Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Report VOLUME 1 OF 7 APRIL 2024 PUBLIC Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Report TYPE OF DOCUMENT (VERSION) PUBLIC PROJECT NO. 41103965 DATE: APRIL 2024 PUBLIC Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Report WSP Building 1, Maxwell Office Park Magwa Crescent West, Waterfall City Midrand, 1685 South Africa Phone: +27 11 254 4800 WSP.com PUBLIC QUALITY CONTROL Issue/revision First issue Revision 1 Revision 2 Revision 3 Remarks ESIA Report ESIA Report ESIA Report - ESIA Report – FINAL FINALV2 Date November 2023 December 2023 March 2024 April 2024 Prepared by Megan Govender Megan Govender Megan Govender Ashlea Strong Signature - - - Checked by Ashlea Strong Ashlea Strong Ashlea Strong Ashlea Strong Signature - - - Authorised by Ashlea Strong Ashlea Strong Ashlea Strong Ashlea Strong Signature - - - Project number 41103965 41103965 41103965 41103965 Report number 01 02 03 03 File reference \\corp.pbwan.net\za\Central_Data\Projects\41100xxx\41103965 - Eskom Komati PV ESIA and WULA\41 ES\01-Reports\11-ESIA\ KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) EXECUTIVE SUMMARY WSP Group Africa (Pty) Ltd (WSP) has been appointed by Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) (Eskom) to undertake an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) to meet the requirements of both the World Bank Group (WBG) Environmental and Social Framework (ESF) and the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) requirements under the National Environmental Management Act (Act 107 of 1998) (NEMA), for the proposed 100 MW Solar Photovoltaics (PV) Energy Facility (SEF); 150 MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS); and ancillary infrastructure at the Komati Power Station located in the Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. An additional 50 MW PV is proposed on the existing ashing facility at Komati Power Station in Phase II, which will be confirmed following decommissioning and rehabilitation activities. A 70 MW Wind Energy Facility (WEF) is also proposed. The SEF, BESS and WEF project forms part of the greater Eskom Just Energy Transition Project (EJETP) supported by the WBG. The EJETP consists of three components namely (i) the decommissioning of Komati Power Plant (Component A); (ii) the repurposing the Komati Power Station Complex with renewables (Component B) and (ii) creating opportunities for workers and communities (Component C). This report is specific to the SEF portion of Component B. The EIA Process is a legally required process, regulated under South African Environmental Law (NEMA) by specific EIA Regulations (EIA Regulations of 2014 (GNR 982) (as amended)). The ESIA Process meets the requirements of both the WBG ESF and the EIA requirements under NEMA. The legal EIA Process was used as a basis for this ESIA and a S&EIA was followed for the proposed project. PROJECT DESCRIPTION The proposed project layout is indicated in Figure A and will comprise of the following key components:  Solar Energy Facility;  Grid Connection (i.e. powerlines);  Site Substation and BESS; and  Ancillary infrastructure. These items are summarised in Table 5-1. The SEF is intended to evacuate power to the grid. Part of the design development will be to determine the best option to charge the BESS, either with grid power or power generated from PV. Table A – Key Project Infrastructure Infrastructure Description Solar Energy Solar modules will be elevated above the ground, and will be mounted on either Facility fixed tilt systems or tracking system Solar Farm A: KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Infrastructure Description Extent 115ha (1 150 000m2) AC Capacity Up to 70 MW DC Capacity Up to 84 MW Solar Farm B: Extent 21ha (210 000m2) AC Capacity Up to 30 MW DC Capacity Up to 36 MW Overhead The 132kV OHPL will follow the route of the existing powerlines and connect to the Powerline existing Komati High Voltage Yard New access roads or tracks may be required to provide access to sections of the powerline route, if the existing access roads are insufficient. Access roads will be mostly a two-track gravel road under the OHPL in order to access pylons for construction and maintenance purposes. OHPL corridor Footprint: 58ha (580 0002) Servitude: Between 36m and 40m (26ha) Site Substation Each of the Solar Sites will be equipped with collector substations including O&M Infrastructure associated with the substations includes: Building  Operations and Maintenance (O&M) buildings housing the control and communication equipment  Site substations and collector substations Solar Site Substation A Capacity: 132kV Footprint: 0.5ha (5 000m2) Solar Site Substation B Capacity: 132kV Footprint: 0.5ha (5 000m2) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Infrastructure Description BESS Lithium Battery Technologies, such as Lithium Iron Phosphate, Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt oxides or Vanadium Redox flow technologies are being considered Three BESS Facilities Capacity: 150 MW with four hours standby time Footprint: 3 ha (30 000m2) Associated Temporary laydown area infrastructure Footprint includes temporary laydown areas; Temporary concrete batching plant; Construction camps and temporary laydown areas Footprint: 8ha (80 000m2) Figure A – Project layout map KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) PROPONENT Eskom is the project proponent with regards to this project for the construction and operation of the SEF, BESS and ancillary infrastructure. THE ESIA PRACTITIONER The ESIA was prepared by WSP Group Africa (Pty) Ltd. ESIA REPORT STRUCTURE The Structure of the ESIA is indicated in Table 1-5. Table B – Structure of ESIA Report Report Location Content Main Report This Report Chapter 1: Introduction, Project Background, Need and Desirability, Location and Key Role Players Chapter 2: Project Description, Project Layout, Project Timeframes, Project Details and Project Activities Chapter 3: Project Alternatives Chapter 4: Policy, Legal and Administrative Framework Chapter 5: The ESIA Process and PPP Chapter 6: The Receiving Environment Chapter 7: Environmental Sensitivities, Impact Assessment, and Specialist Conclusions Chapter 8: Cumulative Impact Assessment Chapter 9: Impact Statement Chapter 10: Conclusion EAP CV Appendix A ESIA Lead and EAP Specialist CVs Appendix B Specialist CVs PPP Report Appendix C Report detailing PPP undertaken Maps Appendix D A3 maps DFFE Screening Tool Report Appendix E Screening Tool Report generated from DFFE website Geotechnical Desktop Study Appendix F.1 KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Report Location Content Air Quality Desktop Assessment Appendix F.2 Noise Desktop Assessment Appendix F.3 Surface Water Assessment Appendix F.4 Hydrogeological Assessment Appendix F.5 Soil And Agricultural Potential Appendix F.6 Assessment Terrestrial Animal Species Appendix F.7 Assessment Terrestrial Biodiversity And Plant Appendix F.8 Species Assessment Aquatic Biodiversity Assessment Appendix F.9 Traffic Assessment Appendix F.10 Visual Assessment Appendix F.11 Heritage Assessment Appendix F.12 Palaeontology Assessment Appendix F.13 Social Assessment Appendix F.14 Avifauna Assessment Appendix F.15 Contaminated Land Assessment Appendix F.16 ESMP Appendix G ESMP for the construction, operation and decommissioning phases IMPACT SUMMARY A summary of the identified impacts and corresponding significance ratings for the proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility is indicated in Table 9-84 below. With the implementation of the mitigation measures prescribed by the specialists, the impacts are rated as Moderate to Very Low. Table C – Impact Summary Aspect Impact Description Phase Character Without With Mitigation Mitigation Surface water Stormwater Runoff C (-) 20 Low 12 Very Low Erosion C (-) 36 Moderate 12 Very Low Flooding O (-) 18 Low 12 Very Low KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Aspect Impact Description Phase Character Without With Mitigation Mitigation Stormwater Runoff O (-) 20 Low 12 Very Low Erosion O (-) 36 Moderate 12 Very Low Stormwater Runoff D (-) 20 Low 12 Very Low Groundwater Hydrocarbon Spills C (-) 24 Low 12 Very Low Leachate/spills C (-) 24 Low 12 Very Low Spoil from excavated C (-) 24 Low 12 Very Low trenches Reduced recharge due O (-) 33 Moderate 20 Low to increase in hardstanding footprint Localised artificial O (-) 30 Low 12 Very Low recharge due to washing of solar panels Reduced leachate from C (+) 33 Moderate 36 Moderate contaminated soils Localised leachate from O (-) 39 Moderate 22 Low equipment Localised increased O (-) 39 Moderate 22 Low leachate from contaminated soils due to following washing of solar panels Hydrocarbon Spills D (-) 24 Low 12 Very Low Leachate from D (-) 39 Moderate 30 Low equipment no longer in use Soils and Loss of soil C (-) 60 Moderate 22 Low Agricultural Potential Erosion and C (-) 60 Moderate 30 Low sedimentation Loss of Agricultural C (-) 60 Moderate 30 Low Land Soil contamination C (-) 70 High 22 Low Loss of soil O (-) 45 Moderate 9 Very Low KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Aspect Impact Description Phase Character Without With Mitigation Mitigation Erosion and O (-) 50 Moderate 18 Low sedimentation Loss of Agricultural O (-) 50 Moderate 30 Low Land Soil contamination O (-) 60 Moderate 30 Low Loss of soil D (-) 27 Low 9 Very Low Erosion and D (-) 55 Moderate 20 Low sedimentation Loss of Agricultural D (-) 9 Very Low 9 Very Low Land Soil contamination D (-) 22 Low 18 Low Terrestrial Loss and disturbance of C (-) 85 Very High 36 Moderate Animal Species natural habitat - Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland Loss and disturbance of C (-) 70 High 27 Low natural habitat - Moist Mixed Grassland Establishment and C (-) 44 Moderate 12 Very Low spread of alien invasive species Direct mortality, injuring C (-) 48 Moderate 14 Very Low and disturbance of fauna Loss of fauna species of C (-) 51 Moderate 24 Low conservation concern Establishment and O (-) 44 Moderate 12 Very Low spread of alien invasive species Establishment and D (-) 44 Moderate 12 Very Low spread of alien invasive species Terrestrial Plant Loss and disturbance of C (-) 85 Very High 48 Moderate Species natural habitat - Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Aspect Impact Description Phase Character Without With Mitigation Mitigation Loss and disturbance of C (-) 70 High 30 Moderate natural habitat - Moist Mixed Grassland Establishment and C (-) 44 Moderate 12 Very Low spread of alien invasive species Loss of flora SCC C (-) 68 High 24 Low Establishment and O (-) 44 Moderate 12 Very Low spread of alien invasive species Establishment and D (-) 44 Moderate 12 Very Low spread of alien invasive species Aquatic Loss of wetland habitat C (-) 75 High N/A Biodiversity Changes in wetland C (-) 44 Moderate 24 Low health/functioning Contamination of C (-) 40 Moderate 10 Very Low riparian systems Wetland soil erosion C (-) 44 Moderate 24 Low Spread of AIS C (-) 48 Moderate 12 Very Low Changes in the extent C (-) 52 Moderate 16 Low and condition of ecosystems supplying ecosystem services Spread of AIS O (-) 48 Moderate 10 Very Low Wetland soil erosion O (-) 55 Moderate 21 Low Water quality O (-) 48 Moderate 10 Very Low deterioration and contamination of wetland soils Avifauna Habitat loss, C (-) 36 Moderate 27 Low displacement, and disturbance of avifauna Habitat loss, O (-) 27 Low 27 Low displacement, and disturbance of avifauna KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Aspect Impact Description Phase Character Without With Mitigation Mitigation Traffic Impact of construction C (-) 28 Low 28 Low vehicles on roads and access roads Transportation activities O (-) 28 Low 28 Low during operations Impact of construction D (-) 28 Low 28 Low vehicles on roads and access roads Visual Impact of visual effect C (-) 64 High 36 Moderate on sensitive visual receptors in close proximity (within 1km) Impact of visual impact O (-) 72 High 42 Moderate on observers (residents and visitors) in close proximity (within 1km) Impact of visual effect of O (-) 45 Moderate 26 Low the proposed PV facility within 1- 3km radius Impact of visual effect of O (-) 24 Low 20 Low the proposed PV facility within 3- 6km radius Impact of visual effect of O (-) 18 Low 9 Very Low the proposed PV facility within the greater area (beyond 6km radius) Impact of operational, O (-) 39 Moderate 22 Low safety and security lighting of the facility at night during the operational phase Impact of solar glint and O (-) 54 Moderate 42 Moderate glare as a visual distraction and possible air/road travel hazard Impact of solar glint and O (-) 64 High 42 Moderate glare on static ground- based receptors (residents of homesteads) in close proximity (within 1km) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Aspect Impact Description Phase Character Without With Mitigation Mitigation Impact of ancillary O (-) 24 Low 24 Low infrastructure during the operational phase Impact of sense of O (-) 26 Low 26 Low place during the operational phase ( Indirect Impact) Visual impact of D (-) 52 Moderate 33 Moderate construction activities on sensitive visual receptors in close proximity (within 1km) Heritage Impact to known cultural C (-) 12 Very Low 12 Very Low heritage sites Palaeontology Destruction of fossil C (-) 85 Very High 33 Moderate heritage Social Economic Impact C (+) 14 Very Low 45 Moderate Employment C (+) 20 Low 56 Moderate Noise C (-) 16 Low 12 Very Low Dust C (-) 36 Moderate 20 Low Population influx C (-) 33 Moderate 14 Very Low Vulnerable Groups C (+) 9 Very Low 24 Low Low Carbon Generation O (+) 20 Low 56 Moderate Employment O (+) High 30 Low 68 Opportunities Loss of employment D (-) 45 Moderate 27 Low Reduced community D (-) Low 39 Moderate 27 investment Ancillary infrastructure D (-) 48 Moderate 16 Low CONCLUSION The proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility project is to assist with the repurposing of the Komati Power Plant. The “no project” alternative would result in the entire power station being dismantled without creating new infrastructure and repurposing of the plant. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Without implementing this project, the use of renewable options for power supply would be compromised in the future, potentially leading to significant negative impacts on environmental and social well-being. The analysis carried out in the ESIA has identified a variety of impacts and mitigation measures that has facilitated the preparation of the ESMP for the project to guide Eskom and its contractors during construction, operations and decommissioning phases of the proposed project. Therefore, the implementation of the identified mitigation measures will reduce any negative environmental and social impacts of the project to an acceptable level and will enhance the positive impacts to maximize their effect on the surrounding communities. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) CONTENTS GLOSSARY EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 2 PROPONENT 5 THE ESIA PRACTITIONER 5 ESIA REPORT STRUCTURE 5 IMPACT SUMMARY 6 CONCLUSION 11 1 INTRODUCTION 34 1.1 PURPOSE OF THIS REPORT 34 1.2 BACKGROUND INFORMATION 35 1.3 LOCATION OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT 36 1.4 DETAILS OF KEY ROLE PLAYERS 39 1.5 STRUCTURE OF THE REPORT 42 2 GOVERNANCE FRAMEWORK 44 2.1 NATIONAL LEGAL AND REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 44 2.2 POLICIES AND PLANS 57 2.3 PROVINCIAL AND MUNICIPAL LEGAL AND REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 61 2.4 INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL STANDARDS 64 2.5 LEGISLATIVE GAP ANALYSIS 76 2.6 OTHER GUIDELINES AND BEST PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS 81 3 THE ESIA PROCESS 83 3.1 AUTHORITY CONSULTATION 83 KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) 3.2 PROCEDURAL PROCESS 83 3.3 DFFE WEB-BASED ENVIRONMENTAL SCREENING TOOL 84 3.4 ADDITIONAL PERMITS AND AUTHORISATIONS 94 3.5 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL ASSESSMENT 94 3.6 IMPACT ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY 94 3.7 ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITATIONS 97 4 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT 100 4.1 WHAT IS AN INTERESTED AND AFFECTED PARTY? 100 4.2 RIGHTS, ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE STAKEHOLDER 104 4.3 STAKEHOLDER IDENTIFICATION 105 4.4 PREVIOUS STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT 106 4.5 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION DURING THE SCOPING PHASE 107 4.6 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION DURING THE EIA PHASE 111 5 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 114 5.1 PROJECT INFRASTRUCTURE 114 5.2 SOLAR PV GENERATION PROCESS 119 5.3 BESS TECHNOLOGY 120 5.4 PROJECT TIMEFRAMES 126 5.5 EMPLOYMENT 127 5.6 RAW MATERIAL AND EQUIPMENT 127 5.7 VEHICLES AND HEAVY EQUIPMENT 127 5.8 PROJECT ACTIVITIES 127 5.9 WATER AND ELELCTRICITY CONSUMPTION 134 5.10 LAND OWNERSHIP 134 6 NEED AND DESIRABILITY OF THE PROJECT 136 6.1 INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE 137 6.2 NATIONAL PERSPECTIVE 137 6.3 REGIONAL AND LOCAL PERSPECTIVE 138 KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) 7 PROJECT ALTERNATIVES 139 7.1 LOCATION ALTERNATIVES 139 7.2 TECHNOLOGY ALTERNATIVES 140 7.3 LAYOUT ALTERNATIVES 141 7.4 NO-GO ALTERNATIVE 143 7.5 ALTERNATIVES ASSESSMENT SUMMARY 143 8 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL CONTEXT 145 8.1 PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT 145 8.2 BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT 200 8.3 SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT 255 9 IMPACT ASSESSMENT 296 9.1 ENVIRONMENTAL SENSITIVITIES 296 9.2 SENSITIVITY MAPPING 304 9.3 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT 308 9.4 IMPACT SUMMARY 374 9.5 CUMULATIVE IMPACT ASSESSMENT 379 10 SPECIALIST CONCLUSIONS 382 11 IMPACT STATEMENT 391 11.1 RECOMMENDATIONS 391 11.2 FINAL LAYOUT 395 12 CONCLUSION 399 TABLES Table 1-1 –Affected Farm Portions 36 Table 1-2 – Details of Project Proponent 39 KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Table 1-3 – Details of the EAP 39 Table 1-4 – ESIA Team 40 Table 1-5 – Structure of ESIA Report 42 Table 2-1 – Applicable National Legislation 44 Table 2-2 – Applicable Regional Policies and Plans 57 Table 2-3 – Provincial Plans 61 Table 2-4 – District and Local Municipality Plans 63 Table 2-5 – Environmental and Social Standards applicable to the project 64 Table 2-6 – Socio-Economic guidelines applicable to the project 72 Table 2-7 – Key requirements of WB ESS against the South African legislation 76 Table 3-1 – Sensitivities identified in the DFFE Screening Report 85 Table 3-2 – Additional sensitivities identified 86 Table 3-3 – Potential Construction Phase Impacts 86 Table 3-4 – Potential Operational Phase Impacts 90 Table 3-5 – Potential Decommissioning Phase Impacts 92 Table 3-6 – Additional Permits and Authorisations required for the proposed development 94 Table 3-7 – Impact Assessment Criterion and Scoring System 95 Table 4-1 – Stakeholder Analysis 101 Table 4-2 – Breakdown of Stakeholders currently registered on the database 108 Table 4-3 – Dates on which the Adverts were published 109 Table 5-1 – Key Project Infrastructure 114 Table 5-2 – High-level Project Summary – Renewable Energy Facilities 116 Table 5-3 – Preliminary Timeframes 126 Table 5-4 – Construction Activities 128 Table 5-5 – Operational Activities 129 Table 5-6 – Decommissioning Activities 130 Table 5-7 – Waste Management Options during construction and decommissioning phases 132 Table 5-8 – Waste Management Options during operational phase 133 Table 7-1 – Alternatives summary 144 Table 8-1 - Sensitive receptors within a 10 km radius of the proposed project 156 KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Table 8-2 - Sensitive receptors within a 5 km radius of the proposed project 158 Table 8-3 - Conceptual Catchment Characteristics 161 Table 8-4 - Average Intensity for various design storm durations 162 Table 8-5 - Pre-development peak flows 162 Table 8-6 - Post-development peak flows 163 Table 8-7 - Change in maximum peak flow for Site A and B 164 Table 8-8 – Hyrdocensus Boreholes 167 Table 8-9 - Ratings for the Aquifer Quality Management Classification System 174 Table 8-10 - Appropriate level of groundwater protection required 174 Table 8-11 - Aquifer classification and vulnerability assessment 174 Table 8-12 – Land Capability: Class Concepts 176 Table 8-13 – Land Capability: Broad Land Use Options 177 Table 8-14 – Proposed development areas 184 Table 8-15 – Groundwater Monitoring Data (06 June 2022) 191 Table 8-16 – Summary of findings in soil and groundwater for each area 197 Table 8-17 - The identified public/privately owned protected areas identified close to the proposed SEF site 205 Table 8-18 - Extent of modified and natural habitats in the local study area 209 Table 8-19 - Location of protected flora species recorded in the local study area 216 Table 8-20 - Flora species of conservation concern recorded or potentially occurring in the regional- and local study areas 217 Table 8-21 - Declared alien invasive species recorded in the local study area 220 Table 8-22 - Flora species of medicinal value recorded in the local study area 221 Table 8-23 – Mammal species of conservation concern occurring or potentially occurring in the study area 226 Table 8-24 - Amphibian species previously recorded in the2629AB and 2629BA QDS 231 Table 8-25 - Reptile species previously recorded in the 2629AB and 2629BA QDS 232 Table 8-26 - Reptile species of conservation concern occurring and potentially occurring in the study area 235 Table 8-27 - Priority species that could potentially occur on the PAOI 237 Table 8-28 - Species recorded during transect 238 Table 8-29 – Diatom analysis results and ecological water quality results 242 KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Table 8-30 - Summary of Impact Scores and PES Class 248 Table 8-31 - Summary of wetland EIS scores and ratings 252 Table 8-32 - Matrix to determine overall visual sensitivity for the proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility 263 Table 8-33 - Distribution of STLM by population group 288 Table 8-34 - Distribution of STLM by language spoken 288 Table 8-35 - Distribution of the levels of education represented in the municipality 289 Table 8-36 - Distribution of Komati Village by population group (Statistics South Africa, 2023) 292 Table 8-37 - Distribution of Komati by language spoken 292 Table 8-38 - Distribution of the levels of education represented in the village 292 Table 9-1 –Site Sensitivity Verifications 296 Table 9-2 - Sensitivity Classes 298 Table 9-3 - Ecological importance of habitat units identified in the local study area 303 Table 9-4 – Impact of stormwater runoff during the construction phase 308 Table 9-5 – Impact of erosion during the construction phase 309 Table 9-6 – Impact of flooding during the operational phase 310 Table 9-7 – Impact of stormwater runoff during the operational phase 310 Table 9-8 – Impact of erosion during the operational phase 311 Table 9-9 – Impact of stormwater runoff during the decommissioning phase 311 Table 9-10 – Impact of hydrocarbon spills from moving equipment during the construction phase 313 Table 9-11 – Impact of leachate/spills from fuel storage areas during the construction phase 314 Table 9-12 – Impact of spoil from excavated trenches may be contaminated and could leach to the groundwater during the decommissioning phase 314 Table 9-13 – Impact to groundwater during operational phase 315 Table 9-14 – Impact to groundwater and rivers during the operational phase 315 Table 9-15 – Impact to groundwater during operational phase 316 Table 9-16 – Impact to groundwater and rivers during operational phase 316 Table 9-17 – Impact to groundwater and rivers during operational phase 317 KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Table 9-18 – Impact of hydrocarbon spills from moving equipment during decommissioning phase 318 Table 9-19 – Impact of leachate from equipment no longer in use during decommissioning phase 318 Table 9-20 – Impact of loss of soil during the construction phase 320 Table 9-21 – Impact of erosion and sedimentation during the construction phase 320 Table 9-22 – Impact of loss of agricultural land during the construction phase 321 Table 9-23 – Impact of soil contamination during the construction phase 321 Table 9-24 – Impact of loss of soil during the operational phase 322 Table 9-25 – Impact of erosion and sedimentation during the operational phase 322 Table 9-26 – Impact of loss of agricultural land during the operational phase 323 Table 9-27 – Impact of soil contamination during the operational phase 323 Table 9-28 – Impact of loss of soil during the decommissioning phase 324 Table 9-29 – Impact of erosion and sedimentation during the decommissioning phase 325 Table 9-30 – Impact of loss of agricultural land during the decommissioning phase 325 Table 9-31 – Impact of soil contamination during the decommissioning phase 326 Table 9-32 – Extent of habitat loss associated with proposed Project activities 326 Table 9-33 – Impact to fauna habitat during the construction phase 328 Table 9-34 – Impact to fauna habitat during the construction phase 328 Table 9-35 – Impact of the establishment and spread of alien invasive species during the construction phase 329 Table 9-36 – Impact of the direct mortality, injuring and disturbance of fauna during the construction phase 330 Table 9-37 – Impact of the loss of fauna SCC during the construction phase 331 Table 9-38 – Impact of the establishment and spread of alien invasive species during the operational phase 333 Table 9-39 – Impact of the establishment and spread of alien invasive species during the operational phase 334 Table 9-40 – Extent of habitat loss associated with proposed Project activities 334 Table 9-41 – Impact to flora habitat and species during the construction phase 335 Table 9-42 – Impact to flora habitat and species during the construction phase 336 KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Table 9-43 – Impact of the establishment and spread of alien invasive species during the construction phase 337 Table 9-44 – Impact of the loss of flora SCC during the construction phase 338 Table 9-45 – Impact of the establishment and spread of alien invasive species during the operational phase 339 Table 9-46 – Impact of the establishment and spread of alien invasive species during the decommissioning phase 340 Table 9-47 – Impact of loss and disturbance of wetland habitat during the construction phase 341 Table 9-48 – Impact of the changes in wetland health/functioning during the construction phase 341 Table 9-49 – Impact of the contamination of riparian systems during the construction phase 343 Table 9-50 – Impact of wetland soil erosion during the construction phase 344 Table 9-51 – Impact of the spread of AIS during the construction phase 345 Table 9-52 – Impact of the changes in the extent and condition of ecosystems supplying ecosystem services during the construction phase 346 Table 9-53 – Impact of the spread of AIS during the operational phase 347 Table 9-54 – Impact of wetland soil erosion during the operational phase 347 Table 9-55 – Impact of water quality deterioration and contamination of wetland soils during the operational phase 348 Table 9-56 – Impact of habitat loss, displacement, and disturbance of avifauna during the construction phase 349 Table 9-57 – Impact of collision risk and electrocutions with powerlines and infrastructure on avifauna during the operational phase 350 Table 9-58 – Impact of construction vehicles on roads and access roads during the construction phase 351 Table 9-59 – Impact of transportation activities during the operational phase 351 Table 9-60 – Impact of transportation activities during the decommissioning phase 352 Table 9-61 – Impact of visual effect on sensitive visual receptors in close proximity (within 1km) to the proposed PV facility during the construction phase 353 Table 9-62 – Impact of Visual impact on residents at homesteads, towns and visitors/tourists within 1km to the PV facility during the operational phase 354 KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Table 9-63 – Impact of visual impact on observers (residents and visitors) in close proximity (within 1km) to the proposed PV facility during the operational phase 355 Table 9-64 – Impact of visual effect of the proposed PV facility within 1- 3km radius during the operational phase 355 Table 9-65 – Impact of visual effect of the proposed PV facility within 3- 6km radius during the operational phase 356 Table 9-66 – Impact of visual effect of the proposed PV facility within the greater area (beyond 6km radius) during the operational phase 356 Table 9-67 – Impact of operational, safety and security lighting of the facility at night during the operational phase 357 Table 9-68 – Impact of solar glint and glare as a visual distraction and possible air/road travel hazard during the operational phase 358 Table 9-69 – Impact of solar glint and glare on static ground-based receptors (residents of homesteads) in close proximity (within 1km) to the PV facility during the operational phase 359 Table 9-70 – Impact of ancillary infrastructure during the operational phase 360 Table 9-71 – Impact of sense of place during the operational phase ( Indirect Impact) 360 Table 9-72 – Impact of visual intrusion of activities to remove infrastructure during the decommissioning phase 361 Table 9-73 – Impact to cultural heritage sites during the construction phase 362 Table 9-74 – Impact of destruction of fossil heritage during the construction phase 363 Table 9-75 – Economic impact during the construction phase 364 Table 9-76 – Impact of employment during the construction phase 365 Table 9-77 – Impact of population influx during the construction phase 366 Table 9-78 - Impact on vulnerable groups during the construction phase 368 Table 9-79 – Impact of low carbon power generation during the operational phase 369 Table 9-80 – Impact of employment opportunities during the operational phase 370 Table 9-81 – Impact of loss of employment during the decommissioning phase 371 Table 9-82 – Impact of reduced community investment during the decommissioning phase 371 Table 9-83 – Impact of the ancillary infrastructure during the decommissioning phase 372 Table 9-84 – Impact Summary 374 KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) FIGURES Figure 1-1 – Regional locality map 37 Figure 1-2 – – Locality map showing municipal boundaries 38 Figure 3-1 - Mitigation Sequence/Hierarchy 97 Figure 5-1 – Komati SEF and BESS Layout Map 118 Figure 5-2 - Main components of a Solar PV Plant 120 Figure 5-3 – Images of Typical BESS Systems 122 Figure 5-4 – Typical Battery Modules in a BESS with the Separated Sections 123 Figure 5-5 - Typical Battery Modules in a BESS with the Power Conversion Systems in the Batteries 123 Figure 5-6 - A VRFB unit 124 Figure 5-7 – VRFB stack 125 Figure 5-8 - Cross section of a VRFB unit indicating the stacks and electrolyte tanks 125 Figure 5-9 - Conceptual VRFB Facility Layout 126 Figure 5-10 - Komati Site Land Cover (DFFE, 2021) 135 Figure 7-1 – Komati SEF and BESS Facility Original Site Layout 142 Figure 7-2 – Komati SEF and BESS Facility Revised Site Layout 143 Figure 8-1 – Average, maximum and minimum temperatures for the period January to December 2018 from the Komati station (SAAQIS) 146 Figure 8-2 – Monthly rainfall and average humidity for the period January to December 2018 from the Komati station (SAAQIS) 147 Figure 8-3 - Local wind conditions for the period January to December 2018 from the Komati station (SAAQIS) 149 Figure 8-4 - Topography 150 Figure 8-5 - Geological map of the area 151 Figure 8-6 - Lithostratigraphic column of the development area (East Rand 2628) 153 Figure 8-7 - Seismic Hazard map and Zones (Source: Eskom, 2022) 154 Figure 8-8 - A recent seismic hazard map (2003) obtained from the Council for Geoscience (Source: Eskom, 2022) 155 Figure 8-9 - Site layout and sensitive receptors for the proposed project 157 Figure 8-10 - Site layout and sensitive receptors for the proposed project 158 KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Figure 8-11 - Hydrogeology Map 159 Figure 8-12 – Hydrological Catchments and Floodline Map 160 Figure 8-13: Site boreholes 166 Figure 8-14: Hyrdocensus 168 Figure 8-15: Groundwater Contours – sourced from Kinomax, 2019 169 Figure 8-16: Piezometric contours for boreholes drilled in 2022 170 Figure 8-17 - Shortlands Soil 178 Figure 8-18 - Valsrivier Soil 178 Figure 8-19 - Sepane Soil 179 Figure 8-20 - Komati Site Land Types (DFFE, 2018) 180 Figure 8-21 – Komati Identified Site Soil Form Points 181 Figure 8-22 - Komati Extrapolated Site Soil Form Areas 182 Figure 8-23 – Komati Site Land Cover (DFFE, 2021) 183 Figure 8-24 – Komati Site Soil Capability (Scotney et al. 1987) 184 Figure 8-25 - Sample localities 192 Figure 8-26 - Local study area in relation to South Africa's regional vegetation types 201 Figure 8-27 - The Local Study Area and mapping of Critical Biodiversity Areas, as per the Mpumalanga Biodiversity Sector Plan (2019) 203 Figure 8-28 - Protected areas in the broader landscape surrounding the local study area 204 Figure 8-29: Aerial view showing the extent of the regional and local study areas 207 Figure 8-30 - The completely transformed coal deposit area at Komati Power Station 208 Figure 8-31 - View over the ash dam facilities in the local study area 208 Figure 8-32 - Amongst other features, gravel roads and drainage trenches have fragmented habitat in the local study area, and facilitated alien invasive species colonisation 208 Figure 8-33 - Rubble and refuse dumping site adjacent to the western boundary of the local study area 208 Figure 8-34 - Habitat unit map of the local study area, showing proposed Project infrastructure, as well as existing Eskom facilities 210 Figure 8-35 - Cultivated field under maize in the local study area 211 KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Figure 8-36 - Short stand of Eucalyptus trees located in the north of the local study area 211 Figure 8-37 - Landscaped lawns adjacent to the Komati cooling towers 212 Figure 8-38 - Vegetated side slopes of the Komati ash dam 212 Figure 8-39 - Typical patch of Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland in the local study area 213 Figure 8-40 - Drainage channels that have been excavated by power station management to prevent the flooding of access roads 214 Figure 8-41 - Typical area of mixed moist grassland in the local study area, characterised by species such as Agrostis lachnantha and Typha capensis 214 Figure 8-42 - Seriphium plumosum dominated area of mixed moist grassland below the powerline servitude. 214 Figure 8-43 - Pennisetum clandestinum, amongst other invasive species, dominate disturbed sites in this habitat unit 214 Figure 8-44 - Eulophia ovalis var. ovalis 216 Figure 8-45 - Orthochilus leontoglossus 216 Figure 8-46 - Nicotiana glauca 221 Figure 8-47 - Tamarix ramosissima 221 Figure 8-48: Water Mongoose (Atilax paludinosus) tracks 223 Figure 8-49: Porcupine (Hystrix africaeaustralis) tracks 224 Figure 8-50: Study area in relation to MBSP Freshwater Assessment (MTPA, 2011) 240 Figure 8-51: Study area in relation to FEPA sub-catchments 240 Figure 8-52: Proposed development in relation to NFEPA wetlands (NFEPA, 2011) 241 Figure 8-53: Proposed development in relation to NWM5 wetlands (2018) 241 Figure 8-54: Natural, modified and critical habitat 243 Figure 8-55 - An overview of the Channelled Valley Bottom wetland (upstream) 244 Figure 8-56 - Soil Sample taken at 50-60 cm in the seasonal zone of the wetland 245 Figure 8-57 - a) An overview of Seep 1 wetland and pooling of water at small dam, b) Soil sample taken in the permanent zone of the seep wetland indicating signs of soil contamination from the Ash dam 246 Figure 8-58 - An overview of the seep wetland: upstream and downstream 246 KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Figure 8-59 - Soil sample taken at the permanent zone of the wetland 247 Figure 8-60 - Wetland delineation and classification 247 Figure 8-61 - Impacts: a) Soil Erosion at CVB main channel; b) pooling of water in dam; c) effluent discharge into the wetland; d0 crop farming and cattle grazing in the wetland 249 Figure 8-62 - Ash dam facility and pooling of water at dam 250 Figure 8-63 - Impacts: a) pooling of water at dam; b) trenches and berms in wetland; c) effluent discharge into the wetland from a leaking pipe; d) impoundment of water at roads in wetland 251 Figure 8-64 - Ecosystem Services supplied by/demanded from the CVB wetland 253 Figure 8-65 - Ecosystem Services supplied by/demanded from seep wetlands 253 Figure 8-66 - Ecosystem Services supplied by/demanded from Depression wetland 254 Figure 8-67: Locality map showing roads in the vicinity of the development (ITS, 2022) 255 Figure 8-68: Intersections for traffic count 256 Figure 8-69: Trip Distribution 257 Figure 8-70: The town of Komati located adjacent to the proposed sites (LOGIS, 2023) 259 Figure 8-71: The town of Blinkpan just north of the Goedehoop Colliery (LOGIS, 2023) 260 Figure 8-72: View over the Goedehoop Colliery (LOGIS, 2023) 260 Figure 8-73: Example of a typical homestead located within the study area (LOGIS, 2023) 260 Figure 8-74: View from the R542 towards the site from the west (LOGIS, 2023) 261 Figure 8-75: View from the R35 towards the site from the south (LOGIS, 2023) 261 Figure 8-76: View over PV Site A from the R542 (LOGIS, 2023) 261 Figure 8-77: View over PV Site A from the outskirts of the town of Komati (LOGIS, 2023) 262 Figure 8-78: View over PV Site B from the adjacent secondary road (LOGIS, 2023) 262 Figure 8-79: Airstrip noted within PV Site B (LOGIS, 2023) 262 Figure 8-80: Potential visual exposure (visibility analysis) for Komati SEF and BESS Facility 267 KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Figure 8-81: Proximity analysis and potential sensitive visual receptors 269 Figure 8-82: Grassland and agricultural fields devoid of large trees 271 Figure 8-83: Example of where vegetation and trees have been planted around homesteads 271 Figure 8-84: Example of visual clutter in built up areas 272 Figure 8-85: Visual impact index for the proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility 274 Figure 8-86: Visibility index illustrating the frequency of exposure of the proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility 275 Figure 8-87: A view of the Komati Power Station (APAC, 2023) 278 Figure 8-88: General view of a section of the area. Note the fairly open but disturbed nature of the area (APAC, 2023) 279 Figure 8-89: Some open areas exist in Komati between the Power Station and the town (APAC, 2023) 279 Figure 8-90: A view of the area with the Ash Discard Dump visible (APAC, 2023) 280 Figure 8-91: A view of a section of the area close to the proposed PV B area. Recently ploughed fields are evident here (APAC, 2023) 280 Figure 8-92: More agricultural fields next to the R542 road, with the Power Station visible in the distance (APAC, 2023) 281 Figure 8-93: Another section of the study and development area near the proposed PV A area (APAC, 2023) 281 Figure 8-94: The impacts of agricultural and ESKOM related activities on the area is clearly visible in this image (APAC, 2023) 282 Figure 8-95: A view of a part of Komati Town (APAC, 2023) 282 Figure 8-96: Extent of the Karoo Supergroup (Johnson 2009) 283 Figure 8-97: South African regional map 284 Figure 8-98: Nkangala District Municipality 285 Figure 8-99: STLM population size 287 Figure 8-100: STLM gender distribution 287 Figure 8-101 - Komati gender distribution (Statistics South Africa, 2023) 291 Figure 9-1 - Komati Site Agricultural Sensitivity 298 Figure 9-2 - Komati Site Soil Sensitivity Areas 299 Figure 9-3 - Airstrip noted within PV Site B 301 Figure 9-4 – Satellite Imagery of Airstrip within PV Site B (left – 2003, Right - 2017) 302 KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Figure 9-5 – Ecological importance of habitat units in the local study area 304 Figure 9-6 – Site layout overlain onto a Consolidated Sensitivity Map 306 Figure 9-7 – No-Go Sensitivity Map 307 Figure 9-8 - Risk sources of the battery facility 373 Figure 11-1 – Komati Solar PV Facility Optimised Layout 396 Figure 11-2 – Komati Solar PV Facility Optimised Layout Sensitivity Map 397 Figure 11-3 – Komati Solar PV Facility Optimised Layout – No Go Map 398 APPENDICES EAP CV SPECIALIST CVS PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS REPORT MAPS DFFE SCREENING TOOL REPORT SPECIALIST STUDIES GEOTECHNICAL DESKTOP STUDY AIR QUALITY DESKTOP ASSESSMENT NOISE DESKTOP ASSESSMENT SURFACE WATER ASSESSMENT KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) HYDROGEOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT SOIL AND AGRICULTURAL POTENTIAL ASSESSMENT TERRESTRIAL ANIMAL SPECIES ASSESSMENT TERRESTRIAL BIODIVERSITY AND PLANT SPECIES ASSESSMENT AQUATIC BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT TRAFFIC ASSESSMENT VISUAL ASSESSMENT HERITAGE ASSESSMENT PALAEONTOLOGY ASSESSMENT SOCIAL ASSESSMENT AVIFAUNA ASSESSMENT CONTAMINATED LAND ASSESSMENT EMPR KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) GLOSSARY Abbreviation Definition AC Alternating current AIS Alien and Invasive Species ATNS Air Traffic and Navigation Services BESS Battery Energy Storage System BMS Battery Management System CA Competent Authority CARA Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (Act 43 of 1983) CAT Cable Avoidance Tool CBA Critical Biodiversity Area CSIR Council for Scientific and Industrial Research CSM Conceptual Site Model CSP Concentrated Solar Power CVB Channelled valley bottom DC Direct current DFFE Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment EA Environmental Authorisation EAP Environmental Assessment Practitioner ECA Environmental Conservation Act EHS Environmental Health and Safety EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EJETP Just Energy Transition Plan EP Equator Principles EPS Engineering, Procurement, and Construction KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) ERA Electricity Regulation Act ESF Environmental and Social Framework ESI Energy Supply Industry ESIA Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Eskom Eskom Holdings SOC (LTD) EMPr Environmental Management Programme ESMP Environmental and Social Management Programme ESMS Environmental and Social Management System ESRMS Environmental and Social Risk Management Systems ESS Environmental and Social Standards FI Financial Institution FSR Final Scoping Report GA General Authorisation GHG Greenhouse Gas GPN Good Practice Notes GPR Ground Penetrating Radar GQM Groundwater Quality Management GRM Grievance Redress Mechanism GX Generation Division HIA Heritage Impact Assessment HR Human Resources I&AP Interested and Affected Party IBA Important Bird Area IDP Integrated Development Plan IEP Integrated Energy Plan IFC International Finance Corporation ILO International Labour Organization IPF Investment Policy Financing KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) JETP Just Energy Transition Plan KBA Key Biodiversity Area LSA Local Study Area KPS Komati Power Station LGBTQIA Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/ Questioning and Asexual MEGDP Mpumalanga Economic Growth and Development Path MIDP Mpumalanga Industrial Development Plan MPHRA Mpumalanga Provincial Heritage Resource Authority MPRDA Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (No. 28 of 2002) NDM Nkangala District Municipality NDP National Development Plan NEDLAC National Economic Development and Labour Council Act NEMA National Environmental Management Act (No. 107 of 1998) NEMAQA The National Environmental Management: Air Quality (Act 39 of 2004) NEMBA National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act NEMWA National Environmental Management: Waste Act (No. 59 of 2008) NFEPA National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas NHRA National Heritage Resource Act (Act No. 25 of 1999) NIP National Infrastructure Plan NPAES National Protected Area Expansion Strategy NWA National Water Act (No. 36 of 1998) NWM National Wetland Map OHS Occupational Health and Safety OHSA National Occupational Health and Safety Act (No. 85 of 1993) PCD Pollution Control Dam PCS Power Conditioning System PES Present Ecological State PICC Presidential Infrastructure Coordinating Commission KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) PS Performance Standards PV Photovoltaics REDZ Renewable Energy Development Zone REIPPP Renewable Independent Power Producer Programme RFI Radio Frequency Interference RSA Regional Study Area SAAQIS South African Air Quality Information System SACAA South African Civil Aviation Authority S&EIR Scoping and Environmental Impact Reporting SAHRA South African Heritage Resources Agency SAHRIS South African Heritage Resource Information System SANAS South African National Accreditation System SANS South African National Standards SANBI South African National Biodiversity Institute SAWS South African Weather Service SCC Species of Conservation Concern SDF Spatial Development Framework SDG Sustainable Development Goals SEF Solar Energy Facility STLM Steve Tshwete Local Municipality ToR Terms of Reference UN United Nations UNDP United Nations’ Development Programmes WBG World Bank Group WEF Wind Energy Facility WHO World Health Organisation WMA Water Management Area WSP WSP Group Africa (Pty) Ltd KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) WUL Water Use Licence WULA Water Use Licence Application KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) 1 INTRODUCTION WSP Group Africa (Pty) Ltd (WSP) has been appointed by Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) (Eskom) to undertake an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) to meet the requirements of both the World Bank Group (WBG) Environmental and Social Framework (ESF) and the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) requirements under the National Environmental Management Act (Act 107 of 1998) (NEMA), for the proposed 100 megawatt (MW) Solar Photovoltaics (PV) Energy (an additional 50MW PV on the ashing facility in Phase II to be confirmed following decommissioning and rehabilitation activities), 150 MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS); up to 70 MW Wind Energy Facilities (WEF) and ancillary infrastructure at the Komati Power Station located in the Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. The 70 MW WEF will be phased, with 50 MW installation during Phase I and 20 MW during Phase II following rehabilitation of decommissioned footprints. The Solar PV, BESS and WEF project forms part of the greater Eskom Just Energy Transition Project (EJETP) supported by the WBG. The EJETP consists of three components namely (i) the decommissioning of Komati Power Plant (Component A); (ii) the repurposing the Komati Power Station Complex with renewables (Component B) and (ii) creating opportunities for workers and communities (Component C). The EJETP aligns to international and national requirements to address climate change and move toward the use of cleaner technologies for the supply of electricity. EJETP’s vision focuses on achieving “Net Zero” carbon emissions by 2050, with an increase in sustainable jobs. Some of the additional benefits of moving towards lower carbon technologies, is the positive impact on air quality and water usage, the potential to create new exciting jobs, and a greater preservation of biodiversity in South Africa. Over the next decade, more than half of the coal-fired power stations will be shut down, including Komati Power Station. While this will result in a lower impact on the environment, the shutdown of power stations will potentially lead to negative social impacts. The EJETP is aimed at, as far as possible, ensuring that the transition to cleaner technologies and the closure of power stations is carried out in a just way. The repurposing and repowering of Komati Power Station to utilise renewable energy is part of the EJETP. The purpose of this report is to undertake an assessment of the environmental and social and impacts of repurposing the Komati Power Station Complex with Solar PV and BESS facilities (Component B). The environmental and social and impacts related to the decommissioning (shutdown and dismantling) (Component A) of the Komati Power Station is being assessed separately by Nemai Consulting. 1.1 PURPOSE OF THIS REPORT This assessment aims to undertake the following:  Determine the baseline environmental and social context;  Identify positive and negative environmental and social impacts arising from the proposed Solar PV and BESS project; and  Identification of the key stakeholders and their issues of concerns. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 34 of 399 1.2 BACKGROUND INFORMATION Eskom is a South African utility that generates, transmits and distributes electricity and supplies approximately 95% of the country's electricity. Eskom’s 2035 strategy encompasses the journey that Eskom intends to take in response to the changing energy environment and the impact this has towards a sustainable power utility. This strategy is necessitated by the challenges that Eskom faces as a business as well as the global and local shifts occurring in the energy sector particularly with respect to environmental and climate change challenges, difficulties in accessing financing and changes to the macro industry environment significantly altering the energy supply industry. The road to 2035, includes the shutting down of a number of coal-fired power stations, repurposing and repowering, delivering new clean generation projects, expanding the Transmission grid, and rolling out micro grid solutions. Several power stations are reaching the end-of-life. These stations will go into extended cold reserve and are most likely to be fully decommissioned in the future. Eskom is considering a shutdown, dismantling and repurposing of some of its fleet as it reaches its end-of-life. Over the next decade, more than half of the coal-fired power stations will be shut down, including Komati Power Station. While this will result in a lower impact on the environment, the shutdown of power stations will potentially lead to negative social impacts. The EJETP is aimed at, as far as possible, ensuring that the transition to cleaner technologies and the closure of power stations is carried out in a just way. The repurposing and repowering of Komati Power Station to utilise renewable energy is part of the EJETP. Komati Power Station reached its end-of-life in October 2022. Component B (This project) is one of several initiatives in which Eskom proposes to establish a solar energy generating facility which will include the installation of a 100 MW Solar PV energy facility (an additional 50MW PV on the Ash Dam facility in Phase II to be confirmed following decommissioning and rehabilitation activities), as well as a 150MW BESS facilities, and a WEF which will include the installation of approximately 7 turbines with a total of up to 70 MW generating capacity. This report is specific to the 100 MW Solar PV and BESS Facility of Component B. Component C is centred around three key pillars: (a) Transition support for Komati Permanent Workers, Suppliers and Contract Workers; (b) Community Development; and (c) Stakeholder engagement. Eskom will develop and execute this renewable energy project. Eskom has requested the independent consultant to ensure that the Project is carried out in accordance with the World Bank (WB) Environmental and Social Standards (ESSs), in a manner that is acceptable to the World Bank. The EJETP aligns to international and national requirements to address climate change and move toward the use of cleaner technologies for the supply of electricity. EJETP’s vision focuses on achieving “Net Zero” carbon emissions by 2050, with an increase in sustainable jobs. Some of the additional benefits of moving towards lower carbon technologies, is the positive impact on air quality and water usage, the potential to create new exciting jobs, and a greater preservation of biodiversity in South Africa. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 35 of 399 1.3 LOCATION OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT The Komati Power Station is situated about 37km from Middelburg, 43km from Bethal and 40km from Witbank in Ward 4, Portion 0 of Farm Komati Power Station 56-IS in the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality located within the Nkangala District Municipality in the Mpumalanga Province. The SEF, BESS facilities and ancillary infrastructure will be located on Eskom owned land, as indicated in Table 1-1. The locality of the facilities is illustrated in Figure 1-1. Table 1-1 –Affected Farm Portions Farm Name 21 Digit Surveyor General Code of Each Property Owner Cadastral Land Parcel Portion 0 of Farm Komati T0IS00000000005600000 Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd Power Station 56-IS KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 36 of 399 Figure 1-1 – Regional locality map KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 37 of 399 Figure 1-2 – – Locality map showing municipal boundaries KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 38 of 399 1.4 DETAILS OF KEY ROLE PLAYERS 1.4.1 PROJECT PROPONENT Eskom is the project proponent with regards to this project for the construction and operation of the SEF, BESS and ancillary infrastructure. Table 1-2 provides the relevant details of the project proponent. Table 1-2 – Details of Project Proponent Proponent: Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Contact Person Deidre Herbst Postal Address PO Box 1091, Johannesburg Telephone 011 800 3501 Email Deidre.Herbst@eskom.co.za 1.4.2 ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PRACTITIONER WSP was appointed in the role of Independent Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP) to undertake the S&EIA process and the ESIA for the proposed project. The CV of the EAP is available in Appendix A. Table 1-3 details the relevant contact details of the EAP. Table 1-3 – Details of the EAP EAP: WSP Group Africa (Pty) Ltd Contact Person: Ashlea Strong Physical Address: Building C, Knightsbridge, 33 Sloane Street, Bryanston, Johannesburg Postal Address: P.O. Box 98867, Sloane Park 2151, Johannesburg Telephone: 011 361 1392 Fax: 011 361 1301 Email: Ashlea.Strong@wsp.com EAP Qualifications:  Masters in Environmental Management, University of the Free State  B Tech, Nature Conservation, Technikon SA  National Diploma in Nature Conservation, Technikon SA EAPASA Registration EAPASA (2019/1005) Number: Statement of Independence Neither WSP nor any of the authors of this Report have any material present or contingent interest in the outcome of this Report, nor do they have any business, financial, personal or other interest KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 39 of 399 that could be reasonably regarded as being capable of affecting their independence. WSP has no beneficial interest in the outcome of the assessment. 