Court Delivers Major Blow to TotalEnergies’ South African Oil Ambitions
In a significant legal setback for international oil exploration in South African waters, the Western Cape High Court has overturned environmental authorization for TotalEnergies’ Block 5/6/7 offshore exploration project. The court ruled that the environmental impact assessment was “deeply flawed, failing to address key risks, legal requirements, and public participation,” according to environmental group Green Connection.
The decision affects a massive 10,000 square kilometer offshore block near Cape Town, where TotalEnergies was partnering with Shell and South Africa’s national oil company, PetroSA. The court has ordered the permit to be reopened for public consultation, forcing TotalEnergies and its partners to reapply for the license.
TotalEnergies withdrew from the block last year but stated it “remained fully committed to respecting the judicial process” and would “legally assess the judgment in more detail and decide on the course of action.” Shell, now the successor operator, emphasized that “South Africa is currently reliant on energy imports for many of its energy needs” and that viable offshore resources could “significantly contribute to South Africa’s energy security.”
Environmental groups have also lodged an appeal against Shell’s environmental authorization for the Northern Cape Ultra Deep block, indicating continued legal challenges for offshore exploration activities.
Sources: energycapitalpower.com, worldoil.com
