. BIODIVERSITY Please note: The Department may request specialist input/studies depending on the nature of the biodiversity occurring on the site and potential impact(s) of the proposed activity/ies. To assist with the identification of the biodiversity occurring on site and the ecosystem status consult http://bgis.sanbi.org or [email protected]. Information is also available on compact disc (cd) from the Biodiversity-GIS Unit, Ph (021) 799 8698. This information may be updated from time to time and it is the applicant/ EAP’s responsibility to ensure that the latest version is used. A map of the relevant biodiversity information (including an indication of the habitat conditions as per (b) below) and must be provided as an overlay map to the property/site plan as Appendix D to this report. a) Indicate the applicable biodiversity planning categories of all areas on site and indicate

the reason(s) provided in the biodiversity plan for the selection of the specific area as part of the specific category)

Systematic Biodiversity Planning Category If CBA or ESA, indicate the reason(s) for its selection in biodiversity plan

Critical Biodiversity Area (CBA)

Ecological Support

Area (ESA)

Other Natural Area

(ONA)

No Natural Area

Remaining (NNR)

The only CBA in close proximity to any of the

alternatives is the Orange River, located 18.3 km

to the south of the study area. This area will not

be affected by this project.

b) Indicate and describe the habitat condition on site

Habitat Condition

Percentage of habitat

condition class (adding up to 100%)

Description and additional Comments and Observations

(including additional insight into condition, e.g. poor land management practises, presence of quarries,

grazing, harvesting regimes etc).

Natural 95 %

The proposed 132kV power lines cross over three main vegetation types including Bushmanland Arid Grassland, Kalahari Karroid Shrubland and Gordonia Duneveld as documented in the attached Biophysical Specialist Report (Refer to Appendix D and the EIA undertaken for the Eskom CSP Site. The property has traditionally been used for grazing and

http://bgis.sanbi.org/

mailto:[email protected]


31

has been described in the Eskom CSP EIA Report as being extensively impacted. Both studies remark on the absence of any alien invasive species. The EAP thus considers the property to be in a natural but impacted state. The Biophysical Report notes the condition of the property to be 95% natural (Refer to Page 63 of the Biophysical Specialist Study attached as Appendix D.

Near Natural (includes areas with low to moderate level of alien invasive plants)

0 %

Degraded

(includes areas heavily invaded by alien plants)

0 %

Transformed

(includes cultivation, dams, urban, plantation, roads, etc)

5 %

The site has further been disturbed by infrastructure such as human settlements / farm steads, fences, farm access roads and a secondary road that traverses the centre of the site.

c) Complete the table to indicate:

(i) the type of vegetation, including its ecosystem status, present on the site; and (ii) whether an aquatic ecosystem is present on site.

Terrestrial Ecosystems Aquatic Ecosystems

Ecosystem threat status as per the

National Environmental Management:

Biodiversity Act (Act No. 10 of 2004)

Critical Wetland (including rivers, depressions, channelled and unchanneled wetlands, flats,

seeps pans, and artificial wetlands)

Estuary Coastline Endangered

Vulnerable

Least Threatened YES NO NO


32

d) Please provide a description of the vegetation type and/or aquatic ecosystem present on site, including any important biodiversity features/information identified on site (e.g. threatened species and special habitats)

Habitat diversity: Species composition / richness:

The study area and surrounding broader region exhibits low plains with ephemeral drainage lines. The site and surrounding area is comprised of a plain consisting of three vegetation units, namely the: Bushmanland Arid Grassland, Kalahari Karroid Shrubland and Gordonia Duneveld. The vegetation on site was found to be good representatives of the aforementioned vegetation types, although in an impacted state. The species composition and richness is considered to be low.

The drainage lines on site are all ephemeral (flowing only in extreme rainfall events). There is no aquatic or wetland environment to speak of. All drainage lines can be spanned without impacting on drainage lines.

Presence of rare and endangered species:

No rare or endangered floral or faunal species were identified within the general study area.

Uniqueness / conservation value:

The site forms part of an extensive plain covered by the same vegetation type. These vegetation types are well conserved and are classified as Least Threatened, they are of little conservation value.

Percentage ground cover:

The general area exhibits a very low percentage 20% of ground cover. Large barren patches were noted during site visits.

Vegetation structure:

This is a typical Karroid shrubland with a few sparsely distributed small trees and shrubs including, but not limited to, Acacia mellifera, Parkinsonia africana, and Rhigozum trichotomum. Low shrubs dominate the area and include Hermannia spinosa, Limeum aethiopicum and Phaeoptilum spinosum, while the common herbs include Dicoma capensis, Chamaesyce inaequilatera. Common grasses found on the site include Aristida adscensionis, Enneapogon desvauxii, E. scaber and Stipagrostis obtusa.

Infestation with exotic weeds and invader plants:

The existing road routes have lead to the introduction of alien plants. The result is that some 25% of the unit has been colonised by scattered Prosopis species.

Degree of grazing / browsing impact:

The study area is described as a sandy / calcrete area with very little cultivation. Areas are mainly utilised for grazing of cattle, sheep and goats with a couple of game farms operating in the area as well.

Signs of erosion:

No deep erosion gullies were noted; however sheet erosion on the large barren patches was notable.


33

SECTION C: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION 1. ADVERTISEMENT AND NOTICE

Publication name Noordkaap newspaper

Date published 7 November 2012 16 November 2011

Publication name Stellalander newspaper


Publication name Volksblad newspaper


Publication name Kalahari Bulletin


Publication name Gemsbok newspaper


Publication name Kathu Gazette newspaper


Publication name Son op Sondag newspaper


Site notice position Latitude Longitude

Date placed 14 to 18 November 2011 A total of 60 site notices were placed. See Appendix E- 1 for photographic proof and a description of each site.

Include proof of the placement of the relevant advertisements and notices in Appendix E- 1.


34

2. DETERMINATION OF APPROPRIATE MEASURES Provide details of the measures taken to include all potential I&APs as required by Regulation 54(2)(e) and 54(7) of GN R.543. Key stakeholders (other than organs of state) identified in terms of Regulation 54(2)(b) of GN R.543:

Authority/Organ of State

Contact person (Title, Name and Surname)

Tel No Fax No e-mail Postal address

Upington Eilande Hoof Besproeings Raad

Mr Stanley Chamberlain

054 3340067

054 3340205

Chamberlainstanley @gmail.com

Privaatsak X5912 UPINGTON 8800

Municipal Manager Khara Hais Local Municipality

Mr WJB Engelbrecht

054 3387001

054 3387351

Manager @kharahaismunicipality.co.za

Private Bag X6003 UPINGTON 8800

Mayor Kai Garib Local Municipality

Mr Jan Olyn

054 4316300

054 461 6401

[email protected] Private Bag X6 KAKAMAS 8870

Executive Mayor Siyanda District Municipality

Mr Gift van Staden

054 3372800

054 3372888

Gvanstaden @siyanda.gov.za

Private Bag X 6039 UPINGTON 8800

Municipal Manager Siyanda District Municipality

Mr Eric Ngxanga

054 3372800

054 3372888

[email protected] Private Bag X6039 UPINGTON 8800

Central Energy Fund

Mr Tieho Motloung

011 2014774

011 2014774

[email protected] P O Box 786141 SANDTON 2146

Director: Environmental Management Department of Tourism, Environment and Conservation

Adv Julius Mutyorauta

053 8074800

053 8313530

Jmutyorauta @half.ncape.gov.za

Private Bag X6012 KIMBERLEY 8300

South African National Road Agency

Mev Colene Runkel

021 9574600

021 9461630

[email protected] Private Bag X19 BELLVILLE 7535

Square Kilometre Array (SKA)

Dr Adrian Tiplady

011 442 2434

[email protected] P O Box 522940, SAXONWOLD 2132

mailto:[email protected]


35

Include proof that the key stakeholder received written notification of the proposed activities as Appendix E- 2. This proof may include any of the following:

e-mail delivery reports;

registered mail receipts;

courier waybills;

signed acknowledgements of receipt; and/or

or any other proof as agreed upon by the competent authority. 3. ISSUES RAISED BY INTERESTED AND AFFECTED PARTIES Refer to Appendix E- 3

Summary of main issues raised by I&APs Summary of response from EAP

The feasibility of the proposed project should be investigated. In this study, the specific area and its special features should be assessed.

The aim of the EIA and the specialist studies will be to determine the feasibility as well as the impacts of the project.

The local municipalities must be invited to these meetings in order to take part in the discussions regarding proposed projects taking place in the district. How do you communicate with the local communities and municipalities?

All local and district municipalities in the study area have been invited. Information on this project has been sent to affected communities, landowners and municipalities and they were also invited to attend the stakeholder meetings.

Who is funding this project? Eskom is funding the whole integration project.

The review and comments /recommendations of environmental reports are a Regional Office competency. In line with DWA water use authorisation business process, and in order to avoid unnecessary setbacks in your environmental authorisation processes, please ensure that all environmental reports for review are submitted to your Regional Office (Northern Cape).

All reports and documents pertaining to the Solar Park Integration Project (EIAs and Bas) have been sent to the relevant DWA Regional Office.

Was the Integrated Development Plans (IDPs) and Spatial Development Frameworks (SDF) of local government taken into consideration?