1.4.3 STUDY TEAM To adequately identify and assess potential environmental impacts, a number of specialists have supported the EAP. Specialist input was required in support of this application for EA. The specialist studies are attached in Appendix F and their declarations in Appendix B. Table 1-4 shows the ESIA study team. Table 1-4 – ESIA Team Assessment Name of Specialist Company Sections in Report ESIA Lead and EAP Ashlea Strong WSP Group Africa  ESIA Report ESIA Consultant Megan Govender WSP Group Africa  ESIA Report PPP Consultant Tumelo Mathulwe WSP Group Africa  Appendix C GIS Specialist Tracy Skinner WSP Group Africa  Appendix D Geotechnical Desktop Nkosazana Leseka Eskom Holdings  Section 8.1.4 Study  Appendix F.1 Air Quality Kirsten Collet WSP Group Africa  Section 8.1.5  Appendix F.2 Noise Kirsten Collet WSP Group Africa  Section 8.1.6  Appendix F.3 Surface Water Eugeshin Naidoo WSP Group Africa  Section 8.1.7  Section 9.3.1  Section 10.1.1  Appendix F.4 Groundwater Sarah Skinner WSP Group Africa  Section 8.1.8  Section 9.3.2  Section 10.1.2  Appendix F.5 Soils and Agricultural Karen King WSP Group Africa  Section 8.1.9 Potential  Section 9.3.3  Section 10.1.3  Appendix F.6 Terrestrial Animal Species Andrew Zinn Hawkhead Consulting  Section 8.2.3  Section 9.3.4  Section 10.1.4  Appendix F.7 KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 40 of 399 Assessment Name of Specialist Company Sections in Report Terrestrial Plant Species Andrew Zinn Hawkhead Consulting  Section 9.3.5  Section 10.1.5  Appendix F.8 Aquatic Biodiversity Lufuno Nemakhavhani WSP Group Africa  Section 8.2.5  Section 9.3.6  Section 10.1.6  Appendix F.9 Avifauna Low de Vries Volant Environmental  Section 9.3.7  Section 10.1.7  Appendix F.15 Traffic Nico Jonker Innovative Transport  Section 8.3.1 Solutions (Pty) Ltd  Section 9.3.7  Section 10.1.7  Appendix F.10 Visual Lourens du Plessis LOGIS  Section 8.3.2  Section 9.3.9  Section 10.1.9  Appendix F.11 Heritage Anton Pelser A Pelser Archaeological  Section 9.3.10 Consulting  Section 10.1.10  Appendix F.12 Palaeontology Heidi Fourie Independent Consultant  Section 8.3.4  Section 9.3.11  Section 10.1.11  Appendix F.13 Social Stephen Horak WSP Group Africa  Section 8.3.4  Section 9.3.12  Section 10.1.12  Appendix F.14 KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 41 of 399 1.5 STRUCTURE OF THE REPORT The Structure of the ESIA is indicated in Table 1-5. Table 1-5 – Structure of ESIA Report Report Location Content Main Report This Report Chapter 1: Introduction, Project Background, Need and Desirability, Location and Key Role Players Chapter 2: Project Description, Project Layout, Project Timeframes, Project Details and Project Activities Chapter 3: Project Alternatives Chapter 4: Policy, Legal and Administrative Framework Chapter 5: The ESIA Process and PPP Chapter 6: The Receiving Environment Chapter 7: Environmental Sensitivities, Impact Assessment, and Specialist Conclusions Chapter 8: Cumulative Impact Assessment Chapter 9: Impact Statement Chapter 10: Conclusion EAP CV Appendix A ESIA Lead and EAP Specialist CVs Appendix B Specialist CVs PPP Report Appendix C Report detailing Public Participation undertaken Maps Appendix D A3 maps DFFE Screening Tool Report Appendix E Screening Tool Report generated from DFFE website Geotechnical Desktop Study Appendix F.1 Air Quality Desktop Assessment Appendix F.2 Noise Desktop Assessment Appendix F.3 Surface Water Assessment Appendix F.4 Hydrogeological Assessment Appendix F.5 Soil And Agricultural Potential Appendix F.6 Assessment KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 42 of 399 Report Location Content Terrestrial Animal Species Appendix F.7 Assessment Terrestrial Biodiversity And Plant Appendix F.8 Species Assessment Aquatic Biodiversity Assessment Appendix F.9 Traffic Assessment Appendix F.10 Visual Assessment Appendix F.11 Heritage Assessment Appendix F.12 Palaeontology Assessment Appendix F.13 Social Assessment Appendix F.14 Avifauna Assessment Appendix F.15 Contaminated Land Assessment Appendix F.16 ESMP Appendix G ESMP for the construction, operation and decommissioning phases KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 43 of 399 2 GOVERNANCE FRAMEWORK 2.1 NATIONAL LEGAL AND REGULATORY FRAMEWORK The South African regulatory framework establishes well-defined requirements and standards for environmental and social management of industrial and civil infrastructure developments. Different authorities at both national and regional levels carry out environmental protection functions. The applicable legislation and policies are shown in Table 2-1. Table 2-1 – Applicable National Legislation Legislation Description of Legislation and applicability The Constitution of South The Constitution cannot manage environmental resources as a stand- Africa (No. 108 of 1996) alone piece of legislation hence additional legislation has been promulgated in order to manage the various spheres of both the social and natural environment. Each promulgated Act and associated Regulations are designed to focus on various industries or components of the environment to ensure that the objectives of the Constitution are effectively implemented and upheld in an on-going basis throughout the country. In terms of Section 7, a positive obligation is placed on the State to give effect to the environmental rights. National Environmental In terms of Section 24(2) of the NEMA, the Minister may identify activities, Management Act (No. 107 of which may not commence without prior authorisation. The Minister thus 1998) published GNR 983 (as amended) (Listing Notice 1), GNR 984 (as amended) (Listing Notice 2) and GNR 985 (as amended) (Listing Notice 3) listing activities that may not commence prior to authorisation. The regulations outlining the procedures required for environmental authorisation (EA) are published in the EIA Regulations of 2014 (GNR 982) (as amended). Listing Notice 1 identifies activities that require a basic assessment (BA) process to be undertaken, in terms of the EIA Regulations, prior to commencement of that activity. Listing Notice 2 identifies activities that require an S&EIR process to be undertaken, in terms of the EIA Regulations, prior to commencement of that activity. Listing Notice 3 identifies activities within specific areas that require a BA process to be undertaken, in terms of the EIA Regulations, prior to commencement of that activity. WSP undertook a legal review of the listed activities according to the proposed project description to conclude that the activities listed in in this section are considered applicable to the development: An S&EIR process must be followed. An EA is required and has been applied for with the DFFE as the CA (DFFE Reference: 14/12/16/3/3/2/2298). Listing Notice 1: GNR 983 Activity 11(i) The development of facilities or infrastructure for the transmission and distribution of electricity— (i) outside urban areas or industrial complexes with a capacity of more than 33 but less than 275 kilovolts Description KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 44 of 399 Legislation Description of Legislation and applicability The Komati Solar PV facility will require more than 33 kilovolt (kV) but less than 275 kV Powerline boards (to evacuate power to the grid) and to the BESS facilities. The transmission lines are outside of the urban edge. Activity 12(ii) The development of - (ii) infrastructure or structures with a physical footprint of 100 square metres or more; (a) within a watercourse; Description: Internal access roads will be required for access to the Facility. The physical footprint of internal access roads and electrical cabling required to connect the various components of the Facilities will either traverse the delineated watercourses on site, or be located within 32m of the outer extent of the delineated watercourses on site. The access roads will fall within the solar PV development areas. Activity 14 The development and related operation of facilities or infrastructure, for the storage, or for the storage and handling, of a dangerous good, where such storage occurs in containers with a combined capacity of 80 cubic metres or more but not exceeding 500 cubic metres. Description: The proposed BESS facilities will potentially result in the handling of between 80 and 500 cubic metres of dangerous goods. This activity will only be applicable in the event that the BESS facilities are assembled on site. This is currently unknown. The Facility will also require storage and handling of dangerous goods, including fuel, cement and chemical storage onsite, that will be greater than 80m3 but not exceeding 500m3. Activity 19 The infilling or depositing of any material of more than 10 cubic metres into, or the dredging, excavation, removal or moving of soil, sand, shells, shell grit, pebbles or rock of more than 10 cubic metres from a watercourse. Description: The proposed infrastructure, with specific reference to access roads and the grid infrastructure, will require the removal of soil more than 10 cubic metres from a watercourse. Activity 24 (ii) The development of a road— (ii) with a reserve wider than 13,5 meters, or where no reserve exists where the road is wider than 8 metres. Description: KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 45 of 399 Legislation Description of Legislation and applicability The proposed access roads for the Solar facility will be 8 metres wide. Listing Notice 2: GNR 983 Activity 1 The development of facilities or infrastructure for the generation of electricity from a renewable resource where the electricity output is 20 megawatts or more, excluding where such development of facilities or infrastructure is for photovoltaic installations and occurs — (a) within an urban area. Description: Eskom is proposing the establishment of a solar electricity generating facility and ancillary infrastructure as part of its repurposing programme for Komati Power Station. The plan is to install 100 MW of Solar PV and 150 MW of BESS. Activity 15(ii) The clearance of an area of 20 hectares or more of indigenous vegetation. Description: The total extent of the proposed solar generating facilities is 140 ha and will require the clearance of indigenous vegetation of more than 20ha. Listing Notice 3: GNR 985 Activity 4 The development of a road wider than 4 metres with a reserve less than 13,5 metres. f. Mpumalanga i. Outside urban areas (ee) Critical biodiversity areas as identified in systematic biodiversity plans adopted by the competent authority or in bioregional plans. Description: The proposed access roads for the Solar facility will potentially be less than 13.5 metres wide within a critical biodiversity area (CBA). Activity 10 The development and related operation of facilities or infrastructure for the storage, or storage and handling of a dangerous good, where such storage occurs in containers with a combined capacity of 30 but not exceeding 80 cubic metres. f. Mpumalanga i. Outside urban areas (ee) Critical biodiversity areas as identified in systematic biodiversity plans adopted by the competent authority or in bioregional plans. Description: The proposed BESS facilities will potentially result in the handling of between 80 and 500 cubic metres of dangerous goods. This activity will KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 46 of 399 Legislation Description of Legislation and applicability only be applicable in the event that the BESS facilities are assembled on site. This is currently unknown. The Facility will also require storage and handling of dangerous goods, including fuel, cement and chemical storage onsite, that will be greater than 80m3 but not exceeding 500m3. Activity 12 The clearance of an area of 300 square metres or more of indigenous vegetation except where such clearance of indigenous vegetation is required for maintenance purposes undertaken in accordance with a maintenance management plan. f. Mpumalanga ii. Within critical biodiversity areas identified in bioregional plans. Description: The total footprint to be cleared is 140 ha. and will require the clearance of indigenous vegetation of more than 200 000m2. Procedures for the The protocols provide the criteria for specialist assessment and minimum Assessment and Minimum report content requirements for impacts for various environmental themes Criteria for Reporting on for activities requiring environmental authorisation. The protocols replace Identified Environmental the requirements of Appendix 6 of the EIA Regulations, 2014, as Themes (GNR 320, 20 March amended. The assessment and reporting requirements of the protocols 2020 and GNR 1150, 30 are associated with a level of environmental sensitivity identified by the October 2020) national web based environmental screening tool (screening tool). The following environmental themes were applicable to the Komati Solar PV and BESS project:  Agricultural Theme  Animal Species Theme  Aquatic Biodiversity Theme  Archaeological and Cultural Heritage Theme  Avian Theme  Civil Aviation (Solar PV) Theme  Defence Theme  Landscape (Solar) Theme  Palaeontology Theme  Plant Species Theme  Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) Theme  Terrestrial Biodiversity Theme National Environmental This Act provides for regulating waste management in order to protect Management: Waste Act (59 health and the environment by providing reasonable measures for the of 2008) (NEM:WA) prevention of pollution and ecological degradation. The Act also provides for the licensing and control of waste management activities through GNR. 921 (2013): List of Waste Management Activities that Have, or are Likely to Have, a Detrimental Effect on the Environment. The proposed project does not constitute a Listed Activity requiring a Waste Management Licence as defined in GNR 921. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 47 of 399 Legislation Description of Legislation and applicability Reasonable measures for the prevention of pollution and good international industry practice have been included as mitigation and management measures in the ESMP. National Environmental The Contaminated Land Assessment covers the soil and groundwater Management: Waste Act (59 requirement anticipated in the context of Part 8 of the National of 2008) (NEM:WA) – Part 8 Environmental Management: Waste Act (NEM: WA) and will be undertaken in general accordance with the requirements of the South African Framework for the Management of Contaminated Land (May 2010). Regulations Regarding Extended Producer Responsibility (Government Notice 43879) The purpose of these Regulations is- (1) to provide the framework for the development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of extended producer responsibility schemes by producers in terms of Section 18 of the Act; (2) to ensure the effective and efficient management of the identified end- of-life products; and(3) to encourage and enable the implementation of the circular economy initiatives. Responsibility for the SEF and BESS will belong to the developer. At the end-of-life, the developer will be responsible for removing and disposing of the infrastructure. Whilst broadly complying with Part 8 of the NEM: WA, the contaminated land report does not constitute a Site Assessment Report as described thereunder. The objective of the preliminary contamination assessment is to provide a review of available existing information and present the findings of the contemporary works. The aim of this report is therefore to:  Establish the environmental setting/s of the relevant development areas at Komati Power Station based on a review of existing information in conjunction with site reconnaissance, targeted intrusive investigations and laboratory analysis of selected samples;  Prepare a Conceptual Site Model (CSM) utilising the supplementary information to conceptualise the hydrological, geological and hydrogeological conditions in respect to possible contamination concerns;  Interpret the significance of recorded contamination impacts in broad accordance with Part 8 of the NEM:WA to ascertain the requirement for additional works and/or remediation. National Environmental The National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. Management: Biodiversity Act, 10 of 2004) (NEMBA) was promulgated in June 2004 within the 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004) framework of NEMA to provide for the management and conservation of national biodiversity. The NEMBA’s primary aims are for the protection of species and ecosystems that warrant national protection, the sustainable use of indigenous biological resources, the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from bioprospecting involving indigenous biological resources. In addition, the NEMBA provides for the establishment and functions of a South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI). KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 48 of 399 Legislation Description of Legislation and applicability SANBI was established by the NEMBA with the primary purpose of reporting on the status of the country’s biodiversity and conservation status of all listed threatened or protected species and ecosystems. The Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (No. 43 of 1983) (CARA) Regulations with regards to alien and invasive species (AIS) have been superseded by the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act no. 10 of 2004) –AIS Regulations which became law on 1 October 2014. Specific management measures for the control of alien and invasive plants have been included in the ESMP. National Environmental The purpose of the National Environmental Management Protected Areas Management Protected Areas Act (No. 57 of 2003) (NEMPAA) is to, inter alia, provide for the protection Act (No. 57 of 2003) and conservation of ecologically viable areas representative of South Africa’s biological diversity and its natural landscapes and seascapes. To this end, it provides for the declaration and management of various types of protected areas. Section 50(5) of NEMPAA states that “no development, construction or farming may be permitted in a nature reserve or world heritage site without the prior written approval of the management authority.” According to the National Parks Area Expansion Strategy (NPAES), there are no areas within the study area that have been identified as priority areas for inclusion in future protected areas. The study area is therefore outside the NPAES focus area. The National Water Act (No. The National Water Act, 1998 (Act No. 36 of 1998) (NWA) provides the 36 of 1998) framework to protect water resources against over exploitation and to ensure that there is water for social and economic development, human needs and to meet the needs of the aquatic environment. The Act defines water source to include watercourses, surface water, estuary or aquifer. A watercourse is defined in the Act as a river or spring, a natural channel in which water flows regularly or intermittently, a wetland, lake or dam into which or from which water flows, and any collection of water that the Minister may declare a watercourse. Section 21 of the Act outlines a number of categories that require a water user to apply for a Water Use Licence (WUL) and Section 22 requires water users to apply for a General Authorisation GA with the DWS if they are under certain thresholds or meet certain criteria. The list of water uses applicable to the proposed Project include: (c) Impeding or diverting the flow of water in a watercourse; (i) Altering the bed, banks, course or characteristics of a watercourse; The DWS will make the final decision on water uses that are applicable to the project through a pre-application meeting after which a WUL Application as determined by the risk assessment will be undertaken in compliance with procedural regulations published by the DWS within General Notice 267 (GN267). These regulations specify required information per water use and the reporting structure of required supporting technical information. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 49 of 399 Legislation Description of Legislation and applicability The National Heritage The National Heritage Resource Act (Act No. 25 of 1999) (NHRA) serves Resources Act (No. 25 of to protect national and provincial heritage resources across South Africa. 1999) The NHRA provides for the protection of all archaeological and palaeontological sites, the conservation and care of cemeteries and graves by the SAHRA, and lists activities that require any person who intends to undertake to notify the responsible heritage resources agency and furnish details regarding the location, nature, and extent of the proposed development. Part 2 of the NHRA details specific activities that require a Heritage Impact Assessment that will need to be approved by SAHRA. Parts of Section 35, 36 and 38 apply to the proposed project, principally:  Section 35 (4) - No person may, without a permit issued by the responsible heritage resources authority-  destroy, damage, excavate, alter, deface or otherwise disturb any archaeological or palaeontological site or any meteorite;  destroy, damage, excavate, remove from its original position, collect or own any archaeological or palaeontological material or object or any meteorite.  Section 38 (1) Subject to the provisions of subsections (7), (8) and (9), any person who intends to undertake a development categorised as-  any development or other activity which will change the character of a site— (i) exceeding 5 000m2 in extent, must at the very earliest stages of initiating such a development, notify the responsible heritage resources authority and furnish it with details regarding the location, nature and extent of the proposed development. In terms of Section 38(8), approval from the heritage authority is not required if an evaluation of the impact of such development on heritage resources is required in terms of any other legislation (such as NEMA), provided that the consenting authority ensures that the evaluation of impacts fulfils the requirements of the relevant heritage resources authority in terms of Section 38(3) and any comments and recommendations of the relevant resources authority with regard to such development have been taken into account prior to the granting of the consent. However, should heritage resources of significance be affected by the proposed project, a permit is required to be obtained prior to disturbing or destroying such resources as per the requirements of Section 48 of the NHRA, and the SAHRA Permit Regulations (GN R668). A Heritage Assessment (Appendix F.12) has been carried out by a suitably qualified specialist. Mineral and Petroleum The aim of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (No. Resources Development Act 28 of 2002) (MPRDA) is to make provision for equitable access to and (No. 28 of 2002) sustainable development of the nation’s mineral and petroleum resources. Section 53(1) of the MPRDA provides that any person who intends to use the surface of any land in any way that may be contrary to any object of the MPRDA, or which is likely to impede any such object, must apply to the Minister of Mineral Resources (the Minister) for approval. Section 53 of the MPRDA provides a mechanism for ensuring that, inter alia, the mining of mineral resources is not detrimentally affected through the use of the surface of land and which may, for example, result in the sterilisation of a mineral resource. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 50 of 399 Legislation Description of Legislation and applicability Noise Control Regulations in In South Africa, environmental noise control has been in place for three terms of the Environmental decades, beginning in the 1980s with codes of practice issued by the Conservation, 1989 (Act 73 of South African National Standards (formerly the South African Bureau of 1989) Standards, SABS) to address noise pollution in various sectors of the country. Under the previous generation of environmental legislation, specifically the Environmental Conservation Act 73 of 1989 (ECA), provisions were made to control noise from a National level in the form of the Noise Control Regulations (GNR 154 of January 1992). In later years, the ECA was replaced by NEMA as amended. The National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act 39 of 2004 (NEMAQA) was published in line with NEMA and contains noise control provisions under Section 34: (1) The minister may prescribe essential national standards – (a) for the control of noise, either in general or by specific machinery or activities or in specified places or areas; or (b) for determining – (i) a definition of noise; and (ii) the maximum levels of noise. (2) When controlling noise, the provincial and local spheres of government are bound by any prescribed national standards. Under NEMAQA, the Noise Control Regulations were updated and are to be applied to all provinces in South Africa. The Noise Control Regulations give all the responsibilities of enforcement to the Local Provincial Authority, where location specific by-laws can be created and applied to the locations with approval of Provincial Government. Where province- specific regulations have not been promulgated, acoustic impact assessments must follow the Noise Control Regulations. Furthermore, NEMAQA prescribes that the Minister must publish maximum allowable noise levels for different districts and national noise standards. These have not yet been accomplished and as a result all monitoring and assessments are done in accordance with the South African National Standards (SANS) 10103:2008 and 10328:2008. Conservation of Agricultural The CARA provides for the implementation of control measures for soil Resources Act (No. 43 of conservation works as well as alien and invasive plant species in and 1983) outside of urban areas. In terms of the amendments to the regulations under the CARA, landowners are legally responsible for the control of alien species on their properties. Various Acts administered by the DFFE and the DWS, as well as other laws (including local by-laws), spell out the fines, terms of imprisonment and other penalties for contravening the law. Although no fines have yet been placed against landowners who do not remove invasive species, the authorities may clear their land of invasive alien plants and other alien species entirely at the land owners’ cost and risk. The CARA Regulations with regards to alien and invasive species have been superseded by NEMBA AIS Regulations which became law on 1 October 2014. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 51 of 399 Legislation Description of Legislation and applicability Civil Aviation Act (No. 13 of Civil aviation in South Africa is governed by the Civil Aviation Act (Act 13 2009) of 2009). This Act provides for the establishment of a stand-alone authority mandated with controlling, promoting, regulating, supporting, developing, enforcing and continuously improving levels of safety and security throughout the civil aviation industry. This mandate is fulfilled by South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) as an agency of the Department of Transport. SACAA achieves the objectives set out in the Act by complying with the Standards and Recommended Practices of the International Civil Aviation Organisation, while considering the local context when issuing the South African Civil Aviation Regulations. As of the 1st of May 2021, ATNS has been appointed as the new Obstacle application Service Provider for Windfarms and later Solar Plants. Their responsibility would pertain to the assessments, maintenance, and all other related matters in respect to Windfarms and in due time Power Plant assessments. The DFFE Screening Tool Report identified Civil Aviation as having medium sensitivity for the proposed project, and no major or other types of civil aviation aerodromes. ATNS and SACAA will be included on the project stakeholder database. They will be informed of the proposed Project, and comment will be sought from these authorities as applicable. Occupational Health and The National Occupational Health and Safety Act (No. 85 of 1993) Safety Act (No. 85 of 1993) (OHSA) and the relevant regulations under the Act are applicable to the proposed project. This includes the Construction Regulations promulgated in 2014 under Section 43 of the Act. Adherence to South Africa’s OHSA and its relevant Regulations is essential. National Energy Act (No. 34 of The National Energy Act aims to ensure that diverse energy resources are 2008) available, in sustainable quantitates, and at affordable prices, to the South African economy in support of economic growth and poverty alleviation, taking into account environmental management requirements and interactions amongst economic sectors. The main objectives of the Act are to:  Ensure uninterrupted supply of energy to the Republic;  Promote diversity of supply of energy and its sources;  Facilitate effective management of energy demand and its conservation;  Promote energy research;  Promote appropriate standards and specifications for the equipment, systems and processes used for producing, supplying and consuming energy;  Ensure collection of data and information relating to energy supply, transportation and demand;  Provide for optimal supply, transformation, transportation, storage and demand of energy that are planned, organised and implemented in accordance with a balanced consideration of security of supply, economics, consumer protection and a sustainable development;  Provide for certain safety, health and environment matters that pertain to energy;  Facilitate energy access for improvement of the quality of life of the people of Republic; KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 52 of 399 Legislation Description of Legislation and applicability  Commercialise energy-related technologies;  Ensure effective planning for energy supply, transportation, and consumption; and  Contribute to sustainable development of South Africa’s economy. In terms of the act, the Minister of Energy is mandated to develop and, on an annual basis, review and publish the Integrated Energy Plan (IEP) in the Government Gazette. The IEP analyses current energy consumption trends within different sectors of the economy (i.e. agriculture, commerce, industry, residential and transport) and uses this to project future energy requirements, based on different scenarios. The IEP and the Integrated Resource Plan are intended to be updated periodically to remain relevant. The framework is intended to create a balance between energy demand and resource availability so as to provide low-cost electricity for social and economic development, while taking into account health, safety and environmental parameters. Electricity Regulation Act (No. The Electricity Regulation Act (No. 4 of 2006) aims to: 4 of 2006)  Achieve the efficient, effective, sustainable and orderly development and operation of electricity supply infrastructure in South Africa;  Ensure that the interests and needs of present and future electricity customers and end users are safeguarded and met, having regard to the governance, efficiency. effectiveness and long-term sustainability of the electricity supply industry within the broader context of economic energy regulation in the Republic:  Facilitate investment in the electricity supply industry;  Facilitate universal access to electricity;  Promote the use of diverse energy sources and energy efficiency;  Promote competitiveness and customer and end user choice; and  Facilitate a fair balance between the interests of customers and end users, licensees, investors in the electricity supply industry and the public. The Act establishes a National Energy Regulator as the custodian and enforcer of the National Electricity Regulatory Framework. The Act also provides for licenses and registration as the manner in which generation, transmission, distribution, trading and the import and export of electricity are regulated. National Economic The National Economic Development and Labour Council Act (NEDLAC) Development and Labour aims to provide for the establishment of a national economic, development Council Act, 1994 (Act No. 35 and labour council; to repeal certain provisions of the Labour Relations Act, of 1994) 1959; and to provide for matters connected therewith. NEDLAC has published four codes of good practice:  Picketing;  The handling of sexual harassment cases;  Dismissals based on operational requirements; and  Key aspects of HIV/AIDS and employment. The following Eskom’s governance documents are applicable to the above:  Disciplinary Code Standard (32-1112);  Disciplinary Procedure (32-1113);  Grievance Procedure (32-1114); KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 53 of 399 Legislation Description of Legislation and applicability  Management of Sickness Absence Procedure (240-102796274) Basic Conditions of The purpose of the Basic Conditions of Employment Act is to give effect to Employment Act No. 75 of the right to fair labour practices, as referred to in Section 23 (1) of the 1997 Constitution, by establishing and providing for the regulation of basic conditions of employment. Labour Relations Act 66 of The purpose of the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995 is to give effect to the 1995 public international law obligations of the Republic relating to labour relations; to amend and repeal certain laws relating to labour relations; and. to provide for incidental matters. The construction activities will require contractors for completion. A safe working environment and fair contractual agreements must be in place. The operational phase will have permanent employees for day-to-day activities as well as contractors who will all need a safe working environment and fair contractual agreements. Recommendations are provided concerning development of a detailed Human Resources (HR) and Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) system by the developer and its partners, in line with the requirements of the act and applicable WB ESS; as the Project moves towards implementation. The ESMP will incorporate the requirements for compliance with local and international Labour and Working legislation, WB ESS 2 and good practice on the part of the contractors. Employment Equity Act 55 of The purpose of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 is to remove 1998 discrimination, implement affirmative action and to promote equity, equality, opportunity, remuneration and development for all employees in the workplace. The construction activities will require contractors for completion. A safe working environment and fair contractual agreements must be in place. The operational phase will have permanent employees for day-to-day activities as well as contractors who will all need a safe working environment and fair contractual agreements. Recommendations are provided concerning development of a detailed HR and OHS system by the developer and its partners, in line with the requirements of the act and applicable WB ESSs; as the Project moves towards implementation. The ESMP will incorporate the requirements for compliance with local and international Labour and Working legislation, WB ESS 2 and good practice on the part of the contractors. Promotion of Equality and The Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act, Prevention of Unfair 2000 (or the Equality Act, Act No. 4 of 2000) is a comprehensive South Discrimination Act 4 of 2000 African anti-discrimination law. It prohibits unfair discrimination by the government and by private organisations and individuals and forbids hate speech and harassment. The construction activities will require contractors for completion. A safe working environment and fair contractual agreements must be in place. The operational phase will have permanent employees for day-to-day activities KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 54 of 399 Legislation Description of Legislation and applicability as well as contractors who will all need a safe working environment and fair contractual agreements. Recommendations are provided concerning development of a detailed HR and OHS system by the developer and its partners, in line with the requirements of the act and applicable WB ESSs; as the Project moves towards implementation. The ESMP will incorporate the requirements for compliance with local and international Labour and Working legislation, WB ESS 2 and good practice on the part of the contractors. Promotion of Access to The Promotion of Access to Information Act 2 of 2000 intends: to give effect Information Act 2000 to the constitutional right of access to any information held by the State and any information that is held by another person and that is required for the exercise or protection of any rights; and. to provide for matters connected therewith. The construction activities will require contractors for completion. A safe working environment and fair contractual agreements must be in place. The operational phase will have permanent employees for day-to-day activities as well as contractors who will all need a safe working environment and fair contractual agreements. Recommendations are provided concerning development of a detailed HR and OHS system by the developer and its partners, in line with the requirements of the act and applicable WB ESSs; as the Project moves towards implementation. The ESMP will incorporate the requirements for compliance with local and international Labour and Working legislation, WB ESS 2 and good practice on the part of the contractors. Protection, Promotion, The Protection, Promotion, Development and Management of Indigenous Development and Knowledge Act 6 of 2019 aims to provide for the management of rights of Management of Indigenous indigenous knowledge communities and encourage the use of indigenous Knowledge Act 6 of 2019 knowledge in the development of socially and economically applicable products and services. Urban-Econ is undertaking a Stakeholder Engagement Process whereby the local community is informed of the project and can provide input and suggestions as the project develops. Protection of Personal The Protection of Personal Information Act (Act 4 of 2013) (POPIA) aims Information Act 4 of 2013 to:  To promote the protection of personal information processed by public and private bodies;  To introduce certain conditions so as to establish minimum requirements for the processing of personal information;  To provide for the establishment of an Information Regulator to exercise certain powers and to perform certain duties and functions in terms of this Act and the Promotion of Access to Information Act, 2000;  To provide for the issuing of codes of conduct;  To provide for the rights of persons regarding unsolicited electronic communications and automated decision making;  To regulate the flow of personal information across the borders of the Republic; and KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 55 of 399 Legislation Description of Legislation and applicability  To provide for matters connected therewith. The stakeholder engagement process has been undertaken in consideration with POPIA. All personal information has been redacted from documents made publicly. Furthermore, a disclaimer has been included on all stakeholder documents, as follows: WSP will be processing certain personal information about you as an interested and affected party (I & AP) for purposes of enabling your registration as an I & AP and for purposes of storing your details on our database, if you consent for us to do so. WSP uses these details to contact you about other projects in the future. WSP will always process your personal information in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013. You are entitled to exercise your rights as a data subject and let us know if you wish to be deregistered as an I & AP or if you no longer want your contact details to be included on our database. Just Transition Eskom has a Just Energy Transition Office which was established in 2020. According to Eskom “Transition” describes the gradual movement towards lower carbon technologies, while “Just” qualifies that this transition will not negatively impact society, jobs and livelihoods. It is therefore important that the planning for the repurposing/repowering of Komati Power Station adhere to the principles of a just transition. South Africa has had a long and critical engagement with just transitions. This includes the early development of labour movement policies in 2011 and the inclusion of just transitions in the National Development Plan (NDP) in 2012. More recently, a commitment to a just transition was incorporated into the 2016 Nationally Determined Contributions that was aligned with the Paris Agreement and followed by a national consultation process on just transitions to inform the revision of NDP in 2019. As of 2020, the Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) drives the clarification and implementation of a just transiiton. To underline the importance of a Just Transition on national level PCC has been established by the President of the Republic of South Africa to advise on the country’s climate change response and pathways to a low-carbon climate-resilient economy and society. The PCC is a multi-stakeholder body with the aim to build social consensus around the complex and challenging decisions required to successfully navigate the climate transition, which includes the phasing out of coal fired power stations. The PCC’s mandate emanates from the Presidential Jobs Summit held in 2018, and one of the first tasks of the PCC is to understand the impacts of climate change on jobs, both positive and negative. The PCC need to ensure that the transition is socially just and that the needs of vulnerable groups are addressed. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 56 of 399 2.2 POLICIES AND PLANS Table 2-2 summarised key policies and plans as an outline of the governance framework for the project. Table 2-2 – Applicable Regional Policies and Plans Applicable Policy Description of Policy National Development Plan The National Development Plan (NDP) aims to eliminate poverty and reduce inequality by 2030. The NDP identifies a number of enabling milestones. Of relevance to the proposed development the NDP refers to the need to produce sufficient energy to support industry at competitive prices and ensure access for poor households, while reducing carbon emissions per unit of power by about one-third. In this regard the infrastructure is not just essential for faster economic growth and higher employment. It also promotes inclusive growth, providing citizens with the means to improve their own lives and boost their incomes. Infrastructure is essential to development. Chapter 3, Economy and Employment, identifies some of the structural challenges specific to South Africa, including an energy constraint that will act as a cap on growth and on options for industrialisation. The NDP notes that from an environmental perspective South Africa faces several related challenges. The reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and shift to a green low-carbon economy, is one of these challenges. In terms of implementation the NDP identifies three phases. The first two are of specific relevance to the proposed project. The first phase (2012– 2017) notes that ensuring the supply of energy and water is reliable and sufficient for a growing economy. The second phase (2018 –2023) involves building on the first phase to lay the foundations for more intensive improvements in productivity. The provision of affordable and reliable energy is a key requirement for this to take place. Chapter 4, Economic infrastructure, notes that economic infrastructure provides the foundation for social and economic development. In this regard South Africa must invest in a strong network of economic infrastructure designed to support the country's medium- and long-term economic and social objectives. The plan envisages that, by 2030, South Africa will have an energy sector that promotes:  Economic growth and development through adequate investment in energy infrastructure. The sector should provide reliable and efficient energy service at competitive rates, while supporting economic growth through job creation.  Environmental sustainability through efforts to reduce pollution and mitigate the effects of climate change. More specifically, South Africa should have adequate supply security in electricity and in liquid fuels, such that economic activity, transport, and welfare are not disrupted. The plan sets out steps that aim to ensure that, in 20 years, South Africa's energy system looks very different to the current situation. In this regard coal will contribute proportionately less to primary-energy needs, while gas and renewable energy resources, will play a much larger role. Integrated Resource Plan The IRP is an electricity capacity plan which aims to provide an indication 2010 – 2030 of the country's electricity demand, how this demand will be supplied and what it will cost. On 6 May 2011, the then Department of Energy released KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 57 of 399 Applicable Policy Description of Policy the Integrated Resource Plan 2010-2030 (IRP 2010) in respect of South Africa’s forecast energy demand for the 20-year period from 2010 to 2030. The promulgated IRP 2010–2030 identified the preferred generation technology required to meet expected demand growth up to 2030. It incorporated government objectives such as affordable electricity, reduced GHG emissions, reduced water consumption, diversified electricity generation sources, localisation and regional development. The IRP recognises that solar PV, wind and Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) with storage present an opportunity to diversify the electricity mix, to produce distributed generation and to provide off-grid electricity. Renewable technologies also present huge potential for the creation of new industries, job creation and localisation across the value chain. New Growth Path Government released the New Economic Growth Path Framework on 23 November 2010. The aim of the framework is to enhance growth, employment creation and equity. The policy’s principal target is to create five million jobs over the next 10 years and reflects government’s commitment to prioritising employment creation in all economic policies. The framework identifies strategies that will enable South Africa to grow in a more equitable and inclusive manner while attaining South Africa’s developmental agenda. Central to the New Growth Path is a massive investment in infrastructure as a critical driver of jobs across the economy. In this regard the framework identifies investments in five key areas namely: energy, transport, communication, water, and housing. National Infrastructure Plan The South African Government adopted a National Infrastructure Plan (NIP) in 2012. The NIP aims to transform the South African economic landscape while simultaneously creating significant numbers of new jobs and strengthening the delivery of basic services. It outlines the challenges and enablers which needs to be addressed in the building and developing of infrastructure. The Presidential Infrastructure Coordinating Commission was established by the Cabinet to integrate and coordinate the long-term infrastructure build. The plan also supports the integration of African economies. In terms of the plan Government will invest R827 billion over the next three years to build new and upgrade existing infrastructure. The aim of the investments is to improve access by South Africans to healthcare facilities, schools, water, sanitation, housing and electrification. The plan also notes that investment in the construction of ports, roads, railway systems, electricity plants, hospitals, schools and dams will contribute to improved economic growth. Integrated Energy Plan The development of a National IEP was envisaged in the White Paper on the Energy Policy of the Republic of South Africa of 1998 and, in terms of the National Energy Act, 2008 (Act No. 34 of 2008), the Minister of Energy is mandated to develop and, on an annual basis, review and publish the IEP in the Government Gazette. The purpose of the IEP is to provide a roadmap of the future energy landscape for South Africa which guides future energy infrastructure investments and policy development. The IEP notes that South Africa needs to grow its energy supply to support economic expansion and in so doing, alleviate supply bottlenecks and supply-demand deficits. In addition, it is essential that all citizens are provided with clean and modern forms of energy at an affordable price. As KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 58 of 399 Applicable Policy Description of Policy part of the Integrated Energy Planning process, eight key objectives are identified, namely:  Objective 1: Ensure security of supply.  Objective 2: Minimise the cost of energy.  Objective 3: Promote the creation of jobs and localisation.  Objective 4: Minimise negative environmental impacts from the energy sector.  Objective 5: Promote the conservation of water.  Objective 6: Diversify supply sources and primary sources of energy.  Objective 7: Promote energy efficiency in the economy.  Objective 8: Increase access to modern energy. The IEP provides an assessment of current energy consumption trends within different sectors of the economy (i.e., agriculture, commerce, industry, residential and transport) and uses this information to identify future energy requirements, based on different scenarios. The scenarios are informed by different assumptions on economic development and the structure of the economy and also take into account the impact of key policies such as environmental policies, energy efficiency policies, transport policies and industrial policies, amongst others. Based on this information the IEP then determines the optimal mix of energy sources and technologies to meet those energy needs in the most cost-effective manner for each of the scenarios. The associated environmental impacts, socio-economic benefits and macroeconomic impacts are also analysed. The IEP is therefore focused on determining the long-term energy pathway for South Africa, taking into account a multitude of factors which are embedded in the eight objectives. As part of the analysis four key scenarios were developed, namely the Base Case, Environmental Awareness, Resource Constrained and Green Shoots scenarios:  The Base Case Scenario assumes that existing policies are implemented and will continue to shape the energy sector landscape going forward. It assumes moderate economic growth in the medium to long term.  The Environmental Awareness Scenario is characterised by more stringent emission limits and a more environmentally aware society, where a higher cost is placed on externalities caused by the supply of energy.  The Resource Constrained Scenario in which global energy commodity prices (i.e. coal, crude oil and natural gas) are high due to limited supply.  The Green Shoots Scenario describes an economy in which the targets for high economic growth and structural changes to the economy, as set out in the NDP, are met. The IEP notes that South Africa should continue to pursue a diversified energy mix which reduces reliance on a single or a few primary energy sources. In terms of existing electricity generation capacity, the IEP indicates that existing capacity starts to decline notably from 2025, with significant plant retirement occurring in 2031, 2041 and 2048. By 2050 only 20% of the current electricity generation capacity remains. As a result, large investments are required in the electricity sector in order to maintain an adequate supply in support of economic growth. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 59 of 399 Applicable Policy Description of Policy By 2020, various import options become available, and some new coal capacity is added along with new wind, solar and gas capacity. The mix of generation capacity technologies by 2050 is considerably more diverse than the current energy mix, across all scenarios. The main differentiating factors between the scenarios are the level of demand, constraints on emission limits and the carbon dioxide externality costs. In all scenarios the energy mix for electricity generation becomes more diverse over the period to 2050, with coal reducing its share from about 85% in 2015 to 15–20% in 2050 (depending on the scenario). Solar, wind, nuclear, gas and electricity imports increase their share. The Environmental Awareness and Green Shoots scenarios take on higher levels of renewable energy. An assessment of each scenario against the eight objectives with reference to renewable energy notes while all scenarios seek to ensure that costs are minimised within the constraints and parameters of each scenario, the Base Case Scenario presents the least cost followed by the Environmental Awareness, Resource Constrained and Green Shoots scenarios respectively when total energy system costs are considered. In terms of promoting job creation and localisation potential the Base Case Scenario presents the greatest job creation potential, followed by the Resource Constrained, Environmental Awareness and Green Shoots scenarios respectively. In all scenarios, approximately 85% of total jobs are localisable. For electricity generation, most jobs result from solar technologies followed by nuclear and wind, with natural gas and coal making a smaller contribution. The Environmental Awareness Scenario, due to its stringent emission constraints, shows the lowest level of total emissions over the planning horizon. This is followed by the Green Shoots, Resource Constrained and Base Case scenarios. These trends are similar when emissions are considered cumulatively and individually by type. National Protected Area The NPAES areas were identified through a systematic biodiversity Expansion Strategy, 2010 planning process. They present the best opportunities for meeting the ecosystem-specific protected area targets set in the NPAES and were designed with strong emphasis on climate change resilience and requirements for protecting freshwater ecosystems. These areas should not be seen as future boundaries of protected areas, as in many cases only a portion of a particular focus area would be required to meet the protected area targets set in the NPAES. They are also not a replacement for fine scale planning which may identify a range of different priority sites based on local requirements, constraints and opportunities (NPAES, 2010). According to the NPAES, there are no areas within the study area that have been identified as priority areas for inclusion in future protected areas. The study area is therefore outside the NPAES focus area. National Climate Change The National Climate Change Response White Paper presents the South Response White Paper African Government’s vision for an effective climate change response and the long-term, just transition to a climate-resilient and lower-carbon economy and society. South Africa’s response to climate change has two objectives: KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 60 of 399 Applicable Policy Description of Policy  Effectively manage inevitable climate change impacts through interventions that build and sustain South Africa’s social, economic and environmental resilience and emergency response capacity.  