The Port of Durban has reached a major milestone in its drive to become South Africa’s top energy and logistics hub, after the signing of the Lot 100 Terminal Operator Agreement between Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) and WASAA Gasses, in partnership with the Central Energy Fund (CEF).
The signing ceremony, held today at Transnet’s Pier 1, Bhekulwandle auditorium, marks the official appointment of the WASAA and CEF partnership as the preferred bidder and terminal operator for the Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) Terminal, one of the most significant infrastructure projects within the Island View Precinct of the Port of Durban.
Valued at R1.4 billion, the project will establish a 50 000m³ LPG storage and handling terminal, expected to become operational in 2027. The terminal will be capable of dispatching up to 800 m³ of heated LPG mix per hour.
Speaking at the ceremony, WASAA Gasses founder and Managing Director, Nokwanele Qondi, emphasised the transformative potential of the partnership, noting that the project aligns with South Africa’s energy transition and the growing regional demand for LPG.
“The construction of the Lot 100 comes at the most opportune time for South Africa as the demand for energy continues to soar.”
While eThekwini Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba welcomed the development, saying:
“Allow me to congratulate the Transnet-WASAA joint venture. For us as a city, this is a welcome development, as it will greatly enhance Durban’s position as a leading energy and logistics hub. We remain committed to working with Transnet, particularly TNPA, to unlock the full potential of the Port of Durban. We want Durban to be a leading logistics hub in South Africa.”
The Lot 100 LPG Terminal, once operational, will be constructed, developed, financed, and managed by the signatory companies over 25 years. As one of the anchor energy facilities within the port, it will play a key role in strengthening fuel security and supporting the region’s industrial growth.
Today’s signing confirms the preferred bidder represents a strategic leap forward in transforming South Africa’s energy logistics landscape, solidifying Durban’s influence in the global maritime economy.
As the eThekwini Maritime Cluster, we congratulate all partners on this momentous occasion and look forward to supporting the successful implementation of this landmark project.