Heritage Cases

In line with national electricity generation and job creation priorities, the construction of the proposed transmission line and associated sub-stations will provide significant benefit to the local community. Benefits will firstly come in the form of direct employment and skills development opportunities primarily during the construction but also subsequent operational phases which will assist in the alleviation of unemployment in the area. Secondly, the development of the proposed transmission line and associated sub-stations is essential for the continuation of adequate, reliable electricity supply to the northern suburbs of Bloemfontein. This will ensure a continued basic quality of living is maintained for the local community. It will also enable further subsequent economic and developmental progress in the community. The project will therefore provide a financial as well as social benefit to the area. Due to the rapid, continual growth in electricity demand over the last couple of years in the northern development areas of Bloemfontein, the existing 132 kV ring network has become increasingly under enormous pressure, especially during peak electricity demand periods. The demand is therefore continuously exceeding the possible supply from the current network. If the proposed project does not go ahead, the current electricity shortage within the Langenhovenpark and northern development areas of Bloemfontein will continue to increase in frequency and duration. Existing and proposed future development and residential areas are in need of adequate, reliable electricity supply, which will be sufficiently provided by the proposed transmission line and sub-station development. The adequate distribution of generated electricity is crucial within the context of South Africa’s current energy crisis. Electricity provision is also a basic human necessity and right which adds to the improvement of livelihood and quality of living.