Make a fair contribution to the global effort to stabilise GHG concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that avoids dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system within a timeframe that enables economic, social and environmental development to proceed in a sustainable manner 2.3 PROVINCIAL AND MUNICIPAL LEGAL AND REGULATORY FRAMEWORK Table 2-3 – Provincial Plans Applicable Plan Description of Plan Mpumalanga Growth and The primary objective of the Mpumalanga Economic Growth and Development Path Development Path (MEGDP) (2011) is to foster economic growth that creates jobs, reduce poverty and inequality in the Province. The MEGDP identifies supporting the development of clean forms of energy such as wind and hydro power generation opportunities, as well as opportunities including gas production from landfill and organic waste, as one of the key interventions to facilitate growth and job creation in the manufacturing sector. A focal point of the MEGDP is massive investments in infrastructure as a key driver of job creation across the economy, with alternative energy production identified as one of the key opportunities in the Mpumalanga Economic sectors. Mpumalanga Spatial The Mpumalanga Spatial Development Framework (SDF) (2019) identifies Development Framework that tourism is an important economic sector and has emerged as a (MSDF), 2019 robust driver of growth for emerging economies. The SDF also notes that a significant portion of Mpumalanga’s land area is classified as Moderate to High-Very High agricultural potential which can be utilised for agricultural production. However, there are other factors affecting the agricultural sector including loss of agricultural land to other activities, availability of water, contamination of the water used for irrigation by other economic activities, and access to the market. The SDF further notes that mining is the largest economic sector in the province and has assisted other sectors such as manufacturing and power generation, to grow in the province. However, the mining sector has posed some key challenges, including soil and water contamination and environmental pollution, development of mines on good agricultural soil thus threatening food security, restriction of animal movement due to open cast mining thus affecting the ecosystem etc. It also notes that Mpumalanga’s manufacturing plants and coal fired power plants are the key polluters of air, with climate change also identified as a key challenge in the province. Therefore, the province must carefully design interventions that provide a gradual shift from mining oriented sectors to the sustainable economic sectors to maintain sustained growth of the provincial economy. The SDF notes that a significant amount of the country’s electricity comes from coal-fired stations in Mpumalanga. It also observes that there is a steady increase in the demand for electricity in the province, mostly attributed to residential, commercial and industrial development, including mining and heavy industry. The Provincial SDF also notes that the KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 61 of 399 Applicable Plan Description of Plan abundance of coal has led to the development of many coal-fired power stations in the province, however these coalfields are depleting, therefore making it necessary to consider renewable power sources in Mpumalanga. The SDF also recognises that Mpumalanga’s Coal Mining and Coal Fired Power Plant region (mainly the Highveld area) will be under immense pressure for environmental considerations and as a result, the region will witness a possible decline in demand of coal and large-scale employment. The SDF proposes to diversify the regional economy and facilitate the gradual transition of economic activities in the region. According to the SDF, power stations using renewable sources (such as wind and solar) can be developed on the unused fallow lands. Mpumalanga Industrial In terms of industry, the purpose of the Mpumalanga Industrial Development Plan Development Plan (MIDP) (2015) is to promote the establishment of new industries and promote growth of existing industries in the province. Mpumalanga Conservation Act This Act provides for the sustainable utilisation of wild animals, aquatic (No. 10 of 1998) biota and plants; provides for the implementation of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora; provides for offences and penalties for contravention of the Act; provides for the appointment of nature conservators to implement the provisions of the Act; and provides for the issuing of permits and other authorisations. Amongst other regulations, the following may apply to the current project:  Various species are protected;  The owner of land upon which an invasive species is found (plant or animal) must take the necessary steps to eradicate or destroy such species. The Act provides lists of protected species for the Province. According to the Mpumalanga Nature Conservation Act, a permit is required for the removal of any species on this list. Mpumalanga Biodiversity The Mpumalanga Biodiversity Sector Plan (MBSP) is a spatial tool with Sector Plan land-use guidelines to inform permissible land-uses that support biodiversity patterns and ecological processes. It is used as a land-use decision support tool (to assist with evaluating EIAs). The MBSP has been used for this project and indicates the project location falls within areas categorised Heavily or Moderately Modified Areas, whilst Other Natural Areas occur at some of the proposed development site portions. A CBA occurs at the west, the project layout has been amended to avoid the CBA. CBAs are those areas (outside of Protected Areas) that are required to meet biodiversity targets for biodiversity pattern (species and ecosystems) and ecological processes. These are areas of high biodiversity value and should remain in a natural state that is maintained in good ecological condition (Lötter, 2015). The CBA within which the proposed PV Site B is situated is bordered by the Goedehoop Colliery operations on the north and west, and a residential area on the east and farmlands on the south, all of which encompass Heavily or Moderately Modified Areas. Thus the level of anthropogenic disturbance renders the CBA unlikely to meet biodiversity targets for species and ecosystems and ecological processes. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 62 of 399 Table 2-4 – District and Local Municipality Plans Applicable Plan Description of Plan Nkangala Municipality According to the Municipal Systems Act (Act 32 of 2000), all municipalities Integrated Development Plan have to undertake an IDP process. The IDP is a legislative requirement thus it has legal status and supersedes all other plans that guide development at local government level. The need for a district-based coordination model was announced in the Presidency budget speech in 2019, and the District Development Model was conceived (Nkangala DM IDP 2021/22). The District Development Model DDM is an operational model for improving cooperative governance aimed at building a capable, ethical, and developmental State. It embodies an approach where the three spheres of government and state entities work collaboratively in an impact-oriented way, and where there is higher performance and accountability for coherent service delivery and development out-comes. The district municipality has a Local Economic Development (LED) unit that is tasked with planning and coordinating LED activities in the district as well as collecting and disseminating economic information to the Local Municipalities and other stakeholders with LED interventions. In addition to the LED unit, the municipality has established a Trade and Investment office that offer the following services to SMMEs, investors and other economic agents:  Facilitating feasibility studies and business plans  Facilitating access to funding through DFIs and private funders  Assisting with obtaining factory space and/or land  Facilitating joint ventures via the identification of local partners  Providing opportunities for emerging B-BBEE businesses  Providing counselling and training to SMMEs regarding export issues  Advising local business on technical trade issue  Facilitating access to national and local government incentives  Hosting and coordinating business events/exhibitions and delegations to promote Nkangala as a premier trade and investment destination Steve Tshwete Local The Steve Tshwete Local Municipality aims to achieve economic growth Municipality Integrated and poverty alleviation by coordinating sustainable social and economic Development Plan development programs. LED projects driven by the municipality are:  The Community Works Programme CWP provides a job safety net for unemployed people of working age where participants engage in community work.  The Expanded Public Works Programme EPWP is a nationwide programme that covers all spheres of government and state-owned enterprises that aims to draw significant numbers of unemployed people into productive work, accompanied by training.  Township economic development  Tourism development  Sector development consisting of a sector analysis (tourism, agri- processing, mining, and manufacturing), investigation of a funding model for economic infrastructure development (roads, social housing) and the development of Centre of Excellence (skills development, incubation, SMME development). KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 63 of 399 Applicable Plan Description of Plan  Mining that involved a mining survey that included GIS mapping of all existing mines in the municipal area and social and labour plans. The project aims at promoting accountability among mines and improve communication between the municipality, communities, mines and the DMR.  Investment summit and drive 2.4 INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL STANDARDS This section describes the most relevant international guidelines and standards. The Proponent is committed to best industry practice. 2.4.1 WORLD BANK ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL FRAMEWORK The Environmental and Social Framework (ESF) became effective on October 1, 2018 and applies to all Investment Policy Financing (IPF) projects initiated after this date. It makes important advances in areas such as labour, non-discrimination, climate change mitigation and adaptation, biodiversity, community health and safety, and stakeholder engagement – including expanding the role of public participation and grievance mechanisms. The ESF enhances the World Bank Group’s (WBG’s) commitment to sustainable development through ten Environmental and Social Standards (ESS) that are designed to support Borrowers’ environmental and social (E&S) risk management. This Project is supported by funding from the World Bank. The ten ESS are outlined in Table 2-5. Table 2-5 – Environmental and Social Standards applicable to the project Standard Reference Applicability ESS 1: ESS 1 sets out the Borrower’s responsibilities for This document is the ESIA being Assessment and assessing, managing and monitoring undertaken for this project. The Management of environmental and social risks and impacts impact assessment Environmental and associated with each stage of a project supported comprehensively assesses the Social Risks and by the Bank through IPF, in order to achieve key environmental and social Impacts environmental and social outcomes consistent impacts and complies with the with the ESSs. The following objectives are requirements of the South applicable: African EIA Regulations and those of the ESS requirements.  To identify, evaluate and manage the In addition, an ESMP has been environment and social risks and impacts of complied and included in the project in a manner consistent with the Appendix G. ESSs.  To adopt a mitigation hierarchy approach to: • a) Anticipate and avoid risks and impacts; • b) Where avoidance is not possible, minimize or reduce risks and impacts to acceptable levels; • c) Once risks and impacts have been minimized or reduced, mitigate; and • d) Where significant residual impacts remain, compensate for or offset them, where technically and financially feasible. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 64 of 399 Standard Reference Applicability  To adopt differentiated measures so that adverse impacts do not fall disproportionately on the disadvantaged or vulnerable, and they are not disadvantaged in sharing development benefits and opportunities resulting from the project.  To utilize national environmental and social institutions, systems, laws, regulations and procedures in the assessment, development and implementation of projects, whenever appropriate.  To promote improved environmental and social performance, in ways which recognize and enhance Borrower capacity ESS 2: Labour ESS 2 recognizes the importance of employment The construction activities will and Working creation and income generation in the pursuit of require contractors for Conditions poverty reduction and inclusive economic growth. completion. A safe working Borrowers can promote sound worker- environment and fair contractual management relationships and enhance the agreements must be in place. development benefits of a project by treating The operational phase will have workers in the project fairly and providing safe and permanent employees for day-to- healthy working conditions. The following day activities as well as objectives are applicable: contractors who will all need a safe working environment and  To promote safety and health at work. fair contractual agreements.  To promote the fair treatment, non- discrimination and equal opportunity of project Whilst ESS 2 will be applicable workers. to the Project, it is not intended  To protect project workers, including vulnerable to be addressed in detail at this workers such as women, persons with stage . Recommendations are disabilities, children (of working age, in provided concerning accordance with this ESS) and migrant development of a detailed HR workers, contracted workers, community and OHS system by the workers and primary supply workers, as contractor as the Project moves appropriate. towards implementation.  To prevent the use of all forms of forced labour The ESMP compiled and and child labour. included in Appendix G does  To support the principles of freedom of incorporate the requirements for association and collective bargaining of project compliance with local and workers in a manner consistent with national international Labour and Working law. legislation and good practice on  To provide project workers with accessible the part of the contractors. means to raise workplace concerns. ESS 3: Resource ESS 3 recognizes that economic activity and ESS 3 related impacts, such as Efficiency and urbanization often generate pollution to air, water, the management of construction Pollution and land, and consume finite resources that may waste, hazardous substances, Prevention and threaten people, ecosystem services and the and stormwater are assessed in Management environment at the local, regional, and global Section 9 of this report. levels. This ESS sets out the requirements to There are no material resource address resource efficiency and pollution efficiency issues associated with prevention and management throughout the the Project. The ESMP includes project life-cycle. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 65 of 399 Standard Reference Applicability general resource efficiency The following objectives are applicable: measures.  To promote the sustainable use of resources, The appointed contractor will be including energy, water and raw materials. responsible for implementing  To avoid or minimize adverse impacts on Occupational Health and Safety human health and the environment by avoiding requirements aligned with the or minimizing pollution from project activities. South African National  To avoid or minimize project-related emissions Legislation. of short and long-lived climate pollutants.  To avoid or minimize generation of hazardous The project is not GHG and non-hazardous waste. emissions intensive and a  To minimize and manage the risks and impacts climate resilience study or a associated with pesticide use. GHG emissions-related assessment is not deemed necessary for a project of this nature. However, the proposed project seeks to facilitate resource efficiency and pollution prevention by contributing to the South African green economy. Dust air pollution in the construction phase has been addressed in the ESMP. The Project will not result in the release of industrial effluents. Potential pollution associated with sanitary wastewater is low and mitigation measures are included in the ESMP. The waste expected to be generated from the project is detailed in Section 5.8.4. Waste mitigation and management measures are included in ESMP. ESS 4: ESS 4 addresses the health, safety, and security The requirements included in Community Health risks and impacts on project-affected communities ESS 4 is addressed in the ESIA and Safety and the corresponding responsibility of Borrowers process and included in the to avoid or minimize such risks and impacts, with ESMP. particular attention to people who, because of their During the construction phase particular circumstances, may be vulnerable. The there will be an increase in following objective are applicable: vehicular traffic along public  To anticipate and avoid adverse impacts on the roads, largely due to the need for health and safety of project-affected importation of construction communities during the project life cycle from material. Pedestrian and road both routine and non-routine circumstances. safety risks have been  To promote quality and safety, and qualitatively evaluated in the considerations relating to climate change, in ESIA process and the clients’ the design and construction of infrastructure, standard safety and security including dams. measures, as well as potential KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 66 of 399 Standard Reference Applicability  To avoid or minimize community exposure to additional measures project-related traffic and road safety risks, recommended by WSP, are diseases and hazardous materials. detailed in the ESMP. An air  To have in place effective measures to address quality, noise, visual and traffic emergency events. assessment has been  To ensure that the safeguarding of personnel undertaken as part of this ESIA, and property is carried out in a manner that which relates to community avoids or minimizes risks to the project- health. The assessments are affected communities. included in Section 9. ESS 5: Land The main objectives of ESS 5 are to: ESS 5 is not applicable to the Acquisition, proposed project as no physical  To avoid involuntary resettlement or, when Restrictions on or economic displacement or unavoidable, minimize involuntary resettlement Land Use and livelihood restoration will be by exploring project design alternatives. Involuntary required.  To avoid forced eviction. Resettlement  To mitigate unavoidable adverse social and The proposed project is located economic impacts from land acquisition or on Eskom owned land. Eskom restrictions on land use by: leases the land to a commercial farmer located within Solar Site • (a) providing timely compensation for loss of B. The Eskom Real Estate assets at replacement cost and portfolio manager facilitated • (b) assisting displaced persons in their meetings with Eskom and the efforts to improve, or at least restore, their farmer on the proposed project livelihoods and living standards, in real and the use of the leased land. terms, to pre-displacement levels or to Eskom will give the farmer four levels prevailing prior to the beginning of months’ notice for termination if project implementation, whichever is higher. there is only grazing taking  To improve living conditions of poor or place. However, if the farmer is vulnerable persons who are physically planting crops Eskom will have displaced, through provision of adequate to wait until harvest time, or housing, access to services and facilities, and compensate the farmer for the security of tenure. loss.  To conceive and execute resettlement activities as sustainable development programs, providing sufficient investment resources to enable displaced persons to benefit directly from the project, as the nature of the project may warrant.  To ensure that resettlement activities are planned and implemented with appropriate disclosure of information, meaningful consultation, and the informed participation of those affected. acilitaedESS 6: ESS 6 recognizes that protecting and conserving A Plant and Biodiversity Impact Biodiversity biodiversity and sustainably managing living Assessment has been included Conservation and natural resources are fundamental to sustainable in Appendix F.8. Sustainable development and it recognizes the importance of The methodologies for the Management of maintaining core ecological functions of habitats, specialist assessments include a Living Natural including forests, and the biodiversity they combination of literature review, Resources support. ESS 6 also addresses sustainable in-field surveys and sensitivity management of primary production and harvesting mapping. This substantively of living natural resources, and recognizes the complies with the ESS 6 general KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 67 of 399 Standard Reference Applicability need to consider the livelihood of project-affected requirements for scoping and parties, including Indigenous Peoples, whose baseline assessment for access to, or use of, biodiversity or living natural determination of biodiversity and resources may be affected by a project. The ecosystem services issues. The following objectives are applicable: determination of habitat sensitivity was undertaken within  To protect and conserve biodiversity and the legal and best practice habitats. reference framework for South  To apply the mitigation hierarchy and the Africa. precautionary approach in the design and implementation of projects that could have an The prevalence of invasive alien impact on biodiversity. species has been determined,  To promote the sustainable management of and mitigation and management living natural resources. measures are included in the  To support livelihoods of local communities, ESMP. including Indigenous Peoples, and inclusive economic development, through the adoption of practices that integrate conservation needs and development priorities. ESS 7: Indigenous ESS 7 ensures that the development process As per the international Peoples/Sub- fosters full respect for the human rights, dignity, instruments under the United Saharan African aspirations, identity, culture, and natural resource- Nations (UN) Human Rights Historically based livelihoods of Indigenous Peoples/Sub- Conventions, no indigenous Underserved Saharan African Historically Underserved peoples are present within the Traditional Local Traditional Local Communities. ESS 7 is also study area. The Project does not Communities; meant to avoid adverse impacts of projects on involve displacement. ESS 7 will Indigenous Peoples/Sub-Saharan African not be triggered. Historically Underserved Traditional Local Communities, or when avoidance is not possible, to minimize, mitigate and/or compensate for such impacts. The following objective are applicable:  To ensure that the development process fosters full respect for the human rights, dignity, aspirations, identity, culture, and natural resource-based livelihoods of Indigenous Peoples/ Sub-Saharan African Historically Underserved Traditional Local Communities.  To avoid adverse impacts of projects on Indigenous Peoples/Sub-Saharan African Historically Underserved Traditional Local Communities, or when avoidance is not possible, to minimize, mitigate and/or compensate for such impacts.  To promote sustainable development benefits and opportunities for Indigenous Peoples/Sub- Saharan African Historically Underserved Traditional Local Communities in a manner that is accessible, culturally appropriate and inclusive.  To improve project design and promote local support by establishing and maintaining an ongoing relationship based on meaningful consultation with the Indigenous Peoples/Sub- KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 68 of 399 Standard Reference Applicability Saharan African Historically Underserved Traditional Local Communities affected by a project throughout the project’s life cycle.  To obtain the Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) of affected Indigenous Peoples/ Sub-Saharan African Historically Underserved Traditional Local Communities in the three circumstances described in this ESS.  To recognize, respect and preserve the culture, knowledge, and practices of Indigenous Peoples/Sub-Saharan African Historically Underserved Traditional Local Communities, and to provide them with an opportunity to adapt to changing conditions in a manner and in a timeframe acceptable to them. ESS 8: Cultural ESS 8 recognizes that cultural heritage provides A Heritage Assessment has Heritage continuity in tangible and intangible forms between been compiled by a suitably the past, present and future. ESS 8 sets out qualified specialist and included measures designed to protect cultural heritage in Appendix F.12. throughout the project life cycle. The following A Chance Find Procedure has objective are applicable: been included in the ESMP in  To protect cultural heritage from the adverse Section 8.14 (Appendix G). impacts of project activities and support its preservation.  To address cultural heritage as an integral aspect of sustainable development.  To promote meaningful consultation with stakeholders regarding cultural heritage.  To promote the equitable sharing of benefits from the use of cultural heritage. ESS 9: Financial ESS9 recognizes that strong domestic capital and ESS 9 is not applicable to this Intermediaries financial markets and access to finance are project. important for economic development, growth and poverty reduction. The Bank is committed to supporting sustainable financial sector development and enhancing the role of domestic capital and financial markets. The following objectives are applicable:  To set out how the Financial Intermediaries (FI) will assess and manage environmental and social risks and impacts associated with the subprojects it finances.  To promote good environmental and social management practices in the subprojects the FI finances.  To promote good environmental and sound human resources management within the FI. ESS 10: ESS 10 recognizes the importance of open and The S&EIR process that was Stakeholder transparent engagement between the Borrower undertaken includes an KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 69 of 399 Standard Reference Applicability Engagement and and project stakeholders as an essential element extensive stakeholder Information of good international practice. Effective engagement process which Disclosure stakeholder engagement can improve the complies with the South African environmental and social sustainability of projects, EIA Regulations. The process enhance project acceptance, and make a includes consultations with local significant contribution to successful project communities, nearby design and implementation. The following businesses, and a range of objectives are applicable: government sector stakeholders (state owned enterprises,  To establish a systematic approach to national, provincial and local stakeholder engagement that will help departments). Borrowers identify stakeholders and build and maintain a constructive relationship with them, The stakeholder engagement in particular project-affected parties. process solicits interest from  To assess the level of stakeholder interest and potentially interested parties support for the project and to enable through the placement of site stakeholders’ views to be taken into account in notices and newspaper project design and environmental and social advertisements as well as written performance. and telephonic communication.  To promote and provide means for effective The Technical Note: “Public and inclusive engagement with project-affected Consultations and Stakeholder parties throughout the project life cycle on Engagement in WB-supported issues that could potentially affect them. operations when there are  To ensure that appropriate project information constraints on conducting public on environmental and social risks and impacts meetings”, March 2020, was is disclosed to stakeholders in a timely, used as guidance in the understandable, accessible and appropriate stakeholder engagement manner and format. process.  To provide project-affected parties with accessible and inclusive means to raise issues and grievances, and allow Borrowers to respond to and manage such grievances. 2.4.2 WORLD BANK GROUP ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND SAFETY GUIDELINES In support of the Performance Standards, the WBG has published Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Guidelines. The EHS Guidelines are technical reference documents with general and industry-specific examples of Good International Industry Practice. They are designed to assist managers and decision makers with relevant industry background and technical information. This information supports actions aimed at avoiding, minimising, and controlling EHS impacts during the construction, operation, and decommissioning phase of a project or facility. The EHS Guidelines serve as a technical reference source to support the implementation of the World Bank Environmental and Social Standards, particularly in those aspects related to the occupational health and safety aspects contained in ESS 2 – Labour and working conditions, ESS 3 Resource Efficiency and Pollution Prevention and Management, as well as ESS4: Community Health and Safety. Where host country regulations differ from the levels and measures presented in the EHS Guidelines, projects seeking international funding may be expected to achieve whichever is more stringent. If less stringent levels or measures are appropriate in view of specific project circumstances, a full and detailed justification for any proposed alternatives is required. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 70 of 399 The following WBG EHS Guidelines have been generally consulted during the preparation of the EIA in order to aid the identification of EHS aspects applicable to the project:  Electric Power Transmission and Distribution (2007) - information relevant to power transmission between a generation facility and a substation located within an electricity grid, in addition to power distribution from a substation to consumers located in residential, commercial, and industrial areas  General EHS Guidelines – this includes a section on a range of environmental, occupational health and safety, community health and safety, and construction activities that would apply to the project. The guideline also contains recommended guidelines adopted form the World Health Organisation (WHO) for ambient air and water quality, which are referred to in the relevant impact assessment sections in the EIA report. 2.4.3 INTERNATIONAL LABOUR ORGANISATION CONVENTIONS Since 1919, the International Labour Organisation (ILO) has maintained and developed a system of international labour standards aimed at promoting opportunities for women and men to obtain decent and productive work, in conditions of freedom, equity, security and dignity. In today's globalised economy, international labour standards are an essential component in the international framework for ensuring that the growth of the global economy provides benefits to all (https://www.ilo.org/global/standards/introduction-to-international-labour-standards/lang-- en/index.htm). The ILO fundamental Conventions ratified by South Africa are:  C029 - The Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (No. 29), ratified 05 March 1997;  C105 - The Abolition of Forced Labour Convention, 1957 (No. 105), ratified 05 March 1997;  C087 - The Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise Convention, 1948 (No. 87), ratified 19 February 1996;  C098 - The Right to Organise and Collective Bargaining Convention, 1949 (No. 98), ratified 19 February 1996  C100 - The Equal Remuneration Convention, 1951 (No. 100), ratified 30 March 2000;  C111 - The Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention, 1958 (No. 111), ratified 05 March 1997;  C138 - The Minimum Age Convention, 1973 (No. 138), ratified 30 March 2000;  C155 – Occupational Safety and Health Convention, 1981 (No. 155), ratified 18 February 2003 and  C182 - The Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention, 1999 (No. 182), ratified 07 June 2000. The construction of the SEF and BESS will require contractors for completion. A safe working environment and fair contractual agreements must be in place. The operational phase will have permanent employees for day-to-day activities as well as contractors who will all need a safe working environment and fair contractual agreements. Recommendations are provided concerning development of a detailed HR and OHS system by the developer and its partners as the Project moves towards implementation. The ESMP will incorporate the requirements for compliance with local and international Labour and Working legislation and good practice on the part of the contractors. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 71 of 399 2.4.4 SOCIO-ECONOMIC GUIDELINES The development of this ESIA has taken several socio-economic guidelines into consideration in order to identify and minimise adverse social effects that may occur as a result of the project. These guidelines are included in Table 2-6. The guidelines include Good Practice Notes (GPNs) which are produced to help the WB in providing implementation support to Borrowers in meeting the requirements of the ESF (World Bank, 2019), as well as relevant South African legislation. Table 2-6 – Socio-Economic guidelines applicable to the project Guideline Reference Applicability GPN - Addressing Sexual This GPN aims to assist Task Teams in The ESIA identifies the potential Exploitation and Abuse identifying risks of SEA/SH that can social impacts that the project may and Sexual Harassment emerge in projects involving major civil have on women in the project (SEA/SH) in Investment works contracts – and to advise on how affected area and will recommend Project Financing involving to best manage such risks. measures to mitigate these Major Civil Works, 2020 potential impacts. GPN - Addressing Gender This GPN seeks to assist Task Teams in The ESIA identifies the potential Based Violence in establishing an approach to identify risks social impacts that the project may Investment Project of Gender Based Violence, in particular have on women in the project Financing involving Major SEA and SH, that can emerge in affected area. Civil Works, 2018 Investment Project Financing with major civil works contracts and to advise accordingly on how to best manage such risks. The GPN builds on WB experience and GIIP, including those of other development partners. While WB Task Teams are the primary audience, the GPN also aims to contribute to a growing knowledge base on the subject. GPN – Gender, 2019 To address constraints cited in many The ESIA identifies the potential economies as impediments to closing social impacts that the project may these gaps, such as occupational sex have on the health and wellbeing segregation, with women and girls often of women in the project affected streamed into lower-paying, less secure area. It also assess the potential fields of study and work; high rates of impacts on the social standing and unpaid work by women; lack of safe, benefits from the project. affordable transportation; high There will be no physical or prevalence of gender-based violence economic displacement as a result and, more specifically, of SEA/SH in of the project. workplaces; lack of clear land and housing ownership and tenure security, wherein women’s rights tend to be informal so that they are at greater risk of being displaced from land and other asset ownership; and inadequate investment in and prioritization of care services, from early childhood to old age. The strategy sets out to help countries address challenges such as maternal KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 72 of 399 Guideline Reference Applicability mortality while also considering emerging challenges such as ageing populations, climate change, fragility, conflict, and violence, and slowing economic growth. GPN - Road safety, 2019 The ESF road safety requirements are The impacts on traffic and general defined in ESS 4. The following road safety in the project affected objective are applicable: area have been assessed in the ESIA. To identify, evaluate and monitor the potential traffic and road safety risks to workers, affected communities and road users throughout the project life-cycle and, where appropriate, will develop measures and plans to address them. The Borrower will incorporate technically and financially feasible road safety measures into the project design to prevent and mitigate potential road safety risks to road users and affected communities” To undertake a road safety assessment for each phase of the project, and will monitor incidents and accidents, and prepare regular reports of such monitoring. The Borrower will use the reports to identify negative safety issues, and establish and implement measures to resolve them. To put in place appropriate processes, including driver training, to improve driver and vehicle safety, as well as systems for monitoring and enforcement. The Borrower will consider the safety record or rating of vehicles in purchase or leasing decisions and require regular maintenance of all project vehicles. To take appropriate safety measures to avoid the occurrence of incidents and injuries to members of the public associated with the operation of construction equipment. GPN - Assessing and To assess and manage potential The health and safety and security managing the risks and environmental and social risks and of communities is assessed and impacts of the use of impacts arising from projects. considered in the ESIA. security personnel, 2018 GPN - Assessing and To assist the identification and The potential impacts of the influx Managing the risks of management of risks to and impacts on of labourers and labour seekers adverse impacts on local communities related to the influx of have been assessed in the ESIA. communities from KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 73 of 399 Guideline Reference Applicability temporary project induced labour that typically results from labour influx, 2016 construction works Freedom of Association Workers and employers, without The right to associate is enshrined and Protection of the Right distinction whatsoever, shall have the in the constitution of South Africa. to Organise Convention, right to establish and, subject only to the Eskom will adhere to the ILO 1948 (No. 87) rules of the organisation concerned, to Conventions which have been join organisations of their own choosing ratified by South Africa. without previous authorisation. Right to Organise and Workers' and employers' organisations The right to collectively bargain is Collective Bargaining shall enjoy adequate protection against enshrined in the constitution of Convention, 1949 (No. 98) any acts of interference by each other or South Africa. each other's agents or members in their Eskom will adhere to the ILO establishment, functioning or Conventions which have been administration. ratified by South Africa. Forced Labour Aims to suppress the use of forced or The constitution of South Africa Convention, 1930 (No. 29) compulsory labour in all its forms within states that no one may be the shortest possible period. subjected to slavery, servitude or forced labour. Eskom will adhere to the ILO Conventions which have been ratified by South Africa. Abolition of Forced Labour Undertakes to suppress and not to make The constitution of South Africa Convention, 1957 (No. use of any form of forced or compulsory states that no one may be 105) labour subjected to slavery, servitude or forced labour. (a) as a means of political coercion or education or as a punishment for holding Eskom will adhere to the ILO or expressing political views or views Conventions which have been ideologically opposed to the established ratified by South Africa. political, social or economic system; (b) as a method of mobilising and using labour for purposes of economic development; (c) as a means of labour discipline; (d) as a punishment for having participated in strikes; (e) as a means of racial, social, national or religious discrimination. Minimum Age Convention, Seeks to ensure the effective abolition of The Basic Conditions of 1973 (No. 138) child labour and to raise progressively Employment Act in South Africa the minimum age for admission to states that it is a criminal offence employment or work to a level consistent to employ a child younger than 15. with the fullest physical and mental Eskom will adhere to the ILO development of young persons. Conventions which have been ratified by South Africa. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 74 of 399 Guideline Reference Applicability Worst Forms of Child To secure the prohibition and elimination The Basic Conditions of Labour Convention, 1999 of the worst forms of child labour as a Employment Act in South Africa (No. 182) matter of urgency. states that it is a criminal offence to employ a child younger than 15. Eskom will adhere to the ILO Conventions which have been ratified by South Africa Equal Remuneration To ensure the application to all workers The Employment Equity Act states Convention, 1951 (No. of the principle of equal remuneration for that no person may discriminate 100) men and women workers for work of directly or indirectly against an equal value. employee on the basis of race, gender, sex, pregnancy, marital status, family responsibility, ethnic or social origin, colour, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, HIV status, conscience, belief, political opinion, culture, language and birth or on any other arbitrary grounds. Eskom will adhere to the ILO Conventions which have been ratified by South Africa Discrimination To declare and pursue a national policy The Employment Equity Act states (Employment and designed to promote, equality of that no person may discriminate Occupation) Convention, opportunity and treatment in respect of directly or indirectly against an 1958 (No. 111) employment and occupation. employee on the basis of race, gender, sex, pregnancy, marital status, family responsibility, ethnic or social origin, colour, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, HIV status, conscience, belief, political opinion, culture, language and birth or on any other arbitrary grounds. Eskom will adhere to the ILO Conventions which have been ratified by South Africa Occupational Safety and Employers shall be required to ensure The Occupational Health and Health Convention, 1981 that the workplaces, machinery, Safety Act seeks to provide for the (No. 155) equipment and processes under their health and safety of people at work control are safe and without risk to or in connection with the use of health. plant and machinery. Eskom will adhere to the ILO Conventions which have been ratified by South Africa KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 75 of 399 2.5 LEGISLATIVE GAP ANALYSIS The key requirements for the WB ESS against the South African legislation is indicated in Table 2-7. The limitations in the South African legislation are highlighted and measures are proposed. Table 2-7 – Key requirements of WB ESS against the South African legislation WB ESS Requirements Related South African Legislation Limitations ESS 1: Applicable South African Legislation: None ESS 1 sets out the Borrower’s responsibilities for  National Environmental assessing, managing and monitoring Management Act (No. 107 of 1998) environmental and social risks and impacts associated with each stage of a project supported • Chapter 24: Procedures for the by the Bank through IPF, in order to achieve investigation, assessment and environmental and social outcomes consistent with communication of the potential the ESSs. The following objectives are applicable: consequences or impacts of activities on the environment.  To identify, evaluate and manage the environment and social risks and impacts of the  Related provisions in the EIA project in a manner consistent with the ESSs. Regulations:  To adopt a mitigation hierarchy approach to: • Prescribe the regulatory • a) Anticipate and avoid risks and impacts; process necessary to apply for environmental authorisation with • b) Where avoidance is not possible, offsets legislated for as minimize or reduce risks and impacts to required. acceptable levels; • c) Once risks and impacts have been minimized or reduced, mitigate; and • d) Where significant residual impacts remain, compensate for or offset them, where technically and financially feasible.  To adopt differentiated measures so that adverse impacts do not fall disproportionately on the disadvantaged or vulnerable, and they are not disadvantaged in sharing development benefits and opportunities resulting from the project.  To utilize national environmental and social institutions, systems, laws, regulations and procedures in the assessment, development and implementation of projects, whenever appropriate.  To promote improved environmental and social performance, in ways which recognize and enhance Borrower capacity ESS 2: Applicable South African Legislation: None ESS 2 recognizes the importance of employment  Occupational Health and Safety creation and income generation in the pursuit of Act, (Act No. 85 of 1993): poverty reduction and inclusive economic growth. Borrowers can promote sound worker- • Provides for the health and management relationships and enhance the safety of persons at work and development benefits of a project by treating for the health and safety of KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 76 of 399 WB ESS Requirements Related South African Legislation Limitations workers in the project fairly and providing safe and persons in connection with the healthy working conditions. The following objective activities of persons at work. are applicable: • An OHS management system will need to be implemented for  To promote safety and health at work. the Project, which will include  To promote the fair treatment, non- measures during the design discrimination and equal opportunity of project phase, as well as the workers. procurement, and management  To protect project workers, including vulnerable of the Contractor for workers such as women, persons with construction activities, in terms disabilities, children (of working age, in of the Construction Regulations accordance with this ESS) and migrant workers, (GN No. R. 84 of 7 February contracted workers, community workers and 2014) under the OHSA. primary supply workers, as appropriate.  To prevent the use of all forms of forced labour  Basic Conditions of Employment, and child labour. (Act No. 75 of 1997):  To support the principles of freedom of association and collective bargaining of project • Gives effect to the right to fair workers in a manner consistent with national labour practices referred to in law. section 23(1) of the Constitution  To provide project workers with accessible by establishing and making means to raise workplace concerns. provision for the regulation of basic conditions of employment.  Labour Relations Act, (Act No. 66 of 1995): • Gives effect to section 27 of the Constitution. • Promote and facilitate collective bargaining at the workplace and at sectoral level. • Regulates the right to strike and the recourse to lockout in conformity with the Constitution. • Promotes employee participation in decision-making through the establishment of workplace forums. • Provides simple procedures for the resolution of labour disputes.  Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act, (Act No 130 of 1993): • Provides for compensation for disablement caused by occupational injuries or diseases sustained or contracted by employees in the course of their employment, or for death resulting from such injuries or diseases. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 77 of 399 WB ESS Requirements Related South African Legislation Limitations  Employment Equity Act, (Act No. 55 of 1998): • Promotes equal opportunity and fair treatment in employment through elimination of unfair discrimination and implementing affirmative action measures to redress the disadvantages in employment experienced by designated groups  Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act, (Act No. 4 of 2000): • To prevent and prohibit unfair discrimination and harassment. • To promote equality and eliminate unfair discrimination. • To prevent and prohibit hate speech. ESS 3: Applicable South African Legislation: None ESS 3 recognizes that economic activity and  National Environmental urbanization often generate pollution to air, water, Management Act (No. 107 of 1998) and land, and consume finite resources that may  National Environmental threaten people, ecosystem services and the Management: Waste Act (59 of environment at the local, regional, and global 2008) (NEM:WA) levels. This ESS sets out the requirements to  National Environmental address resource efficiency and pollution Management: Biodiversity Act, prevention and management throughout the project 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004) life-cycle.  National Environmental Management Protected Areas Act The following objectives are applicable: (No. 57 of 2003)  To promote the sustainable use of resources,  The National Water Act (No. 36 of including energy, water and raw materials. 1998)  To avoid or minimize adverse impacts on  Mineral and Petroleum Resources human health and the environment by avoiding Development Act (No. 28 of 2002) or minimizing pollution from project activities.  Noise Control Regulations in terms  To avoid or minimize project-related emissions of the Environmental Conservation, of short and long-lived climate pollutants. 1989 (Act 73 of 1989)  To avoid or minimize generation of hazardous  Conservation of Agricultural and non-hazardous waste. Resources Act (No. 43 of 1983)  To minimize and manage the risks and impacts  Fertilizers, Farm Feeds, associated with pesticide use. Agricultural Remedies and Stock Remedies Act, 1947 (Act No. 36 of 1947) Measures related to resource efficiency (including use of energy, water and raw material) are inherently catered for in the above legislation. ESS 4: Applicable South African Legislation: None KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 78 of 399 WB ESS Requirements Related South African Legislation Limitations ESS 4 addresses the health, safety, and security  Occupational Health and Safety risks and impacts on project-affected communities Act (No. 85 of 1993): and the corresponding responsibility of Borrowers to avoid or minimize such risks and impacts, with • Makes provision for managing particular attention to people who, because of their health and safety hazards to particular circumstances, may be vulnerable. The public safety that are created as following objective are applicable: a result of work or work-related activities.  To anticipate and avoid adverse impacts on the health and safety of project-affected communities during the project life cycle from both routine and non-routine circumstances.  To promote quality and safety, and considerations relating to climate change, in the design and construction of infrastructure, including dams.  To avoid or minimize community exposure to project-related traffic and road safety risks, diseases and hazardous materials.  To have in place effective measures to address emergency events.  To ensure that the safeguarding of personnel and property is carried out in a manner that avoids or minimizes risks to the project-affected communities. ESS 6: Applicable South African Legislation: ESS 6 ensures that ESS 6 recognizes that protecting and conserving  National Environmental the biodiversity and sustainably managing living Management Act (No. 107 of 1998) protection of natural resources are fundamental to sustainable  National Environmental local development and it recognizes the importance of Management: Biodiversity Act, communities maintaining core ecological functions of habitats, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004) is accounted including forests, and the biodiversity they support.  National Environmental for when ESS 6 also addresses sustainable management of Management Protected Areas Act undertaking primary production and harvesting of living natural (No. 57 of 2003) a resources, and recognizes the need to consider the  The National Water Act (No. 36 of biodiversity livelihood of project-affected parties, including 1998) assessment. Indigenous Peoples, whose access to, or use of,  Conservation of Agricultural biodiversity or living natural resources may be Resources Act (No. 43 of 1983) affected by a project. The following objectives are  Protection, Promotion, applicable: Development and Management of Indigenous Knowledge Act 6 of  To protect and conserve biodiversity and 2019 habitats.  To apply the mitigation hierarchy and the precautionary approach in the design and implementation of projects that could have an impact on biodiversity.  To promote the sustainable management of living natural resources.  To support livelihoods of local communities, including Indigenous Peoples, and inclusive economic development, through the adoption of KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 79 of 399 WB ESS Requirements Related South African Legislation Limitations practices that integrate conservation needs and development priorities. ESS 8: Applicable South African Legislation: None ESS 8 recognizes that cultural heritage provides  The National Heritage Resources continuity in tangible and intangible forms between Act (No. 25 Of 1999): the past, present and future. ESS 8 sets out measures designed to protect cultural heritage • Promotes good management of throughout the project life cycle. The following the national estate, and to objective are applicable: enable and encourage communities to nurture and  To protect cultural heritage from the adverse conserve their legacy so that it impacts of project activities and support its may be handed down to future preservation. generations.  To address cultural heritage as an integral aspect of sustainable development.  To promote meaningful consultation with stakeholders regarding cultural heritage.  To promote the equitable sharing of benefits from the use of cultural heritage. ESS 10: Applicable South African Legislation: None ESS 10 recognizes the importance of open and  National Environmental transparent engagement between the Borrower Management Act (No. 107 of 1998) and project stakeholders as an essential element of good international practice. Effective stakeholder • Chapter 24: Procedures for the engagement can improve the environmental and investigation, assessment and social sustainability of projects, enhance project communication of the potential acceptance, and make a significant contribution to consequences or impacts of successful project design and implementation. The activities on the environment. following objectives are applicable:  Chapter 6 of the EIA Regulations:  To establish a systematic approach to • Seeking consent for an activity stakeholder engagement that will help on land owned by person other Borrowers identify stakeholders and build and than proponent. maintain a constructive relationship with them, • Explaining the purpose of public in particular project-affected parties. participation.  To assess the level of stakeholder interest and • Prescribing the public support for the project and to enable participation process. stakeholders’ views to be taken into account in • Prescribing the registration of project design and environmental and social I&APs and their rights to performance. comment on reports and plans.  