The study team looked at the IDPs and SDFs of the potentially affected local authorities. The proposed developments are aligned with the SDFs.

Are these lines only meant to transfer the energy that will be generated by the Eskom CSP into Eskom’s national grid?

400 kV lines will transport the 100MW to be generated by Eskom as well as energy to be generated by the approved Independent Power Producers to the west and the Department of Energy’s site to the east into Eskom’s national grid.

Will there be any additional transmission lines to connect Upington Solar Park with the national grid?

No, only the routes that are being investigated in this study (Solar Park Integration) will be needed to link Solar Park with the grid.

According to the reports, the anticipated impact on terrestrial fauna and flora is regarded as low because the broad vegetation units are classified as ‘least threatened’ in Mucina & Rutherford

Mucina & Rutherford (2006) is one of the main literature sources that is used to determine the conservation status of vegetation units. The presence of protected plant and tree species will


36

(2006). This is unacceptable. Although the information can be used as baseline information, it should be refined as there may be huge variation within the broad vegetation units. Areas containing numerous protected plant species should be regarded as ‘sensitive’ and avoided as far as possible.

further be noted during the pre-construction walk-down of the transmission corridor, which has been chosen specifically to allow adjusting and micro-siting of the powerlines in response to the outcome of the walk-down.

Pages 16 and 17 of the BAR listed the applicable legislation. It failed to mention the following applicable legislation:

National Forests Act, Act 84 of 1998 (NFA)

Northern Cape Nature Conservation Act, Act 9 of 2009 (NCNCA)

National Veld and Forest Fires Act, Act 101 of 1998 (NVFFA)

Noted. The applicable legislation has been included in all reports.

Page 30 stated that “no rare or endangered floral or faunal species were identified within the study area”. As pointed out, ‘specially protected’ and ‘protected’ or endemic species are also species of concern. It is important to consult all applicable legislation as many protected species are known to occur in the study site.

Comment noted and included in the Biophysical Report as well as the EMPr. Please note that a detailed botanical survey will be conducted once the servitude is finalised and then all the protected species will be identified and the required permits obtained from DAFF/DEA/NC Nature Conservation.

The DAFF is concerned about the ‘sensitivity map’ in the BAR as it indicates vegetation types and failed to identify possible sensitive areas in the different vegetation types.

No finer scale date was available to identify sensitive areas within the vegetation types. The sensitivity map was also only meant to give an indication of the distribution and sensitivity status of the broad habitat unit. The EAP further refers to a comment by the Biophysical specialist as shown below. It is simply to mammoth a task to identify each and every plant within the 400 000 ha covered by the corridors. Hence the suggestion is that a detailed botanical survey be undertaken in the preferred servitude prior to construction. This survey will identify all the species of concern within the servitude and ensure that the plants are either avoided or that the relevant permit or license is obtained prior to the start of construction.

The DAFF cannot agree with the final statements made on pages 73 and 74 regarding impacts on terrestrial ecology. Impacts are said to be low based purely on the fact that the broad vegetation units are classified as ‘least threatened’ in Mucina & Rutherford (2006). The proposed developments may impact on sensitive features such as the endangered Lower Gariep Alluvial Vegetation, the Kathu Forest and individual slow growing protected trees and plants.

The comments were noted and included into the amended Biophysical Report as mentioned above.


37

Page 17 of the EMP refers to the presence of threatened plant species. It must include protected species, as no protected species may be disturbed without a permit or license from the relevant regulating authority.

Amended.

The BA (1 and 3) do not indicate clearly which 132KV lines are for Eskom CSP Plant and which are the DoE Solar Park.

Amended.

4. COMMENTS AND RESPONSE REPORT The practitioner must record all comments received from I&APs and respond to each comment before the Draft BAR is submitted. The comments and responses must be captured in a comments and response report as prescribed in the EIA regulations and be attached to the Final BAR as Appendix E- 3. 5. AUTHORITY PARTICIPATION Authorities and organs of state identified as key stakeholders:

Please Refer to Appendix E-4.

Include proof that the Authorities and Organs of State received written notification of the proposed activities as Appendix E- 4 6. CONSULTATION WITH OTHER STAKEHOLDERS Note that, for any activities (linear or other) where deviation from the public participation requirements may be appropriate, the person conducting the public participation process may deviate from the requirements of that sub-regulation to the extent and in the manner as may be agreed to by the competent authority. Proof of any such agreement must be provided, where applicable. Application for any deviation from the regulations relating to the public participation process must be submitted prior to the commencement of the public participation process. A list of registered I&APs must be included as Appendix E- 5. Copies of any correspondence and minutes of any meetings held must be included in Appendix E- 6.


38

SECTION D: IMPACT ASSESSMENT The assessment of impacts must adhere to the minimum requirements in the EIA Regulations, 2010, and should take applicable official guidelines into account. The issues raised by interested and affected parties should also be addressed in the assessment of impacts. 1. IMPACTS THAT MAY RESULT FROM THE PLANNING AND DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION,

OPERATIONAL, DECOMMISSIONING AND CLOSURE PHASES AS WELL AS PROPOSED MANAGEMENT OF IDENTIFIED IMPACTS AND PROPOSED MITIGATION MEASURES

Provide a summary and anticipated significance of the potential direct, indirect and cumulative impacts that are likely to occur as a result of the planning and design phase, construction phase, operational phase, decommissioning and closure phase, including impacts relating to the choice of site/activity/technology alternatives as well as the mitigation measures that may eliminate or reduce the potential impacts listed. This impact assessment must be applied to all the identified alternatives to the activities identified in Section A(2) of this report.

Activity Impact summary Significance Proposed mitigation

Alternative 1 (preferred alternative) Due to the uniformity study area and similarity between project alternatives there is no difference in the impact assessment between the three alternatives. The impact assessment undertaken below is applicable to all three alternatives.

Planning and Design Phase

Power lines (132kV x 3) and Access Roads for construction and maintenance.

Direct impacts: Negative

Resource consumption (electricity, fuel, human resources, time).

LOW Quality control of deliverables.

Due Diligence.

Peer Review.

Stakeholder Engagement. Positive

Job creation.

Expenditure.

LOW As above

Indirect impacts: Negative

Resource planning and alignment at all spheres of government.

Review of applications.

MODERATE As above.

Positive

None NONE None

Cumulative impacts: All of the above. LOW As above.

20 MVA Transformers



VERY LOW Quality control of deliverables.

Due Diligence.

Peer Review.

Stakeholder Engagement. Positive

Job creation. Expenditure.

VERY LOW As above.


None NONE None.


39

Activity Impact summary Significance Proposed mitigation Positive

None NONE None.

Cumulative impacts: All of the above. VERY LOW As above.

Construction Phase



Removal of vegetation.

Alien invasive species infestation.

Habitat destruction.

Loss of soil resources.

Hydro-carbon spillage.

Decrease in visual aesthetics and change of sense of place.

Dust generation.

Avifauna collisions with erected infrastructure.

Permanent destruction of shallow geological strata at tower footings.

Vandalism of historical finds.

Destruction of unknown and sub-surface archaeological / paleontological material.

Increased noise and vibration.

Increased pressure on social services and infrastructure.

Illegal township establishment.

Increased transmission of STD’s

Increased traffic.

MODERATE Avoid unnecessary removal of vegetation cover.

No protected plant may be disturbed or removed without the necessary license or permit.

Areas containing high densities of protected plants should be demarcated as ‘sensitive’ and avoided in the final placement of the proposed infrastructure.

Phased vegetation removal as the working front moves to allow escape of slow moving fauna.

Alien invasive species to be eradicated, removed from site immediately, preferably not while flowering/seeding. Monitor and implement erosion control.

Effective construction site management/ monitoring/ auditing.

Use existing access roads as far as possible.

Maintenance vehicles should keep to designated routes.

Power lines should be installed according to the Eskom bird collision prevention guide.

Pylons should not be placed in bird flight paths.

Power lines should be marked with Bird Flight Diverters.

Subject the final transmission line route to a post-authorisation walk down investigation.

Paleontological monitoring should take place during excavation activities, should be reported to SAHRA or relevant provincial authority.

Noise generating activities should be restricted between 07:00 and 17:00.

Control access to construction camps.


40


Job creation.

Investment in infrastructure promoting social development.

Increased economic growth.

Supporting infrastructure for sustainable development.

Supporting renewable energies. Implementation of strategic projects

for national and provincial development and economic growth.

MODERATE None required.


Perceived increase in crime and reduced social security.

VERY LOW Strict control of workforce movements and access to site.

Positive

Improved tourism opportunities. VERY LOW None required.

Cumulative impacts: Negative

This project is only one of three BA’s and two S&EIR projects for the integration of the Solar Park into the national Grid.

This project contributes to the overall Solar Park Project which will result in the construction of solar power plants and power lines that will impact the environment over an area of < 5000 ha.

HIGH None.

Positive

This infrastructure is a small part of the successful implementation of one of South Africa’s largest initiatives toward the transition to a low carbon – renewable energy economy, the end product will be a 5GW Solar Park (estimated at a 12,5% of the current energy mix).

VERY HIGH None.

