JOINT MEDIA STATEMENT
Date: 13 March 2026
Zululand Energy Terminal and RBIDZ Sign Strategic Agreement to Advance Gas Infrastructure in Richards Bay
[Richards Bay, South Africa] The Zululand Energy Terminal (ZET) and the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone Company SOC Ltd (RBIDZ) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the KwaZulu-Natal Energy Indaba, marking an important step toward strengthening gas infrastructure development and industrial growth in the province.
The signing ceremony took place in the presence of the MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Honourable Musa Zondi, alongside leaders from government, industry and the energy sector. The agreement was signed by RBIDZ Chief Executive Officer, Mr Thabane Zulu, and ZET Project Owner and Director, Mr Oliver Naidu.
The MoU establishes a framework for collaboration between ZET and RBIDZ to explore opportunities to support the development of gas infrastructure associated with the proposed Zululand Energy Terminal LNG import project at the Port of Richards Bay. The collaboration will focus on enabling infrastructure that facilitates the distribution of regasified liquefied natural gas (LNG) to multiple users within the region and the broader South African market. In terms of the agreement, the parties will work together to explore the development of a Gas Custody Transfer Station within the RBIDZ, which will enable the distribution of regasified LNG from the proposed LNG terminal to third-party transmission pipelines and downstream users.
The MoU further outlines cooperation between ZET and RBIDZ in key areas including:
• Exploring the development of gas infrastructure within the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone.
• Supporting the integration of LNG import infrastructure with the regional gas transmission network.
• Facilitating potential commercial and industrial opportunities linked to the development of gas supply in the region.
• Strengthening coordination on technical, regulatory and infrastructure matters required to advance the project.
The collaboration aims to support the development of Richards Bay as a strategic energy hub, capable of attracting new investment and enabling downstream gas-based industries within KwaZulu-Natal.
The Zululand Energy Terminal, a partnership between Vopak Terminal Durban and Transnet Pipelines, is developing South Africa’s first LNG import terminal at the Port of Richards Bay. The project is expected to play a key role in supporting South Africa’s energy security by enabling gas supply for power generation and industrial use.
The Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone continues to position the region as a leading destination for investment in energy, manufacturing and logistics, with the LNG project expected to unlock further opportunities for industrial expansion, job creation and economic growth.
Today’s agreement reflects the growing collaboration between government and industry partners to develop strategic infrastructure that strengthens energy security, supports industrialisation and drives sustainable economic growth.
ENDS
Media enquiries:
Sinenhlanhla Mthembu
Media Liaison Officer &Spokesperson
EDTEA
083 461 0113
Mfundo Ndwandwe
Head of Corporate Affairs
Zululand Energy Terminals
083 555 7459
Choice Sihiya
Communications Manager
RBIDZ
084 207 5823