To promote and provide means for effective and inclusive engagement with project-affected parties throughout the project life cycle on issues that could potentially affect them.  To ensure that appropriate project information on environmental and social risks and impacts is disclosed to stakeholders in a timely, understandable, accessible and appropriate manner and format.  To provide project-affected parties with accessible and inclusive means to raise issues KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 80 of 399 WB ESS Requirements Related South African Legislation Limitations and grievances, and allow Borrowers to respond to and manage such grievances. 2.6 OTHER GUIDELINES AND BEST PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS 2.6.1 THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION The World Health Organisation (WHO) is the directing and coordinating authority on international health within the United Nations’ system. The Organisation publishes Guidelines for countries and industries to aspire to, as opposed to Standards. The WHO Guidelines are particularly useful for countries that do not have their own guidelines or standards. The following WHO guidelines have been used in this ESIA:  Air Quality: The WHO air quality guidelines are designed to offer guidance to reduce the health impacts of air pollution. Air quality guidelines for particulate matter (PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and sulphur dioxide (SO2) were used. (http://apps.who.int/iris/ bitstream/10665/69477/1/ WHO_SDE_PHE_OEH_06.02_eng.pdf);  Water Quality: The main purpose of the WHO Guidelines for drinking water quality is the protection of public health. The palatability of water with a TDS level of less than 600 mg/litre is generally considered to be good; drinking-water becomes significantly and increasingly unpalatable at TDS levels greater than about 1000 mg/litre. (http://www.who.int/water_sanitation_health/dwq/fulltext.pdf); and  Community Noise: The WHO noise guidelines provide guidance to environmental health authorities and professionals trying to protect people from the harmful effects of noise in non- industrial environments. The World Bank and many other financiers have adopted the WHO guideline and compliance requirements for the project are based on it. The WHO recommends a limit of 55 dBA and 45 dBA for residential areas, averaged over the periods of a day (day-time: 06:00 to 22:00) and night (night-time: 22:00 to 06:00), respectively. (http://www.adc40.org/docs/schwela.pdf). 2.6.2 GENERIC EMP RELEVANT TO AN APPLICATION FOR SUBSTATION AND OVERHEAD ELECTRICITY TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION INFRASTRUCTURE NEMA requires that an Environmental and Social Management Programme (EMP) be submitted where an EIA has been identified as the environmental instrument to be utilised as the basis for a decision on an application for environmental authorisation. The content of an EMP must either contain the information set out in Appendix 4 of the EIA Regulations, 2014, as amended, or must be a generic EMP relevant to an application as identified and gazetted by the Minister in a government notice. Once the Minister has identified, through a government notice, that a generic EMPr is relevant to an application for EA, that generic EMP must be applied by all parties involved in the EA process, including, but not limited to, the applicant and the CA. GN 435 of 22 March 2019 identified a generic EMP relevant to applications for substations and overhead electricity transmission and distribution infrastructure which require authorisation in terms of Section 42(2) of NEMA. Applications for overhead electricity transmission and distribution KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 81 of 399 infrastructure that trigger Activity 11 of Listing Notice 1 or Activity 9 of Listing Notice 2 and any other listed or specified activities must use the generic EMPr. The objective of the generic EMP is “to prescribe and pre-approve generally accepted impact management outcomes and impact management actions, which can commonly and repeatedly be used for the avoidance, management and mitigation of impacts and risks associated with the development or expansion of overhead electricity transmission and distribution infrastructure. The use of a generic EMPr is intended to reduce the need to prepare and review individual EMPrs for applications of a similar nature.” The generic EMP for Substations and powerlines have been included in the Site-Specific ESMP (Appendix G). KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 82 of 399 3 THE ESIA PROCESS This Chapter provides a summary of the ESIA process that was followed for the Komati SEF and BESS project. The EIA Process is a legally required process, regulated under South African Environmental Law (NEMA) by specific EIA Regulations (EIA Regulations of 2014 (GNR 982) (as amended)). The ESIA Process meets the requirements of both the WBG ESF and the EIA requirements under NEMA. 3.1 AUTHORITY CONSULTATION A pre-application meeting was held on 06 July 2023 with the DFFE in order to discuss the proposed project. The minutes of this meeting are included in Appendix C-1 of the Public Participation Process (PPP) Report (Appendix C). In addition, WSP notified a number of commenting authorities of the Proposed Project via a notification letter, these included:  DMRE;  DFFE: Biodiversity and Conservation;  DFFE: Protected Areas;  MDARDLEA;  DWS;  Olifants WMA Authority;  SAHRA;  MHRA;  MTPA;  CAA;  ATNS;  DD (SA Army);  AMA;  SAWS;  SANRAL;  Steve Tshwete Local Municipality; and  Nkangala District Municipality. 3.2 PROCEDURAL PROCESS The legal EIA Process was used as a basis for this ESIA and a S&EIA was followed for the proposed project. The EIA Process included the following phases:  Application Form: • The application form was compiled and submitted to the DFFE on 02 February 2023. The application form was acknowledged on 02 February 2023. The application form was updated and re-submitted to the DFFE on 16 March 2023. • The DFFE reference number allocated to the application is 14/12/16/3/3/2/2298. This reference number will appear on all official correspondence with the authorities and the public regarding the Proposed Project. A copy of the acknowledgement of receipt of the application is included in the PPP Report (Appendix C).  Draft Scoping Report Phase: KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 83 of 399 • The Draft Scoping Report (DSR) was released for public review between 03 February 2023 to 06 March 2023. Details of the release of documents is included in Section 4.  Final Scoping Report Phase • The scoping report was finalised and submitted to the DFFE on 16 March 2023 for their review and approval. The submission of the final scoping report was within 44 days of receipt of the application by the DFFE as required by GNR 982. • The approval of the Final Scoping Report (FSR) and the Plan of Study for the EIA was received on 03 May 2023.  Draft EIA Report Phase: • Following the approval of the FSR and the Plan of Study for the EIA, a Draft EIA Report (including EMPr) was compiled. The Draft EIA Report was compiled based on the specialist studies’ findings and requirements from the DFFE. • The description of the environmental attributes of the Project area was compiled through a combination of desktop reviews and site investigations. Desktop reviews made use of available information including existing reports, aerial imagery, and mapping. The specialist teams undertook site investigations, between May 2022 and May 2023, to identify sensitive features on site that informed the sensitivity mapping (Section 9.1) for the Komati SEF and BESS Facility. • The Draft EIA Report was submitted to the DFFE on 04 July 2023 and was made available for public review for a period of at least 30 days from 05 July 2023 to 04 August 2023. Details of the release of documents is included in Section 4.  Final EIA Report Phase: • The EIA Report was finalised and submitted to the DFFE for decision making on 17 August 2023. The Final EIA Report was also made available for public review from 18 August 2023 to 18 September 2023. 3.3 DFFE WEB-BASED ENVIRONMENTAL SCREENING TOOL A National Web-based Environmental Screening Tool has been developed by the DFFE in order to flag areas of potential environmental sensitivity related to a site. The screening tool produces a report as required in terms of regulation 16 (1)(v) of the EIA Regulations (2014, as amended). The Notice of the requirement to submit a report generated by the national web-based environmental screening tool in terms of section 24(5)(h) of the NEMA, 1998 (Act No 107 of 1998) and regulation 16(1)(b)(v) of the EIA regulations, 2014, as amended (GN 960 of July 2019) states that the submission of a report generated from the national web-based environmental screening tool, as contemplated in Regulation 16(1)(b)(v) of the EIA Regulations, 2014, published under Government Notice No. R982 in Government Gazette No. 38282 of 4 December 2014, as amended, is compulsory when submitting an application for environmental authorisation in terms of regulation 19 and regulation 21 of the EIA Regulations, 2014 as of 04 October 2019. The Screening Report generated by the National Web-based Environmental Screening Tool contains a summary of any development incentives, restrictions, exclusions or prohibitions that apply to the proposed development footprint as well as the most environmentally sensitive features on the footprint based on the footprint sensitivity screening results for the application classification KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 84 of 399 that was selected. This Screening Report is based on the findings from the DFFE. The sensitives identified in the Screening Report is not a complete list. Refer to Section 9.1 for the environmental and social sensitives as identified by the specialists. 3.3.1 FINDINGS FROM THE DFFE SCREENING REPORT FOR THE SOLAR PV AND BESS PROJECT A screening report for the proposed Eskom Solar PV and BESS Project was generated from the website on 23 May 2022 and is attached as Appendix E. The Screening Report for the project identified various sensitivities for the site. The report also generated a list of specialist assessments that should form part of the assessment based on the development type and the environmental sensitivity of the site. Assessment Protocols in the report provide minimum information to be included in a specialist report to facilitate decision-making. Table 3-1 below provides a summary of the sensitivities identified for the development footprint. Table 3-1 – Sensitivities identified in the DFFE Screening Report Theme Very High High Medium Low Sensitivity Sensitivity Sensitivity Sensitivity Agricultural Theme ✓ Animal Species Theme ✓ Aquatic Biodiversity Theme ✓ Archaeological and Cultural Heritage ✓ Theme Avian Theme ✓ Civil Aviation (Solar PV) Theme ✓ Defence Theme ✓ Landscape (Solar) Theme ✓ Palaeontology Theme ✓ Plant Species Theme ✓ Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) ✓ Theme Terrestrial Biodiversity Theme ✓ Based on the selected classification, and the environmental sensitivities of the proposed development footprint, the following list of specialist assessments have been identified for inclusion in the assessment report as determined by the screening tool:  Agricultural Impact Assessment;  Landscape/Visual Impact Assessment;  Archaeological and Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment ; KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 85 of 399  Palaeontology Impact Assessment;  Terrestrial Biodiversity Impact Assessment;  Aquatic Biodiversity Impact Assessment;  Civil Aviation Assessment;  Defence Assessment;  RFI Assessment;  Geotechnical Assessment;  Socio-Economic Assessment;  Plant Species Assessment; and  Animal Species Assessment. The full list of Specialist Studies commissioned for this project is included in Table 1-4. 3.3.2 ADDITIONAL SENSITIVITIES IDENTIFIED The DFFE Screening Tool does not identify all sensitivities related to the project. Additional potential sensitivities have been identified in terms of the WB ESF and included in Table 3-2. Table 3-2 – Additional sensitivities identified Theme Sensitivity Receptors Social Theme  Gender based violence;  Security issues;  Child and forced labor;  Risk to vulnerable and marginalized groups;  Indigenous people;  Community health and safety;  Occupational health and safety;  Jobs loss/creation; and  Influx of people. The Social Specialist Assessment (Appendix F.14) covers all the additional identified sensitivities as required by the WB ESF. 3.3.3 SCOPING STUDY FINDINGS The scoping phase identified a number of potential impacts associated with the proposed project. The potential impacts were used as a guide to determine whether additional assessment may be required in the ESIA Phase. The potential impacts identified during the scoping phase for the construction phase, operational phase and decommissioning phase are included in Table 3-3, Table 3-4 and Table 3-5. Table 3-3 – Potential Construction Phase Impacts Aspect Impact Nature Probability Consequence Significance (Before Mitigation) Air Quality Dust and Negative 3 1 Low Particulate Emissions KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 86 of 399 Aspect Impact Nature Probability Consequence Significance (Before Mitigation) Noise Increase in Negative 3 1 Low construction noise levels Surface Water Stormwater runoff Negative 2 2 Low Erosion Negative 4 2 Medium Groundwater Decrease in Negative 3 1 Low groundwater quality due to hydrocarbon spills from moving equipment Decrease in Negative 3 1 Low groundwater quality due to leachate/spills from fuel storage areas Decrease in Negative 3 1 Low groundwater quality due to contaminated soil that could leach to the groundwater Soils and Land Soil Erosion Negative 3 2 Medium Capability Soil Compaction Negative 4 3 High Soil Negative 2 2 Medium Contamination Terrestrial Direct Loss and Negative 3 2 Medium Biodiversity disturbance of natural habitat and associated flora SCC Establishment Negative 3 2 Medium and spread of AIS Loss and Negative 2 3 Medium fragmentation of faunal habitat KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 87 of 399 Aspect Impact Nature Probability Consequence Significance (Before Mitigation) Injury and Negative 3 1 Low mortality of fauna SCC Aquatic Direct loss of Negative 4 4 High Biodiversity wetland habitat Erosion Negative 3 3 Medium Establishment Negative 3 2 Medium and spread of AIS Catchment land Negative 3 3 Medium use changes and activities Heritage Disturbance to Negative 1 2 Very Low Known Cultural Resources Chance-find of Negative 1 2 Very Low Cultural Resources Palaeontology Loss of fossil Negative 1 2 Very Low resources Visual Potential visual Negative 3 2 Medium intrusion resulting from large construction vehicles and equipment Potential visual Negative 3 2 Medium effect of construction laydown areas and material stockpiles. Potential impacts Negative 3 2 Medium of increased dust emissions from construction activities and related traffic Potential visual Negative 3 2 Medium scarring of the landscape as a KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 88 of 399 Aspect Impact Nature Probability Consequence Significance (Before Mitigation) result of site clearance and earthworks Potential visual Negative 3 1 Low pollution resulting from littering on the construction site Traffic Impact of Negative 3 1 Low construction vehicles on roads and access roads Social Economic Impact Positive 4 2 Medium Community, Negative 3 2 Medium Health and Safety Risk KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 89 of 399 Table 3-4 – Potential Operational Phase Impacts Aspect Impact Nature Probability Consequence Significance (Before Mitigation) Surface water Flooding Negative 2 2 Low Stormwater runoff Negative 2 2 Low Erosion Negative 4 2 Medium Groundwater Reduced recharge Negative 3 1 Low due to increase in hardstanding footprint Localised artificial Negative 3 1 Low recharge due to washing of solar panels Reduced leachate Positive 3 2 Medium from contaminated soils Localised leachate Negative 3 2 Medium from equipment Localised Negative 3 2 Medium increased leachate from contaminated soils due to following washing of solar panels Terrestrial Establishment and Negative 3 2 Medium Biodiversity spread of AIS Fragmentation of Negative 2 2 Low fauna habitats/barriers to movement Electrocution of Negative 3 2 Medium bird SCC Injury and mortality Negative 3 1 Low of fauna SCC Aquatic Catchment land Negative 3 3 Medium Biodiversity use changes and activities KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 90 of 399 Aspect Impact Nature Probability Consequence Significance (Before Mitigation) Habitat quality Negative 3 2 Medium reductions due to stormwater runoff, land use changes Spread of AIS Negative 3 3 Medium Increased run-off, Negative 3 3 Medium Erosion Water quality Negative 3 3 Medium deterioration and contamination of wetland soils Visual Viewing of the PV Negative 2 3 Medium facility infrastructure and activities Social Low Carbon Power Positive 4 2 Medium Generation Impact on the Negative 4 Medium community Employment and Positive 4 2 Medium Business Opportunities KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 91 of 399 Table 3-5 – Potential Decommissioning Phase Impacts Aspect Impact Nature Probability Consequence Significance (Before Mitigation) Air Quality Dust and Negative 3 1 Low Particulate Emissions Noise Increase in Negative 3 1 Low construction noise levels Surface Water Stormwater runoff Negative 2 2 Low Erosion Negative 4 2 Medium Groundwater Decrease in Negative 3 1 Low groundwater quality due to hydrocarbon spills from moving equipment Decrease in Negative 3 2 Medium groundwater quality due to leachate/spills from equipment no longer in use Soils and Land Soil Erosion Negative 3 2 Medium Capability Soil Compaction Negative 4 3 High Soil Contamination Negative 2 2 Medium Terrestrial Establishment and Negative 3 2 Medium Biodiversity spread of AIS Aquatic Erosion Negative 3 3 Medium Biodiversity Establishment and Negative 3 2 Medium spread of AIS Visual Potential visual Negative 3 2 Medium intrusion resulting from large construction vehicles and equipment KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 92 of 399 Aspect Impact Nature Probability Consequence Significance (Before Mitigation) Potential visual Negative 3 2 Medium effect of construction laydown areas and material stockpiles. Potential impacts Negative 3 2 Medium of increased dust emissions from construction activities and related traffic Potential visual Negative 3 2 Medium scarring of the landscape as a result of site clearance and earthworks Potential visual Negative 3 1 Low pollution resulting from littering on the construction site Traffic Impact of Negative 3 1 Low construction vehicles on roads and access roads Social Loss of Negative 4 3 High employment Reduced Negative 4 3 High community investment KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 93 of 399 3.4 ADDITIONAL PERMITS AND AUTHORISATIONS Table 3-6 outlines the additional permits and authorisations required for the proposed development, as well as the relevant Competent Authorities responsible. Table 3-6 – Additional Permits and Authorisations required for the proposed development Permits / Authorisation Legislation Relevant Authority Status Water Use Licence / National Water Act (Act Department of Water and An application will be General No. 36 of 1998) Sanitation submitted during or following the conclusion of the EIA process Obstacle Permit Civil Aviation Act (Act 13 Air Traffic and Navigation An application will be of 2009) Services / Civil Aviation submitted during or Authority following the conclusion of the EIA process Section 53 Approval Minerals and Petroleum Department of Mineral An application will be Resources Development Resources and Energy submitted during or Act (No. 28 of 2002) following the conclusion of the EIA process 3.5 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL ASSESSMENT The property where the developments will occur is owned by Eskom. The specialist studies from this process and further research have been utilised to support the proposed developments statutory application process. Therefore, the description of the baseline environment has been compiled through a combination of site investigations, desktop reviews and information obtained from the existing and new specialist assessments. Desktop reviews made use of available information including existing reports, aerial imagery and mapping. An understanding of the receiving environment is critical in order to identify aspects that may be affect by the project and in turn how the surrounding physical, biological and social environment may affect project design considerations. 3.6 IMPACT ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY 3.6.1 ASSESSMENT OF IMPACTS AND MITIGATION The assessment of impacts and mitigation evaluates the likely extent and significance of the potential impacts on identified receptors and resources against defined assessment criteria, to develop and describe measures that will be taken to avoid, minimise or compensate for any adverse environmental impacts, to enhance positive impacts, and to report the significance of residual impacts that occur following mitigation. The key objectives of the risk assessment methodology are to identify any additional potential environmental issues and associated impacts likely to arise from the proposed project, and to propose a significance ranking. Issues / aspects will be reviewed and ranked against a series of KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 94 of 399 significance criteria to identify and record interactions between activities and aspects, and resources and receptors to provide a detailed discussion of impacts. The assessment considers direct1, indirect2, secondary3 as well as cumulative4 impacts. A standard risk assessment methodology is used for the ranking of the identified environmental and social impacts pre-and post-mitigation (i.e. residual impact). The significance of environmental aspects is determined and ranked by considering the criteria5 presented in Table 3-7. Table 3-7 – Impact Assessment Criterion and Scoring System Criteria Score 1 Score 2 Score 3 Score 4 Score 5 Impact Magnitude (M) Very low: Low: Medium: High: Very High: The degree of alteration of the No impact Slight Processes Processes Permanent affected environmental receptor on impact on continue but temporarily cessation of processes processes in a modified cease processes way Impact Extent (E) Site: Site Local: Regional: National: International: only Inside Outside National Across The geographical extent of the activity area activity area scope or borders or impact on a given level boundaries environmental receptor Impact Reversibility (R) Reversible: Recoverable: Irreversible: Recovery Recovery Not possible The ability of the environmental without with despite receptor to rehabilitate or rehabilitation rehabilitation action restore after the activity has caused environmental change Impact Duration (D) Immediate: Short term: Medium Long term: Permanent: term: 5-15 Project life Indefinite The length of permanence of On impact 0-5 years years the impact on the environmental receptor Probability of Occurrence (P) Improbable Low Probable Highly Definite Probability Probability The likelihood of an impact occurring in the absence of pertinent environmental management measures or mitigation 1 Impacts that arise directly from activities that form an integral part of the Project. 2 Impacts that arise indirectly from activities not explicitly forming part of the Project. 3 Secondary or induced impacts caused by a change in the Project environment. 4 Impacts are those impacts arising from the combination of multiple impacts from existing projects, the Project and/or future projects. 5 The definitions given are for guidance only, and not all the definitions will apply to all the environmental receptors and resources being assessed. Impact significance was assessed with and without mitigation measures in place. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 95 of 399 Criteria Score 1 Score 2 Score 3 Score 4 Score 5 Significance (S) is determined [ = ( + + + ) × ] by combining the above criteria = ( + + + ) in the following formula: × Impact Significance Rating Total Score 4 to 15 16 to 30 31 to 60 61 to 80 81 to 100 Environmental Significance Very low Low Moderate High Very High Rating (Negative (-)) Environmental Significance Very low Low Moderate High Very High Rating (Positive (+)) 3.6.2 IMPACT MITIGATION The impact significance without mitigation measures will be assessed with the design controls in place. Impacts without mitigation measures in place are not representative of the proposed development’s actual extent of impact and are included to facilitate understanding of how and why mitigation measures were identified. The residual impact is what remains following the application of mitigation and management measures and is thus the final level of impact associated with the development. Residual impacts also serve as the focus of management and monitoring activities during Project implementation to verify that actual impacts are the same as those predicted in this report. The mitigation measures chosen are based on the mitigation sequence/hierarchy which allows for consideration of five (5) different levels, which include avoid/prevent, minimise, rehabilitate/restore, offset and no-go in that order. The idea is that when project impacts are considered, the first option should be to avoid or prevent the impacts from occurring in the first place if possible, however, this is not always feasible. If this is not attainable, the impacts can be allowed, however they must be minimised as far as possible by considering reducing the footprint of the development for example so that little damage is encountered. If impacts are unavoidable, the next goal is to rehabilitate or restore the areas impacted back to their original form after project completion. Offsets are then considered if all the other measures described above fail to remedy high/significant residual negative impacts. If no offsets can be achieved on a potential impact, which results in full destruction of any ecosystem for example, the no-go option is considered so that another activity or location is considered in place of the original plan. The mitigation sequence/hierarchy is shown in Figure 3-1 below. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 96 of 399 Figure 3-1 - Mitigation Sequence/Hierarchy The idea is that when project impacts are considered, the first option should be to avoid or prevent the impacts from occurring in the first place if possible, however, this is not always feasible. If this is not attainable, the impacts can be allowed, however they must be minimised as far as possible by considering reducing the footprint of the development for example so that little damage is encountered. If impacts are unavoidable, the next goal is to rehabilitate or restore the areas impacted back to their original form after project completion. Offsets are then considered if all the other measures described above fail to remedy high/significant residual negative impacts. If no offsets can be achieved on a potential impact, which results in full destruction of any ecosystem for example, the no-go option is considered so that another activity or location is considered in place of the original plan. 3.7 ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITATIONS General assumptions and limitations:  The EAP hereby confirms that they have undertaken to obtain project information from the client that is deemed to be accurate and representative of the project;  Site visits have been undertaken to better understand the project and ensure that the information provided by the client is correct, based on site conditions observed;  The EAP hereby confirms their independence and understands the responsibility they hold in ensuring all comments received are accurately replicated and responded to within the EIA documentation;  The comments received in response to the public participation process, will be representative of comments from the broader community; and KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 97 of 399  Based on the Pre-Application meeting and subsequent minutes, the CA would not require additional specialist input, in order to make a decision regarding the application.  There were no assumptions or limitations identified for the Social Impact Assessment, Stakeholder Engagement, Air Quality Assessment, Noise Quality Assessment, Visual Impact Assessment or Traffic Impact Assessment. Soil and Agricultural Potential:  PV Site A has been significantly disturbed by existing agricultural activities.  The BESS sites have been significantly disturbed owing to the historic construction of the Komati Power Station facilities.  The site could not be traversed such that an even grid matrix of classification points could be set up. As a result, some augmentation of data and extrapolation of findings was necessary. Terrestrial Animal Species:  Field work was conducted over a one-day period in December 2022 and focused specifically on the proposed Project’s development footprints in the LSA. The timing of the field survey coincided with the mid-summer rainy period;  The absence or non-recording of a specific fauna species, at a particular time, does not necessarily indicate that 1) the species does not occur there; 2) the species does not utilise resources in that area; or 3) the area does not play an ecological support role in the ecology of that species;  Given the difficulty in fully sampling and characterising the abundance and distribution of fauna species in the LSA during the short period of time allocated to field work, the baseline descriptions were qualitative; and  The delineation of habitat units was conducted using available Google Earth imagery. It is predicated on a subjective interpretation of aerial imagery and extrapolation of observations made during the field visit. It must be noted that owing to the spatially complexity and fragmentation of the LSA and limited duration of the field survey, it was not possible to visit and characterise every non-transformed habitat patch. Terrestrial Plant Species:  Field work was conducted over a one-day period in December 2022 and focused specifically on the proposed Project’s development footprints in the LSA. The timing of the field survey coincided with the mid-summer rainy period. This is an optimal period to conduct botanical field work, however, it is possible that certain herbaceous taxa that are most readily visible or distinguishable when emergent or in flower during the late wet season, may have been overlooked during field visit;  Given the difficulty in fully sampling and characterising the abundance and distribution of flora species in the LSA during the short period of time allocated to field work, the baseline descriptions were qualitative; and  The delineation of habitat units was conducted using available Google Earth imagery. It is predicated on a subjective interpretation of aerial imagery and extrapolation of observations made during the field visit. It must be noted that owing to the spatially complexity and fragmentation of the LSA and limited duration of the field survey, it was not possible to visit and characterise every non-transformed habitat patch. Aquatic Biodiversity: KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 98 of 399  The aquatic biodiversity report was prepared on the basis of the site sensitivity verification process undertaken in response to the national web-based screening report. The site sensitivity verification was completed via desktop analysis of the existing baseline knowledge of riparian or wetlands systems in the study area, supplemented by the findings of the field survey conducted on 31 May – 01 June 2022.  The field survey for the aquatic biodiversity assessment was conducted on 31 May – 01 June 2022, which coincides with the dry season period; however, following a summer of exceptional rainfall, flows in the channelled valley bottom wetland remained high, and dominant wetland vegetation was discernible.  It is therefore considered that there are no sampling or information limitations pertaining to riparian or wetlands systems impacting on this assessment and the recommendations contained in the report.  Since the watercourses in the study area are wetland systems, no assessment of macroinvertebrates or fish is included in the baseline description, apart from the diatom assessment results. Avifauna:  The assumption was made that all sources of information used during the completion of this report, are reliable and accurate.  Vantage point surveys and transects are only conducted during daylight. Therefore, any bird movement occurring at night was recorded under ad hoc conditions. Some waterbirds and Palearctic and intra-African migrants are known to make regular flights and migratory movements at night.  Although very useful, the SABAP1 bird data set is more than two decades old. This dataset does however provide an adequate baseline to use when assessing species presence, distribution, and abundance. The use of SABAP2 in conjunction with SABAP1 will provide substantial data to be used during initial desktop assessments. This data was, however, mostly obtained by citizen scientists, and its accuracy is dependent on the individual's skill set. Palaeontology:  The accuracy and reliability of the report may be limited by the following constraints: • Most development areas have never been surveyed by a palaeontologist or geophysicist. • Variable accuracy of geological maps and associated information. • Poor locality information on sheet explanations for geological maps. • Lack of published data. • Lack of rocky outcrops. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 99 of 399 4 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT Stakeholder engagement is an inclusive process conducted throughout the project life cycle. Where properly designed and implemented, it supports the development of strong, constructive and responsive relationships that are important for successful management of a project’s environmental and social risks. Stakeholder engagement comprises a series of inclusive and culturally appropriate interactions aimed at providing stakeholders with opportunities to express their views, so that these can be considered and incorporated into the process. Effective stakeholder engagement requires the prior disclosure of relevant and adequate project information to enable stakeholders to understand the risks, impacts, and opportunities of the proposed project. The objectives of the stakeholder engagement process can be summarised as follows:  Identifying the different categories such as various levels of government, customary authorities, industry, directly affected communities Non-governmental organisations etc, of stakeholders who may be affected by or interested in the proposed project;  Identifying specific individuals or organisations within each of these categories taking into account the geographic area where impacts may be experienced and the nature of potential impacts and potentially interested groups;  Clearly outline the scope of the proposed project, including the scale and nature of the existing and proposed activities;  Identify viable proposed project alternatives that will assist the relevant authorities in making an informed decision;  Identify shortcomings and gaps in existing information;  Identify key concerns, raised by stakeholders that should be addressed in the subsequent specialist studies;  Highlight the potential for environmental impacts, whether positive or negative; and  To inform and provide the public with information and an understanding of the proposed project, issues and solutions. In accordance with the NEMA, GNR 982, as amended, Chapter 6, the following activities have taken place or are proposed to take place. A comprehensive and inclusive stakeholder engagement plan (SEP) has been developed by Urban- Econ (Urban-Econ, June 2022) which takes into consideration the scale of the shutdown of Komati Power Station and its subsequent repurposing. The SEP is therefore envisaged to guide the participation of various stakeholders throughout the life-cycle of the project and its respective components to ensure an inclusive approach to mitigating environmental and societal risks. This Stakeholder Engagement Process is being undertaken as a separate process to this ESIA. 4.1 WHAT IS AN INTERESTED AND AFFECTED PARTY? An interested and affected party (I&AP) is defined as any person, group of persons or organisations interested in or affected by an activity, and any organ of state that may have jurisdiction over any aspect of the activity. The difference between an I&AP and a registered I&AP: KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 100 of 399  An I&AP can be directly or indirectly impacted on by a proposed activity  A registered I&AP is a person whose name has been placed on the register of registered I&APs. According to the PPP Guidance document, 2017, only registered I&APs will be:  Notified of the availability of reports and other written submissions made to the CA by the Applicant; and  Of the outcome of the application, the reasons for the decision, and that an appeal may be lodged against a decision. For the purpose of this report, registered I&APs will be referred to as Stakeholders. Once stakeholders were identified a qualitative analyses was applied to determine the level of engagement necessary to appropriately include them. This analysis allows for the informed planning of how to focus engagement efforts and helps identify the key objectives of engagement with different parties. Stakeholder groups that have been engaged with through the development of the ESIA studies are briefly described in Table 4-1. Table 4-1 – Stakeholder Analysis Stakeholder Category Stakeholder Level of Engagement Required Competent Authority DFFE Central government individuals are of high importance due to the fact that they manage the various permitting requirements associated with the project Commenting Authorities Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Commenting Development, Land and Environmental Affairs authorities are important to the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy proposed project Mpumalanga DWS due to the fact that they provide Mpumalanga Department Agriculture, Rural leadership and Development, Land and Environmental Affairs services to the Department of Rural Development and Land various district and Reform municipal councils. The Regional and Mpumalanga Department of Water and Sanitation: Local Government Oliphant's Proto-CMA individuals also act Mpumalanga Department of Social Development as representatives of the various Mpumalanga Department of Public Works, Roads communities within and Transport their jurisdiction. Mpumalanga Department of Co-Operative Governance and Traditional Affairs Mpumalanga Heritage Resources Authority KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 101 of 399 Stakeholder Category Stakeholder Level of Engagement Required Department of Defence Force Mpumalanga South African Heritage Resource Agency Transnet Freight Rail Eskom BirdLife South Africa South African National Biodiversity Institute Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency Customary authorities Includes local community leaders and Local community representatives. leaders and religious or educational leaders act as representatives of their local community. It is important to keep these stakeholders closely involved and well informed. Project-affected communities Includes all members of communities affected by Households and and households proposed project. communities that will experience impacts (positive or negative) as a result of the proposed project. Vulnerable groups may be affected by the proposed project. They may also have difficulty in engaging with the stakeholder consultation process and thus may not be able to fully express their concerns regarding the proposed project. Vulnerable groups may have differentiated impacts and may require special consultation on KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 102 of 399 Stakeholder Category Stakeholder Level of Engagement Required differentiated measures. Industrial and commercial Industrial / commercial organization affected by the Individuals or stakeholders proposed project. This includes commercial farms organisations with and potentially other industrial sites. potential economic interest in the proposed project. This may be through gaining contracts with the proposed project or due to economic impacts caused by the project. It will be important to meet the needs of these stakeholders as they arise. Non-governmental Relevant NGOs in the fields of conservation, social Organisations with organisations (NGOs) at development and human rights. direct interest in national and regional levels the proposed project and that are able to influence the project directly or through public opinion. Such organisations may also have useful data and insight and may be able to become partners to the project in areas of common interest. It is anticipated that some international NGOs will have an interest in the proposed project. It will be important to meet the needs of these stakeholders as they arise. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 103 of 399 Stakeholder Category Stakeholder Level of Engagement Required Others Research/Academic Institutions, churches Other international, regional and local groups with direct interest in the proposed project. It will be important to meet the needs of these stakeholders as they arise. 4.2 RIGHTS, ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE STAKEHOLDER In terms of Chapter 6, specifically Section 43(1) of the NEMA EIA Regulations 2014, as amended, registered stakeholders have the right to bring to the attention of the CA any issues that they believe may be of significance to the consideration of the application. The rights of stakeholders are qualified by certain obligations, namely:  Stakeholders must ensure that their comments are submitted within the timeframes that have been approved by the DFFE, or within any extension of a timeframe agreed by the proponent, EAP or CA;  Disclose to the EAP any direct business, financial, personal or other interest that they might have in the approval or refusal of the application; The roles of stakeholders in a public participation process usually include one or more of the following:  Assisting in the identification and prioritisation of issues that need to be investigated;  Making suggestions on alternatives and means of preventing, minimising and managing negative impacts and enhancing proposed project benefits;  Assisting in or commenting on the development of mutually acceptable criteria for the evaluation of decision options;  Contributing information on public needs, values and expectations;  Contributing local and traditional knowledge; and  Verifying that their issues have been considered. In order to participate effectively, stakeholders should:  Become involved in the process as early as possible;  Register as a stakeholder;  Advise the EAP of other stakeholders who should be consulted;  Contribute towards the design of the public participation process (including timeframes) to ensure that it is acceptable to all stakeholders;  Follow the process once it has been concluded;  Read the material provided and actively seek to understand the issues involved;  Give timeous responses to correspondence; KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 104 of 399  Be respectful and courteous towards other stakeholders;  Refrain from making subjective, unfounded or ill-informed statements; and  Recognise that the process is confined to issues that are directly relevant to the application. 4.3 STAKEHOLDER IDENTIFICATION Stakeholders will be identified through several mechanisms. These include:  Utilising existing databases from other projects in the area;  Networking with local business owners, non-governmental agencies, community based organisations, and local council representatives;  Field work in and around the project area;  Advertising in the press;  Placement of community notices;  Completed comment sheets; and  Attendance registers at meetings. All Stakeholders identified to date have been registered on the project stakeholder database. The EAP endeavoured to ensure that individuals/organisations from referrals and networking were notified of the Proposed Project. Stakeholders were identified at the horizontal (geographical) and vertical extent (organisations level). Stakeholder groups that will be engaged with through the development of the ESIA studies are briefly described in Table 4 1. Within the context of the ESS10, stakeholders refer to individuals or groups who are: (i) either affected or likely to be affected by the project; or (ii) may have an interest in the project. Therefore, stakeholders may have interests, may either be directly or indirectly affected by the project or may have the potential to influence the project outcomes. As per the ESS10, Urban-Econ categorised stakeholders in the SEP into three groups. The purpose thereof is to ensure more effective and efficient stakeholder engagements. These groups are as follows:  Directly affected parties: includes stakeholders that are directly affected or may be affected by the project’s implementation.  Other interested parties: other affected parties that may have an interest in the project.  Vulnerable/disadvantaged groups: groups or individuals that may require alternative or more comprehensive engagement efforts due to their vulnerable status. Stakeholders from each of the above groups have been identified in the Urban-Econ SEP (June, 2022). For full context refer to Section 8.1 of the Urban-Econ SEP. 4.3.1 VULNERABLE STAKEHOLDERS Vulnerable stakeholders require special attention in accordance with international best practice requirements. Vulnerable people include those who, by virtue of their gender, ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, economic disadvantage or social status may be more adversely affected by a project than others, and who may be limited in their ability to take advantage of a project’s development benefits. The following groups can be seen as potentially vulnerable in the town of Komati: KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 105 of 399  Women: a woman’s accesses to resources (physical and financial) are restricted due to traditional and cultural practices. Women were identified to have low representation in community level decision making;  Single-headed Households, including female and child-headed households: Single headed households are identified as households where the head of the household is both the primary income source as well as the caregiver. This group is particularly vulnerable due to reduced access to income generating opportunities and higher levels of food insecurity;  Elderly: The elderly within the villages are less likely to receive an income and are reliant upon other members of a household. It should be noted that elder men have an elevated status and play a prominent role in traditional institutions and community level decision making;  Children: Children are mainly reliant upon older members of the household to access resources and for the maintenance of their general wellbeing;  Child Headed households: Child Headed Households are identified as the most vulnerable group as children are dependants, and not providers, such households are often incapable of generating adequate income or providing the care or protection that parents traditionally provide;  Households with low income; and  People with Physical / Mental Health Illnesses and Disabilities: The project area has no institutional systems or services to encourage the economic and social participation of disabled stakeholders in the community. In addition to the above, Urban-Econ identified the following vulnerable groups as part of their SEP:  Women and the elderly;  Minority groups;  Child-headed households;  Disabled individuals and  Unskilled/illiterate individuals. For full context refer to Section 8.1 of the Urban-Econ SEP. 4.4 PREVIOUS STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT The shutdown of Komati Power Station has been the focus of two core studies, the first being the investigation into the repurposing and repowering potential of Komati Power Station undertaken by VPC (2021) and the second on the socio- economic implications of the Komati Power Station shutdown and mitigation measures to reduce the identified impacts by Urban-Econ (2022). Stakeholder engagements were conducted in two phases with respect to the Urban-Econ (2022) study. The first was largely centred around the gathering of information/data from various parties of relevance in the region or who were considered as significantly related to the shutdown of Komati Power Station. This information was mainly used to inform the situational analysis concerning Komati Power Station, inform the shutdown implications and identify possible mitigation measures. During this phase, the outcomes of the study were not communicated to the various stakeholders. During the second phase of the Urban-Econ (2022) study, engagements were again following the same approach as in the first phase. However, the purpose of some engagements was to present the key findings and outcomes of the study (of which the anticipated socio-economic impacts of the Komati Power Station shutdown and proposed mitigation measures were the most important). As part of these engagements, stakeholders were provided with an opportunity to voice their concerns KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 106 of 399 and contribute to the proposed mitigation measures. In addition to the above, a study was undertaken to investigate the repowering and repurposing potential of Komati Power Station by VPC (2021). Although extensive stakeholder engagements were not undertaken as part of the VPC (2021) study, those that were indeed undertaken will be incorporated into the SEP. Crucially, the VPC (2021) study identified several stakeholders across various groups that would need to be consulted as the shutdown of Komati Power Station commences and its repurposing progresses. The SEP builds on the previous stakeholder engagements undertaken as part of both the Urban- Econ (2022) and VPC (2021) studies, with new stakeholders that did not participate in the mentioned studies included as part of the SEP. Different stakeholders in the project and how they are to be engaged with will be discussed in the following sections. Apart from the above, Eskom has also undertaken extensive engagements with several stakeholders on the repowering and repurposing of Komati Power Station, and Eskom’s JET. For full context refer to Section 7 of the Urban-Econ SEP. 4.5 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION DURING THE SCOPING PHASE Stakeholder engagement (public participation) is a requirement of the S&EIA process. It consists of a series of inclusive and culturally appropriate interactions aimed at providing stakeholders with opportunities to express their views, so that these can be considered and incorporated into the S&EIA decision-making process. Effective engagement requires the prior disclosure of relevant and adequate project information to enable stakeholders to understand the risks, impacts, and opportunities of the proposed project. The objectives of the stakeholder engagement process can be summarised as follows:  Identify relevant individuals, organisations and communities who may be interested in or affected by the proposed project;  Clearly outline the scope of the proposed project, including the scale and nature of the existing and proposed activities;  Identify viable proposed project alternatives that will assist the relevant authorities in making an informed decision;  Identify shortcomings and gaps in existing information;  Identify key concerns, raised by Stakeholders that should be addressed in the specialist studies;  Highlight the potential for environmental impacts, whether positive or negative; and  To inform and provide the public with information and an understanding of the proposed project, issues, and solutions. A PPP Report has been included in Appendix C detailing the project’s compliance with Chapter 6 of the NEMA EIA Regulations 2014, as amended. 4.5.1 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION Stakeholders were identified through several mechanisms. These include:  Utilising existing databases from other projects in the area;  Networking with local business owners, non-governmental agencies, community based organisations, and local council representatives;  Field work in and around the project area;  Advertising in the press; KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 107 of 399  Placement of community notices;  Completed comment sheets; and  Attendance registers at meetings. All Stakeholders identified to date have been registered on the project stakeholder database. The EAP endeavoured to ensure that individuals/organisations from referrals and networking were notified of the Proposed Project. Stakeholders were identified at the horizontal (geographical) and vertical extent (organisations level). A list of stakeholders captured in the project database is included in Appendix A of the PPP Report (Appendix C). It should be noted that personal details have been redacted as required by the Protection of Personal Information Act (Act 4 of 2013) (POPIA). Table 4-2 provides a breakdown of stakeholders currently registered on the database. Table 4-2 – Breakdown of Stakeholders currently registered on the database Representative sector Further Explanation Government Departments All tiers of government, namely, national, provincial, local government and parastatal organisations including:  DMRE;  DFFE: Biodiversity and Conservation;  DFFE: Protected Areas;  MDARDLEA;  DWS;  Olifants WMA Authority;  SAHRA;  MHRA;  MTPA;  CAA;  ATNS;  DD (SA Army);  AMA;  SAWS;  SANRAL;  Steve Tshwete Local Municipality; and  Nkangala District Municipality. Business and consultants Local and neighbouring businesses in the area. Representatives of consulting organisations that provide services in the area. Prospecting/Mineral rights holders within the broader project area which may have an interest in the development. These include: Non-governmental organisations Agricultural unions, churches, and environmental NGOs (NGOs) and community based organisations General public Local communities, farmers, and other such individuals who may have an interest in the project KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 108 of 399 All concerns, comments, viewpoints and questions (collectively referred to as ‘issues’) received to date have been documented and responded to in a Comment and Response Table included in the PPP Report (Appendix C). 4.5.2 STAKEHOLDER NOTIFICATION 4.5.2.1 Direct Notification Notification of the proposed Project was issued to potential Stakeholders, via direct correspondence (i.e., site notices) on 09 June 2022. Proof of notification is included Appendix B of the PPP Report. 