20MVA Transformers

Direct impacts: The project is located within the already approved footprint of the Eskom CSP plant, in an area predesign and earmarked for the construction of the transformers. The increase of the number of transformers is not expected to have any additional impact.

Indirect impacts: The project is located within the already approved footprint of the Eskom CSP plant, in an area predesign and earmarked for the construction of the transformers. The increase of the number of transformers is not expected to have any additional impact.

Cumulative impacts: The project is located within the already approved footprint of the Eskom CSP plant, in an area predesign and earmarked for the construction of the transformers. The increase of the number of transformers is not expected to have any additional impact.

Operational Phase

Power lines (132kV x 3) and Access Roads for


Avifauna deaths from collisions and electrocutions.

Environmental nuisance (visual).

MODERATE Ensure frequent communication. Manage working hours. Maintain avifauna deterrent

devices on installed power lines.


41


construction and maintenance.

Positive

Job creation via maintenance activities.




Supporting renewable energies.

MODERATE None required.


Perceived increase in crime and reduced social security.

LOW Strict control of workforce movements and access to site.

Positive

Improved tourism opportunities. LOW None required.


None. NONE None.

Positive

None. NONE None.

20MVA Transformers




Decommissioning and Closure Phase


This project will be operational for 60 years. We advise that upon the Closure and Decommissioning phase additional specialist studies and Environmental Management Plan be done according to the specific legislation implemented at that time.

20MVA Transformers

Alternative 2 Refer to the impact assessment above.

Alternative 3 Refer to the impact assessment above.

No-go option

Power lines Direct impacts:


42


(132kV x 3) and Access Roads for construction and maintenance.

Negative If the project is NOT implemented none of the following (positive) impacts will occur:

Job creation.




Supporting renewable energies. Implementation of strategic projects

for national and provincial development and economic growth

HIGH Implement the proposed Soar SCP and transmission lines.

Positive If the project is NOT implemented none of the following impacts will occur:


Removal of vegetation.

Alien invasive species infestation.

Habitat destruction.

Loss of soil resources.

Hydro-carbon spillage.

Decrease in visual aesthetics and change of sense of place.

Dust generation.

Avifauna collisions with erected infrastructure.

Permanent destruction of shallow geological strata at tower footings.

Vandalism of historical finds.

Destruction of unknown and sub-surface archaeological / paleontological material.

Increased noise and vibration.

Increased pressure on social services and infrastructure.

Illegal township establishment.

Increased transmission of STD’s

Increased traffic.

MODERATE None.


Lack of economic growth.

Continued dependency on non-renewable fossil fuels to generate electricity.

MODERATE None.

Positive

None. NONE None.


Increased electricity shortages in view of increasing electricity demand.

Unsustainably high costs of electricity to consumers.

MODERATE

None.


43


None. NONE None.

20MVA Transformers




A complete impact assessment in terms of Regulation 22(2)(i) of GN R.543 must be included as Appendix F. 2. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT Taking the assessment of potential impacts into account, please provide an environmental impact statement that summarises the impact that the proposed activity and its alternatives may have on the environment after the management and mitigation of impacts have been taken into account, with specific reference to types of impact, duration of impacts, likelihood of potential impacts actually occurring and the significance of impacts. Alternative A (preferred alternative)

For the purpose of this assessment, Site 6 is the preferred location for the Solar Park Substation. The 2 x 20 MVA transformers will be built in the approved and authorised Eskom CSP Evacuation Bay, and the 3 X 132kV power lines will be built in parallel alignment in a servitude not exceeding 108 m that has been located and micro-sited in a 500 m approved corridor. The conditions of the EMP will all be met.

It is the EAPs assessment based on the aforementioned that the impact of the project will be as follows:

The two transformers will be constructed within the footprint of the CSP Plant and are not expected to have any additional impacts on the receiving environment.

Environmental aspects such as terrestrial ecology, surface water, soils and land capability, geology, social aspects, heritage sites, noise, traffic and visual impacts were considered during the impact assessment for the construction and operation of the 3 x 132kV Power lines and access roads. The majority of impacts are expected to be temporary (limited to the construction phase). The implementation of the proposed management and mitigation measures will result in the potential residual impacts on the identified environmental elements being of Low to Very Low significance.

Some medium term impacts will be felt through the on-going maintenance of the power line


44

and its servitude / access roads; the visual impact will persist for as long as the infrastructure exists. The residual impacts associated with the operational phase of the project are rated as being Very Low with the exception of the residual impact on avifauna and soils. The residual impact on these two aspects is rated as Low.

The proposed project will also have positive impacts to the social environment through the creation of employment opportunities, the investment in infrastructure for the growth of the economy and delivery of social services (local, provincial, and national), the support of strategic initiatives, the diversification of the energy mix and consequent reduction on the dependence of coal fired power stations, the move toward renewable energies, and more sustainable economies. The overall positive impact of the project is considered to be of a Moderate significance and as such outweighs the residual negative impacts.

Due to the uniformity of the study area, the impacts of all three alternative routes will be the same.

In addition to the aforementioned the EAP also considers the following information relevant in making the impact statement:

The proposed infrastructure is required to integrate the Eskom CSP into the national grid and there is no other feasible solution that can be implemented within reasonable cost and with less environmental impacts.

The Eskom CSP Project is of high strategic importance, and should be implemented to further the objectives of sustainable energy production in South Africa.

No issues or concerns have been raised by I&APs that indicate the project should not proceed.

It is the EAPs assessment that the negative environmental impacts of this project are within acceptable limits and can be successfully mitigated. The project should be approved with conditions as stipulated in Section E below.

Alternative B

As the difference between the alternatives is so similar the impact statement given above is applicable to all alternatives.

Alternative C

As the difference between the alternatives is so similar the impact statement given above is applicable to all alternatives.

No-go alternative (compulsory)

Should the No-Go Option be identified as the preferred alternative, then the proposed construction of the three 132kV power lines and the two 20MVA Transformers cannot be undertaken. The Eskom CSP will have no way of evacuating the energy generated at the plant.

In this scenario the potential positive and negative environmental / social impacts as described in this Basic Assessment Report for the impacted and/or affected properties will not occur and the status quo will be maintained.

The Solar Park project is being constructed in response to several driving forces. These include among others:

1. The demand for electricity locally and nationally in South Africa to maintain the current development growth rate;

2. The environmental conditions in Upington and surrounds make it one of the most suitable locations worldwide for a Solar Energy Power Plant; and


45

3. The sources of electricity generation need to be diversified to ensure security of supply, and reduction in carbon footprint created by the current heavy reliance on coal produced electricity in South Africa.

The construction of the Solar Park without the associated transmission/distribution infrastructure will be a waste as none of the electricity generated can be fed into the power grid. Electricity would thus be generated and lost, as it will not be able to get distributed.

As a result the potential local and regional socio-economic and environmental benefits expected to be associated with the proposed facilities would not be realized. Eskom is committed to reduce their carbon footprint and to exploit green energy options to meet energy demand. If these power lines are not constructed Eskom might have to use coal initiatives in order to meet the demand.

The No-Go Alternative is not recommended.


46

SECTION E. RECOMMENDATION OF PRACTITIONER

Is the information contained in this report and the documentation attached hereto sufficient to make a decision in respect of the activity applied for (in the view of the environmental assessment practitioner)?

YES

If “NO”, indicate the aspects that should be assessed further as part of a Scoping and EIA process before a decision can be made (list the aspects that require further assessment).

N/A

If “YES”, please list any recommended conditions, including mitigation measures that should be considered for inclusion in any authorisation that may be granted by the competent authority in respect of the application.

The following conditions are recommended for inclusion in any authorisation that may be granted by the competent authority:

An EMPr has been compiled for responsible environmental management during the construction and operational phases of the project. This EMPr should be approved by the Department of Environmental Affairs and listed as a condition that must be adhered to.

All management and mitigation measures provided in the various specialist studies and in the EMPr must be adhered to.

Is an EMPr attached? YES

The EMPr must be attached as Appendix G. The details of the EAP who compiled the BAR and the expertise of the EAP to perform the Basic Assessment process must be included as Appendix H. If any specialist reports were used during the compilation of this BAR, please attach the declaration of interest for each specialist in Appendix I. Any other information relevant to this application and not previously included must be attached in Appendix J. ________________________________________ Warren Kok

28 February 2013

________________________________________ _________________ SIGNATURE OF EAP DATE


47

Appendix A: Maps


48

Appendix B: Site Photographs


49

Appendix C: Facility Illustration


50

Appendix D: Specialist Reports


51

Appendix E: Public Participation


52

Appendix E- 1: Adverts and Site Notices


53

Appendix E- 2: Correspondence to Stakeholders


54

Appendix E- 3: Issues and Response Report


55

Appendix E- 4: Proof of Authorities


56

Appendix E- 5: List of registered I&AP’s


57

Appendix E- 6: Meeting Minutes


58

Appendix F: Impact Assessment


59

IMPACT ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY

The impacts will be ranked according to the methodology described below. Where possible, mitigation measures will be provided to manage impacts. In order to ensure uniformity, a standard impact assessment methodology was utilised so that a wide range of impacts can be compared with each other. The impact assessment methodology makes provision for the assessment of impacts against the following criteria:

Significance;

Spatial scale;

Temporal scale;

Probability; and

Degree of certainty.