4.5.2.2 Newspaper Advertisements In accordance with the requirements of GNR 982, as amended, the proposed project was advertised in two local newspapers. The purpose of the advertisement was to notify the public about the proposed project and to invite them to register as stakeholders. A copy of the advertisements are included in Appendix B-1 of the PPP Report. The advertisement dates are listed in Table 4-3. Table 4-3 – Dates on which the Adverts were published Newspaper Publication Date Language Witbank News 10 June 2022 English and IsiZulu Highvelder 10 June 2022 English and Afrikaans 4.5.2.3 Site Notices In accordance with GNR 326 Section 41(2)(a-b) site notices were developed to be placed at strategic points in close proximity to the proposed Project site, as well as in public places within Steve Tshwete Local Municipality and Nkangala District Municipality. Site notices were put up on 09 June 2022 at the following points:  Komati Power Station Entrance;  Boundary/access road to the SEF Site A and B;  Blinkplan Police Station;  OK Foods Super Market;  Komati Paypoint and Library;  Nkangala District Municipality Office;  Gerard Sekoto Library;  Eastdene Public Library; and  Hendrina Public Library. Proof of display has been included in Section 2.3 of the PPP Report (Appendix C). 4.5.3 AVAILABILITY OF REPORTS 4.5.3.1 Availability of the DSR Notification of the availability of the DSR was issued to potential Stakeholders as follows:  Newspaper Adverts: • An advert was published in the Middleburg Observer on 03 February 2023 (Proof of Notification is provided in Appendix B of the PPP Report) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 109 of 399  Direct Notification: • Emails and SMSs were sent out to all stakeholders listed on the database (Provided in Appendix A of the PPP Report). The DSR was placed on public review for a period of at least 30 days from 03 February 2023 to 06 March 2023, at the venues as follows:  Hard Copy: Komati Paypoint and Library;  Hard Copy: Komati Power Station Entrance;  Hard Copy: Hendrina Public Library.  Hard Copy: Eastdene Public Library; and  Hard Copy: Gerard Sekoto Library.  Electronic Copy: WSP Website (https://www.wsp.com/en-ZA/services/public-documents) The Draft Report was also made available to Commenting Authorities via a One Drive link. Proof of display of the Draft Scoping Report is provided in Appendix B of the PPP Report. 4.5.3.2 Availability of the FSR The FSR was submitted to the DFFE on 16 March 2023 and was made available to registered I&APs on the WSP website (https://www.wsp.com/en-ZA/services/public-documents). 4.5.4 FOCUS GROUP MEETING A focus group meeting was held at Komati Power Station on 09 June 2022 for community representatives, stakeholder forums and NGOs for discussion on the proposed establishment of a SEF and BESS Facility at Komati Power Station. The attendees invited were stakeholders included on databases derived from Eskom’s initial engagement with the community. Refer to the PPP Report (Appendix C) for the Meeting Register and Meeting Notes. 4.5.5 ISSUES RAISED DURING THE SCOPING PHASE During the Scoping Phase several issues were raised by the stakeholders. Below is a summary of the issues that were raised by stakeholders:  Environmentally sensitive areas: • A CBA occurs at the west of the proposed site, that is largely covering the portion proposed for the establishment of the solar PV Site B. Kindly take note that according to the Mpumalanga Biodiversity Sector Plan, 2015, PV farms and solar arrays are not compatible land-use activities to be undertaken in areas classified as CBA. Therefore, the mitigation hierarchy should be applied in full, and a Biodiversity Offset should be considered to ensure that significant residual impacts of the development are remedied. • PV Site A overlaps with Seep 1, which could lead to the permanent loss of wetland habitat within the project footprint. This impact has a high probability of occurrence and a high impact consequence. The impact significance is of High significance prior to the implementation of mitigation measures and can be reduced to a Medium significance with the application of recommended mitigation measures. Significant residual impacts (Medium/High) will need to be addressed via modification of the final layout to ensure that wetland loss is avoided, or design of an appropriate offset for unavoidable habitat loss. Therefore, the mitigation hierarchy should KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 110 of 399 be applied inf full and where significant residual impacts remain a Biodiversity Offset should be considered.  Job Opportunities: • There is a concern that the BESS parts will arrive already assembled as jobs need to be created in the areas. The community would like to establish a local manufacturing facility for solar plants including the manufacturing of batteries in the Komati area. This will mitigate the negative impact of the closure of the Komati Power Station. They would like the local manufacturing facility to be in the Komati area. • Unless there is an end goal of a job opportunity, there is no point in re-skilling people. • Eskom needs to consider the local community for job opportunities within the project. Eskom should include local businesses such as guesthouses and transport companies that can be used for this project. If possible, Eskom should also give vendor numbers for small businesses in the area.  Training and Up-Skilling: • A training centre can be set up in the area. The other aspect to consider is that re-skilling is focussed on the illiterate community. There are already literate skilled people that need to be re-skilled. The type of training to be provided will need to be looked at. There will be more momentum if the skilled community is up-skilled. • The community are used to a Power Station that utilises coal and they have been skilled in this manner. Now that there is a transition to a different technology, the community would like to be upskilled so that when new jobs arises from this project, they will have the required skill set.  Baseload: • There is a concern regarding baseload. The community do not want the green energy to take away the base load required for major industries.  Noise impact: • There was a query regarding how the solar structures are going to operate and if there will be any noise emanating from the solar panels. The original comments are included in the PPP Report in Appendix C. 4.6 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION DURING THE EIA PHASE 4.6.1 AVAILABILITY OF REPORTS 4.6.1.1 Availability of the Draft EIR Notification of the availability of the Draft EIA Report was issued to potential Stakeholders as follows:  Direct Notification: • Emails and SMSs were sent out to all stakeholders listed on the stakeholder database The Draft EIR was placed on public review for a period of at least 30 days from 05 July 2023 to 04 August 2023, at the venues as follows:  Hard Copy: Komati Paypoint and Library; KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 111 of 399  Hard Copy: Komati Power Station Entrance;  Hard Copy: Hendrina Public Library.  Hard Copy: Eastdene Public Library; and  Hard Copy: Gerard Sekoto Library.  Electronic Copy: WSP Website (https://www.wsp.com/en-ZA/services/public-documents) The Draft Report was also made available to Commenting Authorities via a One Drive link. 4.6.1.2 Availability of the Final EIR The Final EIA Report was made available for public review for 30 days from 18 August 2023 to 18 September 2023, at the venues as follows:  Hard Copy: Komati Paypoint and Library;  Hard Copy: Komati Power Station Entrance;  Hard Copy: Hendrina Public Library.  Hard Copy: Eastdene Public Library; and  Hard Copy: Gerard Sekoto Library.  Electronic Copy: WSP Website (https://www.wsp.com/en-ZA/services/public-documents) The reports were also be made available to Commenting Authorities via a One Drive link. 4.6.2 PUBLIC MEETING A public meeting was held at Laerskool Koornfontein in Komati on 25 July 2023. Notification was sent out on 12 July 2023 to all registered stakeholders listed on the database via Email and SMS. Notification was also sent out on 20 July 2023 to stakeholders informing them of a change in venue. Proof of notification is included in the PPP Report. The meeting was held in English with an isiZulu translator present. Two sessions were held on 25 July 2023. Refer to the PPP Report for the Meeting Register and Notes. 4.6.3 ISSUES RAISED DURING THE EIA PHASE During the EIA Phase several issues were raised by the stakeholders. Below is a summary of the issues were raised by stakeholders:  Job Opportunities: • There was an enquiry if there are any business proposal or ideas who is the contact person at Eskom Komati Power station. There is a high rate of unemployment in the community and opportunities must be shared. • The transition from coal power to renewable energy has resulted in a deterioration of living conditions for the community. • Enquiries were made on whether a stipend will be provided during the training to be provided by Eskom. • There is a concern on what is planned for the construction workforce after the planned 4-5 years of construction. • The community noted the high unemployment rate and asked what positive changes will be instilled now • The community feel that there was never a plan for the job losses experienced or a plan to make sure people are fed. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 112 of 399 • It was stated that the decommissioning of coal fired power stations will have a ripple effect on the surrounding mines. • There was a suggestion that the use of labour brokers be done away with when the proposed facility starts employing people.  Training and Up-Skilling: • There were enquiries on whether the skills offered will be transferrable to other workplaces. • The community requested that the Komati community be prioritised for training. • There was a suggestion that the skill centre could upskill learners to become lecturers.  Electricity costs: • The community asked if the electricity cost will decrease considering that there are no costs relating to the sourcing of the energy. • There was an enquiry whether electricity will now be free.  Electricity Generation: • There was an enquiry regarding the generation of solar electricity during bad weather and a suggestion that five boilers be recommissioned to help mitigate the impacts of bad weather.  Decommissioning Impacts • The community was concerned that the planning of the project has not considered crime, diseases and other effects of decommissioning.  BESS Technology • There was a health and safety concern from an I&AP regarding the technology for the BESS, specifically if Vanadium Pentoxide Flow Batteries will be used in the BESS. The original comments are included in the PPP Report in Appendix C. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 113 of 399 5 PROJECT DESCRIPTION This section provides a description of the project infrastructure, timeframes and activities. It must be noted that the design of the SEF and BESS are still in the conceptual phase and will be finalised at a later stage after the appointment of the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) Contractor. The final layout presented for authorisation is based on the conceptual design parameters. The detailed design will be based on the parameters of the final layout presented in this report. The layout presented in Figure 5-1 has been optimised based on the findings of the terrestrial and aquatic specialist studies. The layout now excludes the CBA area located within SEF Site B and excludes the Seep 1 wetland (including 33m buffer) located within the Solar P Site A. 5.1 PROJECT INFRASTRUCTURE The proposed project layout is indicated in Figure 5-1 and will comprise of the following key components:  Solar Energy Facility;  Grid Connection (i.e. powerlines);  Site Substation and BESS; and  Ancillary infrastructure. These items are summarised in Table 5-1 and discussed in more detail below. The SEF is intended to evacuate power to the grid. Part of the design development will be to determine the best option to charge the BESS, either with grid power or power generated from PV. Table 5-1 – Key Project Infrastructure Infrastructure Description Solar Energy Solar modules will be elevated above the ground, and will be mounted on either Facility fixed tilt systems or tracking system Solar Farm A: Extent 115ha (1 150 000m2) AC Capacity Up to 70 MW DC Capacity Up to 84 MW Solar Farm B: Extent 21ha (210 000m2) AC Capacity Up to 30 MW KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 114 of 399 Infrastructure Description DC Capacity Up to 36 MW Overhead The 132kV OHPL will follow the route of the existing powerlines and connect to the Powerline existing Komati High Voltage Yard New access roads or tracks may be required to provide access to sections of the powerline route, if the existing access roads are insufficient. Access roads will be mostly a two-track gravel road under the OHPL in order to access pylons for construction and maintenance purposes. OHPL corridor Footprint: 58ha (580 0002) Servitude: Between 36m and 40m (26ha) Site Substation Each of the Solar Sites will be equipped with collector substations including O&M Infrastructure associated with the substations includes: Building  Operations and Maintenance (O&M) buildings housing the control and communication equipment  Site substations and collector substations Solar Site Substation A Capacity: 132kV Footprint: 0.5ha (5 000m2) Solar Site Substation B Capacity: 132kV Footprint: 0.5ha (5 000m2) BESS Lithium Battery Technologies, such as Lithium Iron Phosphate, Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt oxides or Vanadium Redox flow technologies are being considered Three BESS Facilities Capacity: 150 MW with four hours standby time Footprint: 3 ha (30 000m2) Temporary laydown area KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 115 of 399 Infrastructure Description Associated Footprint includes temporary laydown areas; Temporary concrete batching plant; infrastructure Construction camps and temporary laydown areas Footprint: 8ha (80 000m2) 5.1.1 SOLAR ENERGY FACILITY The total site area for PV installation is approximately 200-250 hectares to allow for the construction of a PV facility with an AC capacity of up to 100 MW. Solar PV modules which convert solar radiation directly into electricity, will occupy a space of up to a total of approximately 720,000 m2. The solar PV modules will be elevated above the ground, and will be mounted on either fixed tilt systems or tracking systems (comprised of galvanised steel and aluminium). The Solar PV modules will be placed in rows in such a way that there is allowance for a perimeter road and security fencing along the boundaries, and O&M access roads in between the PV module rows. Table 5-2 provides a high-level project summary of the proposed Facilities. Table 5-2 – High-level Project Summary – Renewable Energy Facilities Solar Site A Solar Site B Extent 115 Ha 25 Ha AC Capacity 70 MW 30 MW 5.1.2 GRID CONNECTION The Solar Facilities will be allocated a point of connection to the Komati 275 kV High Voltage (HV) yard. Each of the Solar Sites will be equipped with collector substations that will the route the power output to the point of connection via a medium voltage OHPL or underground cabling. The method and final route to the points of connection will form part of the final designs. However, the OHPL will follow the route of the existing powerlines as indicated in Figure 5-1. The existing Komati points of connections will be used with the existing infrastructure to connect to the Komati 275kV HV yard. The existing power evacuation infrastructure consist of step up transformers (140 megavolt Amperes (MVA)), surge arrestors, transmission lines, HV breakers and links to the 275kV busbar. 5.1.2.1 Servitude The registered servitude will likely between 36m and 40m. The length of the transmission will be determined during the design stage. The servitude area will be approximately 26ha. The servitude is required to ensure safe construction, maintenance and operation of the powerline. 5.1.2.2 Substations On site substations will be established within the extent of the Solar Site A and Solar Site B. The site itself is very homogenous and there are no significant features in the immediate vicinity of the substation location that might be affected by the development. The following infrastructure is proposed but will be confirmed during the design stage:  O&M buildings housing the control and communication equipment; KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 116 of 399  All the access road infrastructure within the substation sites; and  Site substations and collector substations to consolidate and distribute power to the connection points. 5.1.2.3 Site Access The project area and surrounding areas are already easily accessible due to existing access roads. New access roads or tracks may be required to provide access to sections of the powerline route. Access roads will be mostly a two-track gravel road under the OHPL in order to access pylons for construction and maintenance purposes. The width of the access roads will be determined during the design phase. 5.1.3 BESS Eskom proposes to establish three BESS facilities with the existing footprint of the Komati Power Station. The BESS footprints will range from 2 ha up to 6 ha, depending on design and optimisation of the site and technology selected. The BESS capacity is envisaged to be 150 MW with four hours standby time. It is proposed that Lithium Battery Technologies, such as Lithium Iron Phosphate, Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt oxides or Vanadium Redox flow technologies will be considered as the preferred battery technology however the specific technology will only be determined following EPC procurement. The main components of the BESS include the batteries, power conversion system and transformer which will all be stored in various rows of containers. The BESS components will arrive on site pre-assembled. 5.1.4 ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE The additional ancillary infrastructure will be confirmed once the Conceptual Design is complete, however, it is anticipated that the following will be applicable:  Access roads;  Perimeter roads;  Perimeter fencing;  Below ground electrical cables;  Above ground overhead lines;  Meteorological Station;  O&M Building including control room, server room, security equipment room, offices, boardroom, kitchen, and ablution facilities);  Spares Warehouse and Workshop;  Hazardous Chemical Store;  Security Building;  Parking areas and roads;  Temporary laydown areas;  Temporary concrete batching plant  Construction camps and temporary laydown areas; and  Onsite substations. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 117 of 399 Figure 5-1 – Komati SEF and BESS Layout Map KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 118 of 399 5.2 SOLAR PV GENERATION PROCESS South Africa experiences some of the highest levels of solar radiation in the world between 4.5 and 6.5kWh/m2/day) and therefore, possesses considerable solar resource potential for solar power generation. In terms of large-scale grid connected applications the most commonly used technology utilised in South Africa is PV installations and is described in some detail in the following section. It must be noted that this project is specific to solar power generation through the use of solar PV technology only. 5.2.1 PV AND MOUNTING SYSTEM Internationally, solar PV is the fastest-growing power generation technology. Approximately 139 GW was added to the installed capacity globally in 2020, increasing the installed capacity by 18% from the previous year. The total capacity from PVs was 760 GW globally, producing approximately 3% of the world’s electricity. In South Africa the solar PV installed capacity in 2020 grew by 37% compared to the previous year's value. As much as 3.6 GW of PV is planned to be installed by 2026, with approximately 1.48 GW already installed as recorded in 2019. Large-scale or utility-scale PV systems are designed for the supply of commercial power into the electricity grid. Large-scale PV plants differ from the smaller units and other decentralised solar power applications because they supply power at the utility level, rather than to local users. PV cells are made from semi-conductor materials that are able to release electrons when exposed to solar radiation. This is called the photo-electric effect. Several PV cells are grouped together through conductors to make up one module. Modules can be connected together to produce power in large quantities. In PV technology, the power conversion source is via PV modules that convert light directly to electricity. Solar panels produce direct current (DC) electricity; therefore, PV systems require conversion equipment to convert this power to alternating current (AC), that can be fed into the electricity grid. This conversion is done by inverters. Figure 5-2 provides an illustration of the main components of a solar PV power plant. The solar PV panels can be mounted in various ways to ensure the maximum exposure to sunlight. The two main mounting systems that form part of a PV facility are either single axis tracking or fixed axis mounting structures. In the fixed axis mounting structures, the panels are installed and set to face north and does not move to follow the sun. With tracking systems, the panels track the sun and thereby ensure maximum exposure to the sunlight. Both mounting systems are considered for this project. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 119 of 399 Figure 5-2 - Main components of a Solar PV Plant Source: www.electricaltechnology.org/2021/07/solar-power-plant.html 5.3 BESS TECHNOLOGY The Komati PV Facility project includes the development of a BESS. There is a growing need for renewable energy technologies, such as solar and wind, to be able to supply a reliable source of electricity to the grid. Energy storage systems capture surplus energy during times of high production/low demand and store it for use during times of low production/high demand. While not a new technology, energy storage is rapidly gaining traction as a way to provide a stable and consistent supply of renewable energy to the grid. The energy storage system of most interest to power producers is the BESS, as these facilities can be designed and constructed to be a standalone facility, charging and discharging from the electrical grid when the demand requires. Furthermore, BESS facilities can be integrated into renewable energy projects. Being able to store excess energy is also a financial benefit to renewable energy producers. Instead of having to curtail production, at the request of the grid or utility, that curtailment can be stored. When production later goes down, that stored energy is available for sale to fill in the gaps. 5.3.1 BATTERY TYPES The Proposed Project will utilize either of two BESS technology options; Lithium-ion batteries; or Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries (VRFB), and the different technology types are discussed below. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 120 of 399 5.3.2 DESIGN OF THE LITHIUM-ION BATTERY FACILITY In this design, the BESS will be made up of several liquid cooled Lithium-Ion batteries, due to them being a mature and safe technology with regard to being modular and easy to install and due to their technical characteristics, will work well as energy storage systems for solar facilities, as well as supporting grid stability. The liquid cooled Lithium-Ion batteries consists of multiple battery cells that are assembled together to form modules. Each cell contains a positive electrode and a negative electrode. The BESS will comprise of multiple battery units or modules housed in shipping containers and/or an applicable housing structure which is delivered pre-assembled to the project site. Containers are usually raised slightly off the ground and layout out is rows. They can be stacked if required although this may increase the risk of events in one container spreading to another container. Supplementary infrastructure and equipment may include substations, power cables, transformers, power converters, substation buildings & offices, HV/MV switch gear, inverters and temperature control equipment that may be positioned between the battery containers. The images in Figure 5-3 are typical BESS installations. Figure 5-4 and Figure 5-5 show typical battery modules in the BESS facility. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 121 of 399 Figure 5-3 – Images of Typical BESS Systems KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 122 of 399 Figure 5-4 – Typical Battery Modules in a BESS with the Separated Sections Figure 5-5 - Typical Battery Modules in a BESS with the Power Conversion Systems in the Batteries KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 123 of 399 5.3.3 DESIGN OF THE VANADIUM REDOX FLOW BATTERIES In this design, VRFB’s are a type of rechargeable battery that utilise a Vanadium electrolyte solution. They are unique in that they use Vanadium ions in different oxidation states (V2+ and V3+ for the negative electrode, V4+ and V5+ for the positive electrode) to store and release electrical energy. A single VRFB unit (Figure 5-6) comprises of a number of VRFB stacks, back cooler, flame arrestor, gas barriers, switch cabinets, pre-pressure tanks, electrolyte pumps and electrolyte tanks, additionally associated auxiliary transformers and an HV substation will be required. The heart of a VRFB is the stack (Figure 5-7), which consists of multiple cells stacked on top of each other. Each cell consists of a positive and negative electrode compartment, separated by an ion exchange membrane. The positive and negative electrodes are made of carbon-based materials coated with a catalyst to facilitate the reaction with the vanadium ions. When the VRFB is in use, the electrolyte solution is pumped from the storage tanks (Figure 5-8) through the stack, where the chemical reactions take place, producing electricity. The size of the stack and the number of cells depends on the desired capacity and power output of the battery. One of the advantages of VRFBs is their scalability, as their capacity can be easily increased or decreased by simply adding or removing electrolyte solution. They also have a long cycle life and are able to maintain their capacity over many charge-discharge cycles. Another advantage of VRFB stacks is their ability to operate at a constant voltage, which simplifies the power electronics required for the battery system. Additionally, because the chemical reactions take place outside the stack, there is no risk of cross-contamination between the electrolyte solutions, which improves the longevity and reliability of the battery. Figure 5-6 - A VRFB unit KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 124 of 399 Figure 5-7 – VRFB stack Figure 5-8 - Cross section of a VRFB unit indicating the stacks and electrolyte tanks KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 125 of 399 Figure 5-9 - Conceptual VRFB Facility Layout 5.3.4 COMPLIANCE WITH LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS The cells, modules, racks and the complete facility will be compliant with all local laws and regulations and health and safety requirements governing such battery facilities. Over and above that they will comply with international standards such as UN 38.3 (Transportation Testing for Lithium Batteries), UL 1642 (Standard for Safety – Lithium-ion Batteries) and IEC 62619 (Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes Safety requirements for secondary lithium cells and batteries, for use in industrial applications). Furthermore, the battery facility will also comply with standards such as UL 1973 (Batteries for Use in Stationary Applications) and IEC 62619-2017 including thermal runaway non-propagation and safety zone region operation limits and a failure mode analysis. The design will be compliant with UL 9540 (Energy Storage Systems and Equipment): this standard defines the safety requirements for battery installation in industrial and grid connected applications. The stacks, electrolyte tanks, electrical and electronic components, and the complete VRFB facility will be compliant with all local laws and regulations and health and safety requirements governing such battery facilities. 5.4 PROJECT TIMEFRAMES The project is currently in the conceptual design phase. The preliminary project timeframes are indicated in Table 5-3. It must be noted the timeframes above are preliminary and will be refined as the project progresses. Table 5-3 – Preliminary Timeframes Activity Timeframe EPC Procurement and Contract Award September 2023 Finalised Designs March 2024 Approval of Final ESMP May 2024 KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 126 of 399 Activity Timeframe Construction September 2024 – September 2026 Operation December 2026 Decommissioning ~ 2046 5.5 EMPLOYMENT The labour force is still to be determined as it is influenced by the type of technology to be selected for the construction and operation of the SEF and BESS Facilities, as well as the selected supplier and contractor. However, the following indicative numbers6 can be used for planning purpose and have informed the ESIA:  Construction Phase: • Direct employment for construction and installation: 915 – 1070 employees  Operational phase: • Direct employment for operations and maintenance: 81 – 123 employees 5.6 RAW MATERIAL AND EQUIPMENT The raw materials required for construction and operation are still to be determined during the detailed engineering studies. 5.7 VEHICLES AND HEAVY EQUIPMENT Due to the early stages of the project, exact vehicle trips and numbers are unknown at this stage. During the construction phase the heavy equipment will be transported to the site via abnormal load vehicles. 5.8 PROJECT ACTIVITIES The proposed project can be divided into the following project activities:  Construction Activities;  Operational Activities; and  Decommissioning Activities. 5.8.1 GENERAL CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES The construction process will follow industry standard methods and techniques. The following activities will be undertaken during the construction phase: 6Source: VPC GmbH (October 2021) Draft Report for Komati Thermal Power Plant Technical Analysis on retiring and repurposing four coal plants, South Africa (P-2021-00547) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 127 of 399  Establishment of the site including access roads, internal roads, site preparation; construction laydown areas and construction camps;  Transport of components and equipment to site;  Excavations and earthworks including levelling the ground and laying down foundations;  The erection of PV panels and other related infrastructure;  Construction of substation and inverters;  Construction of site substations and BESS;  Establishment of ancillary infrastructure; and  Rehabilitation of the site after the completion of all construction activities. Key activities associated with the construction phase are described in Table 5-4. In addition to the typical construction activities, commissioning activities are carried out to ensure safe and efficient operation of the PV plant. The commissioning work consists of a series of inspections and verifications (usually based on IEC 62446 standard) on the main systems to check the correct installation of the equipment, its correct operation and performance, prior to energization. The final stage of the commissioning phase is the energisation and start-up of the PV plant. Table 5-4 – Construction Activities Activity Description Establishment Internal gravel roads will be developed. The roads will be approximately 8m access and internal wide and may require widening to ensure that it is suitable for use. roads Site preparation and Site establishment will include clearing of vegetation and any bulk establishment earthworks that may be required. The temporary laydown area will be constructed, including establishment of the construction camp (temporary offices, storage containers, concrete batching plant etc). The site laydown areas are expected to occur within the footprint of Site A and Site B. Site establishment will also entail the installation and/or connection of services (sanitation, electricity etc). Transport of All construction material (i.e. PV support structure materials), machinery and components and equipment (i.e. graders, excavators, trucks, cement mixers etc.) will be equipment to site transported to site utilising the national, regional and local road network. Large components (such as substation transformers) may be defined as abnormal loads in terms of the Road Traffic Act (No. 29 of 1989). In such cases a permit may be required for the transportation of these loads on public roads. Establishment of a Construction materials, machinery and equipment will be kept at relevant laydown area on site laydown and/or storage areas. A laydown area of approximately 2ha has been proposed for this project. The laydown area will also be utilised for the assembly of the PV panels. The laydown area will limit potential environmental impacts associated with the construction phase by limiting the extent of the activities to one designated area. Erection of PV The PV panels will be arranged in arrays. The frames will be fixed onto Panels vertical posts that will be driven into ground utilising the relevant foundation method identified during the geotechnical studies, including potentially KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 128 of 399 Activity Description employing concrete foundations for the panel frames. PV panels will have a maximum height of 5m. Construction of The facility output voltage will be stepped up from medium voltage to high substation and voltage in the transformer. The medium voltage cables will be run inverters underground in the facility (except where a technical assessment suggest that overhead lines are applicable) to a common point before being fed to the onsite substation. Establishment of Ancillary infrastructure will include a workshop, storage areas, office and a ancillary temporary laydown area for contractor’s equipment. infrastructure Rehabilitation Once all construction is completed on site and all equipment and machinery has been removed from the site, the site will be rehabilitated. 5.8.2 OPERATIONAL PHASE The proposed SEF is anticipated to have a minimum operational lifespan of 20 years. The facility will operate 7 days a week. While the project is self-sufficient, maintenance and monitoring activities will be required. Potable water requirements for permanent staff will be limited. During the operational phase there will be little to no Project-related movement along the servitudes as activities are limited to management of waste, maintaining the servitude (including maintenance of access roads and cutting back or pruning of vegetation to ensure that vegetation does not affect the SEF), inspection of the SEF, BESS and substation infrastructure and repairs when required. Limited impact is expected during operation since there will not be any intrusive work done outside of maintenance in the event that major damage occurs to site infrastructure. The key activities associated with the operational phase are described in further detail in Table 5-5. Table 5-5 – Operational Activities Activity Description Cleaning and During the operational phase cleaning and maintenance will be required. Maintenance These activities include:  Carrying out visual inspections, repairs and servicing of PV Panels, overhead lines, and BESS Facilities and other ancillary infrastructure;  Conducting verifications of the PV system operations;  Cleaning of solar cells and PV panels on an ad hoc basis using water from the Komati Power Station Water Treatment Plant. Dry cleaning may be used if suitable solar panels are acquired when the specific brands are procured;  Regular maintenance of all thermal-based components;  Servicing of all equipment; and  Testing and upkeep of circuits. Waste Management All waste generated either from servicing or equipment or due to damaged infrastructure will be disposed of correctly. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 129 of 399 Activity Description Disposal methods for Solar Panels and BESS facilities are still being investigated and will be further developed at the appointment of the Engineering and Procurement Contractor. All other hazardous waste will be disposed of correctly at a licenced facility. 5.8.3 DECOMMISSIONING PHASE Following the initial 20-year operational period of the SEF, the continued economic viability will be investigated. If the facility is still deemed viable, the life of the facility will be extended. The facility will only be decommissioned once it is no longer economically viable. If a decision is made to completely decommission the facility, this will be subject to a separate authorisation and impact assessment process, all the components will be disassembled, reused and recycled or disposed. The decommissioning phase will include activities similar to that of the construction phase and is indicated in Table 5-6. The site would be returned to its current use i.e., agriculture after decommissioning activities have been completed. Table 5-6 – Decommissioning Activities Activity Description Site preparation and Site establishment will include clearing of vegetation and any bulk establishment for earthworks that may be required. The temporary laydown area will be decommissioning constructed, including establishment of the construction camp (temporary activities offices, storage containers, concrete batching plant etc). The site laydown areas are expected to occur within the footprint of Site A and Site B. Site establishment will also entail the installation and/or connection of services (sanitation, electricity etc). Establishment of a Construction materials, machinery and equipment will be kept at relevant laydown area on site laydown and/or storage areas. A laydown area of approximately 2ha has been proposed for this project. The laydown area will limit potential environmental impacts associated with the construction phase by limiting the extent of the activities to one designated area. Removal of All infrastructure no longer required will be removed from site and disposed Infrastructure of appropriately. Disposal methods for Solar Panels and BESS facilities are still being investigated, however current industry practice indicates that materials from the Solar PV Panels and BESS Facilities are treated as hazardous waste All hazardous waste will be disposed of correctly at a licenced facility. Rehabilitation Once all decommissioning activities have been completed on site and all equipment and machinery has been removed from the site, the site will be rehabilitated. Rehabilitation will be based on the proposed future land use at the time. If there is no future land use, the rehabilitation will be based on returning the land to its current land use (i.e. agriculture). KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 130 of 399 5.8.4 WASTE MANAGEMENT Waste Management at the project site will be undertaken in line with the ESMP to consider the correct disposal of general and hazardous waste generated on the project. Table 5-7 and Table 5-8 describes the different waste products that the proposed project will produce, as well as the various options to dispose of them during the construction and decommissioning phases and the operational phase, respectively. The majority of waste will mainly be generated during the construction and decommissioning phases. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 131 of 399 Table 5-7 – Waste Management Options during construction and decommissioning phases Waste Type of Waste Management Options Hydrocarbons Hazardous Fuel and oil spillages can be a source of (Contaminated soil) contamination of water sources and the soil. Management options include:  Using spill kits to clean any spillages;  Ensure storage facilities are maintained and meet industry regulations;  Transportation and storage of fuel must be regulated and correctly managed according to the ESMP;  Waste generated must be taken to the contractor laydown area at the end of each day;  Co-ordinate waste removal with the removal of waste from the contractor laydown area; and  All hazardous waste is to be disposed of at a registered hazardous landfill (safe disposal certificates must be obtained). Contaminated Hazardous PPE can be contaminated during handling of Personal Protective hydrocarbons. Management options include: Equipment (PPE)  Store contaminated PPE in hazardous waste skips at the project area;  Waste generated along must be taken to the contractor laydown area at the end of each day;  Co-ordinate waste removal with the removal of waste from the contractor laydown area; and  Ensure contaminated Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is disposed of at a registered hazardous landfill (safe disposal certificates must be obtained). General waste General General waste (inorganic matter) can be disposed of as per normal and form part of the municipal waste management system. Management options include:  Ensure waste is stored securely in refuse bins;  Waste generated along must be taken to the contractor laydown area at the end of each day; and  Co-ordinate waste removal with the general removal of waste from the contractor laydown area. General waste Inert Waste that cannot decompose or only very slowly includes packaging made of paper, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal; or construction related waste such as mixtures of concrete, bricks, tiles, ceramics, wood and glass. Management options include: KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 132 of 399 Waste Type of Waste Management Options  Utilise a local commercial recycling centre to recycle or safely dispose of the waste (safe disposal certificates must be obtained). Electronic waste Hazardous Discarded electrical material or electronic devices can be generated on site and classified as hazardous waste. Management options include:  Store discarded electrical material in waste skips at the project area;  Waste generated along must be taken to the contractor laydown area at the end of each day;  Co-ordinate waste removal with the removal of waste from the contractor laydown area; and  Utilise a local commercial recycling centre to recycle or safely dispose of the waste (safe disposal certificates must be obtained). Food waste General Food waste is generated as site personnel take their meals on the construction site. Management options include:  Store any waste and packaging into a labelled food waste bin;  Waste generated along must be taken to the contractor laydown area at the end of each day;  Co-ordinate waste removal with the removal of waste from the contractor laydown area; and  Co-ordinate waste removal with the general removal of waste. Table 5-8 – Waste Management Options during operational phase Waste Type of Waste Management Options Solar Panels and Hazardous During operation, solar panels and BESS facilities BESS Components can get damaged resulting in hazardous waste. Disposal methods for Solar Panels and BESS facilities are still being investigated and will be further developed at the appointment of the Engineering and Procurement Contractor. However current industry practice indicates that materials from the Solar PV Panels and BESS Facilities are treated as hazardous waste. All hazardous waste from these components that can be disposed of, will be disposed of correctly at a licenced facility. General waste Inert Waste that cannot decompose or only very slowly includes packaging made of paper, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. Management options include: KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 133 of 399 Waste Type of Waste Management Options  Utilise a local commercial recycling centre to recycle or safely dispose of the waste (safe disposal certificates must be obtained). Electronic waste Hazardous Discarded electrical material or electronic devices can be generated on site and classified as hazardous waste. Management options include:  Store discarded electrical material in waste skips at the project area;  Waste generated along must be taken to the contractor laydown area at the end of each day;  Co-ordinate waste removal with the removal of waste from the contractor laydown area; and  Utilise a local commercial recycling centre to recycle or safely dispose of the waste (safe disposal certificates must be obtained). 5.9 WATER AND ELELCTRICITY CONSUMPTION The Komati Power Station has an existing WUL (WUL No. 27/2/1/C211/1/1 issued on 17 July 2009)) that allows for abstraction of water on Remainder of the farm Komati Power Station 65IS (project site). This water supply will be used during the projects construction and operational activities. The WUL is valid until 31 October 2025 therefore Eskom will be required to obtain a new, valid WUL for the abstraction of water post 31 October 2025. Komati Power Station operates a water treatment plant which supplies water to certain communities. The facility’s capacity is 4.3 ML/day for potable water and 5.7 ML/day for demineralized water (Urban-Econ, 2020). The source of water for the project will be from the existing Water Treatment Plant at the Power Station. For drinking purposes, potable water will be supplied by Komati Power Station for the construction phase workers. Electricity consumption during the construction phase for the solar facility construction areas will be supplied by the contractor via generators. Electricity consumption during the construction phase for the BESS facilities inside the power station area will be from a combination of grid supply from the station infrastructure and generators from the contractor. 5.10 LAND OWNERSHIP The land is currently owned by Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd (the proponent). The current land use is a combination of cultivated fields, which is leased by Eskom and grassland. According to the DFFE 2021 database, the current land use of the portions of the site proposed for infrastructure is a combination of cultivated fields and grassland in the main, with small built up and forested sections. Cultivated fields are located along the southern boundary of the site and at the time of the field survey by the Soil Specialist, these were planted with maize. Figure 5-10 shows the DFFE land uses of the project area. When combining the soils and land use information, the cultivated fields and areas underlain by Shortlands soils have been ascribed Arable III, the grassland and areas underlain by Valsrivier soils have been ascribed Grazing VI, the area underlain by Sepane soil has been KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 134 of 399 ascribed Grazing V and the area underlain by Witbank soil has been ascribed Wildlife VII (see Figure 5-10). There are currently no occupants located on the proposed land where the project will be located, therefore no relocation activities will be required. Figure 5-10 - Komati Site Land Cover (DFFE, 2021) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 135 of 399 6 NEED AND DESIRABILITY OF THE PROJECT South Africa is faced with significant increases in electricity demand and a shortage in electricity supply. South Africa is the seventh largest coal producer in the world, with approximately 82% of the country’s electricity generated from coal. This large dependence on coal and its use has also resulted in a variety of negative environmental impacts, including the contribution to climate change. South Africa is also the highest emitter of GHGs in Africa; attributed to the country’s energy-intensive economy that largely relies on coal- based electricity generation. At the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change COP26 in November 2021, the governments of South Africa, with France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and the European Union – together forming the International Partners Group (IPG) – announced a new ambitious, long-term Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) to support the South Africa’s decarbonisation effort in the context of domestic climate policy, including transitioning its economy towards cleaner energy sources. A distinguishing feature of the JETP is its emphasis on the centrality of a just transition in the structuring of the investment plan and financing package. The JETP is a pathbreaking initiative and the first of its kind. It is long-term and ambitious in its aspiration to support South Africa’s pathway to a low carbon economy and climate resilient society; to accelerate the just transition and the decarbonisation of the electricity system (including rehabilitation and repurposing of mines); and to support the development of new economic opportunities such as green hydrogen and electric vehicles amongst other interventions to support South Africa’s shift towards a greener future (Source: https://ukcop26.org/six-month-update-on-progress-in-advancing-the-just-energy-transition- partnership-jetp/). The EJETP aligns to international and national requirements to address climate change and move toward the use of cleaner technologies for the supply of electricity. JETP’s vision focuses on achieving “Net Zero” carbon emissions by 2050, with an increase in sustainable jobs. Some of the additional benefits of moving towards lower carbon technologies, is the positive impact on air quality and water usage, the potential to create exciting new jobs, and a greater preservation of biodiversity in South Africa. Over the next decade, more than half of the coal-fired power stations will be shut down, including Komati Power Station. While this will result in a lower impact on the environment, the shutdown of power stations will potentially lead to negative social impacts. The EJETP is aimed at, as far as possible, ensuring that the transition to cleaner technologies and the closure of power stations is carried out in a just way. The repurposing and repowering of Komati Power Station to utilise renewable energy is part of the EJETP. Renewable energy development is regarded as an important contribution to meeting international and national targets of reducing reliance on fossil fuels, such as coal, which contribute towards GHG emissions and resultant climate change. The need and desirability of proposed Komati SEF and BESS project has been considered from an international, national and regional perspective. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 136 of 399 6.1 INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE The proposed project will align with internationally recognised and adopted agreements, protocols and conventions. This includes the Kyoto Protocol (1997) which calls for countries internationally to reduce their GHG emissions through cutting down on their reliance on fossil fuels and investing in renewable energy technologies for electricity generation. South Africa is also signatory to the United Nations’ Development Programmes’ (UNDP) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SGD 7 relating to affordable and clean energy. The proposed SEF qualifies as a clean technology that will generate 100 MW of affordable energy to contribute to South Africa’s energy mix. The project will also greatly contribute to the countries' efforts to reduce their carbon emissions and play their role as part of the Paris Climate Accord. The Paris Agreement is a legally binding international treaty signed by 196 countries at the COP 21 in Paris, on the 12th of December 2015 to combat climate change. The goal of the Paris Accord is to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius, compared to industrial levels to avoid catastrophic natural disasters which are driven by the global temperature increase. Therefore, to achieve this long-term temperature goal, countries aim to reach global peaking of GHG emissions as soon as possible to achieve a climate-neutral world by 2050. The authorisation of the Project will further align with South Africa's National Climate Response White Paper which outlines the countries efforts to manage the impacts of climate change and to contribute to the global efforts to stabilize the GHG concentrations in the atmosphere. 6.2 NATIONAL PERSPECTIVE The proposed project will pave the way for the Just Energy Transition (JET) in South Africa and promote the transition from a fossil fuel-based economy to a low carbon economy. The proposed project is part of the EJETP for the repowering and repurposing of coal fired power stations which will come to the end of life in the next decade. Komati power station was the first power station to be shut down in September 2022. This project will also contribute the introduction of cleaner technologies for the supply of electricity. In terms of policy, the South African Government, through the IRP, has set a target to secure 17 800 MW of renewable energy by 2030. This is an effort to diversify the country’s energy mix in response to the growing electricity demand and promote access to clean sources of energy. The NDP is aimed at reducing and eliminating poverty in South Africa by 2030. The NDP also outlines the need to increase electricity production by 2030, with 20 000 MW of electricity capacity generated from renewable sources in order to move to less carbon- intensive electricity production. The Plan also envisages that South Africa will have an energy sector that provides reliable and efficient energy service at competitive rates, while supporting economic growth through job creation. The authorisation of the proposed project will further align with South Africa's National Climate Response White Paper which outlines the countries efforts to manage the impacts of climate change and to contribute to the global efforts to stabilise the GHG concentrations in the atmosphere. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 137 of 399 The proposed project will also aid in overcoming the power shortages that are currently faced in the country. Over the years, the construction of SEFs has become cheaper, and less time-consuming. Thus, acting as a faster and more efficient method of meeting the ever-growing demand for electricity in the country. In addition, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) reported that renewable energy assisted in relieving pressure on the constrained South African power system during load shedding in the first quarter of 2019. This indicates that renewable energy is a key factor in ensuring that the country does not face further load shedding in the future. 6.3 REGIONAL AND LOCAL PERSPECTIVE 6.3.1 JUST ENERGY TRANSITION Coal power stations and the coal mining industry play a vital component in the economic and social components of the local Mpumalanga economy. Shifting to a low carbon economy will thus need to offset or exceed the benefits being realised by fossil fuels in the province. Thus, a key factor to ensuring the success of the JET is not only to focus on the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy resources but to simultaneously ensure that the power stations are repurposed to achieve a just process in Mpumalanga through new infrastructure and the Just Transition of jobs and skills. 6.3.2 MULTIPLE LAND USE Unlike opencast coal mining within the broader Komati study area, the Project facilitates multiple land use functions within the development area. As solar modules are clustered on surface developments, this allows multiple land use functions. This will boost the economic activities in the area which will in turn increase job opportunities in that area and help improve the local community's welfare without jeopardising the environment. 6.3.3 DESIRABILITY OF THE PROJECT SITE Four of Eskom's coal-fired power stations have been targeted for decommissioning in the short term: Komati, Camden, Grootvlei, and Hendrina. Eskom is looking to decommission 5 400 MW of electricity from coal generation by the year 2022, increasing to 10 500 MW by 2030, 22 000 MW by 2035 and 35 000 MW by 2050. Simultaneously Eskom has been looking at options for repurposing these power stations with the core aims of reusing existing power transmission infrastructure, developing new generation capacity, providing ancillary services, and mitigating socio-economic impact. This project is one of several initiatives in which Eskom proposes. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 138 of 399 7 PROJECT ALTERNATIVES The EIA Regulations of 2014 (as amended) require that the S&EIA process must identify and describe alternatives to the proposed activity that were considered, or motivation for not considering alternatives. Different types or categories of alternatives could be considered including different locations, technology types, and project layouts. As such, the analysis of the alternatives has been discussed in this section for the ESIA. All alternatives outlined below are considered both feasible and reasonable. Extensive consideration of alternatives and avoidance of impacts took place in the screening/design phase. This is discussed in detail in the section below. 7.1 LOCATION ALTERNATIVES The selection of the location of the proposed project is based on the outcome of a feasibility assessment by the proponent, which inter alia served to identify site options that would be optimal for energy production and grid interconnection. The proposed site was selected because it is strategically located due to the following factors  Proximity to the Komati Power Station: • The proposed project location is adjacent to the Komati Power Station which has reached its end of life and is currently undergoing decommission. The Komati Power Station is being repurposed to use renewable energy (solar and wind). • The proposed SEF requires connection to the Eskom grid to transmit the generated electricity. As such, the location of the facility would benefit from being close to the existing grid connection at the Komati Power Station. Furthermore, the location and proximity of the site to the Komati Power Station reduces environmental impacts associated with long connection lines.  Land Availability: • The availability of land is a key feasibility criterion in the site selection process. The project site is of a suitable land size for the proposed development. The land is owned by Eskom and there are no citizens living on the land therefore relocation of communities would not be required.  Road and labour pool accessibility: • The site is in close proximity to the R542 and R36 highways and 37km from Middelburg, 43km from Bethal and 40km from Witbank, which will benefit construction logistics and provide a labour resource respectively. The project area and surrounding areas are already easily accessible due to existing access roads.  Environment: • The environment is a key factor when it comes to the development of its projects. The proponent aims to ensure that its projects are developed in a sustainable manner. All the environmental factors were considered in the area when Eskom was scoping for potential sites for the Project. The area selected is already disturbed and thus, it was KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 139 of 399 concluded that the development of SEF would have a minimal impact on the region's flora, fauna and water resources. The site is considered suitable and the investigation of an alternative site is not currently proposed. 7.2 TECHNOLOGY ALTERNATIVES The project is utilising solar and BESS technology; therefore, no other technology alternatives are being considered for this project. Wind technology is being considered as a separate additional project at the Komati Power Station footprint. 7.2.1 SOLAR TECHNOLOGY ALTERNATIVES The project is utilising solar technology to generate power. Therefore, no other renewable energy technology alternatives are being considered for this project. Wind technology is being considered as a separate additional project at the Komati Power Station footprint. The motivation for the use of solar PV technology for this project is provided below. Solar Resource The Project site was also selected on the availability of solar resource in the Mpumalanga region. The availability of the solar resource is the main drivers of project viability. The Project site was identified by the proponent through a desktop pre-feasibility analysis based on the estimation of the solar energy resource. The site location provides sufficient solar resource to ensure the economic viability of a solar PV facility. This viable solar resource ensures the best value for money is gained from the project, allowing for competitive pricing and maximum generation potential, with the resulting indirect benefits for the South African economy. Furthermore, within the proposed Project site the proponent has also identified a suitable area to develop a complementary wind facility that will assist to balance the supply of electricity. Topography The surrounding landscape has a relatively flat topography which is suitable for the development of a solar project. The Project site itself is located on the flattest ground near the Komati Power Station and thus in combination with suitable solar resource within the study area is optimized from a construction and technical perspective. 7.2.2 BESS TECHNOLOGY ALTERNATIVES With regards to the BESS, Lithium Battery Technologies, such as Lithium Iron Phosphate, Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt oxides or Vanadium Redox flow technologies will be considered during the assessment however the specific technology will only be determined following EPC procurement. Therefore, both technologies are currently being considered. 7.2.2.1 Liquid-cooled Lithium-Ion In this design, the BESS will be made up of several liquid cooled Lithium-Ion batteries, due to them being a mature and safe technology with regard to being modular and easy to install and due to their technical characteristics, will work well as energy storage systems for solar facilities, as well as supporting grid stability. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 140 of 399 The liquid cooled Lithium-Ion batteries consists of multiple battery cells that are assembled together to form modules. Each cell contains a positive electrode and a negative electrode. The BESS will comprise of multiple battery units or modules housed in shipping containers and/or an applicable housing structure which is delivered pre-assembled to the project site. Containers are usually raised slightly off the ground and layout out is rows. They can be stacked if required although this may increase the risk of events in one container spreading to another container. Supplementary infrastructure and equipment may include substations, power cables, transformers, power converters, substation buildings & offices, HV/MV switch gear, inverters and temperature control equipment that may be positioned between the battery containers. The images in Figure 5-3 are typical BESS installations. Figure 5-4 and Figure 5-5 show typical battery modules in the BESS facility. 7.2.2.2 VRFB In this design, VRFB’s are a type of rechargeable battery that utilise a Vanadium electrolyte solution. They are unique in that they use Vanadium ions in different oxidation states (V2+ and V3+ for the negative electrode, V4+ and V5+ for the positive electrode) to store and release electrical energy. A single VRFB unit (Figure 5-6) comprises of a number of VRFB stacks, back cooler, flame arrestor, gas barriers, switch cabinets, pre-pressure tanks, electrolyte pumps and electrolyte tanks, additionally associated auxiliary transformers and an HV substation will be required. The heart of a VRFB is the stack (Figure 5-7), which consists of multiple cells stacked on top of each other. Each cell consists of a positive and negative electrode compartment, separated by an ion exchange membrane. The positive and negative electrodes are made of carbon-based materials coated with a catalyst to facilitate the reaction with the vanadium ions. When the VRFB is in use, the electrolyte solution is pumped from the storage tanks (Figure 5-8) through the stack, where the chemical reactions take place, producing electricity. The size of the stack and the number of cells depends on the desired capacity and power output of the battery. One of the advantages of VRFBs is their scalability, as their capacity can be easily increased or decreased by simply adding or removing electrolyte solution. They also have a long cycle life and are able to maintain their capacity over many charge-discharge cycles. Another advantage of VRFB stacks is their ability to operate at a constant voltage, which simplifies the power electronics required for the battery system. Additionally, because the chemical reactions take place outside the stack, there is no risk of cross-contamination between the electrolyte solutions, which improves the longevity and reliability of the battery. 7.3 LAYOUT ALTERNATIVES The process undertaken for this project is an iterative design process whereby through various assessment phases and iteratively updating the site sensitivities to avoid environmental features (as outlined within Section 9.1) the site boundaries were determined. The solar field layout was also updated to accommodate the wind turbines being considered within the project site as part of a separate project. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 141 of 399 Four alternatives layouts for the BESS facilities were investigated during the scoping phase. BESS D has since been removed as an option as it was located within the coal stockyard of the Komati Power Station and would require an extensive decommissioning process. BESS A, BESS B and BESS C is being taken forward and will require EA. The original site layout that was considered is indicated in Figure 7-1 and the revised site layout is presented in Figure 7-2. During the specialist assessments it was determined that a CBA and Seep 1 Wetland were located within the proposed project site. The proponent has decided to remove these areas from the proposed project site to avoid having to undertake and implement a biodiversity offset plan. There were no social sensitivities identified by the specialist that required a change to the layout. The final optimised site layout is presented in Figure 5-1. It must be noted that the specialist assessments were undertaken using the revised site layout presented in Figure 7-2. Figure 7-1 – Komati SEF and BESS Facility Original Site Layout KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 142 of 399 Figure 7-2 – Komati SEF and BESS Facility Revised Site Layout 7.4 NO-GO ALTERNATIVE In the “no project” alternative, the proposed project will not be developed. In this scenario, there could be a missed opportunity to address the need for a just transition within the Province and Nationally. This project will also support the need to increase renewable energy generation in an effort to mitigate against concerns of climate change and exploitation of non-renewable resources. The no-go alternative would not assist in responding to the growing electricity demand in South Africa and would not contribute to the reliability of electricity supply at a national scale. The proposed project is to assist with the repurposing of the Komati Power Plant. The “no project” alternative would result in the entire power station being dismantled without creating new infrastructure and repurposing of the plant. Without implementing this project, the use of renewable options for power supply would be compromised in the future, potentially leading to significant negative impacts on environmental and social well-being. Therefore, the No-Go option is not considered a feasible choice for this proposed project. 7.5 ALTERNATIVES ASSESSMENT SUMMARY A summary of the project alternatives considered in terms of activity, technology, location and layout that were considered as part of the EIA Process are included in Table 7-1. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 143 of 399 Table 7-1 – Alternatives summary Alternative Type Preferred Comment Alternative Location Alternative N/A The site is considered suitable and the investigation of an alternative site is not currently proposed. Technology Alternative - N/A No other technology alternatives are being Solar considered for this project. Wind technology is being considered as a separate additional project at the Komati Power Station footprint. Technology Alternative - N/A Lithium Battery Technologies, such as Lithium Iron BESS Phosphate, Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt oxides or Vanadium Redox flow technologies will be considered during the assessment however the specific technology will only be determined following EPC procurement. No other BESS technology is being considered for this project.. Layout BESS A, BESS B Four alternative layouts for the BESS facilities were and BESS C investigated during the scoping phase. BESS D has since been removed as an option as it was located within the coal stockyard of the Komati Power Station and would require an extensive decommissioning process. BESS A, BESS B and BESS C is being taken forward and will require EA. Layout Solar field The solar field layout was revised after the scoping phase to avoid sensitive environmental features and to accommodate the wind turbines being considered within the project site as part of a separate application. The layout was further optimised following the assessment of the specialists. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 144 of 399 8 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL CONTEXT The following chapter presents an overview of the biophysical and socio-economic environment in which the proposed Project is located. The description of the receiving environment is essential in that it represents the conditions of the environment before the construction of the proposed Project (i.e. the current, or status quo, environment) against which environmental impacts of the proposed Project can be assessed and future changes monitored. The area has previously been studied to some extent and is recorded in various sources. Consequently, some components of the baseline have been generated based on literature review. However, where appropriate, baseline information has been supplemented or generated by specialists appointed to undertake baseline and impact assessments for the proposed Project. This chapter describes the baseline in terms of four broad areas:  Physical Environment;  Biological Environment; and  Socio-Economic Environment. The chapter summarises the baseline, with more detailed information presented in the specialist reports contained in Appendix F. 8.1 PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT 8.1.1 CLIMATE AND METEOROLOGY The following is extracted from the Air Quality Desktop Impact Assessment Report the Soil and Agricultural Potential Assessment compiled by WSP and included as Appendix F.3 and Appendix F.6 respectively. 8.1.1.1 Meteorological Overview To assess site-specific meteorological conditions, data was sourced from the South African Air Quality Information System (SAAQIS) for the Komati station and analysed for the best recovery period over the last five years; namely January to December 2018. The Komati station is owned by Eskom and is located on site. The South African National Accreditation System (SANAS, 2012) TR 07-03 standards stipulate a minimum data recovery of 90% for the dataset to be deemed representative of conditions during a particular reporting period. The percentage recovery for parameters recorded is above 90 % and is thus considered reliable for use in this assessment. 8.1.1.2 Temperature, Rainfall and Humidity Rainfall in the area is almost exclusively in the form of showers and thunderstorms and falls mainly in the summer months from October to March. The maximum rainfall usually occurs in January. The winter months are usually dry. The mean annual precipitation for Catchment B11B is 687 mm and the mean annual evaporation is 1550 mm. Mean monthly evaporation exceeds the mean monthly precipitation for every month of the year thus this is a water deficit area. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 145 of 399 The summer temperatures for the region averaged at 20 °C while winter temperatures averaged at 11 °C (Figure 8-1). Komati received approximately 1082 mm of rainfall for 2018. Higher rainfall occurred during the warmer summer months (December, January and February), with drier conditions during cooler winter months (June, July and August). It was noted that the month of March also experienced high volumes of rainfall (Figure 8-2). Relative humidity was generally moderate for 2018 at 63% (Figure 8-2). Figure 8-1 – Average, maximum and minimum temperatures for the period January to December 2018 from the Komati station (SAAQIS) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 146 of 399 Figure 8-2 – Monthly rainfall and average humidity for the period January to December 2018 from the Komati station (SAAQIS) 8.1.1.3 Local Wind Field Wind roses summarize wind speed and directional frequency at a location. Calm conditions are defined as wind speeds less than 1.0 m/s. Each directional branch on a wind rose represents wind originating from that direction. Each directional branch is divided into segments of colour, each representative of different wind speeds. Typical wind fields are analysed for the full period (January to December 2018); diurnally for early morning (00h00–06h00), morning (06h00–12h00), afternoon (12h00–18h00) and evening (18h00–23h00); and seasonally for summer (December, January and February), autumn (March, April and May), winter (June, July and August) and Spring (September, October and November). Wind roses from the Komati meteorological station are presented in Figure 8-3 and are further discussed below:  During the January to December 2018 period, light to strong north-north-easterly and westerly winds prevail in the region (calm conditions occurring 17 % of the time), with average wind speeds of 2.7 m/s expected.  During the early morning hours (00h00-06h00) north-north-easterly, north-north-westerly, north and north-westerly winds prevail.  Towards the latter morning (06h00-12h00) hours, a shift in winds is experienced with dominant winds from the west.  In the afternoon (12h00-18h00) the westerly wind prevails.  During the night (18h00-00h00) the north-north-easterly wind prevails yet again. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 147 of 399  Highest winds are experienced during the 12h00-18h00 period.  Winds from the north-north-easterly prevail during the summer and autumn months whilst the winter and spring months show great directional variability. Additionally, winter and spring experience the strongest winds. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 148 of 399 Komati Diurnal January to December 2018 00h00 – 06h00 06h00 – 12h00 12h00 – 18h00 18h00 – 00h00 Calms = 16.99% Calms = 29.12% Calms = 14.91% Calms = 1.96% Calms = 22.43% Seasonal Summer Autumn Winter Spring Calms = 7.27% Calms = 25.00% Calms = 24.73% Calms = 10.67% Figure 8-3 - Local wind conditions for the period January to December 2018 from the Komati station (SAAQIS) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 149 of 399 8.1.2 TOPOGRAPHY The following is extracted from the Visual Impact Assessment compiled by LOGIS and included as Appendix F.11. The study area is situated on land that ranges in elevation from approximately 1,530m above sea level (asl) in the south-west of the study area to 1,700m asl in the east (Figure 8-4). The project site itself is located at an average elevation of approximately 1,626m above sea level. The terrain morphological unit identified for the entire study area is described as flat to undulating plains. The most prominent elevated topographical units are the ash dumps, slimes dams and mine dumps surrounding the power station and the Goedehoop Colliery located west of the power station. Figure 8-4 - Topography 8.1.3 GEOLOGY The following is extracted from the Palaeontology Impact Assessment compiled by Dr H Fourie and included as Appendix F.13. Large areas of the southern African continent are covered by the Karoo Supergroup (Figure 8-5). It covers older geological formations with an almost horizontal blanket. Several basins are present with the main basin in the central part of south Africa and several smaller basins towards Lebombo, Springbok Flats and Soutpansberg. An estimated age is 150 – 180 Ma. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 150 of 399 And a maximum thickness of 7000 m is reached in the south. Three formations overlie the Beaufort Group, they are the Molteno, Elliot and Clarens Formations. The Elliot Formation is also known as the Red Beds and the old Cave Sandstone is known as the Clarens Formation. At the top is the Drakensberg Basalt Formation with its pillow lavas, pyroclasts, etc. (Kent 1980, Snyman 1996). The Beaufort Group is underlain by the Ecca Group which lies on the Dwyka Group. Figure 8-5 - Geological map of the area Dolerite dykes (Jd) occur throughout the Karoo Supergroup. Structural geological features such as dykes and faults can have a measurable influence on ground water flow and mass transport. Permian sediments are extensively intruded and thermally metamorphosed (baked) by sub-horizontal sills and steeply inclined dykes of the Karoo Dolerite Suite. These early Jurassic (183 Ma) basic intrusions baked the adjacent mudrocks and sandstones to form splintery hornfels and quartzites respectively. Thermal metamorphism by dolerite intrusions tends to reduce the palaeontological heritage potential of the adjacent sediments. The Ecca Group is early to mid-Permian (545-250 Ma) in age. Sediments of the Ecca group are lacustrine and marine to fluvio-deltaic (Snyman 1996). The Ecca group is known for its coal (mainly the Vryheid Formation) (five coal seams) and uranium. Coalfields formed due to the accumulation of plant material in shallow and large swampy deltas (see Appendix 1). The Ecca Group conformably overlies the Dwyka Group and is conformably overlain by the Beaufort Group, Karoo Supergroup. It consists essentially of mudrock (shale), but sandstone-rich units occur towards the margins of the present main Karoo basin in the KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 151 of 399 south, west and north-east, with coal seams also being present in the north-east (Kent 1980, Johnson 2009). The Vryheid Formation is named after the type area of Vryheid-Volksrust. In the north- eastern part of the Karoo basin the Vryheid Formation thins and eventually wedges out towards the south, southwest and west with increasing distance from its source area to the east and northeast (Johnson 2009). The Vryheid Formation consists essentially of sandstone, shale, and subordinate coal beds, and has a maximum total thickness of 500 m. It forms part of the Middle Ecca (Kent 1980). This formation has the largest coal reserves in South Africa. The pro-delta sediments are characterised by trace and plants fossils (Snyman 1996). Coal has always been the main energy source in industrial South Africa. It is in Mpumalanga, south of the N4, that most of the coal-fired power stations are found. Eskom is by far the biggest electricity generator in Africa. Thick layers of coal just below the surface are suited to open-cast mining and where the overlying sediments are too thick, shallow underground mining. In 2003, coal was South Africa’s third most valuable mineral commodity and is also used by Sasol for fuel- and chemicals-from-coal (Norman and Whitfield 2006). Grodner and Cairncross (2003) proposed a 3-D model of the Witbank Coalfield to allow easy evaluation of the sedimentary rocks, both through space and time. Through this, one can interpret the environmental conditions present at the time of deposition of the sediments. This can improve mine planning and mining techniques. The Vryheid Formation is underlain by the Dwyka Group and is gradually overlain by mudstones (and shale) and sandstones of the Volksrust Formation. The typical colours for the Vryheid Formation are grey and yellow for the sediments and black for the coal seam. The thickness of the grey shale can vary and this is interlayered with the also variable yellow sandstone and coal seams. Ecca rocks are stable and lend themselves well to developments. It is only unstable in or directly above mining activities (Snyman 1996). Dolerite dykes occur throughout the Karoo Supergroup. Structural geological features such as dykes and faults can have a measurable influence on ground water flow and mass transport. The Vryheid Formation sediments may attain a thickness of 120 – 140 m. A typical profile includes soil and clay, sandstone and siltstone, shale, 2 upper seam, shale, 2 seam, sandstone, no 1 seam, shale and dolomite at the bottom. The typical colours for the Vryheid Formation are grey and yellow for the sediments and black for the coal seam. The thickness of the grey shale can vary and this is interlayered with the also variable yellow sandstone and coal seams. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 152 of 399 Figure 8-6 - Lithostratigraphic column of the development area (East Rand 2628) 8.1.3.1 Soil and Subsoil Conditions The following is extracted from the Preliminary Geotechnical Investigations Scope Report compiled by BAV Consulting and included as Appendix F.1B. The site is generally characterised by transported clayey soils underlain residual sandy soils with low potential collapsibility. Furthermore, none of the horizons profiled show any typical characteristics associated with compressible soils. The site is located in a region with the erodibility index of 9-15, thus indicating a Low to medium soil erodibility potential according to the national erodibility potential map presented in the National Housing Code (2009). The site is not characterised by soluble rocks such as dolomite or limestone, therefore the formation of karst-related subsurface topography leading to sinkholes and subsidence is unlikely. The proposed Eskom sites are situated adjacent to several operational coal mines currently exploited for coal seams in excess of 45 meters by board-and-pillar mining. The undertaken percussion drilling revealed several cavities with the average thickness of 3 meters at depths between 45 – 74 meters corresponding to the average depth of the mined coal seams in the area. Although no signs of any on-going or historical subsidence features were observed, such events may be triggered by loss of support from the existing mining pillars, thus resulting in ground subsidence. Further studies focusing on undermining in the vicinity of Komati are therefore recommended in order to delineate and quantify the risks associated with undermined ground. The stability of the sites mainly depends on the type and thickness of the overburden material, degree of weathered, and to a certain extent groundwater level drawdown. The overburden material consists of alternating layers of slightly weathered to highly weathered, shale, siltstone, sandstone and dolerite sills with the estimated total thickness in excess of 45 meters. Thus, the likelihood of the formation of sinkhole or subsidence features at Solar PV Site B is low, owing to the type of overburden and the thickness thereof. The likelihood of sinkhole and subsidence formations at Solar PV Site A was not evaluated. Therefore, additional investigations such as percussion drilling, rotary core drilling, SPT testing are recommended in order to assess the foundation parameters and the long-term KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 153 of 399 stability of the site. The implementation of photovoltaics and battery energy storage systems is provisionally supported at Solar PV Site A, B and all BESS sites, subject to additional investigations. 8.1.4 SEISMICITY The following is extracted from the Geotechnical Desktop Study compiled by Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) and included as Appendix F.1A. The South African National Standards (SANS) code (Seismic actions and general requirements for buildings) SANS 10160-4:2011, shows that the site is situated in the area where the peak ground acceleration has a probability of being exceeded in 50 year period is 0.1g. Figure 8-7 shows the zone (Zone 1) where compliance with the minimum requirements is specified by the code. Zone 1 is defined as “Regions of natural seismic activity”. A more recent illustration produced by the Council of Geoscience is presented in Figure 8-8, showing peak ground acceleration with a 10% probability of being exceeded in 50 years. On this figure, the five sites are classified with ground acceleration of 0.1g (98cm/sec²). Figure 8-7 - Seismic Hazard map and Zones (Source: Eskom, 2022) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 154 of 399 Figure 8-8 - A recent seismic hazard map (2003) obtained from the Council for Geoscience (Source: Eskom, 2022) 8.1.5 AIR QUALITY BACKGROUND The following is extracted from the Air Quality Desktop Impact Assessment Report compiled by WSP and included as Appendix F.2. Existing air pollution sources in the vicinity of the proposed project include:  Agricultural activities mostly from maize and livestock.  Vehicle emissions from the R35, R542, nearby Goedehoop Colliery and internal Komati power station roads.  Mining activities from the nearby Goedehoop Colliery.  Industrial activities from the Komati Power Station.  Domestic fuel burning from the Komati Village and nearby residential areas.  Dust from unpaved roads from the nearby Goedehoop Colliery.  Other fugitive dust sources such as wind erosion of exposed areas. Background concentrations for particulate matter (i.e most specifically particle size of aerodynamic diameter of less than 10 and 2.5 microns (PM10 and PM2.5)) were also sourced from the SAAQIS for the Komati station to evaluate the current situation within the receiving environment. No other particulates were assessed as other pollutants will remain the same given no gaseous impacts will stem from the Solar PV Facility to contribute to the existing emissions. The best recovery period over the last five years; namely January to December 2018 was utilized. Annual averages for PM10 and PM2.5 were 62.7 µg/m3 (above the annual average PM10 standard of 40 µg/m3) and 6.5 µg/m3, respectively (below the annual average PM2.5 standard of 20 µg/m3). The high existing sources of emissions for PM10 are likely a result of the abovementioned background sources, however it must be noted that the background concentrations are likely to decrease once the existing Komati Power Station is fully decommissioned,, possibly resulting in compliance with the annual average PM10 standard KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 155 of 399 of 40 µg/m3. Further, the data recovery for PM10 and PM2.5 was 82% and 85%, respectively, slightly below the recommended data recovery of 90% for the dataset to be deemed reliable. Table 8-1 presents the sensitive receptors within the surrounding environment. Sensitive receptors are defined by the United States Environmental Protection Agency as are as where occupants are more susceptible to the adverse effects of exposure to pollutants. These areas include but are not limited to residential areas, hospitals/clinics, schools and day care facilities and elderly housing. The site layout and receptors are presented in Figure 8-9. Table 8-1 - Sensitive receptors within a 10 km radius of the proposed project ID Sensitive Receptor Latitude (s) Longitude Distance Direction Name (E) from site from site boundary (KM) SR1 Komati Village 26° 5'46.52" 29°27'37.62" Within the boundary SR2 Residential Area 1 26° 8'37.05" 29°32'5.14" 7.3 Southeast SR3 Residential Area 2 26° 4'9.85" 29°25'16.62" 3.7 Northwest SR4 Residential Area 3 26° 5'14.28" 29°26'18.46" 1.2 Northwest SR5 Residential Area 4 26° 5'24.70" 29°26'47.50" 0.4 Northwest SR6 Residential Area 5 26° 2'5.40" 29°31'6.68" 7.2 Northeast KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 156 of 399 Figure 8-9 - Site layout and sensitive receptors for the proposed project 8.1.6 NOISE The following is extracted from the Noise Desktop Impact Assessment Report compiled by WSP and included as Appendix F.3. Existing noise sources in the vicinity of the proposed project include:  Agricultural activities mostly from maize and livestock.  Vehicles along the R35, R542, nearby Goedehoop Colliery and internal Komati power station roads.  Mining activities from the nearby Goedehoop Colliery.  Industrial activities from the Komati Power Station. Sensitive receptors are identified as areas that may be impacted negatively due to noise associated with the proposed project. Examples of receptors include, but are not limited to, schools, shopping centres, hospitals, office blocks and residential areas. The site layout and receptors are presented in Table 8-2 and Figure 8-10. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 157 of 399 Table 8-2 - Sensitive receptors within a 5 km radius of the proposed project ID Sensitive Receptor Latitude (s) Longitude (E) Distance Direction Name from site from site boundary (KM) SR1 Komati Village 26° 5'46.52" 29°27'37.62" Within the boundary SR2 Residential Area 1 26° 4'9.85" 29°25'16.62" 3.7 Northwest SR3 Residential Area 2 26° 5'14.28" 29°26'18.46" 1.2 Northwest SR4 Residential Area 3 26° 5'24.70" 29°26'47.50" 0.4 Northwest Figure 8-10 - Site layout and sensitive receptors for the proposed project 8.1.7 SURFACE WATER The following is extracted from the Surface Water Scoping Assessment compiled by WSP and included as Appendix F.4. The Komati Power Station occurs within the upper Olifants Water Management Area (WMA), in the B11B quaternary catchment (Figure 8-11) and can be sub-divided into secondary drainage regions compromising of smaller streams and creeks. This catchment receives 687 KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 158 of 399 mm rainfall per year and experiences 1550 mm of evaporation annually. The surface topography of the area is typical of the Mpumalanga Highveld, consisting in the main of a gently undulating plateau. The flood plains of the local streams are at an average elevation of approximately 1595 meters above mean sea level (mamsl). Altitudes vary from ±1650 mamsl at the higher parts south of the ashing facility to ±1595 mamsl which defines the base of the Koringspruit to the north of the Komati Power Station. Figure 8-11 - Hydrogeology Map 8.1.7.1 Delineation Of Sub-Catchments The two catchments draining the area affecting the proposed development is shown on Figure 8-12. The catchment for PV Site A covers an area of 156 ha and the catchment for PV Site B extends over an area of 54 ha. Together, the total area drained is 210 ha. In adherence to the National Water Act 36 of 1998, GN 704 guidelines, it is crucial to ensure that the proposed development does not encroach upon the floodplain of the Koringspruit. To assess the potential encroachment, a buffer zone of 100 meters from the watercourse has been utilised as a guiding principle. Through a desktop analysis, it has been confirmed that the proposed development remains well outside the designated floodplain (Figure 8- 12). Furthermore, the development is bordered by existing roads, and those roads adjacent to the streams are at a higher elevation than the streams, thus mimicking a flood wall, thereby mitigating any adverse impacts on the Koringspruit's hydrological regime and flood KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 159 of 399 risk dynamics. This strategic adherence to the established guidelines underscores the commitment to environmentally responsible practices and safeguards the integrity of the surrounding natural watercourses and floodplain areas. To delineate the catchments, a Digital Terrain Model (DTM) was created for use in GIS to determine these delineations and characterisation of the catchments. The delineated catchments are as shown in Figure 8-12 below. Figure 8-12 – Hydrological Catchments and Floodline Map 8.1.7.2 Catchment Parameters The slope of a catchment is a very important characteristic in the determination of flood peaks. Steep slopes cause faster runoff to shorten the critical duration of flood inducing storms, thus leading to higher rainfall intensities in the runoff formulae. On steep slopes, the vegetation is generally less dense, soil layers are shallower, and there are fewer depressions, all of which cause water to run off more rapidly. The result is that infiltration is reduced, and flood peaks are consequently elevated. For flat catchments such as those encountered on this site, the opposite holds true. Land use is another critical characteristic as it alters the vegetation present and the degree of soil compaction. Compacted soil is less permeable, and vegetation can slow down stormflows over the land surface. Lastly, the soil type can also be important with some soils allowing quicker infiltration resulting in runoff for each catchment. Detailed geotechnical KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 160 of 399 testing would be required to determine the necessary infiltration parameters for explicit groundwater modelling, but in terms of general hydrological response, it was assumed the soils in the catchments fall into a single broad category. While the vegetation across both catchments for PV Site A and B appears to be grassland, much of the catchment for PV Site A appears to have been used for agriculture, specifically row cropping. Even though there are relatively steep zones in the catchment, the majority of aboveground runoff is likely to be in the form of shallow sheet flow and consequently, flow velocities will be relatively low. Table 8-3 presents the conceptual catchment characteristics used in this study. Table 8-3 - Conceptual Catchment Characteristics Catchment Catchment Permeability (desktop Flow type Vegetation Area (ha) assessment, not lab tested) PV Site A 156 ha Permeable to Semi- Overland Grasslands and Permeable Flow bare row cropping PV Site B 54 ha Permeable to Semi- Overland Grasslands Permeable Flow A detailed survey will be required to determine the actual dimensions of drainage paths, but examination of the available topographical information and aerial photography reveals no obvious areas where erosion is taking place. 8.1.7.3 Design Rainfall The Intensity-duration-frequency (IDF) data was derived from Rainfall Statistics for Design Flood Estimation in South Africa (Smithers & Schulze. 2012) for reference point 26° 6'30.28"S, 29°27'37.79"E for the project site. The South African National Water Act (Act No. 36 of 1998) and its accompanying regulations, such as the National Environmental Management: Integrated Coastal Management Act (Act No. 24 of 2008) and the National Environmental Management: Waste Act (Act No. 59 of 2008), provide guidance on managing stormwater and potential impacts on water resources. The Guidelines for Human Settlement Planning Sanitation's Guideline (2003) recommends the use of 5 and 50-year return periods as a standard practice for stormwater management. These return periods allow for the assessment of routine storm events and extreme rainfall events that may have significant impacts on the environment and infrastructure. By considering these return periods, the stormwater modelling can evaluate the facility's ability to handle both typical and severe rainfall events, ensuring compliance with the relevant legislation and guidelines. Additionally, the South African Green Building Council's Green Star SA - Sustainable Precincts Tool provides further support for considering 5 and 50-year return periods in stormwater management. This tool promotes sustainable and resilient design practices, KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 161 of 399 including the assessment of stormwater management measures against different return period scenarios. Therefore, by incorporating the 5 and 50-year return periods in the stormwater modelling to assess impacts, the report aligns with applicable legislation and guidelines, ensuring comprehensive evaluation of the facility's stormwater management strategies in compliance with environmental regulations and sustainable development principles. The IDF data is tabulated below for design storm events with return period of 5 and 50 years for various durations: Table 8-4 - Average Intensity for various design storm durations Return Period Design Storm Duration (years) 10 min 15 min 30 min 1 hr 2 hr 4 hr 8 hr 12 hr 24 hr Average Intensity (mm/hr) 5 102.0 84.4 54 34.5 22.1 13.18 7.85 5.81 3.46 50 162.6 134.4 86.0 55.0 35.15 20.98 12.50 9.24 5.51 8.1.7.4 Runoff Parameters The runoff parameters used are listed below:  Impervious area roughness coefficient: 0.018  Pervious area roughness coefficient: 0.050  Impervious area depression storage: 1 mm  Pervious area depression storage: 5 mm  Infiltration method: SCS  SCS Curve Number (CN): 61 8.1.7.5 Pre-Development Runoff Runoff was computed for both minor (5-year) and major (50-year) design events of various durations up to 24 hours. The peak flows were cross-checked via the Rational Method and found to be reasonable. The pre-development peak flows are tabulated in Table 8-5. Table 8-5 - Pre-development peak flows 5-year Return Period 50-year Return Period Sub-catchment ID Peak flow (m3/s) Peak flow (m3/s) PV Site A 0.08 0.12 PV Site B 0.03 0.05 KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 162 of 399 Due to the relatively permeable nature of the soil, the majority of the rainfall from short- duration events infiltrates events infiltrates into the ground. Only when the soil becomes saturated does significant overland runoff occur. Consequently, longer-duration storms result in the highest peak flows. Saturation happens more quickly for high-order events, which means that peak flows typically occur for shorter-duration design storms compared to low- order events. For design storm events with a return period of up to 50 years, flow velocities will be low (< 0.19 m/s). Flow depths outside of preferential drainage paths are likely to be shallow. However, where preferential drainage routes converge to form natural earth channels that are more clearly defined, the depth of flow will increase. A detailed survey will be required to model specific drainage paths accurately and provide more precise flow computations. 8.1.7.6 Post-Development Runoff The primary difference between the pre-development and the post-development scenarios lies in the presence of the solar PV panels and ancillary infrastructure. While the solar PV panels themselves are impervious, their distributed arrangement with spaces in between and elevation above the natural ground level sets them apart from typical hardened surfaces. Essentially, they do not significantly impede infiltration or obstruct existing flow paths. This does not apply to the access and internal roads or the site management/plant areas, as they effectively form impervious surfaces and consequently contribute to increased runoff. The increase in impervious area for the post-development scenario was measured using GIS overlays and estimated coverage percentages for the relevant items. However, the estimated catchment surface characteristics need to be re-evaluated during the detailed design stage. Runoff was computed for both minor (5-year) and major (50-year) design events, considering various durations of up to 24 hours. The post-development peak flows are tabulated in Table 8-6. Table 8-6 - Post-development peak flows 5-year Return Period 50-year Return Period Sub-catchment ID Peak flow (m3/s) Peak flow (m3/s) PV Site A 0.11 0.17 PV Site B 0.04 0.06 KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 163 of 399 Table 8-7 - Change in maximum peak flow for Site A and B 50-year return period peak flow Change (m3/s) Sub-catchment Pre-development Post-development Peak flow % ID (m3/s) PV Site A 0.12 0.14 0.02 16.7 PB Site B 0.03 0.04 0.01 33.3 As indicated in Table 8-7, the increase in runoff from the sub-catchments over the pre- development situation is small, both in quantity and percentage (less than 0.02 m3/s and 0.01 m3/s for Site A and B, respectively). This justification supports the exclusion of detention ponds in the stormwater management plan. This conclusion is based on a comprehensive analysis of the site characteristics, hydrological modelling, and the implementation of recommended stormwater measures. Several factors contribute to the limited increase in stormwater runoff. Firstly, both sites have undergone careful design and engineering considerations to minimise impervious surfaces, ensuring a substantial portion of the rainfall infiltrates into the soil. Additionally, advanced stormwater management practices, such as vegetated swales, bio-retention basins, and permeable pavement, effectively promote on-site retention, infiltration, and evapotranspiration. These measures further contribute to the reduction of stormwater volume and peak flows. Furthermore, the geographic locations of the sites are strategically chosen, considering existing natural drainage patterns and topography, which naturally facilitate the conveyance and dispersion of stormwater. 8.1.8 GROUNDWATER The following is extracted from the Groundwater Assessment compiled by WSP and included as Appendix F.5. 8.1.8.1 Hydrogeology Unsaturated zone Twenty-five auger holes (AH01–AH25) were manually advanced to depths ranging from 0.3– 1.7 mbgl with geotechnical refusal was encountered in most of the holes in addition to the ten shallow boreholes. The deepest soil profile that could be achieved was at PV Site A within the area previously used for crops. The soil profile comprised darker brown clayey sand which become lighter brown with depth. No crops were evident at the time of the investigation. The “natural” soil horizon (weathered bedrock) comprises a moist, orange, brown to red- brown sandy clay or clayey sand (residual Vryheid formation) with occasional mottled clayey sand with ferricrete nodules in most of the areas inferring a seasonally fluctuating water table. Localised Fill/made ground comprising coal was encountered in the coal stockyard, Ash observed downgrade of the Ashing Area in BH05 and BH06 and gravelly fill located in the KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 164 of 399 historical and rehabilitated coal discard dump footprint in the vicinity of PV Site B (BH9, BH10). A seepage zone was noted as perched on mottled sandy clay under this layer in the auger holes drilled in this vicinity. Saturated zone A monitoring program has been established for the KPS with the available boreholes presented on Figure 8-13. The boreholes are distinguished as shallow or deep but there is limited lithological information provided. Groundwater monitoring in the areas proposed for the BESS and PV Sites are limited to around PV Site A. Whilst borehole logs and depth are not provided for all the monitoring boreholes, the available information implies that there are two distinct aquifers present in the Komati area, namely:  Seasonal shallow, discontinuous perched aquifer within the overlying weathered rock matrix. This zone is conceptualised (Kimopax, 2019) as an upper zone of completely weathered material to a depth of 8 to 10 m with a higher hydraulic conductivity (k of around 1 m/d). Monitoring boreholes which intercept this zone are typically less than 10 m deep. Boreholes drilled in May 2022 target this aquifer.  Regional weathered and/or fractured rock aquifer within the Vryheid Formation. These aquifers are commonly confined along essentially horizontal bedding interfaces between different lithologies. This aquifer occurs below the unsaturated zone (> 10 mbgl) in slightly weathered or fractured bedrock with monitoring boreholes typically being > 30 m deep. GHT Consulting, 2009 indicate that the aquifer hydraulic conductivity for the regional aquifer ranges from 0.007 m/d at AB07 to 2.4 m/d for AB04 with an average of 0.51 m/d. This aquifer is likely to be highly heterogeneous. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 165 of 399 Figure 8-13: Site boreholes Hydraulic conductivity Hydraulic conductivity was estimated based on falling head tests (GHT, 2009) as ranging from 0,007 m/d at AB07 to 2.4 m/d for AB04 with an average of 0,51 m/d. Porosity was estimated as 0,3. 8.1.8.2 Groundwater levels A hydrocensus (Figure 8-15) was carried out in 2008 (GHT Consulting, 2009) with selected points (thirteen) resampled in 2019 (Eskom, 2019). These covered an approximate 15 km radius around KPS. The results of the hydrocensus imply that the surrounding farms to the east, southeast and southwest of KPS obtain water from boreholes for domestic use and for irrigation of crops. The closest boreholes are located within 500 m of the Eskom boundary on the farms Goedehoop, Geluk and Broodsnyders with details included in Table 8-8. Boreholes identified on the National Groundwater Archive were confirmed to be beyond 1 km of the farm boundary. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 166 of 399 Table 8-8 – Hyrdocensus Boreholes ID Lonfitude Latitude Depth Use Water Condition (E) (S) (MBGL) Level (MBCL) BB20 29.48213 26.08393 26.1 Domestic 14.10 Good Drink BB21 29.47954 26.10598 26.8 ~ 2.20 Windmill (2008); (2019) 1.76 (2019) BB22 29.47907 26.10586 ~ Domestic ~ Good Drink BB23 29.47905 26.10632 11.0 Domestic 4.50 Broken Drink (2008) indicated to be in use 2019 BB24 29.47125 26.11574 ~ Domestic 15.00 Good Drink BB25 29.47127 26.11574 26.5 Domestic 20.50 Good Drink. Livestock BB26 29.47783 26.11699 6.1 ~ Dry Dry hole BB27 29.47912 26.11710 42.0 Domestic 32.00 Good Drink. Livestock BB43 29.42195 26.12209 15.0 Domestic 8.00 Good Drink BB44 29.42193 26.12198 55.0 Domestic 5.00 Good Drink. Livestock BB45 29.41625 26.11591 ~ ~ ~ Not in use for a long time BB46 29.42719 26.11853 ~ ~ ~ Not in use for a long time Water levels typically vary from around 1.4 to 12 mbgl with shallow groundwater at surface in AK62 between the Raw Water dams and Ashing Area. Eskom, 2021 indicates that the groundwater flow mimics the topography, and the direction of flow is towards the surface stream, particularly the Koringspruit. The water levels for the other monitoring boreholes located within the KPS area vary from 0 (AB62) to around 6 mbgl are provided for reference. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 167 of 399 Except for AB55 and AB58, water levels vary between 0,6 and 3.6 m over the period provided (2016 to 2021). SRK 5666657 (2020) report that regional water levels have been lowered through dewatering of mine workings at Goedehoop Collieries. Water levels in the monitoring boreholes at KPS vary only slightly over time and do not appear to have been affected by dewatering at Goedehoop at the present time. Future undermining by Goodehoop Collieries to the south-east of the Ashing area may influence the local water levels. There is limited information for PV Site B, BESS A, BESS B and BESS C, however additional information was obtained in June 2022 from the new boreholes. Measurements of static groundwater levels were carried out following stabilisation of the borehole after one week. The water level depths varied from 0.86 to 1.97 mbgl which is broadly consistent with the existing dataset (Komati WISH database, 2022). Figure 8-14: Hyrdocensus 8.1.8.3 Flow Direction And Hydraulic Gradient Eskom, 2021 indicates that the groundwater flow mimics the topography, and the direction of flow are towards the surface stream, particularly the Koringspruit River. There is little seasonal variation noted. The contoured groundwater level is provided after Kimopax, 2019 (Figure 8-15). The piezometric contours were also plotted based on the water levels for the boreholes drilled in May 2022 (Figure 8-16). Comparing topographic and groundwater elevations an R2 value of 0.99 is calculable resulting in a very strong correlation coefficient and consistent with previous works. Very KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 168 of 399 broadly, an average hydraulic gradient is calculated with reference to groundwater elevations at BH08 in the south and BH01 in the north. This represents a difference of ~52.82 m over a lateral distance of approximately 2,866 m, equating to a hydraulic gradient of ~0.018. It should be stressed that hydrogeological conditions are unlikely to be homogenous especially recognising that the shallow aquifer is discontinuous and, therefore, local variability should be expected that may differ markedly from this calculated average. Figure 8-15: Groundwater Contours – sourced from Kinomax, 2019 KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 169 of 399 Figure 8-16: Piezometric contours for boreholes drilled in 2022 8.1.8.4 Groundwater Potential Contaminants Residual contamination may be present in the PV and BESS areas due to historical activities generally related to the KPS. A contaminant land investigation was carried out to assess the potential for contamination to the groundwater. Of note is the residual ash footprint noted to the east of PV Site A and coal stock yard and coal stockyard pollution control dam as well as the settling ponds located on the boundary of KPS. Additional potential sources within the KPS area include a domestic waste dump, sewage plant and fuel depot. 8.1.8.5 Groundwater quality Water quality data is captured in the WISH database for all parameters. Groundwater quality parameters that need to be analysed are specified in the WUL (Appendix IV Appendix B Clause 3.6) as pH, Electrical conductivity (EC), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Total Suspended Solids (SS), Total Alkalinity, chloride (as Cl), sodium (as Na), sulphate, nitrate, ammonia, orthophosphate, fluoride, potassium, manganese, copper, iron, zinc, arsenic and chromium. As noted above, the groundwater flow direction is from south to north. On this basis background groundwater quality is likely best represented by two boreholes located up-gradient of the KPS boundary (AB58 and AB59). The background water quality has been defined by the 95th percentile concentrations of determinants as sourced from the existing Komati Wish database supplied by Eskom with groundwater quality for selected boreholes KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 170 of 399 presented for reference in Appendix B of the Groundwater Study (Appendix F.5). The laboratory certificates for boreholes sampled in June 2022 are included in Appendix C of the Groundwater Study (Appendix F.5). Water quality discussion The following is noted regarding the monitoring borehole data presented by Eskom and the borehole locations are included in Figure 8-13:  Ambient groundwater quality (as represented by AB58 and AB59) is generally alkaline with an average pH of 8.3. Electrical conductivity (EC) (average 17 and 32 mS/m for AB58 and AB59 respectively) is below the groundwater reserve of 112 mS/m.  Water quality is affected by KPS activities particularly from the Ashing Area and coal stockyard. This is indicated by an increase in salinity associated with elevated chloride, sulphate, calcium, magnesium, sodium and fluoride in the coal stockyard area. Metal concentrations for iron and manganese are elevated compared to the ambient groundwater quality (<0.1 mg/l for iron and <0.5 mg/l for manganese) at AB07 (downgrade of the Ashing Area) and in CB09 (coal stockyard).  