A combined quantitative and qualitative methodology was used to describe impacts for each of the aforementioned assessment criteria. A summary of each of the qualitative descriptors along with the equivalent quantitative rating scale for each of the aforementioned criteria is given in Table 1.

Table 1: Quantitative rating and equivalent descriptors for the impact assessment criteria

Rating Significance Extent Scale Temporal Scale

1 VERY LOW Isolated sites / proposed route Incidental

2 LOW Study area Short-term

3 MODERATE Local Medium-term

4 HIGH Regional / Provincial Long-term

5 VERY HIGH Global / National Permanent

A more detailed description of each of the assessment criteria is given in the following sections.

Significance Assessment

Significance rating (importance) of the associated impacts embraces the notion of extent and magnitude, but does not always clearly define these since their importance in the rating scale is very relative. For example, the magnitude (i.e. the size) of area affected by atmospheric pollution may be extremely large (1 000 km2) but the significance of this effect is dependent on the concentration or level of pollution. If the concentration is great, the significance of the impact would be HIGH or VERY HIGH, but if it is diluted it would be VERY LOW or LOW. Similarly, if 60 ha of a grassland type are destroyed the impact would be VERY HIGH if only 100 ha of that grassland type were known. The impact would be VERY LOW if the grassland type was common. A more detailed description of the impact significance rating scale is given in Table 2 below.


60

Table 2: Description of the significance rating scale

Rating Description

5 Very high Of the highest order possible within the bounds of impacts which could occur. In the case of adverse impacts: there is no possible mitigation and/or remedial activity which could offset the impact. In the case of beneficial impacts, there is no real alternative to achieving this benefit.

4 High Impact is of substantial order within the bounds of impacts, which could occur. In the case of adverse impacts: mitigation and/or remedial activity is feasible but difficult, expensive, time-consuming or some combination of these. In the case of beneficial impacts, other means of achieving this benefit are feasible but they are more difficult, expensive, time-consuming or some combination of these.

3 Moderate Impact is real but not substantial in relation to other impacts, which might take effect within the bounds of those which could occur. In the case of adverse impacts: mitigation and/or remedial activity are both feasible and fairly easily possible. In the case of beneficial impacts: other means of achieving this benefit are about equal in time, cost, effort, etc.

2 Low Impact is of a low order and therefore likely to have little real effect. In the case of adverse impacts: mitigation and/or remedial activity is either easily achieved or little will be required, or both. In the case of beneficial impacts, alternative means for achieving this benefit are likely to be easier, cheaper, more effective, less time consuming, or some combination of these.

1 Very low Impact is negligible within the bounds of impacts which could occur. In the case of adverse impacts, almost no mitigation and/or remedial activity are needed, and any minor steps which might be needed are easy, cheap, and simple. In the case of beneficial impacts, alternative means are almost all likely to be better, in one or a number of ways, than this means of achieving the benefit. Three additional categories must also be used where relevant. They are in addition to the category represented on the scale, and if used, will replace the scale.

0 No impact There is no impact at all - not even a very low impact on a party or system.

Spatial Scale

The spatial scale refers to the extent of the impact i.e. will the impact be felt at the local, regional, or global scale. The spatial assessment scale is described in more detail in Table 3.

Table 3: Description of the spatial scale

Rating Description

5 Global/National The maximum extent of any impact.

4 Regional/Provincial The spatial scale is moderate within the bounds of impacts possible, and will be felt at a regional scale (District Municipality to Provincial Level).

3 Local The impact will affect an area up to 10 km from the proposed route.

2 Study Area The impact will affect an area not exceeding the Study Area.

1 Isolated Sites / proposed route

The impact will affect an area no bigger than the power line pylon footing.


61

Duration Scale

In order to accurately describe the impact it is necessary to understand the duration and persistence of an impact in the environment. The temporal scale is rated according to criteria set out in Table 4.

Table 4: Description of the temporal rating scale

Rating Description

1 Incidental The impact will be limited to isolated incidences that are expected to occur very sporadically.

2 Short-term The environmental impact identified will operate for the duration of the construction phase or a period of less than 5 years, whichever is the greater.

3 Medium term The environmental impact identified will operate for the duration of life of facility.

4 Long term The environmental impact identified will operate beyond the life of operation.

5 Permanent The environmental impact will be permanent.

Degree of Probability

Probability or likelihood of an impact occurring will be described as shown in Table 5 below.

Table 5: Description of the degree of probability of an impact occurring

Rating Description

1 Practically impossible

2 Unlikely

3 Could happen

4 Very Likely

5 It’s going to happen / has occurred

Degree of Certainty

As with all studies it is not possible to be 100% certain of all facts, and for this reason a standard “degree of certainty” scale is used as discussed in Table 6. The level of detail for specialist studies is determined according to the degree of certainty required for decision-making. The impacts are discussed in terms of affected parties or environmental components.

Table 6: Description of the degree of certainty rating scale

Rating Description

Definite More than 90% sure of a particular fact.

Probable Between 70 and 90% sure of a particular fact, or of the likelihood of that impact occurring.

Possible Between 40 and 70% sure of a particular fact or of the likelihood of an impact


62

Rating Description

occurring.

Unsure Less than 40% sure of a particular fact or the likelihood of an impact occurring.

Can’t know The consultant believes an assessment is not possible even with additional research.

Don’t know The consultant cannot, or is unwilling, to make an assessment given available information.

Quantitative Description of Impacts

To allow for impacts to be described in a quantitative manner in addition to the qualitative description given above, a rating scale of between 1 and 5 was used for each of the assessment criteria. Thus the total value of the impact is described as the function of significance, spatial and temporal scale as described below:

Impact Risk = ((SIGNIFICANCE + Spatial + Temporal) ÷ 3) X (Probability ÷ 5)

An example of how this rating scale is applied is shown below.

Table 7: Example of Rating Scale

Impact Significance Spatial Scale

Temporal Scale

Probability Rating

LOW Local Medium-term Could Happen

Impact to air 2 3 3 3 1.6

Note: The significance, spatial and temporal scales are added to give a total of 8, that is divided by 3 to give a criteria rating of 2,67. The probability (3) is divided by 5 to give a probability rating of 0,6. The criteria rating of 2,67 is then multiplied by the probability rating (0,6) to give the final rating of 1,6.

The impact risk is classified according to five classes as described in the table below.

Table 8: Impact Risk Classes

Rating Impact Class Description

0.1 – 1.0 1 Very Low

1.1 – 2.0 2 Low

2.1 – 3.0 3 Moderate

3.1 – 4.0 4 High

4.1 – 5.0 5 Very High

Therefore with reference to the example used for air quality above, an impact rating of 1.6 will fall in the Impact Class 2, which will be considered to be a low impact.


63

Cumulative Impacts

It is a requirement that the impact assessments take cognisance of cumulative impacts. In fulfilment of this requirement the impact assessment will take cognisance of any existing impact sustained by the operations, any mitigation measures already in place, any additional impact to environment through continued and proposed future activities, and the residual impact after mitigation measures.

It is important to note that cumulative impacts at the national or provincial level will not be considered in this assessment, as the total quantification of external companies on resources is not possible at the project level due to the lack of information and research documenting the effects of existing activities. Such cumulative impacts that may occur across industry boundaries can also only be effectively addressed at Provincial and National Government levels.

Notation of Impacts

In order to make the report easier to read the following notation format is used to highlight the various components of the assessment:

Significance or magnitude- IN CAPITALS

Temporal Scale – in underline

Probability – in italics and underlined

Degree of certainty - in bold

Spatial Extent Scale – in italics

Preferred Alternative Due the uniformity of the study area in terms of the various environmental aspects, the impact assessment below is considered as relevant to all of the proposed alternative corridors. The construction of the two proposed 20MVA transformers will take place within the existing footprint of the Solar CSP Plant and as such are not considered as having any additional impact on the receiving environment. For this reason, an impact assessment for the construction of the transformers has not been included in this Report.

ASSESSMENT OF IMPACTS

The Impact Assessment highlights and describes the impact to the environment following the above-mentioned methodology and assesses the following components:

Air;

Aquatic Ecology;

Avifauna;

Geology;

Groundwater;

Heritage;

Noise;

Social;

Soils and Agricultural Potential;

Surface Water and Wetlands;

Terrestrial Ecology;


64

Topography;

Traffic; and

Visual. The impact assessment was undertaken for the construction and operational phases of the project. The alignment of the three proposed 132kV transmission lines will involve the construction and erection and stringing of new power line pylons along the preferred route.

1. Air Quality Impact

Initial Impact (Status Quo)

The existing ambient air quality in the study area is of a relatively good quality. There are no nearby factories or industries that produce emissions into the air. The initial impact on air quality can be considered as being of VERY LOW significance acting in the study area in the long term. It is, therefore, rated as a Very Low impact.

Additional Impact (Impact from the project)

Power lines do not have the potential to impact on air quality in terms of emissions however during the construction phase air quality will be impacted by dust from construction vehicles travelling on the gravel roads, as well as dust that may result from the removal of vegetation. During the construction phase the impact on air quality is considered as MODERATE affecting isolated sites in the short term and is very likely to occur. It is, therefore, considered to be a Low impact.