Salinity is elevated exceeding ambient groundwater quality and the reserve for AB01, AB07, CB51, CB09, PB60. The localized increase in salinity is associated with elevated chloride, sulfate, calcium, magnesium, and sodium. Fluoride is near the groundwater reserve of 0,4 mg/lin the ambient boreholes (95th percentile of 0,3 and 0,4 mg/l) and is locally elevated particularly in the coal stock yard area with the 95th percentile of 1.1 mg/l at CB09.  Boreholes located on and near the northern boundary (CB52, AB47 and CB51) comprise of sulphate, fluoride and manganese concentrations which are elevated compared to the ambient water quality and South African drinking water standards. The following is noted from the Contaminated Land report regarding the water quality for the boreholes drilled in 2022. In terms of pH and although lower than background (8.8–9.1) the shallow groundwater is generally near neutral (6.62–7.54) and satisfies the lower pH limit (6.6) specified within the WUL. The other determinants provided for within the WUL are also seen as being broadly compliant; however, exceptions are noted as follows:  A high salt content is recorded at BH03 (BESS C) where, together with elevated concentrations of sodium and sulphate, electrical conductivity, calcium, magnesium and chloride were above their respective reserve limits. This is expected due to the known groundwater plume extending from the up-gradient Ashing Area and concentrations decrease further down-gradient of the KPS (BH02, BESS D) to below the reserve limits. However, increases in the concentrations of several determinants are noted at the further down-gradient position (BH01), with magnesium and chloride again above the reserve criteria, albeit at far lower concentrations than BH03.  Electrical conductivity and magnesium are above their reserve limits at BH08. This is located up-gradient of KPS activities on the southern boundary of PV Site A but slightly down-gradient of the background borehole (AB58).  Chloride was above its reserve limit at both BH05 (northeast of the Ashing Area and north of Raw Water Dams) and BH04 (BESS B). KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 171 of 399 The underlying shallow aquifer targeted as part of this investigation is considered a non- aquifer due to the low yield and discontinuous nature. Nonetheless, the possibility of vertical migration of contaminant impacts from this to the regional deeper weathered/fractured rock aquifer is recognised. In recognition of groundwater use within 1 km together with the proximal freshwater aquatic surface water environs, the known plume associated with the Ashing Area expectedly dominates the signature of down-gradient groundwater quality with manganese at a concentration (1,718.3 µg/l) above both the drinking water chronic health standard (400 µg/l) and freshwater aquatic guideline (180 µg/l). While this plume has been shown to extend off- site to the north, seemingly additional contributions from the KPS and particularly the coal stockyard are also observed with a doubling in the concentration of manganese recorded at BH01 (3,269.5 µg/l). The likely lateral dispersivity of this plume is also apparent at BH05 to the northeast and BH06 to the west where manganese concentrations of 809.5 µg/l and 496.8 µg/l were respectively recorded. Manganese was not otherwise recorded above either its freshwater aquatic guideline or chronic health standard for drinking water, although was noted to be above its aesthetic drinking water standard at BH04 (BESS B). Compared to the background range (6.2–10 µg/l) concentrations of zinc appear elevated within the shallow groundwater across the entire property (16.2–59 µg/l). While far below the drinking water standard of 2 000 µg/l, these are above both the Target Water Quality Range (TWQR) and Chronic Effect Value (CEV) of 2 µg/l and 3.6 µg/l, respectively for aquatic ecosystems, and also above the Acute Effect Value (AEV) of 36 µg/l in four of ten boreholes (40%) sampled under the current scope. This includes positions both up- and down-gradient and therefore the source of zinc remains uncertain. While absent in the background, lead has been detected within all shallow groundwater samples obtained. Notably, however, this is an approximate order of magnitude greater, and above the drinking water standard, within the west of the property (BH06, BH07 and BH08 [PV Site A] and BH09 [PV Site B]). While the combustion of fossil fuels (i.e. coal) is a recognised source of environmental lead, the reason for the noted distribution is uncertain and therefore remains unconfirmed; however, appears to correlate with typically higher concentrations of lead in soils in the west of the premises. Exceedances of the adopted standards/guidelines does not necessarily confirm the presence of an unacceptable risk but provides a conservative indication of where the shallow groundwater may represent a source of impact for the identified receptors. It is understood (VPC, 2021) that rehabilitation and management is planned for the plume associated with the Ashing Area and, as such, long term improvements in the quality of shallow groundwater would be expected once this process is implemented. While the sources of lead and zinc cannot be categorically confirmed these are almost certainly related to the activities at both KPS and the neighbouring colliery, and more detailed assessment/s are recommended to ensure appropriate protection of any potential receptors. Otherwise, the demonstrated impacts to shallow groundwater are not considered to represent substantial constraints to the proposed development specific to the two PV and BESS sites. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 172 of 399 8.1.8.6 Aquifer Characterisation Groundwater vulnerability The KPS is vulnerable to groundwater contamination due to the shallow water table. This is mitigated by the low conductivity (k) and low recharge. There are no groundwater users within the KPS boundary. Groundwater is used by the surrounding farms, more than 500 m from the Eskom boundary to the east, southeast and southwest of KPS for domestic use and for irrigation of crops (Refer Figure 3-1 in the Hydrogeological report in Appendix F-5). . Groundwater is also abstracted from the adjacent Goedehoop Colliery and utilized for supply. Based on the Hydrocensus data provided by Eskom in 2019, the water quality data obtained for the hydrocensus boreholes are generally below the SANS 241:2015 limits for domestic use for the analysed parameters. . Aquifer classification The aquifer is classified as a Minor aquifer (Parsons, 1995; DWAF, 1998) or Poor (DEA, 2010) due to the low exploitation potential and low yields. It does, however, represent an important source of water for domestic supply to the local communities. The aquifer beneath the site (> 35m) is classified as Minor/Poor with the overlying shallow weathered zone (<10m) being perched and discontinuous. The overlying shallow aquifer is not considered a viable groundwater resource but may contribute to seepage in the wetland areas as well as vertical migration into the regional deeper weathered/fractured rock aquifer. It is again noted that the underlying groundwater is known to have been impacted by mining and activities at KPS. Future mining of the No.4 coal seam underlying PV Site A is understood to be planned. The seam is located 20 to 100 m below ground surface (Anglo American, 2015). A hydro-census was carried out in 2008 (Van Niekerk & Staats, 2009) with selected points (thirteen) resampled in 2019 (Mathetsa & Swatz, 2019) (Figure 8-14). These covered an approximate 15 km radius around Komati Power Station. The census boreholes are focused in the area to the north-east of Komati Power Station. The results of the hydro-census confirmed the following:  Water quality analyses was carried out on the hydro-census boreholes. This confirmed that concentrations were generally below the SANS 241:2015 limits for domestic use and is therefore suitable for drinking (based on the parameters analysed).  Groundwater is utilized for domestic use with ad hoc use for irrigation. As seen in Figure 8-14, the hydro-census boreholes are located outside of the project area and Komati Village. The boreholes are used by farmers mainly for Domestic Drinking Water and Livestock. Komati Power Station operates a water treatment plant which supplies water to certain communities. The facility’s capacity is 4.3 ML/day for potable water and 5.7 ML/day for demineralized water (Urban-Econ, 2020). The source of water for the project will be from the existing Water Treatment Plant at the Power Station. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 173 of 399 Aquifer protection classification A weighting and rating approach is used to decide on the appropriate level of groundwater protection (Table 8-9). After rating the aquifer system management and the aquifer vulnerability, the points are multiplied to obtain a Groundwater Quality Management (GQM) index. Table 8-9 - Ratings for the Aquifer Quality Management Classification System Aquifer Characterisation Vulnerability Class Points Class Points Sole Source Aquifer System 6 High 3 Major Aquifer System 4 Medium 2 Minor Aquifer System 2 Low 1 Non-Aquifer System 0 Special Aquifer System 0-6 Table 8-10 - Appropriate level of groundwater protection required GQM Index Level of Protection <1 Limited Protection 1–3 Low Level Protection 4–6 Medium Level Protection 7 – 10 High Level Protection >10 Strictly Non-degradation Table 8-11 - Aquifer classification and vulnerability assessment Description Aquifer Vulnerability Rating Protection Regional Aquifer Minor (2) 1-2 4 Medium The above classification implies that the regional aquifer is less sensitive due to the low recharge and low conductivity (k) and hence a medium level of protection is required. 8.1.9 SOILS AND AGRICULTURAL POTENTIAL The following is extracted from the Soil and Agricultural Potential Assessment compiled by WSP and included as Appendix F.6. 8.1.9.1 Soil Class The dominant soil classes database was created for assessing the agricultural potential of soils in conjunction with other soils properties such as depth, texture together with rainfall KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 174 of 399 data. Dominance in this context is referred to a class having 40% or more of a single constituent. The aim was to establish a manageable number of classes that would not be too general for making various interpretations. The study site incorporated two soil classes:  Soil Class S3: • Description: Red or yellow structureless soils with a plinthic horizon. • Favourable Properties: Favourable water holding properties. • Limitations: Imperfect drainage, unfavourable in high rainfall areas.  Soil Class S17: • Description: Comprises of an association of classes 1 to 4 - Undifferentiated structureless soils. • Favourable Properties: Favourable physical properties. • Limitations: One or more of; low base status, restricted soil depth, excessive or imperfect drainage, high erodibility. 8.1.9.2 Soil Classification The classification of the soil forms identified on site was undertaken using the South African soil taxonomic system (Soil Classification Working Group, 1991). All South African soil forms fall within 12 soil types; Duplex (marked accumulation of clay in the B horizon), Humic (intensely weathered, low base status, exceptional humus accumulation), Vertic (swelling, cracking, high activity clay), Melanic (dark, structured, high base status), Silicic (Silica precipitates as a dorbank horizon), Calcic (accumulation of limestone as a horizon), Organic (peaty soils where water inhibits organic breakdown), Podzolic (humic layer forms beneath an Ae or E), Plinthic (fluctuating water table causes iron re-precipitation as ferricrete), Oxidic (iron oxides weather and colour soils), Hydromorphic (reduced lower horizons) and Inceptic (young soils - accumulation of unconsolidated material, rocky B or disturbed) soils. 8.1.9.3 Land Capability Assessment The South African land capability classification system by Scotney et al. (1987) was used to classify and map land capability (see Table 8-12). This system is useful in that it is able to quickly provide an overview of the agricultural capability and limitations of the soils in question and is useful for land capability comparisons. This system is based on a series of groups and classes, as highlighted in Table 8-12 and Table 8-13. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 175 of 399 Table 8-12 – Land Capability: Class Concepts KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 176 of 399 Table 8-13 – Land Capability: Broad Land Use Options 8.1.9.4 Soil Form Identification and Classification The study area land types (DFFE, 2018) are shown in Figure 8-20. This dataset describes the project site as dominated by a plinthic catena land type, which is characterised by a grading of soils from red through yellow to grey soils down a slope. The colour sequence is ascribed to different iron minerals stable at increasing degrees of wetness. Locations of the soil forms identified on site are shown in Figure 8-22 and are described below. The likely soil form areas are shown in Figure 8-23. These soil forms agree with the DFFE database in that they include red, iron-rich, arable soils and yellow soils – some with signs of wetness. It is likely that grey soils exist in the lower-lying areas to the north-east of the site. The soil forms identified were clay-rich and well structured. Shortlands A soil form identified at the site is what is called a Shortlands in the South Africa taxonomic system (see Figure 8-17). These soils comprise an orthic topsoil and a red, structured B horizon with clayskins. The red colour is the result of the accumulation of iron oxides following mineral weathering. The Shortlands soil form is a potentially fertile, manageable soil. It has good moisture intake and moisture holding characteristics. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 177 of 399 Figure 8-17 - Shortlands Soil Valsrivier The Valsrivier soil form dominated the site and is characterised by an orthic A over a pedocutanic B horizon over unconsolidated material without signs of wetness (see Figure 8- 18). This is a duplex soil which means that there is a clear transition from the A to the B horizon as a result of clay illuviation. The B horizon is generally an impediment to root growth and water movement. Figure 8-18 - Valsrivier Soil Sepane The Sepane soil form was found in a limited area on site and is characterised by an orthic A over a pedocutanic B horizon over unconsolidated material with signs of wetness (see Figure 8-19). This is also a duplex soil such that there is again a clear transition from the A to the B horizon as a result of clay illuviation. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 178 of 399 Figure 8-19 - Sepane Soil Witbank The final ‘soil form’ identified at the site was a Witbank. This is commonly found in areas of man-made activities and is a man-made soil deposit. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 179 of 399 Figure 8-20 - Komati Site Land Types (DFFE, 2018) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 180 of 399 Figure 8-21 – Komati Identified Site Soil Form Points KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 181 of 399 Figure 8-22 - Komati Extrapolated Site Soil Form Areas 8.1.9.5 Soil Capability Analysis Land capability is the inherent capacity of land to be productive under sustained use and specific management methods. The land capability of an area is the combination of the inherent soil properties and the climatic conditions as well as other landscape properties, such as slope and drainage patterns that may have resulted in the development of wetlands, as an example. Using the Scotney et al. (1987) system and based on the soils identified on the Project site, a portion of the site’s land capability class is Arable II (underlain by Shortlands soils), a portion is Grazing VI (underlain by Valsrivier soils), a portion is Grazing V (underlain by the Sepane soils) and a remaining portion is Wildlife VII (underlain by the Witbank soils). Because the site soil classification was undertaken in a freeform manner and not based on a set grid across the whole site, land use (DFFE, 2021) information has been used to augment the soil forms information in order to better inform the soil capability mapping (see Figure 8-23). According to the DFFE 2021 database, the current land use of the portions of the site proposed for infrastructure is a combination of cultivated fields and grassland in the main, with small built up and forested sections. Figure 8-24 shows the DFFE land uses of the project area. When combining the soils and land use information, the cultivated fields and areas underlain by Shortlands soils have been ascribed Arable II, the grassland and areas underlain by Valsrivier soils have been ascribed Grazing VI, the area underlain by Sepane KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 182 of 399 soil has been ascribed Grazing V and the area underlain by Witbank soil has been ascribed Wildlife VII (see Figure 8-24). Figure 8-23 – Komati Site Land Cover (DFFE, 2021) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 183 of 399 Figure 8-24 – Komati Site Soil Capability (Scotney et al. 1987) 8.1.10 CONTAMINATED LAND The following is extracted from the Contaminated Land Assessment compiled by WSP and has been included in Appendix F.16. The focus of the report and the corresponding environmental context is on the locations of the proposed solar PV, BESS facilities. BESS D has been removed as an option. The remainder of Komati portions as well as full Komati site context is covered in the Component A contaminated land study initiated by Nemai Consulting. A summary of the proposed development areas is given in Table 8-14. Table 8-14 – Proposed development areas Area Approximate Centre Size (Ha) Locality And Current Use Point Coordinates PV Site A 26° 6' 22.61" S 160.6 Southwest corner of the site with the R542 to the south, Komati town to the 29° 27' 41.63" E north, the Goedehoop Colliery (an underground coal mine) to the northwest, and the Eskom Komati Ashing Area to the east. Much of the area was historically a farm, KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 184 of 399 Area Approximate Centre Size (Ha) Locality And Current Use Point Coordinates (maize/corn rotated with bean crops). The historical ash and rehabilitated domestic waste footprints are in the eastern portion of the area. Mining of the underlying No. 4 coal seam is understood to be planned in this area. This seam is indicated as being some 20 to 100 m below surface (Anglo American, 2015). PV Site B 26° 5' 45.17" S 60.9 Northwest corner of the site with Goedehoop Colliery to the west and 29° 27' 15.52" E north, and Komati town to the east. The Blinkpan police station is located on the south-western boundary. This area is not in use but undermining and the rehabilitated coal discard dump are noted to have been present in the northwest of this area. A landing strip / road crosses the area. BESS A 26° 5' 27.74" S 2.6 Southwest portion of the KPS. Area is currently in use with several buildings 29° 28' 8.22" E and contractor’s yards (D.B Thermal, Alstom Howden, Siemens, Clyde Bergeman, Roshcon EL and Roshcon Storage) as well as offices, parking areas and a boiler within the proposed development footprint. According to the site layout plan (Eskom) the distribution station is located to the east, with the KPS cooling towers and various buildings and parking areas to the north. BESS B 26° 5' 33.34" S 3.2 The site is bounded by the Komati spruit (and wetland area) to the west 29° 28' 2.59" E and KPS (BESS A) to the northeast. Most of the area is not in use except for a building located on Eskom owned land and in the south-eastern corner that is used by the community. The building is located within a bunker which was historically an old shooting range. BESS C 26° 5' 30.92" S 2 Site is bounded to the west by the KPS cooling towers and the drainage 29° 28' 35.13" E line of the Gelukspruit (and wetland) to the northeast. The Ashing Area is located to the south. Much of the area is currently not in use but there is a scrap yard in the southern portion. Eskom noted in discussion that an KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 185 of 399 Area Approximate Centre Size (Ha) Locality And Current Use Point Coordinates unknown fenced off area was leased to an unknown subcontractor. Based on the map provided by VPS, 2021 this may have been the temporary hazardous waste storage area. BESS D 26° 5' 14.90" S 5.6 Site is the coal stockyard currently in (removed as use by KPS. 29° 28' 17.13" E an option) 8.1.10.1 Conceptual Site Model A CSM has been developed based on the information contained within the preceding sections. The aim of the CSM is to define the source-pathway-receptor linkages which may be applicable under the assumption of an ongoing industrial land-use for the proposed development areas and recognising the existing surroundings and which, based on identification of linkages, could give rise to potential human and/or environmental risks. The CSM has been developed sequentially on the basis that if no plausible linkages exist, then no significant risk is considered to be present. Therefore, the CSM specifically focusses on the linkages between the three aspects (i.e. exposure pathway) based on the specified scenarios and if any of these are not identified, then the risks are considered negligible. It should be acknowledged that the CSM would be expected to evolve as more information becomes available and it must be recognised that if the source-pathway-receptor linkages are altered, the CSM must be reviewed to ensure that the assumptions remain valid. Possible Sources While the Komati Power Station and the associated Ashing Area along with the neighbouring colliery represent more widespread sources from long-term operations, including secondary sources related to existing groundwater impacts, the potential pertinent primary sources specific to the targeted proposed development areas are summarised as follows:  PV Site A • Rehabilitated Domestic Waste Site; • Historical Rehabilitated Ash Dump; and • Unconfirmed use of fertilisers and/or pesticides for crop production.  PV Site B • Historical Rehabilitated Coal Discard Dump footprint; and • Ash and slurry used to backfill undermined areas.  BESS A • Leakages from mechanical and electrical equipment, chemicals and fabrication activities; • Spillages of chemicals from storage areas and the contractor’s yard; and • Washing and maintenance of equipment including potential solvents and paints. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 186 of 399  BESS B • Historical shooting range.  BESS C • Scrap yard; and • Possibly hazardous materials within fenced temporary storage area.  BESS D (removed as an option) • Coal stockyard. Key Receptors The following plausible receptors have been identified assuming the use of the site and surrounds remain consistent with the current land use:  Human Health • Site workers – industrial use (current and future); • Residents in neighbouring communities (i.e. Komati Town); and • Groundwater Users: while there are no confirmed abstractions within the study area, groundwater use is known within 500 m of the Eskom boundary.  Environmental • Groundwater: The aquifer beneath the site (> 35m) is classified as Minor/Poor with the overlying shallow weathered zone (<10m) being perched and discontinuous. The overlying shallow aquifer is not considered a viable groundwater resource but may contribute to seepage in the wetland areas as well as vertical migration into the regional deeper weathered/fractured rock aquifer. It is again noted that the underlying groundwater is known to have been impacted by mining and activities at Komati Power Station. Future mining of the No.4 coal seam underlying PV Site A is understood to be planned. The seam is located 20 to 100 m below ground surface (Anglo American, 2015); and • Surface water: The closest surface water features are the wetlands associated with the Komatispruit and Gelukspruit drainage lines which originate within or immediately downstream of the Ashing Area. These flow towards the Koringspruit to the north of Komati Power Station.  Property • Subsurface water supply pipelines and other infrastructure; • Neighbouring third-party land; and • Buried concrete/metal. Potential Pathways Taking account of the possible sources, and notwithstanding the potential for ongoing or future direct release/s of contaminants, the hypothetical pathways by which these may affect the identified receptors, thereby potentially completing the exposure pathway/s are discussed within the following subsections. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 187 of 399 Direct Exposure – Dermal Contact and Ingestion of Soils Dermal contact and/or ingestion of contaminated soils are possible pathways, especially during the proposed development or other maintenance works, and particularly in areas not covered by hardstanding. Vertical Migration of Contamination Vertical migration of contamination may occur from source zones into the underlying groundwater by leaching and dissolution, or under the influence of gravity (i.e. liquid chemical products and oils). This will be exacerbated in areas where impervious cover is absent or of compromised integrity due to higher effective infiltration, where contaminant loading/s are more substantial, or where other conditions exist that may promote contaminant-specific mobility (i.e. introduction of acids). While contributory impacts related to activities in the discrete development areas cannot be discounted, the known existing plume originating from the Ashing Area likely represents the principal source of groundwater contamination associated with activities at the Komati Power Station. Lateral Migration within Groundwater The lateral migration of contamination will be highly affected by the geological structure, the hydraulic gradient of the underlying groundwater, the permeability of the aquifer unit/s, the efficacy of any attenuation, the effects of recharge and the influence of seasonal fluctuations, as well as by local abstractions. Groundwater is expected to flow generally towards the north towards the Koringspruit, and the plume associated with the impacts from the Ashing Area has been shown to already extend beyond the boundaries of Eskom’s premises and, therefore, lateral migration is confirmed. Future mining of the No. 4 coal seam underlying PV Site A could result in a change in the direction of groundwater flow during mining should groundwater from the regional aquifer be pumped from the workings. The mine workings will almost certainly be backfilled, but a cone of depression may remain until such time as the water levels recover post closure. Direct Exposure – Dermal Contact and Ingestion of Groundwater The likelihood of direct contact to site personnel and users is likely negligible under normal operating circumstances in the absence of abstractions within Eskom’s boundaries. There is, however, evidence of groundwater uses within the vicinity of Komati Power Station, including for potable use and thus, this pathway represents a potential cause for concern. Lateral Migration of Contamination via Stormwater Surface water runoff from exposed and impacted soils, unconfined waste deposits, and/or impacted hardstanding may result in contaminant impacts to both man-made and natural stormwater channels and subsequent accumulation and/or migration therein. While appraisal of stormwater management is beyond the scope of the current document, it should be recognised that any impacts may migrate from the site and may also contribute to subsurface impacts. Lateral Migration via Subsurface Infrastructure Conduits KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 188 of 399 It is plausible that subsurface utility trenches (i.e. sewers, effluent pipelines, water distribution network) may represent preferential flow-paths for the accumulation and migration of any contaminant impacts. Inhalation of Vapours Whilst unlikely to affect users of external areas, vapour intrusion into on-site buildings from either soils or shallow groundwater may represent a significant source of risk to human health. Generation of Ground Gas In addition to, but distinct from, the inhalation of vapours is the potential generation of ground gases within impacted unsaturated and saturated zones. The characteristics, mass and degradation of potential contamination may lead to the generation of methane, oxides of carbon, ethane, ethene and hydrogen sulphide, depending on the active processes. If migration of such gases into internal structure occurs, these may lead to asphyxiation (via oxygen displacement) or potential explosion. Inhalation of Airborne Dust and Fibres Agitation and disturbance of soils, especially during substantial earthworks and/or construction activities, may contribute to airborne particulate loads, including potential asbestos fibres, that could become inhaled either by site occupiers or by users of neighbouring areas, including residents of Komati. While specifically excluded from the current scope given its footprint outside of the development areas, the presence of the historical asbestos waste site should be acknowledged. Based on the information provided by VPS, 2021, all asbestos was removed. Direct Contact with Property Contamination has the potential to permeate water supply pipelines used for human consumption or other processes and/or result in aggressive ground conditions which may compromise the structural integrity of buried concrete, as well as metal that may be in direct contact. 8.1.10.2 Current Investigation As well as to confirm health and safety arrangements, an initial site visit was conducted on 05 May 2022 to oversee and discuss the placement of intrusive positions within the relevant areas of concern. Twenty-five soil sample localities and ten shallow borehole locations were identified following the initial site reconnaissance. As well as to define baseline conditions, these primarily focused on areas where substantial contamination may have been brought about by historic and/or current site activities across the proposed solar PV and BESS development portions; however, at the request of Eskom, also included exploratory positions proximal the fuel depot and down-gradient of the Ashing Area. Where possible, positions were sited down- gradient of the activities/operations identified where any soil impact could be expected to be within the shallow soil profile. It should be noted that AH09 & AH10 were however situated to the east of BESS A due to access constraints and, therefore, may not be representative of potential impacts within the footprint of this proposed development area. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 189 of 399 Subsurface clearance was undertaken by Hydrometrix Technologies (Pty) Ltd on 08 June 2022 under the supervision of WSP at each of the targeted intrusive locations. A Cable Avoidance Tool (CAT) was used to determine the presence/absence of underground power cables and metal utilities; thereafter, Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) was adopted to confirm the absence (or otherwise) of other potential services. Twenty-five auger holes (AH01–AH25) were manually advanced to depths ranging from 0.3– 1.7 mbgl; geotechnical refusal was encountered in the majority of the holes. The positions of the auger holes, digitised using a handheld Global Positioning System (GPS), are illustrated on Figure 8-25. At the request of Eskom, ten permanent monitoring wells (BH01–BH10) were advanced by Soil and Groundwater Remediation Services under supervision of WSP at targeted safely- accessible locations to depths of up to 10 mbgl. These were generally positioned in areas where coverage from the existing monitoring network was limited. Boreholes were initially manually advanced to depths of up to 2 mbgl prior to completion by percussive techniques. Similar to the auger holes, headspace testing was completed at approximate 0.5 m intervals during manual advancement and, thereafter, at roughly 1 m intervals upon commencement of mechanical drilling; although, the inevitable loss of volatile due to the drilling methodology is recognised. The positions of the wells, determined via specialist surveyor subsequent to their installation. The borehole logs can be found in Appendix D of the Contaminated Land Assessment (Appendix F.16). Due to the short timeframes associated with the project, a maximum period of one week (depending on drilling progression) was allowed following installation for the newly installed wells to stabilise. Measurements of static groundwater levels and the base of each position was first carried out using a dual phase interface meter that allowed the simultaneous measurement of the thickness of any potential Non-Aqueous Phase Liquid (NAPL). Thereafter, prior to sampling, accessible wells were purged of a maximum of three well volumes (where possible) using dedicated single-use bailers. Samples were then collected in laboratory prepared containers which were stored in a temperature-controlled environment for delivery to an accredited laboratory for subsequent analysis. All samples were taken according to internationally accepted protocols, ensuring the potential for cross contamination was minimised. A blind duplicate sample (BH10-01) was obtained from BH03 for quality control purposes. The monitoring data is summarised in Table 8-15. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 190 of 399 Table 8-15 – Groundwater Monitoring Data (06 June 2022) Locality Well Water Level Water Level Observation (M Bgl) (Mamsl) Ashing Area (Up- BH05 1.55 1,617.05 Light brown, no odour gradient) PV Site A BH07 1.52 1,629.28 Light brown, no odour BH08 1.25 1,649.55 Light brown, no odour BH06 1.3 1,624.1 Clear translucent, no odour PV Site B BH09 0.86 1,601.54 Clear translucent, no odour BH10 0.95 1,610.05 Clear translucent, no odour BH04 0.88 1,604.42 Clear translucent, no odour BESS C BH03 1.52 1,605.58 Light brown, no odour BESS D (Removed as an BH02 1.55 1,600.35 Brown, no odour option) BESS D (Down-gradient) BH01 1.97 1,596.73 Light brown, no odour (Removed as an option) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 191 of 399 Figure 8-25 - Sample localities KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 192 of 399 8.1.10.3 Laboratory Analysis The soil and groundwater samples were submitted to Element Materials Technology (Element), a SANAS accredited laboratory (Facility No T0729) for analyses broadly consistent with the priority contaminants listed in the National Norms and Standards for the Remediation of Contaminated Land and Soil Quality (GN R.331 of 2014); however, supplemented with other selected determinants at the request of Eskom, as follows: Soils  Metals/metalloids: antimony, arsenic, cadmium, chromium (total and hexavalent), cobalt, copper, iron, lead, manganese, mercury, nickel, selenium, vanadium and zinc;  Inorganics: ammoniacal nitrogen, chloride, cyanide, fluoride, nitrate, nitrite and sulphate;  Aliphatic petroleum hydrocarbons (C7–C9, C10–C14 and C15–C36);  Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) including benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylenes (BTEX);  Semi-Volatile Organic Compounds (SVOC) including Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAH);  Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCB); and  Physiochemical: pH and electrical conductivity. NB: asbestos has been specifically excluded from the current assessment given the outcomes of VPC, 2021 as summarised in Table 1 in relation to the historical asbestos disposal site (License #12/9/11/L73467/6). Groundwater  Metals/metalloids: antimony, arsenic, cadmium, calcium, chromium (total and hexavalent), cobalt, copper, iron, lead, magnesium, manganese, mercury, nickel, potassium, selenium, silicon, sodium, vanadium and zinc;  Inorganics: ammoniacal nitrogen, chloride, fluoride, nitrate, ortho-phosphate and sulphate;  Aliphatic petroleum hydrocarbons (C7–C9, C10–C14 and C15–C36);  VOC including BTEX and Tentatively Identified Compounds (TIC);  SVOC including PAH and TIC;  PCB; and  Physiochemical: alkalinity (total), electrical conductivity, pH, Total Dissolved solids (TDS) and Total Organic Carbon (TOC). 8.1.10.4 Ground and Groundwater Conditions Soils The deepest soil profile that could be achieved was at PV Site A within the area previously used for crops. The soil profile comprised darker brown clayey sand which become lighter brown with depth. No crops were evident at the time of the investigation. The “natural” soil horizon (weathered bedrock) comprises a moist, orange, brown to red-brown sandy clay or clayey sand (residual Vryheid formation) with occasional mottled clayey sand with ferricrete nodules in most of the areas inferring a seasonally fluctuating water table. Fill/made ground was encountered in several samples including:  Coal was observed to 1.5 mbgl (BH02) in the coal stockyard; auger holes (AH01–AH03) refused at 1 mbgl and only coal samples could be obtained; KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 193 of 399  Ash was observed downgrade of the Ashing Area at AH14 and in BH05 and BH06. While ash was not identified in AH13, the soil was darker in colour than elsewhere on the site implying that this area is affected by runoff from the ash dams. By contrast, there was no ash indicated in the rehabilitated ash dump footprint sample (AH15) within PV Site A;  A shallow horizon of around 0.5m was noted for the exploratory holes (AH23, AH24, AH25, BH9 and BH10) located in the area of the rehabilitated dump in the vicinity of PV Site B. A seepage zone was noted as perched on mottled sandy clay under this layer in the auger holes (AH23, AH24 and AH25). There was no evidence of ash in the vicinity of this rehabilitated dump footprint, but the gravel horizon could be backfilled weathered material sourced from the surrounding area; and  A soil stockpile of unknown origin (possibly from road building or topsoil) was observed in PV Site A. Samples were obtained near the soils (AH16 and AH17). Groundwater Seepage was encountered in the boreholes with BH7 and BH8 (located in PV Site A), but the remaining boreholes were moist with no discrete groundwater strikes observed during drilling. Groundwater depths following stabilisation were recorded in all the boreholes with depths varying from 0.86 to 1.97 mbgl which is broadly consistent with the existing dataset (Komati WISH database). Comparing topographic and groundwater elevations an R2 value of 0.99 is calculable resulting in a very strong correlation coefficient and consistent with previous works. The overall flow direction to the north. It should be stressed that hydrogeological conditions are unlikely to be homogenous especially recognising that the shallow aquifer is discontinuous and, therefore, local variability should be expected that may differ markedly from this calculated average. 8.1.10.5 Contamination Observations The results of headspace testing indicated that volatile vapours were below the PID’s level of detection (<0.1 ppm) within all soil samples. Nonetheless, visual evidence of soil contamination was noted as follows:  Coal was noted to a depth of 1.5 mbgl in the coal stockyard (the coal stockyard area has now been excluded from the project area);  Ash was noted within the proximity of the Ashing Area;  Discolouration (staining) was observed on the brick paving at the fuel depot (AH05 and AH06); and  Denudation was seen in the vicinity of BESS Area A adjacent to the contractor’s yard. Groundwater samples varied from brown to clear with no obvious visual or olfactory evidence of contamination. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 194 of 399 8.1.10.6 Soil Results The South African Framework for the Management of Contaminated Land (Framework, May 2010) developed by the then Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA)7 in line with Part 8 of the NEM: WA, outlines the methodology for the screening of potentially contaminated sites to provide a risk- based decision support protocol for their assessment. Further, the then DEA gazetted GN R.331 in May 2014, with these being promulgated under Section 7(2)(d) of the NEM: WA by the then Minister of Water and Environmental Affairs. GN R.331 provides Soil Screening Values (SSVs), a tiered system of priority soil contaminants, to facilitate the determination of sensitivity of the relevant receptor which may be subject to exposure. These are defined as follows:  SSV1 represents the lowest value calculated for each parameter from both the human health and water resource protection pathways. SSV1 values are not land-use specific; and  SSV2 represents the land-use specific soil concentration and are appropriate for screening level site assessment in cases where protection of water resources is not an applicable pathway for consideration. Separately, GN R.331 provides Soil Screening Levels (SSLs) for a number of anions; however, it is notable that these are not related to potential risks to human health via direct exposure. These are specifically investigation values that are relevant only to provide guidance on potentially excessive levels of salts, which can represent a major cause of deterioration of soil or water quality from an ecological perspective. Initial Screening Recognising the general approach prescribed by the Framework, the analytical results for the analysed contaminants of concern have first been compared to the SSV1s published in GN R.331. Where SSV1s are not available reference has been made to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) Regional Screening Levels (RSLs) for Residential Soil (May 2022) as a reasonable alternative while recognising the different paradigm behind their derivation. Whilst conservative under many potential exposure scenarios, such screening allows justified rationalisation of potential contaminants that may require further assessment and/or management, and discounts those potential exposure pathways that do not pose a significant risk. Cadmium, hexavalent chromium, cyanide and PCBs as well as the majority of the VOCs and SVOCs were recorded below their respective laboratory detection limits and, therefore, are not seen as contaminants of concern for further consideration. Otherwise, the following is noted:  Arsenic, lead, and manganese were above their respective SSV1s within shallow soils across most of the proposed development areas with the exception of BESS A and BESS B. Similar is noted for vanadium although this was also below its SSV1 at BESS D and the fuel depot, as well as down-gradient;  Excluding samples from BH02, BH06 and AH10 copper was ubiquitously above its SSV1;  Iron was above its USEPA RSL within various samples, and largely within ferruginised soils; 7 In June 2019, the DEA was renamed the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries (DEFF) and, in April 2021, was renamed the DFFE KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 195 of 399  Sulphate was above its SSL within those samples retrieved from AH01 (coal stockyard) and AH15 (historical ash dump at PV Site A); and  Pyrene and benzo(a)pyrene were above their respective SSV1s within the sample collected from AH06 at the fuel depot. The pH of the samples collected ranged widely from 4.58–7.92. Although there are no SSVs published for the protection of human health under the NEM: WA, the South African National Standard (SANS) Globally Harmonised System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), SANS 10234:2019 recognises materials with a pH within a range of 2–11.5 as not being hazardous Further Screening Where contaminants have been recorded in excess of their respective initial assessment criteria and following the stepwise methodology described in the framework, further screening has been separately carried out to ascertain whether these could plausibly represent risks to either human health or aquatic systems based on site-specific considerations. As indicated, the SSLs for anions (i.e. sulphate) are only relevant to provide guidance on potentially excessive levels of salts and, therefore, have not been carried forwards into the further screening exercise. Nonetheless, with the exception of localised instances of elevated sulphate within samples containing coal and ash these were consistently below their respective SSLs and so no concern is raised. Risk to Human Health Potential risks to human health are based on land-use specific considerations and refer to the applicable SSV2s for the following land uses:  Informal residential;  Formal residential; and  Commercial/industrial. Recognising that the town of Komati lies central to the overall proposed development areas, SSV2s relevant for formal residential use have been conservatively adopted to ascertain whether soil contamination may represent a potential health risk. The following is noted:  With the exception of manganese AH20 (PV Site A), BH10 (PV Site B) and BH04 (BESS B) as well as vanadium at AH21 (PV Site A), metals were below their respective SSV2s. While these localised anomalies are noted, overall average concentrations of both manganese (~754 mg/kg) and vanadium (~124 mg/kg) were below their SSV2s for a formal residential setting. Therefore, in the wider context these are considered unlikely to represent a significant source of risk with respect to human health, especially when recognising that all were below their SSV2s relevant for the commercial/industrial land-use of the proposed development areas; and  Benzo(a)pyrene was above both its formal residential and commercial/industrial SSV2s within AH06 at the fuel depot. This falls outside of the proposed development areas covered under this report; however, is indicative of potential risks to human health from ongoing operations and possibly symptomatic of more extensive impacts local to the fuel depot that will require consideration by Eskom during decommissioning. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 196 of 399 Risk to Aquatic Systems With respect to soil-based contamination, potential risks to aquatic systems are defined based on the sensitivity of the surface water and groundwater resources. The framework methodology recognises the adoption of SSV1 as generic criteria in the event that there is a current or potential future groundwater use on or within 1 km of a site, or there is a permanent surface watercourse on or adjacent the site. Recognising the proximal surface watercourses, including wetlands, as well as the abstractions within 500 m of the premises boundary, these criteria are considered to be satisfied and therefore, with the exception of iron (USEPA RSL for human health only). It must, however, be acknowledged that the published SSV1s do not distinguish between the protection of drinking water and freshwater aquatic ecosystems, nor do they differentiate from where direct human health risks may represent the critical exposure pathway. In this regard, the following is noted in respect of the published SSV1s:  Arsenic and lead are based on the protection of drinking water. While lead was noted in the shallow groundwater samples, arsenic was consistently below its laboratory detection limit;  Manganese, vanadium and benzo(a)pyrene are based on the direct human health risk under an informal residential land-use (as noted by their SSV1s being equivalent to their corresponding SSV2s); and  Copper and pyrene are based on the protection of the freshwater aquatic environment. Based on the outcomes of the targeted investigatory works, a number of contaminants largely consisting of metals and nutrients/salts together with localised PAHs have been identified within both soils and/or shallow groundwater that are indicative of impacts related to activities at KPS, and particularly associated with the Ashing Area that lies outside of the proposed development areas that are the focus of this document. These will be covered in the Component A contaminated land study report during the final ESIA. A summary of the findings from the study is indicated in Table 8- 16. Table 8-16 – Summary of findings in soil and groundwater for each area Area Of Summary Of Risk Summary Investigation Concentrations Exceeding Screening Values PV Site A Soil: Cu (in almost all Potential sources: Area was historically used for crops samples) and As, Pb, Mn, with historical footprints in the eastern portion. and V were locally elevated Receptors to which an exposure pathway are complete above the SSV1 in some include site workers (human health) and the environment. samples but less than SSV2 screening levels. Sulphate Soils are largely not considered to represent a significant was elevated above SSV in source of risk with respect to human health and/or aquatic AH15. systems when specifically considering the end-use of the areas of concern. Groundwater: Pb (all), Mn (BH6 only), SO4 (BH8 and There is an existing groundwater plume from the adjacent BH6) elevated above SANS Ashing area and seeps to the adjacent wetland are 241:2015. impacted by surface runoff from this area. No 4-coal seam is anticipated to be mined some 20 – 100m below Pb (all), Mn (BH6 only), Zn the surface. The risk to these workings from the existing (all), ammoniacal N (all) plume is outside this scope of work. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 197 of 399 Area Of Summary Of Risk Summary Investigation Concentrations Exceeding Screening Values elevated above SAWQG for aquatic species (SAWQG). PV Site B Soil: Cu (in all samples) and Potential sources: The rehabilitated coal discard dump As, Pb, Mn, and V were footprint is located to the north-west. Backfilled mine locally elevated above the workings have been noted to occur at a depth greater SSV1 in some samples but than the 10m assessed by this study. less than SSV2 screening Receptors to which an exposure pathway may be levels. complete include site workers (human health), residents Groundwater: Pb (BH9 of Komati town, and the environment. only), Mn (BH6 only), SO4 Soils are largely not considered to represent a significant (BH8 and BH6) elevated source of risk with respect to human health and/or aquatic above SANS 241:2015 and systems when specifically considering the end-use of the SAWQG. Zn (both) > areas of concern but there will, be a requirement to SAWQG ensure appropriate management of excavations, and especially where these are required within areas proximal to residential dwellings of Komati. BESS A Soil: Cu in AH9 elevated Area is currently in use with several buildings and above the SSV1 but less contractor’s yards. Samples were therefore obtained than SSV2 screening levels. from the adjacent area. Concentrations were all Receptors to which an exposure pathway may be below SSV1 in the second complete include site workers (human health) and the sample AH10. environment. Groundwater: No samples Soils are largely not considered to represent a significant source of risk with respect to human health and/or aquatic systems when specifically considering the end-use of the areas of concern. The risk from soils is as indicated above for the general site but visual inspection of this area may be necessary following demolition/ decommissioning to ensure there is no local areas of concern. BESS B Soil: Cu (in all samples), Pb Potential sources: Most of the area is not in use except and Mn locally in BH4 for a building located in the south-eastern corner. The elevated above the SSV1 in building is located within a bunker which was historically some samples but less than an old shooting range and there could be spent bullets SSV2 screening levels within the bunker. Groundwater: Fe, Mn > Receptors to which an exposure pathway may be SANS 241-2015 aesthetic complete include site workers (human health). Komati town and the environment, specifically the aquatic Mn, Zn > SAWQG environment of the Komati stream. Soils are largely not considered to represent a significant source of risk with respect to human health and/or aquatic systems when specifically considering the end-use of the areas of concern. The risk to the water resources (aquatic and groundwater) are influenced by the surface runoff and groundwater migration from the Ashing Area. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 198 of 399 Area Of Summary Of Risk Summary Investigation Concentrations Exceeding Screening Values BESS C Soil: Cu (in all samples), As, Potential sources: KPS, Ashing Area (upgradient), scrap Pb, Mn and V locally yard and a possible temporary hazardous waste facility. elevated above the SSV1 in Receptors to which an exposure pathway may be some samples but less than complete include site workers (human health) and the SSV2 screening levels. environment, specifically the aquatic environment of the Groundwater: EC, Mn, SO4 Gelukspruit (and wetland). > SANS241-2015. Soils are largely not considered to represent a significant PO4, Ammoniacal N, Mn, Zn, source of risk with respect to human health and/or aquatic Pb > SAWQG systems when specifically considering the end-use of the areas of concern. Ground water quality is locally affected by contamination migrating from the Ashing Area. BESS D All surface samples were Potential sources: Site is the coal stockyard currently in (Removed as taken from coal fill. As, Cu, use by KPS. an option) Pb, Zn locally elevated above Receptors to which an exposure pathway may be the SSV1 in some samples complete include site workers (human health), but less than SSV2 groundwater users (combined impact from KPS area and screening levels. not solely the coal stockyard) and surface runoff to the Sulphate elevated above streams. SSV locally in AH1. Soils were not assessed due to the thickness of the coal Soil results downgrade of the layer. Based on the information available, soils are largely coal stockyard and KPS not considered to represent a significant source of risk area: Cu (both samples), As, with respect to human health and/or aquatic systems Mn and Pb (AH4 only) when specifically considering the end-use of the areas of concern. The groundwater is affected by both the Groundwater: Fe (BH2 only upgradient groundwater plume and the coal stock yard and not downgrade), Mn and itself. Based on the available information, there is a ammoniacal N (both and limited risk to groundwater users. higher on boundary of KPS site in BH1), Eskom monitoring sites also show elevated Mn in boreholes in coal stockyard and on boundary. SO4 higher than SANS241-2015 and WSP borehole results. Pb, Mn, Zn > SAWQG Contaminated groundwater from the Ash Dam Facilities has been shown to extend to the north towards the Koringspruit. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 199 of 399 8.2 BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT 8.2.1 TERRESTRIAL BIODIVERSITY The following is extracted from the Terrestrial Plant Species Assessment compiled by Hawkhead Consulting and included as Appendix F.8. 