During the operational phase, dust may result from vehicles travelling on the gravel roads to perform general maintenance activities. The number of vehicles performing maintenance activities will be significantly lower than during the construction phase. Therefore, the impact during the operational phase is considered as being of VERY LOW significance affecting isolated sites sporadically. It is therefore rated as a Very Low impact.

Cumulative Impact

It is not expected that the resultant dust generation from both the construction and operational phases will contribute significantly to the ambient air quality of the study area. The impact is thus considered as Very Low.

Mitigation Measures

Dust generation resulting from vehicular traffic on gravel roads can be reduced by ensuring that traffic volumes are restricted and that vehicle speeds are not excessive. Should dust generation from gravel roads or areas of cleared vegetation become excessive, measures such as wetting the roads and open spaces or using products designed to bind the surface material may reduce dust generation. In addition, during construction phase, areas cleared of vegetation should be kept to a minimum and revegetation should take place as soon as possible. Vegetation will bind the soil thus reducing dust generation.

Residual Impact (after mitigation measures are successfully implemented)

If the proposed mitigation measures are implemented the residual impact on air quality will be considered as being of a VERY LOW significance affecting only isolated areas over the medium term. The probability of this impact occurring is considered as unlikely and the residual impact is, therefore, rated as Very Low.


65

Table 9: Air Quality Impacts

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Impact Type Significanc

e Spatial Scale

Temporal Scale

Probability

Rating

Initial/Existing Impact VERY LOW Study Area Long Term Unlikely

Very Low

1 2 4 2 0.9

Additional Impact MODERAT

E Isolated Short Term

Very Likely

Low

3 1 2 4 1.6

Cumulative Impact LOW Study Area Short Term Unlikely

Very Low

2 2 2 2 0.8

Residual Impact after Mitigation

VERY LOW Isolated Medium Term Unlikely Very Low

1 1 3 2 0.7

OPERATIONAL PHASE


e Spatial Scale

Temporal Scale

Probability

Rating

Additional Impact VERY LOW Isolated Incidental

Very Likely

Very Low

1 1 1 4 0.8

Cumulative Impact VERY LOW Isolated Incidental Unlikely

Very Low

1 1 1 2 0.4


VERY LOW Isolated Medium Term Unlikely Very Low

1 1 3 2 0.7

2. Aquatic Ecology Impact


The proposed transmission lines do not cross any rivers or perennial surface water bodies. Some non-perennial drainage lines will be crossed, although it is expected that these will be spanned and that no construction of pylons will take place in or adjacent to the drainage lines. Due to the arid nature of the study area, these drainage lines only transport water during the unlikely event of a rainfall event. As such, it is not likely that any aquatic ecology is present in these drainage lines.

Additional Impact (Impact from project)

No pylon/tower footings will be placed in any water bodies. Although drainage lines will be crossed for the construction of the proposed transmission lines, it is not expected that any pylons will be constructed in or directly adjacent to these areas as the power lines are able to span the drainage lines. Although no construction will take place in, or directly adjacent to, water bodies, sedimentation of water bodies may occur as a result of the removal of vegetation during construction.

Cumulative Impact

The cumulative impact remains as assessed for the additional impact – Very Low


66

Mitigation Measures

The proposed power lines do not cross any water bodies. Mitigation is not applicable.


There is no need to implement any mitigation measures. The residual impact will thus be the same as the additional impacts- Very Low

Table 10: Aquatic Ecology Impact

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Impact Type Significance Spatial Scale

Temporal Scale

Probability Rating

Initial/Existing Impact No Impact

Additional Impact LOW Isolated

Sites Short Term Unlikely Very Low

2 1 2 2 0.7

Cumulative Impact LOW Isolated


2 1 2 2 0.7


LOW Isolated


2 1 2 2 0.7

OPERATIONAL PHASE

Impact Type Significance Spatial Scale

Temporal Scale

Probability Rating

Additional Impact

The proposed transmission lines are not expected to have any impact on aquatic ecology during the operational phase.

Cumulative Impact


3. Avifauna Impact


The presence of avifaunal species is largely associated with habitat. If habitat is negatively impacted or transformed then this will impact on avifaunal populations. Site visits during the November wet season will be undertaken to verify the extent of any initial impacts to the habitat.


Due to their large size and prominence, electrical infrastructures impact on avifaunal populations. The two most common problems associated with high voltage transmission lines is the electrocution of birds and birds colliding with the power lines. Electrocution and power line collisions often result in mortality. Moreover, disturbance and habitat destruction / alteration during the construction and operational phases (construction of access roads, clearing of servitudes and maintenance activities) may also impact negatively on avifaunal populations by potentially disturbing breeding, foraging or roosting activities. It should be noted, however, that transmission lines may also be partially beneficial to many


67

birds by providing safe nesting and roosting sites in areas where suitable natural alternatives are scarce.

The impact on avifaunal populations during the construction phase will happen and are considered to be of HIGH significance, affecting the region over the medium term. The impact rating is calculated as being HIGH. During the operational phase the potential for electrocution and/or collisions is increased and the significance is described as HIGH, affecting the study area over the medium term. The impact rating is defined as Moderate.

Cumulative Impact

The cumulative impact remains as assessed for the additional impact – HIGH.

Mitigation Measures

Once the exact alignment is determined and pylon positions surveyed, an “avifaunal walk through” should be undertaken to identify the exact spans of the transmission line that may require marking with suitable approved line marking devices. In addition, power lines should be installed according to the Eskom bird collision prevention guideline. In order to manage the impact on habitat, it should be ensured that construction and maintenance activities be carried out according to generally accepted environmental best practice. In particular, care should be taken in the vicinity of the proposed river crossing. Existing roads must be used as far as possible for access during construction. Pylons should not be placed in the flight paths of birds. The power lines should be marked with Bird Flight Diverters on the earth wire of the line, alternating black and white diverters at a space of five metres apart. The 132kV transmission towers should be fitted with bird perches on top of the tower to draw birds away from the potentially risky insulators.


The successful implementation of the proposed mitigation measures during the construction phase would reduce the impact rating to Very Low, while the impact rating during the operational phase of the transmission lines is reduced to Low.

Table 11: Avifauna Impact

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Impact Type Significance Spatial Scale Temporal

Scale Probability Rating

Initial/Existing Impact

0 0 0 0 0

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

Additional Impact HIGH Regional/Provincial Medium Term

Is going to happen

High

4 4 3 5 3.3

Cumulative Impact

HIGH Regional/Provincial Medium Term Is going to

happen High

4 4 3 5 3.3


MODERATE Study Area Short Term Unlikely Very Low

3 2 2 2 0.9

OPERATIONAL PHASE

Impact Type Significance Spatial Scale Temporal

Scale Probability Rating

Additional Impact HIGH Study Area Medium Term Very Likely Moderate


68

4 2 3 4 2.4

Cumulative Impact

MODERATE Study Area Medium Term Could

happen Low

3 3 3 1.6


HIGH Study Area Medium Term Could

happen Low

4 2 3 3 1.8

4. Geology


Impacts that could occur to geology are limited to the physical removal of geological strata, resulting in permanent damage to those strata. The study area and surrounding region is largely utilised for grazing purposes and as such the geological features are not impacted on.


In terms of the additional impact on geology, the impact is limited to excavations for the pylon footings. During the construction phase the impacts will be at isolated sites and therefore have a LOW significance in the long term and are, therefore, rated as Very Low. The proposed transmission lines will not have any additional impact during the operational phase of the project.

Cumulative Impact

The cumulative impact remains as assessed for the additional impact – Very Low.

Mitigation Measures

Any excavations should be restricted to the pylon footprints and should blasting activities be required, it should not be allowed without a suitable blast design approved by an appropriately qualified professional.


The residual impact remains as assessed for the additional impact, Very Low.

Table 12: Impact on Geology

CONSTRUCTION PHASE


e Spatial Scale

Temporal Scale

Probability

Rating

Initial/Existing Impact No Impact

Additional Impact LOW Isolated Long Term Unlikely

Very Low

2 1 4 2 0.9

Cumulative Impact LOW Isolated Long Term Unlikely

Very Low

2 1 4 2 0.9


LOW Isolated Long Term Unlikely Very Low

2 1 4 2 0.9


69

5. Groundwater Impact

It is not expected that the construction of the proposed transmission lines will have any impact on groundwater in the study area or surrounding region. Potential hydrocarbon or cement spillages are dealt with in the section relating to soils (Section 5.9).

6. Heritage Impact


The occurrence of paleontological and archaeological landscape types could possibly occur although the probability is unlikely. Moreover, the occurrence of burial sites or graves is also possible, but unlikely. Surrounding activities such as grazing and mining take place. The HIA also determines that historic farmlands and pristine natural landscapes are likely to occur. Various HIA reports have been compiled in the general region and have indicated a distinct lack of heritage sites. The initial impact is rated as Very Low.


The construction of the proposed transmission lines could impact on unidentified sites of archeological and paleontological importance. The excavations for the establishment of the pylon/tower footings may result in the destruction or damaging of sub-surface archaeological or cultural (heritage) material along the corridor. Potential historical finds may be vandalized by construction workers. The construction of the power lines could result in alteration in the cultural characteristics of the landscape. Unidentified or sub-surface sites could still be encountered during the construction phase. The additional impact is considered as having a LOW significance and is limited to the study area over the short term. Uncovering of sub-surface heritage sites could happen and the potential additional impact is rated as being Low. Once constructed, the transmission lines are not expected to have any further impact on any potential heritage resources during the operational phase of the project.

Cumulative Impact

Considering the existing nature of the study area and the nature of the proposed development (construction of power lines), it is not expected that the project will have a significant effect on any potential heritage resources. The cumulative impact is thus rated as being Very Low.

Mitigation Measures

The following mitigation and management measures have been recommended by the heritage specialist:

Subject the final transmission line route to a walk down investigation;

Paleontological monitoring should take place during excavation activities if bedrock is to be disturbed;

Unidentified sites that are uncovered during construction activities should be reported to SAHRA or the relevant provincial authority; and

On uncovering a possible grave or burial site, it is imperative that construction be ceased immediately. The area should be marked and a heritage practitioner should be informed immediately.


The successful implementation of the proposed management and mitigation measures results in the Residual Impact being rated as for the Initial / Existing Impact, i.e. Very Low.


70

Table 13: Heritage Impact

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Impact Type Significan

ce Spatial Scale

Temporal Scale

Probability Rating

Initial/Existing Impact LOW

Proposed Route

Long Term Unlikely Very Low

2 1 4 2 0.9

Additional Impact LOW Study Area Short Term

Could happen

Low

2 2 2 3 1.2

Cumulative Impact LOW

Proposed Route

Short Term Unlikely Very Low

2 1 2 2 0.7


VERY LOW Proposed

Route Short Term Unlikely

Very Low

1 1 2 2 0.5

OPERATIONAL PHASE


ce Spatial Scale

Temporal Scale

Probability Rating

Additional Impact

No further impact expected during the operational phase. Cumulative Impact


7. Noise Impact


The study area is largely natural land used for grazing purposes. No significant industry occurs along the proposed corridors and noise generation is limited to traffic from vehicles travelling through the area. No sensitive receptors have been identified in the general area of the proposed routes for the transmission lines. The initial impact is rated as being Very Low.


Any potential noise impacts will generally be associated with the construction phase. Anybody located in the vicinity of the proposed construction activities will be subjected to increased noise nuisance (noise and vibration caused by construction machinery and equipment). Noise nuisance may be both intermittent and continuous. The movement of construction vehicles to and from the site, as well as the actual construction activities will all be sources of noise pollution. Uncontrolled construction activities may negatively impact on the ambient noise levels in the area. However, no receptors are located within close proximity to the proposed construction activities. The noise generation will, however, be short term (limited to the construction phase), affecting the study area and is considered to be of LOW significance. The impact rating is calculated as Low.

During the operational phase various maintenance activities will be required. The maintenance activities will only occur at isolated sites in the medium term and will be of a VERY LOW significance, therefore, a Very Low impact.


71

Cumulative Impact

The cumulative impact will remain as assessed for the additional impact, Low.

Mitigation Measures

Noise generating activities should be restricted to between 07:00 and 17:00. This includes the transportation of structures / equipment to site with the aid of heavy duty vehicles. Vehicles and machinery used to undertake these activities should be fitted with the appropriate muffling devices and should be serviced on a regular basis to ensure that they are not generating excessive noise.


The successful implementation of the proposed mitigation measures will result in the potential impact of noise nuisance to remain Very Low.

Table 14: Noise Impact

CONSTRUCTION PHASE


ce Spatial Scale

Temporal Scale

Probability Rating

Initial/Existing Impact VERY LOW

Study Area Long Term Practically impossible

Very Low

1 2 4 1 0.5

Additional Impact LOW Study Area Short Term Could happen Low

2 2 2 3 1.2

Cumulative Impact LOW Study Area Short Term Could happen Low

2 2 2 3 1.2


VERY LOW

Study Area Short Term Unlikely Very Low

1 2 2 2 0.7

OPERATIONAL PHASE


ce Spatial Scale

Temporal Scale

Probability Rating

Additional Impact VERY LOW

Isolated Medium Term Unlikely Very Low

1 1 3 2 0.7

Cumulative Impact VERY LOW


1 1 3 2 0.7


VERY LOW


1 1 3 2 0.7

8. Social Impact


No initial impacts were identified, specialist used Status Quo.


72


The news of employment opportunities may result in an influx of workers to the area, thereby impacting existing community networks and perceptions of safety and crime levels. Unmanaged workers may result in illegal township establishment and increased numbers of informal settlements. Such settlements often negatively impact a range of environmental elements. Increase pressure on local services and infrastructure can be expected due to immigration. This will also have an effect on the local roads and transport systems; impact on private property and contribute to the erosion of roads due to heavy construction vehicles. Change in land use is a geographic process that affects the land use patterns of society. The changes in land use that are relevant to this project are the change from agricultural land to a servitude that must be kept clear. This may cause a number of impacts. In some of the areas there are plants that are used for traditional medicine, and communities have free access to these areas. The visual changes to the landscape as a result of the project are another change that should be considered. Although the land use under the lines remains the same, the visual impact and potential environmental impacts may cause a number of second- or higher-order social impacts.

Cumulative Impact

The cumulative impact is will remain as assessed for the additional impact, i.e. High. During the operational phase the impact is reduced to Moderate.

Mitigation Measures

Mitigation measure will focus on impacts that can be mitigated due to difficulty of implementing mitigating impacts during construction progress. Infrastructure such as roads should be maintained or improved. It should be the responsibility of the contractor to manage impacts on private property. When Provincial and national roads are involved, the responsibility will not lie with the contractor but with Eskom to consult with the relevant road agencies, to ensure that they do not contribute to the deterioration of roads. The contractors should have a trained medical aid person on site to deal with smaller incidents that require medical input. Eskom cannot control squatter settlement around town. The contractors should thus ensure that no squatter settlements are erected near or adjacent to construction camps. A detailed resettlement action plan should be compiled for communities that will be affected by such a process, but should rather be avoided completely. Impacts on the sense of the place cannot be mitigated. The only way to mitigate is to avoid the impact. The recommendation by the social impact specialist is that unspoilt natural areas should be avoided as far as possible and infrastructure should rather be erected in areas where similar infrastructure already occurs. Loss of productive land cannot simply be compensated by looking at the financial value of the piece of land in question. The replacement cost of the land must be considered. In some areas people already have infrastructure such as railways, roads, water pipelines and power lines on their properties. Putting another line over such a property should be avoided if possible. Plants that are used for medicinal purposes should be removed, kept in a nursery and replanted where possible. Environmental nuisances that occur during construction will be temporary. Given the fact that there are existing impacts from heavy vehicles in some areas, many of the nuisances will be cumulative. Where possible dust suppression must be used. No construction work should take place on Sundays, public holidays and during the night.

The social impact will be medium term, affecting the Local area and is considered to be of HIGH significance. The impact rating is calculated as HIGH.


Many of the impacts cannot be mitigated to such an extent that they are no longer significant. Many of the impacts will be short term, and disappear after the construction phase. Another residual impact is STDs and HIV/AIDS. The residual impact on tourism is difficult to anticipate, but in all likelihood there


73

will be a change in the profile of people visiting the area. Positive impacts can be expected for small-scale entrepreneurs.

Table 15: Social Impact

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Impact Type Significance Spatial Scale Temporal Scale Probability Rating

Initial/Existing Impact

0 0 0 0 0

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

Additional Impact 4 3 3 5 4

High Local Medium Term It is going to happen

High

Cumulative Impact 4 3 3 5 4

High Local Medium Term It is going to happen

High


3 3 3 4 3

Moderate Local Medium Term Very Likely Moderate

OPERATIONAL PHASE

Impact Type Significance Spatial Scale Temporal Scale Probability Rating

Additional Impact 3 3 3 3 3

Moderate Local Medium Term Could

Happen Moderate

Cumulative Impact 3 4 3 3 3

Moderate Local Medium term Could

Happen Moderate


3 3 2 3 3

Moderate Local Short Term Could

Happen Moderate

9. Soils and Agricultural Potential Impact


The bulk of the study area is covered by recent (Quarternary) alluvium and calcrete. Superficial deposits of the Kalahari Group are also present in the east. The majority of the study site consists of red soils with no dunes, with soil depth greater than 300mm. The north-eastern corner exhibits red soils with dunes and a soil depth of greater than 300mm, while the south-western corner has red soils less than 300mm deep (Jones & Wagner, 2012). The broader study area is prone to two potential interrelated sensitivities – erosion and shifting sands. Such areas require special attention for construction activities such as roads, and pylon sitings and footings. In terms of Agricultural Potential (land capability), the soils in which the study area is located are identified as Class VII soils. Class VII soils have continuing limitations that cannot be corrected, such as rock complexes, climate, stoniness, and a shallow rooting zone. The land capability can be described as grazing land and is not considered arable (Jones and Wagner, 2012). The existing impact to soils is rated as Low.


The additional impact of the proposed power lines will mainly be in the form of the clearing of the vegetation for the pylon sites, excavation of the foundations for the pylons, and the construction of access roads to the pylons (if required). This will leave portions of cleared land susceptible to erosion. In addition, during the laying of foundations for the pylon footings, potential concrete and hydrocarbon


74

spills may occur, resulting in localised contamination of soils. In terms of impact to agriculture, grazing can continue under the power lines and in the servitudes as well as the planting of low growing crops. The activities that are limited is the use of large irrigation systems such as pivots, spraying of crops by planes and the planting of high growing crops such as fruit trees, windbreaks and palms. Once operational, the impacts to the soil will remain, and if the construction activities have not been properly managed, wind erosion may occur. The significance of the additional impact is considered as having LOW significance and is limited to the study area over the long term. The additional impact during the construction phase is rated as being Moderate.

Cumulative Impact

The cumulative impact of the power line construction and operations on the resource remains as calculated for the additional impact, i.e. Moderate.

Mitigation Measures

Mitigation and management measures should include ensuring that any fuel storage or cement batching takes place on a lined and bunded surface. No pit latrines should be allowed. Where hydrocarbon spillages occur, the contaminated soil should be removed and be remediated or taken to a suitable disposal facility.

Erosion control measures, e.g. berms or silt netting must be constructed where necessary in the natural drainage lines in order to slow down the water flow velocity, thereby lowering its scouring effect on the sediment. Stockpiles of soil must be protected from getting washed into the drainage lines during thunderstorms.

In addition, the following management and mitigation measures are also recommended to reduce the potential impact on soils and agricultural potential along the proposed alignment routes:

Avoid unnecessary removal of vegetation cover;

Use existing access roads as far as possible; If a new road is constructed, ensure that the Eskom erosion prevention guideline is followed and adhere to the Eskom tower construction specification TRMSCAAC1 Rev 3;

Take land use into consideration when choosing pylon types, it is recommended that smaller footprint pylons be used in cultivated areas;

Avoid placement of pylon footings in clay soils as well as on dunes, towers to be sited in between dunes in the so-called dune-streets;

Avoid the construction of access roads through dunes;

Spread absorbent sand on areas where oil spills are likely to occur, such as the refuelling area in the hard park;

Oil-contaminated soils are to be removed to a contained storage area and bio-remediated or disposed of at a licensed facility;

Use berms to minimise erosion where vegetation is disturbed, including hard parks, plant sites, borrow pit and office areas;

If soils are excavated for the footing placement, ensure that the soil is utilised elsewhere for rehabilitation/road building purposes; and

Ensure that soil is stockpiled in such a way as to prevent erosion from wind/storm water.


75


The successful implementation of management and mitigation measures will reduce the impact on soils and agricultural potential to Low.

Table 16: Soils and Agricultural Potential Impact

CONSTRUCTION PHASE


ce Spatial Scale

Temporal Scale

Probability Rating

Initial/Existing Impact LOW Study Area Medium Term Very Likely Low

2 2 3 4 1.8

Additional Impact LOW Study Area Long Term

Going to happen

Moderate

2 2 4 5 2.7


Proposed Route

Long Term Going to happen

Moderate

2 1 4 5 2.3


LOW Proposed

Route Medium Term Very Likely Low

2 1 3 4 1.6

OPERATIONAL PHASE


ce Spatial Scale

Temporal Scale

Probability Rating

Additional Impact LOW Study Area Long Term

Going to happen

Moderate

2 2 4 5 2.7


Proposed Route

Long Term Going to happen

Moderate

2 1 4 5 2.3


LOW Proposed

Route Medium Term Very Likely Low

2 1 3 4 1.6

10. Surface Water and Wetlands Impact


The surface water features in the region of the study area is dominated by the Orange River which is the only perennial river in the general area. The Orange River is located southeast of the study site and is separated from the study site by the N14 highway. Several non-perennial drainage lines are located within the study area. These non-perennial drainage lines are never inundated and saturation is unknown. The drainage lines only transport water in the unlikely event of a rainfall event. Due to the aridness of the region, all water bodies (including drainage lines) are seen as highly sensitive and important features which should be avoided (Jones and Wagner, 2012).

Generally the dominant land use for grazing. Surface water features experience little impact other than perhaps sedimentation as a result of sheet erosion. The existing impact can be described as being of a VERY LOW significance affecting the local area over a long term period. The overall impact rating of the existing impacts on surface water bodies in the general area of the study site is considered as Low.


76


The proposed transmission lines will need to cross some non-perennial drainage lines, however, all affected drainage lines can be spanned by the power lines. It will not be required to construct pylons within or immediately adjacent to the drainage lines. Construction activities generally result in the clearing of vegetation which in turn destabilises the soil. As such, the impact on potential erosion is aggravated. Moreover, any hydrocarbon spillages or accidental cement spillages could result in these materials being transported to these drainage lines during a rainfall event. Rainfall in this area, however, is generally scarce. The impact of the proposed construction activities can be described as being of a LOW significance affecting the study area over the short term. It is very likely that this impact will occur. The impact rating for the construction phase is Low.

During the operational phase the transmission lines will require ongoing maintenance. This will require vehicular access along the entire extent of the route. It is not expected that the occasional maintenance activities will impact significantly on any surface water bodies, such as the drainage lines. The impact is calculated as having VERY LOW significance and is limited to the proposed route over the medium term, and is considered unlikely to occur. The overall impact rating for the operational phase is Very Low.

Cumulative Impact

The bulk of the study area is utilised for grazing or is still in its natural state. Several gravel roads traverse the area, but there is little general disturbance. The only surface water bodies within the study area are a variety of non-perennial drainage lines that generally don’t hold or transport water except during a rain event. Rainfall in the area is minimal. The proposed construction and operation of the transmission lines is expected to contribute minimally to the cumulative impact and the impact rating has been described as Low.

Mitigation Measures

General management and mitigation measures relevant to protecting the drainage lines are as follows:

No construction camps or pylons should be placed within 50m from the edge of a drainage line or other surface water body.

Care must be taken not to damage or pollute the drainage lines which are sensitive to impacts during the construction as well as operational phases;

Damage to any riparian vegetation in the drainage canal must be limited to the minimum as it also contributes to lower the flow speed of the water;

Demarcated areas where waste can be safely contained and stored on a temporary basis during the construction phase should be provided at the hard park;

Waste is not to be buried on site;

Hydrocarbons should be stored in a lined and bunded storage area;

All hazardous materials inter alia paints, turpentine and thinners must be stored appropriately to prevent these contaminants from entering the environment;

Spill-sorb or similar type product must be used to absorb hydrocarbon spills in the event that such spills should occur;

Care must be taken to ensure that in removing vegetation adequate erosion control measures are implemented;

A storm-water management plan, including sufficient erosion-control measures, must be compiled in consultation with a suitably qualified environmental practitioner / control officer during the detailed design phase prior to the commencement of construction; and

The propagation of low-growing dense vegetation suitable for the habitat such as grasses, sedges or reeds is the best natural method to reduce erosion potential in sensitive areas.


77


The successful implementation of the recommended management and mitigation measures will reduce the potential for the activities to impact on any surface water features. The impact rating is described as Very Low.

Table 17: Surface Water Impact

CONSTRUCTION PHASE


ce Spatial Scale

Temporal Scale

Probability Rating

Initial/Existing Impact VERY LOW Local Long Term

Could happen

Low

1 3 4 3 1.6

Additional Impact LOW Study Area Short Term Very Likely Low

2 2 2 4 1.6

Cumulative Impact LOW Study Area Medium Term

Could happen

Low

2 2 3 3 1.4


VERY LOW Study Area Medium Term Unlikely Very Low

1 2 3 2 0.8

OPERATIONAL PHASE


ce Spatial Scale

Temporal Scale

Probability Rating

Additional Impact VERY LOW

Proposed Route

Medium Term Unlikely Very Low

1 1 3 2 0.7

Cumulative Impact LOW Study Area Medium Term

Could happen

Low

2 2 3 3 1.4


VERY LOW Study Area Medium Term Unlikely Very Low

1 2 3 2 0.8

11. Terrestrial Ecology Impact


The majority of the study area falls within the vegetation type described as Kalahari Karrooid Shrubland, with Bushmanland Arid Grassland in the southeast and Gordonia Duneveld in the northeast. Shrubs and grasses dominate in the majority of the study area Kalahari Karroid Shrubland. This vegetation unit is not threatened and alien plants have been introduced due to the disturbance caused by early roads. The Bushman Arid Grassland is dominated by white grasses. Very little of this vegetation unit has been disturbed and is thus not considered threatened. The Gordonia Duneveld vegetation unit is characterised by the red Kalahari dunes. Vegetation includes open shrubland with grasses dominating the dune crests. This vegetation unit is well conserved and is not threatened. The removal of vegetative cover can, however, result in mobilisation of dune sands (Jones and Wagner, 2012). Generally species that can withstand the arid climate are found within the grasslands and shrub plains. The study area is located outside of any terrestrial Critical Biodiversity Areas. In terms of the


78

existing impact to the ecology of the study area, the vegetation has hardly been disturbed in most cases and the area is almost natural in appearance. The impact rating is considered to be Low.


The additional impact of the proposed power lines to the ecology will be the removal of vegetation within the servitude for the construction of the new power lines and the associated servitude roads. This is standard operating procedure for the construction of power lines. In addition to the impact to the vegetation, the noise and activity might scare local fauna away from the study area. Please note that the areas indicated are for the entire corridor, not only the line. Moreover, the disturbance resulting from the proposed construction activities may result in alien invasive and weed species infestation. Assuming that standard operating procedures will be followed to clear vegetation in the servitude, the impact to vegetation is described as having LOW significance, affecting only the proposed route over the long term. This impact is unavoidable and is going to happen. The overall impact is rated as Moderate. Due to the affected vegetation units all being rated as not threatened, this rating applies to all the route alternatives.

The operational phase of the transmission lines will require occasional maintenance activities to be undertaken along the entire extent of the route. Access roads will already have been created and further additional impact to the vegetation is not expected.

Cumulative Impact

If the abovementioned mitigation measures are implemented successfully, then the cumulative impact of the power lines and the existing impacts should not result in an impact larger than was assessed for the initial impacts. Thus the impact rating is described as Low.

Mitigation Measures

The following measures are proposed to manage and mitigate the potential impacts to terrestrial ecology along the proposed power line routes:

General: o No hunting or cooking to be permitted on site; o All permits and licenses for disturbance of protected fauna and flora must be obtained

from the relevant regulation authority prior to commencement of any construction activity;

o Protected trees and plants should be avoided as far as possible and the final placement of power lines should take cognizance of such species;

o All construction areas should be demarcated prior to construction to ensure that the footprint of the impacts are limited (including areas where vehicles may traverse);

o All alien invasive species on site should be removed and follow up monitoring and removal programmes should be initiated once construction is completed;

o Alternative 1 should be considered the preferred alternative; o Adhere to the ESKOM vegetation management guideline; o The Environmental Control Officer should identify any sensitive floral or faunal species

along the servitude, particularly large terrestrial species and notify the fauna specialist of these so that advice can be given on how to best deal with the situation;

o The construction of new access roads in particular should be limited to a minimum; o and All vehicle and pedestrian movement should be restricted to the actual

construction site and, in the case of maintenance patrols, to the actual servitude.


The successful implementation of the recommended management and mitigation measures will reduce the impact on the terrestrial ecology. The impact is rated as Low.


79

Table 18: Terrestrial Ecology Impact

CONSTRUCTION PHASE


ce Spatial Scale

Temporal Scale

Probability Rating

Initial/Existing Impact LOW Isolated Sites Short Term Has occurred Low

2 1 2 5 1.7

Additional Impact LOW

Proposed Route

Long Term Is going to

happen Modera

te

2 1 4 5 2.3

Cumulative Impact LOW Isolated Sites Long Term Could happen Low

2 1 4 3 1.4


LOW Proposed

Route Medium Term Could happen Low

2 1 3 3 1.2

OPERATIONAL PHASE


ce Spatial Scale

Temporal Scale

Probability Rating

Additional Impact

Further additional impact during the operational phase is not expected. Cumulative Impact


12. Topography

The study area is dominated by plains with some valleys in the southernmost extent. No sensitivities in terms of topographical features were identified in the study area, although it was noted that the dunefields in the Kalahari may afford some unique challenges in the form of shifting sands and erosion. The impacts associated with the potential shifting sands and potential for erosion are described in Section 9. It is not expected that the construction of the proposed transmission lines will have any impact on the topography of the study area.

13. Traffic Impact


The proposed study area is sparsely populated and generally used for grazing or still exists in its natural state. The N14 highway passes south of the area and several gravel and dirt roads provide access to the various farms located in this vicinity. The initial impact from traffic is rated as Low.


During construction there will be an increase in vehicular traffic on the existing roads in the region. This may impact the conditions of the roads. The increased traffic volumes will be limited to the construction phase. Vehicular traffic during the operational phase will be limited to the occasional maintenance


80

vehicles. Access roads may need to be constructed and are likely to be gravel roads. Heavy vehicles travelling along such roads will compact the soil and erosion may result after heavy rainfall events. Uncontrolled movement of construction vehicles may result in unnecessary impacts to the environment through vegetation and habitat destruction. The additional impact resulting from the proposed activity will have MODERATE significance affecting the local area over the short term (construction phase) and is considered definite. The overall impact rating is Moderate. The impact associated with the operational phase is Low.

Cumulative Impact

The cumulative impact of the power line construction and operations on traffic remains as calculated for the additional impact, i.e. Moderate.

Mitigation Measures

The following traffic related mitigation measures are proposed:

All road design work must be carried out by suitably qualified personnel, compliant with relevant standards and be approved by the appropriate road authority.

All other construction vehicles, e.g. compactors, water browsers, etc should, as far as possible, be confined to the proposed route (site) and should not travel on public roads unnecessarily.


Implementation of the proposed management measures will result in the impact during the construction phase being a Low impact, while during the operational phase it will be a Very Low impact.

Table 19: Traffic Impact

CONSTRUCTION PHASE


ce Spatial Scale

Temporal Scale

Probability Rating

Initial/Existing Impact VERY LOW

Local Long Term Unlikely Low

1 3 4 2 1.1

Additional Impact MODERAT

E Local Short Term

Is going to happen

Moderate

3 3 2 5 2.7

Cumulative Impact MODERAT

E Local Short Term

Is going to happen

Moderate

3 3 2 5 2.7


LOW Study Area Short Term Very Likely Low

2 2 2 4 1.6

OPERATIONAL PHASE


ce Spatial Scale

Temporal Scale

Probability Rating

Additional Impact LOW Study Area Incidental Could happen

Very Low

2 2 1 3 1

Cumulative Impact LOW Study Area Incidental Could happen

Very Low

2 2 1 3 1

Residual Impact after LOW Study Area Incidental Could happen Very


81

Mitigation Low

2 2 1 3 1

14. Visual Impact


The existing visual environment is impacted by current infrastructure including roads and existing power lines in an otherwise natural landscape. It is not expected that there are many sensitive receptors in the study area. The impact is considered to be of LOW significance affecting the local area over the medium term. The impact has already occurred in terms of the existing infrastructure and the impact rating is thus calculated as Moderate.


The presence of 132kV power lines changes the way the landscape looks. The large size of the pylons / towers is visually dominant. The extent of the visual impact is dependent on the location of the towers in relation to the topography. Visual impact assessments undertaken for similar projects have indicated that 132kV power lines are visible but not intrusive in daylight from 5km away. Power lines are, however, not seen as intrusive until they are 450m or closer to the observer. The potential number of viewers is low as the farmlands are quite sparsely populated. The study area is relatively devoid of infrastructure, with the exception of some roads and existing transmission lines. The construction impact of the construction of the power lines will mainly be in the form of the construction machinery, workers and the erection and stringing of the pylons. The impact is rated as having a LOW impact acting on the local area in the short term. This impact is going to happen and is therefore rated as a Moderate impact. During the operational period, the established impacts on construction will remain and therefore, the rating remains as assessed during the construction phase, i.e. a Moderate impact.

Cumulative Impact

The cumulative impact is will remain as assessed for the additional impact, i.e. Moderate. The same applies for the operational phase.

Mitigation Measures

General management and mitigation measures that should be implemented for this activity include:

Make use of existing roads where possible;

Where new access roads are required, the disturbance area should be kept as small as possible. A two-track dirt road will be the most preferred option;

Access roads which are not required post-construction should be ripped and rehabilitated;

Locate access routes so as to limit modification to the topography and to avoid the removal of established vegetation;

If practically possible, locate construction camps in areas that are already disturbed or where it isn’t necessary to remove established vegetation, e.g. naturally bare areas; and

Keep the construction sites and camps neat, clean and organised in order to portray a tidy appearance.

All disturbed areas should be rehabilitated after completion of construction.



82

The implementation of the above-mentioned mitigation measures may reduce the likelihood of the impacts occurring. The resultant residual impact rating is rated as a LOW negative impact, acting on the local area in the medium term. This impact is very likely to occur and is, therefore, rated as a Moderate impact. The same applies during the operational phase.

Table 20: Visual Impact

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Impact Type Significa

nce Spatial Scale

Temporal Scale

Probability Rating

Initial/Existing Impact LOW Local Medium Term Has occurred Moderate

2 3 3 5 2.7

Additional Impact

MODERA

TE

Regional/Provincial

Medium term Is going to

happen Moderate

3 3 3 5 3

Cumulative Impact MODERA

TE Local Medium Term

Is going to happen

Moderate

3 3 3 5 3


LOW Local Medium Term Very Likely Moderate

2 3 3 4 2.1

OPERATIONAL PHASE

Impact Type Significa

nce Spatial Scale

Temporal Scale

Probability Rating

Additional Impact LOW Local Short Term

Is going to happen

Moderate

2 3 2 5 2.3

Cumulative Impact LOW Local Short Term

Is going to happen

Moderate

2 3 2 5 2.3


LOW Local Medium Term Very Likely Moderate

2 3 3 4 2.1


83

Appendix G: Environmental Management Program


84

Appendix H: Details of EAP and expertise


85

Appendix I: Specialist’s declaration of interest


86

Appendix J: Other Information


87

Documents

FINAL BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT - EIA for Solar Park... · 2013. 3. 4. · 5 x 132 kV lines for the DoE Solar Park; and 2 x (±) 25 km 132 kV lines to Gordonia Substation (Upington)