8.2.1.1 Regional Vegetation Characteristics The RSA is located in the grassland biome and according to the regional mapping of South Africa’s vegetation types, it is dominated by the Eastern Highveld Grassland vegetation type Figure 8-26). The general characteristics of the grassland biome and Eastern Highveld Grasslands, are discussed in more detail below: Grassland Biome The regional study area is located in the grassland biome, which covers approximately 28% of South Africa and is the dominant biome of the central plateau and inland areas of the eastern subcontinent (SANBI, 2013). Grasslands are typically situated in moist, summer rainfall regions that experience between 400 mm and 2000 mm of rainfall per year. Vegetation consists of a dominant field-layer comprising grasses and herbaceous perennials, with little- to no woody plants present. South Africa’s grassland ecosystems are parsed into five groups, with the RSA forming part of the Mesic Highveld Grasslands group (SANBI 2013). Mesic Highveld Grasslands occur at mid-altitudes and experience warm, wet summers (MAP 700-1200 mm) and cold winters. They are typically highly productive sourveld grasslands that are dominated by long-lived perennial grasses (SANBI, 2013). Fire is common in Mesic Highveld Grasslands and maintains these ecosystems in a relatively treeless form (SANBI, 2013). Apart from their importance as rich stores of biodiversity, grasslands are critically important water production landscapes, constituting about half of South Africa’s Strategic Water Source Areas (SANBI, 2013). Eastern Highveld Grassland Eastern Highveld Grasslands extend from Johannesburg in the east through to Bethel, Ermelo and Piet Retief in the west. This vegetation type is found on slightly- to moderately undulating plains, low hills and wetland depressions. Grasses are typical Highveld species from the genera Aristida, Digitaria, Eragrostis and Tristachya. Indigenous woody species are mainly restricted to rocky areas and include Celtis africana, Protea caffra, Protea welwitschii, Diospyros lycioides, Searsia magalismontana and Senegalia caffra (Mucina & Rutherford, 2011). Mucina & Rutherford (2011) note the following species, amongst several others, as important taxa in Eastern Highveld Grassland:  Shrubs: Anthospermum rigidum and Seriphium plumosum.  Graminoides: Aristida aequiglumis, Aristida congesta, Aristida junciformis, Cynodon dactylon, Digitaria monodactyla, Eragrostis chloromelas, Eragrostis curvula, Eragrostis plana, Eragrostis racemosa, Heteropogon contortus, Loudetia simplex, Setaria sphacelata, Sporobolus africanus, Themeda triandra, Alloteropsis semialata and Monocymbium ceresiiforme.  Herbs: Berkheya setifera, Haplocarpha scaposa, Euryops gilfillanii, Euryops transvaalensis, Justicia anagalloides, Acalypha angusta, Chamaecrista mimosoides, Dicoma anomala, Kohautia amatymbica, Lactuca inermis, Gladiolus crassifolius, Haemanthus humilis and Selago densiflora. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 200 of 399  Endemic Taxa: The geophytic herbs Agapanthus inapertus, Eucomis vandermerwei and the succulent herb Huernia insigniflora are endemic to the region in which Eastern Highveld Grassland is prevalent. Figure 8-26 - Local study area in relation to South Africa's regional vegetation types 8.2.1.2 Regional Ecological Sensitivity and Conservation Setting Nationally Threatened Ecosystems Cultivation, mining, plantation forestry and other forms of development have resulted in the transformation of large areas of Eastern Highveld Grasslands, with Mucina & Rutherford (2011) indicating that 44% of this vegetation type has been modified. Accordingly, the Eastern Highveld Grassland vegetation type has up listed from Vulnerable to Endangered on the revised national list of threatened ecosystems (NEMBA Threatened Ecosystems, 2021). Terrestrial Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBAs) and Ecological Support Areas (ESAs) The Mpumalanga Biodiversity Sector Plan (MBSP) technical report defines five categories of conservation focus at a provincial level; protected areas, critical biodiversity areas (CBA), ecological support areas (ESA), other natural areas, and modified habitats:  Protected Areas: protected areas recognised in terms of the National Environmental Management Protected Areas Act, No. 57 of 2003, that are currently considered to meet biodiversity targets in the MBSP; KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 201 of 399  Critical Biodiversity Area: areas (outside of Protected Areas) that are required to meet biodiversity targets for biodiversity pattern (species and ecosystems) and ecological processes. Two CBA are recognised; CBA Irreplaceable and CBA Optimal. They should remain in a natural state that is maintained in good ecological condition;  Ecological Support Area: play an important role in supporting the ecological functioning of critical biodiversity areas or for generating or delivering important ecosystem services. They support landscape connectivity and resilience to climate change adaptation. They need to be maintained in at least an ecologically functional state;  Other Natural Areas: often retain much of their natural character and may contribute significantly to maintenance of viable species populations and natural ecosystem functioning, and may provide important ecological infrastructure and ecosystem services. They are not, however, prioritized for immediate conservation action in the MBSP; and  Modified: often referred to as transformed, these areas have lost a significant proportion (or all) of their natural biodiversity and in which ecological processes have broken down (in some cases irretrievably), as a result of biodiversity-incompatible land-use practices such as ploughing, hardening of surfaces, mining, cultivation and the construction of houses or other built infrastructure. According to the Mpumalanga Biodiversity Sector Plan (2019), the LSA is dominated by land categorised as ‘Heavily or Moderately Modified Areas’, with small patches of land categorised as ‘Other Natural Areas’. An area categorised as Critical Biodiversity Area (CBA) Optimal, which overlaps with the proposed PV Site B development footprint is present in the north-west corner of the LSA – see Figure 8-27. Other patches of land designated as CBA Optimal are located to the north and east of the LSA. It must be reiterated that CBA’s in this context have been identified by the provincial authorities as areas that are required to meet local provincial biodiversity conservation targets for biodiversity pattern (species and ecosystems) and ecological processes (MPTA 2014). They are not areas that have been identified as Critical Habitat, as defined in ESS6, paragraph 23. According to (MPTA 2014), at a provincial level, these are areas of high biodiversity value and should remain in a natural state that is maintained in good ecological condition in order to meet biodiversity conservation targets. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 202 of 399 Figure 8-27 - The Local Study Area and mapping of Critical Biodiversity Areas, as per the Mpumalanga Biodiversity Sector Plan (2019) Indigenous Forests No indigenous forests occur in the LSA or RSA. Both areas are dominated by modified habitats such as cultivated fields, the power station infrastructure, mining areas and residential sites, and small patches of natural wetland and grassland habitats. Protected Areas and Conservation Areas No Protected Areas (PA) occur within the LSA or the RSA (Figure 8-28). The nearest mapped PA, as per the SAPAD (2021), is Heyns Private Nature Reserve, which is located approximately 18 km to the north of the LSA’s northern boundary (shown in Figure 8-28). According to the National Protected Area Expansion Strategy, small portions of land to the immediate north and south-east of the local study area are designated as Priority Focus Areas, while other small patches designated as Priority Focus Areas are scattered across the broader landscape (SAPAD, 2021). The nearest IBA is Amersfoort - Bethal - Carolina District, which is situated approximately 15 km southeast of the LSA. IBA trigger species include several globally listed threatened species, such as Botha’s Lark (Spizocorys fringillaris), Blue Crane (Anthropoides paradiseus), Southern Bald Ibis (Geronticus calvus), Black Harrier (Circus maurus), Blue Korhaan (Eupodotis caerulescens), Black- winged Pratincole (Glareola nordmanni), Secretarybird (Sagittarius serpentarius), Martial KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 203 of 399 Eagle(Polemaetus bellicosus), Denham’s Bustard (Neotis denhami),and the White-bellied Korhaan (Eupodotis senegalensis), as well as two regionally threatened species, namely African Grass Owl (Tyto capensis) and Lanner Falcon (Falco biarmicus) (Marnewick, et al. 2015). Figure 8-28 - Protected areas in the broader landscape surrounding the local study area Nature Reserves in the Area A search was conducted to identify any protected areas present within 100 km of the proposed SEF project area using the South African Protected Area Data (SAPAD 2022 Q1). The reserves consist of privately as well as publicly owned land, used for wildlife conservation as well as specific livestock farming. These sites are all registered designated protected areas (SAPAD 2022, Q1). KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 204 of 399 Table 8-17 - The identified public/privately owned protected areas identified close to the proposed SEF site Source: Volant Environmental (2023) 8.2.1.3 Important Bird Areas Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBAs) are defined by BirdLife International, as sites of global significance for bird conservation, identified nationally through multi-stakeholder processes using globally standardised, quantitative, and scientifically agreed criteria. These areas are seen as the most important sites for conserving and should be considered during avifaunal impact assessments. The closest known IBA is the Amersfoort–Bethal–Carolina District IBA. This specific IBA stretches KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 205 of 399 throughout Mpumalanga province and covers an area of 343 320 ha. This specific IBA is classified as an unprotected site which correlates to no official protection under the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act (2003). However, the conservation response is not completely absent from unprotected IBAs with input from civil society groups, a degree of monitoring, research and conservation action still taking place at sites of biological significance. Species found within this IBA that are of conservational concern is the globally threatened Botha’s Lark, with 10% of the global population suspected to be present within this area. Other globally threatened species are Blue Crane (VU), Southern Bald Ibis (VU), Black Harrier (EN), Blue Korhaan (NT), Black-winged Pratincole (NT), Secretarybird (EN), Martial Eagle (EN) and Denham’s Bustard (NT). Regionally threatened species are African Grass Owl, Whitebellied Korhaan and Lanner Falcon. Restricted- range and biome-restricted species are the previously mentioned Botha’s Lark, Kurrichane Thrush and Buff-streaked Chat. 8.2.2 TERRESTRIAL PLANT SPECIES The following is extracted from the Terrestrial Plant Species Assessment compiled by Hawkhead Consulting and included as Appendix F.8. 8.2.2.1 Landscape Context and Existing Impacts Two spatial scales were considered for this assessment: A Local Study Area (LSA), which encompasses the proposed Project’s development footprints and all areas encompassed by the Project site boundary, within which direct impacts on biodiversity receptors (i.e., direct habitat loss, fauna mortality) are likely to occur; and A Regional Study Area (RSA), which comprised the catchment within which the proposed Project is situated and is considered to be an ecologically appropriate area of analysis for the identification of sensitive biodiversity receptors with potential to occur in the LSA, and which may be indirectly impacted by the proposed Project. These are shown in Figure 8-29. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 206 of 399 Figure 8-29: Aerial view showing the extent of the regional and local study areas The RSA is characterised by a mosaic of natural and modified habitats. Modified habitats are dominated by extensive areas of cultivation, with smaller areas comprising inter alia, various mining operations and alien tree plantations. Natural habitat is mostly confined to linear patches of grassland and wetland that are typically aligned with drainage features.  The LSA has also been heavily impacted by historic and contemporary anthropogenic activities. These are summarised below:  Prominent infrastructure and disturbances include the power station complex and associated facilities (e.g., ash dumps, pollution control dams) (shown in Figure 8-30 and Figure 8-31) and Komati village. The village is a fully operational residential zone, with accompanying road network, police station, schools and commercial shops;  Extensive areas are also dominated by cultivated fields, which are regularly disturbed by ploughing and crop harvesting. Cultivated fields that lie fallow are colonised by dense stands of alien weeds and pioneer flora;  Prominent alien tree stands are present adjacent to the village. Colonisation by other alien species, including several listed invasive species, is also common and widespread throughout the LSA;  Numerous informal drainage trenches have been excavated across the power station property in order to channel water away from access roads and improve general site accessibility. The earth works associated with these drainage trenches has resulted in vegetation clearing and disturbance, and this has facilitated the establishment of several alien invasive species; KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 207 of 399  The LSA is also criss-crossed by large transmission line corridors which are maintained by Eskom;  Other anthropogenic facilities and activities noted in the LSA during the field survey that have caused habitat disturbance and fragmentation include inter alia; gravel access roads (Figure 8- 32), fencing, and refuse dumping (Figure 8-33) and burning; and  Goedehoop Colliery is located along the northern and western boundary of the LSA. The colliery is characterised by large areas that have been completely transformed by mining activities. The above listed features and activities have caused environmental degradation, which has reduced the overall extent and integrity of natural habitat in the LSA and in the immediate surrounding landscape, and this has impacted on-site ecological functioning and species diversity. Figure 8-30 - The completely transformed coal Figure 8-31 - View over the ash dam facilities deposit area at Komati Power Station in the local study area Figure 8-32 - Amongst other features, gravel Figure 8-33 - Rubble and refuse dumping site roads and drainage trenches have adjacent to the western boundary of the local fragmented habitat in the local study area, study area and facilitated alien invasive species colonisation KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 208 of 399 8.2.2.2 Vegetation and Flora Assessment Predicated on the findings of the field survey, five habitat units were identified in the LSA. Three units meet the definition of ‘modified habitat’, i.e., anthropogenic activity has substantially modified primary ecological functioning and species composition. The remaining two units are classified as ‘natural habitat’ as they comprise viable assemblages of indigenous species and retain their primary ecological functions:  Modified Habitats • Cultivated Fields; • Alien Tree Stands; and • Transformed Areas with Disturbed or Landscaped Vegetation.  Natural Habitats • Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland; and • Mixed Moist Grassland. Table 8-18 presents the total extent of modified and natural habitats in the LSA. A habitat unit map is presented in Figure 8-34. Table 8-18 - Extent of modified and natural habitats in the local study area Habitat Type Habitat Units Current Extent (Ha) Modified Habitats Cultivated Fields 107.49 Alien Tree Stands 4.25 Transformed Areas with Disturbed or 382.14 Landscaped Vegetation Sub Total 493.87 Natural Habitats Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland 31.01 Mixed Moist Grassland 145.83 Sub Total 176.84 KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 209 of 399 Figure 8-34 - Habitat unit map of the local study area, showing proposed Project infrastructure, as well as existing Eskom facilities Modified Habitat Units Cultivated Fields Cultivated fields are located along the southern boundary of the LSA. At the time of the field survey, these were planted with maize – shown in Figure 8-35. Areas characterised by this habitat unit are subject to regular anthropogenic disturbance in the form of ploughing, seeding and harvesting. They are typically denuded of indigenous vegetation or, in the case of fallow fields, dominated by ruderal alien weedy flora, and have lost all primary ecological functioning. Accordingly, cultivated fields are classified as a modified habitat. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 210 of 399 Figure 8-35 - Cultivated field under maize in the local study area Alien Tree Stands This is a small habitat unit. It is defined by closely-spaced aggregations of alien trees occurring in discrete patches in the LSA. Trees range in height from short (±3 m) to tall (> 10 m). Eucalyptus species are the dominant taxa in this unit, with Populus deltoides and Robinia pseudoacacia (shown in Figure 8-36) also recorded. This habitat unit is defined by alien tee dominated woodland, which is both compositionally and structurally incongruous with the grassland reference conditions of the landscape. The primary ecological integrity and functioning of this habitat unit is thus highly limited, and accordingly alien tree stands are classified as modified habitats. Figure 8-36 - Short stand of Eucalyptus trees located in the north of the local study area Transformed Areas with Disturbed or Landscaped Vegetation This unit characterises the highly modified land associated with the power station and other developed areas (e.g., Komati village, police station, coal stockpiles) in the LSA. Most land is completely transformed and under various built-infrastructure and thus has no ecological value (shown in Figure 8-30). KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 211 of 399 Where vegetation does occur, it is secondary and either actively managed and landscaped (e.g., maintained lawns adjacent to infrastructure – see Figure 8-37), or heavily degraded and dominated by ruderal and/or invasive species (e.g., vegetation colonising the ash dams – shown in Figure 8- 38). Landscaped areas are regularly mown/managed, and thus are characterised by short lawn grasses such as Cynodon dactylon, Paspalum notatum* and Pennisetum clandestinum* or Eragrostis pastures grasses (*denotes alien species), as well as several alien herbaceous weeds including, inter alia; Hypochaeris radicata, Plantago major, Richardia brasiliensis and Trifolium repens. Ruderal vegetation growing in degraded sites comprises a mixture of indigenous and alien herbaceous species, as well as aggregated or scattered alien woody species. Recorded herbaceous species include graminoides such as Cenchrus ciliaris, Cyperus esculentus*, Eragrostis curvula, Hyparrhenia dregeana, Imperata cylindrica and Pennisetum clandestinum*, and alien forbs like Cirsium vulgare, Datura stramonium, Melilotus albus and Verbena bonariensis. Alien woody species recorded in these areas include Acacia mearnsii, Nicotiana glauca and Tamarix ramosissima. This habitat unit has been derived from, and continues to be defined by, ongoing anthropogenic activities and disturbances. As a result, most ecological functioning has either been completely lost or is severely diminished. Although some indigenous pioneer flora species are present, there is a general dominance of alien flora, many of which are listed invasive species. Rehabilitation potential is also severely limited. Accordingly, areas of this unit are classified as modified habitat. Figure 8-37 - Landscaped lawns adjacent Figure 8-38 - Vegetated side slopes of to the Komati cooling towers the Komati ash dam Natural Habitat Units The LSA is characterised by two primary natural habitat units, namely Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland and Moist Mixed Grassland. Despite variable degrees of anthropogenic disturbance and the localised presence of alien invasive species, both units are characterised by viable assemblages of indigenous vegetation and retain a degree of ecological functioning. These habitat units are described in more detail below: Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland The habitat unit mostly characterises the patch of natural dry grasslands in the north-west corner of the LSA, with smaller patches embedded within Mixed Moist Grassland also present. Although KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 212 of 399 localised disturbances are present, in general Mixed Themeda triandra Grasslands are relatively species rich and considered a primary vegetation community (Figure 8-39). Structurally, this community is characterised by low closed grassland, as per Edwards (1983). In terms of composition, apart from the dominant Themeda triandra, other commonly recorded grass species in this unit include Brachiaria serrata, Eragrostis curvula, Eragrostis chloromelas and Heteropogon contortus. Commonly recorded forbs include inter alia; Chamaecrista comosa, Haplocarpha scaposa, Hilliardiella aristata, Helichrysum harveyanum, Helichrysum nudifolium var. pilosellum, Helichrysum rugulosum, Hypoxis acuminata, Hypoxis hemerocallidea, Ipomoea ommaneyi and Pelargonium luridum. Woody species mostly occur as scattered individual plants, and include indigenous taxa such as Elephantorrhiza elephantina, Seriphium plumosum and Ziziphus zeyheriana, and alien taxa including Eucalyptus trees and Populus deltoides. Embedded within this habitat unit are small patches that are characterised by a dominance of Eragrostis grass species and low forb diversity – typical traits of a more secondary grassland community resulting from historic disturbances, such soil disturbances. Three flora SCC were recorded in this habitat unit, namely Eulophia ovalis var. ovalis, Orthochilus leontoglossus and an unidentified Gladiolus species (no flowers). Figure 8-39 - Typical patch of Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland in the local study area Mixed Moist Grassland Mixed Moist Grassland dominates most of the non-transformed land on the power station property and immediately adjacent areas. In the LSA, this broad habitat unit has been impacted by various on-site operations, such as the excavation of a network of drainage channels (Figure 8-40) and the maintenance of a transmission line servitude, and accordingly, certain portions are highly disturbed. Vegetation structure ranges from low- to tall closed grassland (sensu. Edwards 1983). In terms of composition, species such as Phragmites australis, Typha capensis and various Cyperaceae species typically dominate the more permanently moist areas (Figure 8-41), while several other herbaceous species are common throughout this unit, including graminoids such as Agrostis lachnantha, Eragrostis curvula, Imperata cylindrica, Juncus effusus, Juncus oxycarpus, Kyllinga KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 213 of 399 erecta, Leersia hexandra and Panicum schinzii; and various forbs such as inter alia, Chironia palustris, Haplocarpha scaposa, Helichrysum aureonitens, Helichrysum nudifolium var. pilosellum, Nidorella anomala and Pseudognaphalium luteo-album*. In terms of woody taxa, Seriphium plumosum was noted to be a common species, particularly beneath the transmission line servitude (Figure 8-42). Sites that have been disturbed by earth works are typically dominated by the alien invasive lawn grass Pennisetum clandestinum (Figure 8-43), as well as several other weedy taxa including commonly Melilotus albus, and the listed invasive species Flaveria bidentis, Nicotiana glauca and Tamarix ramosissima. In terms of SCC, an unidentified Orchidaceae species (senescent flowers) was recorded in this habitat unit. Figure 8-40 - Drainage channels that have Figure 8-41 - Typical area of mixed moist been excavated by power station grassland in the local study area, management to prevent the flooding of characterised by species such as Agrostis access roads lachnantha and Typha capensis Figure 8-42 - Seriphium plumosum dominated Figure 8-43 - Pennisetum clandestinum, area of mixed moist grassland below the amongst other invasive species, dominate powerline servitude. disturbed sites in this habitat unit KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 214 of 399 Floristic Analysis General Floristics In total, 121 flora species, representing 39 families, were identified during the field survey. The most represented family is the Poaceae with 39 species, followed by the Asteraceae with 21 species and Fabaceae with 9 species. The majority of identified species are indigenous taxa (64%), with the remaining 36% comprising alien taxa. The most abundant growth form are herbs with 51 species, followed by graminoids with 48 species. Sixteen tree / shrub species, two dwarf trees and four geophytes were also recorded. For a list of flora species identified in the LSA during the field survey refer to Appendix C of the Terrestrial Plant Species Assessment (Appendix F.8). Flora Species of Conservation Concern In line with the internationally endorsed IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, the Red List of South African Plants and the Mpumalanga Red List recognise three categories of threatened species, namely Critically Endangered (CR), Endangered (EN) and Vulnerable (VU), and five ‘other categories of conservation concern’ that are recognised as having high conservation importance, namely Near Threatened (NT), Critically Rare, Rare, Declining, and Data Deficient – Insufficient Information (DDD). Flora species listed under all eight categories are regarded as being of conservation concern. Moreover, as they are subject to national and/or provincial environmental legislation and require specific conservation management, flora species that are listed as either threatened or protected on the NEMBA ToPS List (2007) and Mpumalanga Nature Conservation Act (Act No. 10 of 1998) are also included as flora SCC and discussed in this section. In terms of SCC, four protected species were recorded in the LSA during the field visit, namely Eulophia ovalis var. ovalis (Figure 8-44), Orthochilus leontoglossus (Figure 8-45) and an unidentified Orchid and Gladiolus species (no flowers). These are not listed as threatened on the Global, Regional or Mpumalanga Red Lists, but they are listed at ‘Protected’ according to Mpumalanga Nature Conservation Act (Act No. 10 of 1998). Refer to Table 8-19 for the number and co-ordinates of flora SCC. The National Web Based Screening Tool indicated that the LSA is an area of ‘Medium Sensitivity’ for plant species, with three sensitive features potentially present, namely Pachycarpus suaveolens, Sensitive Species 41 and Sensitive Species 691. Sensitive species are those that are vulnerable or potentially vulnerable to collecting, over-exploitation, commercial and/or medicinal use, and are included on a National Sensitive Species List (NSSL). Protocols require the SANBI assigned sensitive species numbers (Sensitive Species 41 and Sensitive Species 691) to be used in publicly available reports to prevent data being used to guide harvesting/poaching efforts. The sensitive features identified on site are discussed Table 8-20, along with other flora SCC potentially occurring in the RSA and LSA, as per review literature and datasets. Table 8-20 includes the habitat preferences and a ’probability of occurrence’ (as informed by habitat suitability assessments) of SCC. It must be noted that none of these species are listed as threatened on the Global Red List (IUCN, 2022-2) or on the NEMBA ToPS List (2007). KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 215 of 399 Table 8-19 - Location of protected flora species recorded in the local study area Species Number of Plants Co-ordinates Orthochilus leontoglossus 1 S26 05.977 E29 27.131 Eulophia ovalis var. ovalis 1 S26 05.927 E29 27.131 Eulophia ovalis var. ovalis 1 S26 05.914 E29 27.129 Orchid species (no flowers) 1 S26 05.993 E29 27.845 Gladiolus species (no flowers) 6 S26 06.129 E29 27.329 Figure 8-44 - Eulophia ovalis var. ovalis Figure 8-45 - Orthochilus leontoglossus KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 216 of 399 Table 8-20 - Flora species of conservation concern recorded or potentially occurring in the regional- and local study areas Family Scientific IUCN Regional Mpumalanga Mpumalanga Habitat Preferences Probability of Occurrence Name Status Red List Red List Nature (2022-2) Status Status Conservation Act (1998) Regional Local Study Study Area Area Aizoaceae Khadia - Vulnerable Vulnerable - This species favours highveld Possible Unlikely - no carolinensis grassland where it occurs on suitable well-drained, sandy loam soils habitat among rocky outcrops, or at the present. edges of sandstone sheets, at an altitude of 1700 m (Lotter, et al., 2007a) Amaryllidaceae Boophone - Least - Least Open grassland habitat. Probable Probable – disticha Concern Concern Suitable habitat present. Amaryllidaceae Crinum - Least - Declining Range of grassland habitats, Probable Probable – bulbispermum Concern including wetlands. Suitable habitat present. Apocynaceae Pachycarpus - Vulnerable Vulnerable Favours short, annually burn Probable Possible – suaveolens grassland, between 1400-2000m. Suitable EOO estimated at 19 900 km2 habitat (Lotter et al., 2007b) present. Hyacinthaceae Eucomis - Least Declining Protected Favours damp open grassland Probable Probable – autumnalis Concern and wetland habitats, from the Suitable KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 217 of 399 Family Scientific IUCN Regional Mpumalanga Mpumalanga Habitat Preferences Probability of Occurrence Name Status Red List Red List Nature (2022-2) Status Status Conservation Act (1998) Regional Local Study Study Area Area coast to 2450 m (Williams, et al., habitat 2016) present. Iridaceae Gladiolus elliotii - Least - Protected Highveld grasslands. Probable Probable – Concern Suitable habitat present. Orchidaceae Disa woodii - Least - Protected Found in damp grasslands, from Probable Probable – Concern seas level to 1 400 m (Johnson, Suitable et al., 2015). habitat present. Orchidaceae Orthochilus - Least - Protected Open grassland from sea level to - Recorded leontoglossus Concern 1 800 m (Johnson, et al., 2015). Orchidaceae Eulophia ovalis - Least - Protected Open grassland, between 500- - Recorded var. ovalis Concern 1900m (Johnson, et al., 2015). Orchidaceae Brachycorythis - Critically - Critically Occurs in open grassland and Possible Unlikely – no conica subsp. Endangered Endangered woodland, where is prefers sandy Suitable transvaalensis gravel, overlying dolomite and habitat occasionally quartzite. Between present. 100 - 1705 m (von Staden et al., 2015) - Sensitive - Vulnerable Vulnerable Protected Widespread (EOO < 19 940 km2), Probable Possible – Species 41 but rare species with a AOO of < Suitable KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 218 of 399 Family Scientific IUCN Regional Mpumalanga Mpumalanga Habitat Preferences Probability of Occurrence Name Status Red List Red List Nature (2022-2) Status Status Conservation Act (1998) Regional Local Study Study Area Area 2000 km2. Favours high altitudes habitat wetlands that remain wet for most present. of the year (von Staden & Lotter, 2013). - Sensitive - Vulnerable Near Favours damp areas in Probable Possible – Species 691 Threatened undulating grasslands. Thought Suitable to occur in less than 10 locations habitat and with an EOO estimated present. between 445 and 11158 km2 (Raimondo, 2013). KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 219 of 399 Declared Alien Invasive Species Nineteen NEMBA declared alien invasive plant species were recorded in the LSA during the field survey - listed in Table 8-21. Several of these taxa including Nicotiana glauca, Pennisetum clandestinum, Tamarix ramosissima and Verbena bonariensis are particularly abundant in disturbed sites in the LSA (Figure 8-46 and Figure 8-47). Table 8-21 - Declared alien invasive species recorded in the local study area Scientific Name Common Name Growth Form NEMBA Category Acacia dealbata Silver Wattle Tree 2 Acacia mearnsii Black Wattle Tree 3 Acacia melanoxylon Blackwood Tree 2 Acer buergerianum Chinese Maple Tree 2 Argemone ochroleuca White-flowered Mexican Poppy Herbaceous forb 1b Campuloclinium Pom Pom Weed Herbaceous forb 1b macrocephalum Cirsium vulgare Spear Thistle Herbaceous forb 1b Datura stramonium Common Thorn-apple Herbaceous forb 1b Eucalyptus spp. Gum Tree 1b or 2 Flaveria bidentis Smelter’s Bush Herbaceous forb 1b Fraxinus sp. Ash Tree 3 Nicotiana glauca Wild Tobacco Tree 2 Pennisetum clandestinum Kikuyu Graminoid 1b Pinus sp. Patula Pine Tree 2 Robinia pseudoacacia Black Locust Tree 1b Solanum sisymbriifolium Dense-throned Bitter Apple Herbaceous forb 1b Solanum mauritianum Bugweed Tree 1b Tamarix ramosissima Pink Tamarisk Tree 1b Verbena bonariensis Verbena Herbaceous forb 1b KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 220 of 399 Figure 8-46 - Nicotiana glauca Figure 8-47 - Tamarix ramosissima Flora of Medicinal Value Nine flora species recorded in the LSA have recognised medicinal value. These are listed in Table 8-22, accompanied by a description of their use, as per Van Wyk et al., (2009). Table 8-22 - Flora species of medicinal value recorded in the local study area Scientific Name Medicinal Use* Datura stramonium Relieves asthma and acts to reduce pain. Weak infusions are used as an aphrodisiac. Elephantorrhiza elephantina Used as a remedy for diarrhoea and dysentery, stomach ailments and haemorrhoids. Gomphocarpus fruticosus Dried leaves are used to treat headaches and tuberculosis. The roots are purported to treat stomach pain and general body ache. Helichrysum species Treats a variety of afflictions, including coughs, colds, fever, headaches and infections. Hypoxis species Infusions of the corm are used to treat dizziness, bladder disorders and insanity. Pelargonium luridum Taken orally to treat diarrhoea and dysentery. Rumex crispus Used as a remedy for internal parasites, as well as vascular diseases and internal bleeding. Typha capensis Decoctions used to treat venereal disease, as well as diarrhoea, dysentery and enhance male libido. *Medicinal use, as per Van Wyk, et al. (2009). KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 221 of 399 8.2.2.3 Key Ecological Attributes and Processes in the Local Study Area Habitat Corridors, Resources and Refugia The LSA is highly fragmented and large portions are dominated by anthropogenic infrastructure, such as the power station and its associated facilities (ash dams), the Komati village, and cultivated fields. Patches of natural habitat are present; however, these are typically either bounded by built infrastructure or enclosed by fencing (e.g., concrete palisade fence). The immediate landscape surrounding the LSA is similarly transformed and fragmented, and thus habitat connectivity across the LSA and the surrounding landscape is poor. Key Ecological Processes and Drivers of Change The following notes summarise the key processes and drivers of change that are present in the LSA and surrounding landscape and their possible influence on the character of on-site terrestrial flora: Wildfire – Grassland Burning Fire is considered a natural, albeit often human initiated disturbance agent in grassland ecosystems. Mesic Highveld Grasslands are considered fire-prone and fire-dependent landscapes, and fire is essential to the maintenance of biodiversity patterns and ecological processes (SANBI, 2013). Key ecological benefits of fire, include inter alia:  Removes moribund vegetation and enhances plant primary productivity and palatability, which improves grazing for wild herbivores. Fire also stimulates germination / flowering of fire-adapted flora species (e.g., certain orchid species);  Controls the encroachment of both alien and indigenous woody plant species and weeds; and  Increases overall habitat heterogeneity by creating a structural mosaic of tall- and short grassland. A review of available historic satellite imagery indicates that grassland habitat in the LSA does burn occasionally. Fires are likely set either intentionally or accidentally by local community members and are not part of a formal burning programme. This notwithstanding, fire is considered an important driver of change in the LSA. Alien Invasive Species Colonisation Nineteen AIS were recorded in the LSA during the field survey. If not actively controlled, many AIS have the capacity to spread into adjacent natural habitat, where they could competitively exclude many indigenous woody and herbaceous species. This will have several deleterious impacts on the integrity and functioning of these habitats, such as inter alia:  A loss of floristic diversity, with the resulting habitat patches unable to support diverse flora communities;  A reduction in grass productivity for grazing herbivores, and  Increased exposed soil surfaces and incidences of erosion. Several species recorded in the LSA are highly invasive and adept at colonising undisturbed grassland and wetland habitats, such as Acacia dealbata, Acacia mearnsii, Campuloclinium macrocephalum, Flaveria bidentis and Verbena bonariensis. The spread of alien invasive vegetation is therefore considered a significant driver of change in the LSA and surrounding landscape, and one capable of severely negatively impacting botanical diversity. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 222 of 399 8.2.3 TERRESTRIAL ANIMAL SPECIES The following is extracted from the Terrestrial Animal Species Assessment compiled by Hawkhead Consulting and included as Appendix F.7. 8.2.3.1 Fauna Assessment Mammals Mammal Richness and Habitat Availability Based on historic distribution ranges, up to 69 mammal species potentially occurring in the region in which the RSA is located. MAP records indicate that, of these, 23 species have previously been recorded in the 2629AB and 2629BA QDS. Recorded mammals range from several small rodents to medium-sized antelope, such as the Blesbok (Damaliscus pygargus phillipsi) and Oribi (Ourebia ourebi). During the 2022 field survey, tracks of three mammal species was recorded in the LSA, including Water Mongoose (Atilax paludinosus) (Figure 8-48), Porcupine (Hystrix africaeaustralis) (Figure 8- 49), and a small cat. The latter is potentially an African Wildcat (Felis silvestris) or a domestic/feral cat. The Komati environmental manager also indicated that Serval (Leptailurus serval) are known to be present in the LSA. The LSA is highly modified and fragmented by various built infrastructure, including restrictive linear features, such as boundary and internal security fences. This, coupled with the relatively large human population and high levels of anthropogenic activity, render habitat in the local study area mostly unsuitable for many mammal species. Figure 8-48: Water Mongoose (Atilax paludinosus) tracks KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 223 of 399 Figure 8-49: Porcupine (Hystrix africaeaustralis) tracks Mammals of Conservation Concern Of mammal species potentially occurring in the RSA, 23 are of conservation concern. These are listed in Table 8-23, along with their habitat preferences and a probability of occurrence. Serval, which was noted to be present in the LSA based on anecdotal evidence, is a SCC. This species is listed as Near Threatened on both the Regional and Mpumalanga Red Lists, but it is listed as Least Concern on the global Red List (IUCN, 2022-2). It is also listed as Protected on the NEMBA ToPS List (2007). The environmental sensitivity screening report for the proposed Project rated the Animal Species Theme as ‘High Sensitivity’, and highlighted the potential presence of five sensitive mammal features, namely Black-footed Cat (Felis nigripes), Maquassie Musk Shrew (Crocidura maquassiensis), Spotted-necked Otter (Hydrictis maculicollis), African Marsh Rat (Dasymys robertsii) and Oribi (Ourebia ourebi ourebi). These, as well as the Serval, are discussed in more detail below:  Black-footed Cat (Vulnerable, Global & SA): A secretive and nocturnal species that generally occurs at low densities, with an estimated regional population size ranging from 7 526-11 905 km2 (Wilson, et al., 2016). Black-footed Cats favour short, open grassland habitats where they shelter in abandoned Aardvark burrows or hollowed out termite mounds (Wilson, et al., 2016). Suitable habitat is present in both the regional and local study areas; however, it unlikely the Black-footed Cat is present in the LSA due to the high levels of anthropogenic activity; KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 224 of 399  Maquassie Musk Shrew (Vulnerable, SA): A species endemic to southern Africa. The EOO of the Maquassie Musk Shrew is estimated at 284 735 km2, however it is patchily distributed, with an AOO of between 40 496 – 47 246 km2 (based on a 500 m buffer strip around wetlands) (Taylor, et al., 2016). Population size is estimated at 179 000 individuals. Little is known about the habitat preferences of the Maquassie Musk Shrew. It has been recorded in moist grassland-type habitats, but is also likely to tolerate urban and rural landscapes (Taylor, et al., 2016). It is therefore possible that this species is present in both the regional- and local study areas;  Spotted-necked Otter (Near Threatened, Global & Vulnerable, SA): A widespread species that is restricted to areas of permanent water (Ponsonby, et al., 2016). The estimated range of Spotted- necked Otter totals 31 407 km of river, resulting in an estimated population size (taking into account both undisturbed and disturbed river habitats), of 17 117 individuals (Ponsonby, et al., 2016). Although there is suitable habitat across the RSA for this species, there is limited suitable habitat available in the LSA. It is therefore considered unlikely that Spotted-necked Otter is present in the LSA;  African Marsh Rat (Vulnerable, SA): This species favours intact river and wetland systems, and has not been found in degraded wetlands (Pillay et. al., 2016). The EOO of the African Marsh Rat is estimated at greater than 10 000 km2, while its AOO is calculated at between 1 030-11 382 km2. The population size for this species is unknown (Pillay et. al., 2016). Considering the disturbed nature of wetland habitats in the LSA, it is considered unlikely that the African Marsh Rat is present. It is probable however, that this species is present in the RSA;  Oribi (Endangered, Global, SA & MP): A grassland species, requiring a matrix of short- and tall grass habitats for feeding and sheltering. Regional population is estimated at 1 859 to 2 169 mature individuals (Shrader, et al., 2016). Subpopulations of Oribi are highly fragmented and movement between subpopulation is probably rare (Shrader, et al., 2016). Considering the highly fragmented and disturbed nature of the LSA, coupled with the high levels of anthropogenic activity, it is considered unlikely that Oribi is present. Its presence in the regional study area is considered possible; and  The Serval (Near Threatened, SA & MP): Solitary and territorial cat, that favours wetland, tall grassland and well-watered savanna habitats (Estes, 1991). Population densities range from 0.1 to 1.5 individuals per km2, with a regional population estimated at 10 264 ±812 individuals (Ramesh, et al., 2016). Based on anecdotal evidence, this species was noted to be present in the LSA and is likely to be fairly abundant across the RSA. Moreover, Serval are able tolerate relatively high levels of anthropogenic activity, and is frequently found in farmland and mining/industrial land, provided sufficient suitable habitat is present and levels of persecution remain low (Ramesh, et al., 2016). In light of these factors, habitat disruptions associated with the proposed Project are unlikely to negatively impact the local Serval population. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 225 of 399 Table 8-23 – Mammal species of conservation concern occurring or potentially occurring in the study area Family Scientific Common Global Regional NEMBA Mpumalang Habitat Probability of Occurrence Name Name Red List Red List ToPS a Status Preferences* Status Status List Regional Local Study Area (2016) (2007) Study Area (IUCN, 2022-2) Bathyergidae Cryptomys Common Mole- Least Data - Data Prefers deep sandy Probable Unlikely – limited hottentotus rat Concern Deficient Deficient soils along rivers. suitable habitat. Bathyergidae Georychus Cape Mole-rat Least Data - Prefers deep sandy Probable Unlikely – limited capensis Concern Deficient soils along rivers. suitable habitat. Bovidae Connochaete Black Least Least Protected - Open grassland Unlikely Unlikely – no s gnou Wildebeest Concern Concern plains and arid suitable habitat shrubland. and high levels of anthropogenic disturbance. Bovidae Ourebia Oribi Least Endangere Endanger Endangered Short open Possible Unlikely – no ourebi ourebi Concern d ed / Protected grassland, with suitable habitat patches of taller and high levels of grass. anthropogenic disturbance. Bovidae Pelea Grey Rhebok Near Near - Protected Sourveld grassland Unlikely Unlikely – no capreolus Threatene Threatene and scrubland in suitable habitat d d hills and and high levels of mountainous areas. anthropogenic disturbance. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 226 of 399 Family Scientific Common Global Regional NEMBA Mpumalang Habitat Probability of Occurrence Name Name Red List Red List ToPS a Status Preferences* Status Status List Regional Local Study Area (2016) (2007) Study Area (IUCN, 2022-2) Bovidae Raphicerus Steenbok Least Least - Protected Range of habitats, Probable Possible – campestris Concern Concern including grassland suitable habitat and savanna. present Bovidae Redunca Southern Least Least Protected Protected Savanna and Probable Unlikely – limited arundinum Reedbuck Concern Concern grassland habitats in suitable habitat mountainous areas. and high levels of anthropogenic disturbance. Bovidae Redunca Mountain Endangere Endangere - Protected Rolling grassy Unlikely Unlikely – no fulvorufula Reedbuck d d hillsides and suitable habitat fulvorufula mountain slopes. and high levels of anthropogenic disturbance. Canidae Vulpes Cape Fox Least Least Protected - Range of habitats, Possible Unlikely – limited chama Concern Concern including grassland suitable habitat and arid savanna. and high levels of anthropogenic disturbance. Chrysochlorid Amblysomus Robust Golden Vulnerable Vulnerable Endanger Vulnerable Sandy soils in Possible Possible – ae robustus Mole ed grassland areas. suitable habitat present KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 227 of 399 Family Scientific Common Global Regional NEMBA Mpumalang Habitat Probability of Occurrence Name Name Red List Red List ToPS a Status Preferences* Status Status List Regional Local Study Area (2016) (2007) Study Area (IUCN, 2022-2) Chrysochlorid Amblysomus Highveld Near Near - Near Sandy soils in Possible Possible – ae septentrionali Golden Mole Threatene Threatene Threatened grassland areas. suitable habitat s d d present Chrysochlorid Chrysospalax Rough-haired Vulnerable Vulnerable Critically - Sandy soils in Possible Possible – ae villosus Golden Mole Endanger grassland areas. suitable habitat ed present Erinaceidae Atelerix South African Least Near Protected Near Range of habitats, Possible Possible – frontalis Hedgehog Concern Threatene Threatened including grassland suitable habitat d / Protected and savanna. present Felidae Felis nigripes Black-footed Vulnerable Vulnerable Protected Near Open short grass Probable Unlikely - suitable Cat Threatened areas in savanna habitat present and grassland habitats. Felidae Felis African Wildcat Least Least Near Range of habitats, Probable Recorded silvestris Concern Concern Threatened including grassland (tentative – based and savanna. on tracks) Felidae Leptailurus Serval Least Near Protected Near Wetland, tall - Recorded serval Concern Threatene Threatened grassland and well- (anecdotal d watered savanna evidence) habitats. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 228 of 399 Family Scientific Common Global Regional NEMBA Mpumalang Habitat Probability of Occurrence Name Name Red List Red List ToPS a Status Preferences* Status Status List Regional Local Study Area (2016) (2007) Study Area (IUCN, 2022-2) Hyaenidae Parahyaena Brown Hyaena Near Near Protected Near Savanna and Possible Unlikely – high brunnea Threatene Threatene Threatened grassland habitats. levels of d d / Protected anthropogenic disturbance. Hyaenidae Proteles Aardwolf Least Least - Protected Savanna and Possible Unlikely – high cristata Concern Concern grassland habitats. levels of anthropogenic disturbance. Muridae Dasymys African Marsh - Vulnerable - Near Moist grassland and Probable Unlikely – high robertsii Rat Threatened wetland habitats. I levels of habitat unlikely to occur in disturbance. disturbed wetland habitats. Muridae Otomys Vlei Rat Near Near - - Moist grassland and Probable Possible – auratus (Grassland Threatene Threatene wetland habitats. suitable habitat type) d d present Mustelidae Aonyx Cape Clawless Near Near Protected Protected Riparian habitats, Probable Unlikely – limited capensis Otter Threatene Threatene with permanent suitable habitat d d water. available. Mustelidae Hydrictis Spotted- Near Vulnerable Protected Near Riparian habitats, Probable Unlikely – limited maculicollis necked Otter Threatene Threatened favouring large, suitable habitat d / Protected open water bodies. available. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 229 of 399 Family Scientific Common Global Regional NEMBA Mpumalang Habitat Probability of Occurrence Name Name Red List Red List ToPS a Status Preferences* Status Status List Regional Local Study Area (2016) (2007) Study Area (IUCN, 2022-2) Mustelidae Mellivora Honey Badger Least Least Protected Near Savanna and Probable Possible – capensis Concern Concern Threatened grassland habitats suitable habitat / Protected present Orycteropodid Orycteropus Aardvark Least Least - Protected Savanna and Probable Unlikely – high ae afer Concern Concern grassland habitats. levels of anthropogenic disturbance. Mustelidae Poecilogale African Striped Least Near Vulnerable Savanna and Probable Possible – albinucha Weasel Concern Threatene grassland habitats. suitable habitat d present Soricidae Crocidura Maquassie Least Vulnerable - Vulnerable Little is known of Possible Possible – limited maquassiensi Musk Shrew Concern habitat preferences. suitable habitat s Thought to favour present rocky or montane grasslands. Soricidae Crocidura Swamp Musk Least Near - Near Reedbeds, wetlands Probable Probable – mariquensis Shrew Concern Threatene Threatened and thick moist suitable habitat d grassland in riverine present habitats. *Habitat preferences as per Skinner and Smithers (1990), Stuart and Stuart (2007) and Childs et al., (2016). KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 230 of 399 Herpetofauna Herpetofauna Richness and Habitat Availability Based on known distribution ranges presented in Du Preez and Carruthers (2009), up to 20 amphibian species are known from the regon and potentially occur in the RSA. Of these, 14 taxa have previously been recorded in the QDS in which the LSA is located, as per FrogMAP records (listed in Table 8-24). These are all common species with widespread distributions. No amphibians were recorded in the LSA during the field survey. However, considering the availability of suitable habitat, it is expected that several of the species listed in Table 8-24 are likely to be present. Table 8-24 - Amphibian species previously recorded in the2629AB and 2629BA QDS Family Scientific Name Common Name RSA Red IUCN 2022-1 List Status Bufonidae Schismaderma carens Red Toad Least Least Concern Concern Bufonidae Sclerophrys gutturalis Guttural Toad Least Least Concern Concern Bufonidae Sclerophrys capensis Raucous Toad Least Least Concern Concern Hyperoliidae Kassina senegalensis Bubbling Kassina Least Least Concern Concern Hyperoliidae Semnodactylus wealii Rattling Frog Least Least Concern Concern Phrynobatrachidae Phrynobatrachus natalensis Snoring Puddle Frog Least Least Concern Concern Pipidae Xenopus laevis Common Platanna Least Least Concern Concern Pyxicephalidae Amietia delalandii Delalande's River Frog Least Least Concern Concern Pyxicephalidae Cacosternum boettgeri Common Caco Least Least Concern Concern Pyxicephalidae Strongylopus fasciatus Striped Stream Frog Least Least Concern Concern Pyxicephalidae Amietia fuscigula Cape River Frog Least Least Concern Concern Pyxicephalidae Tomopterna cryptotis Tremelo Sand Frog Least Least Concern Concern KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 231 of 399 Family Scientific Name Common Name RSA Red IUCN 2022-1 List Status Pyxicephalidae Tomopterna natalensis Natal Sand Frog Least Least Concern Concern Pyxicephalidae Tomopterna tandyi Tandy's Sand Frog Least Least Concern Concern Source: FrogMAP records for 2629AB and 2629BA QDS. No reptiles were recorded in the LSA during the field survey. The distribution maps presented in Bates et al., (2014) indicate that up to 44 reptile species are known from the region in which the RSA is located. Of these, 24 common and widespread taxa have been recorded in the relevant QDS, according to data obtained from ReptileMAP (listed in Table 8-25). Table 8-25 - Reptile species previously recorded in the 2629AB and 2629BA QDS Family Scientific Name Common Name RSA Red IUCN List Status 2022-1 Agamidae Agama aculeata distanti Distant's Ground Agama Least Least Concern Concern Colubridae Crotaphopeltis hotamboeia Red-lipped Snake Least Least Concern Concern Colubridae Dasypeltis scabra Rhombic Egg-eater Least Least Concern Concern Elapidae Naja mossambica Mozambique Spitting Least Least Concern Concern Cobra Elapidae Hemachatus haemachatus Rinkhals Least Least Concern Concern Gekkonidae Lygodactylus ocellatus Spotted Dwarf Gecko Least Least Concern Concern Gekkonidae Pachydactylus affinis Transvaal Gecko Least Least Concern Concern Gekkonidae Pachydactylus capensis Cape Gecko Least Least Concern Concern Gekkonidae Pachydactylus vansoni Van Son's Gecko Least Least Concern Concern Lamprophiidae Boaedon capensis Brown House Snake Least Least Concern Concern Lamprophiidae Lycodonomorphus inornatus Olive House Snake Least Least Concern Concern KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 232 of 399 Family Scientific Name Common Name RSA Red IUCN List Status 2022-1 Lamprophiidae Lycodonomorphus rufulus Brown Water Snake Least Least Concern Concern Lamprophiidae Lycophidion capense capense Cape Wolf Snake Least Least Concern Concern Lamprophiidae Psammophylax rhombeatus Spotted Grass Snake Least Least Concern Concern Lamprophiidae Aparallactus capensis Black-headed Least Least Concern Concern Centipede-eater Lamprophiidae Homoroselaps lacteus Spotted Harlequin Snake Least Least Concern Concern Lamprophiidae Psammophis crucifer Cross-marked Grass Snake Least Least Concern Concern Lamprophiidae Pseudaspis cana Mole Snake Least Least Concern Concern Leptotyphlopidae Leptotyphlops sp. - Least Least Concern Concern Leptotyphlopidae Leptotyphlops scutifrons Eastern Thread Snake Least Least Concern Concern conjunctus Scincidae Trachylepis capensis Cape Skink Least Least Concern Concern Scincidae Trachylepis punctatissima Speckled Rock Skink Least Least Concern Concern Typhlopidae Afrotyphlops bibronii Bibron's Blind Snake Least Least Concern Concern Viperidae Causus rhombeatus Rhombic Night Adder Least Least Concern Concern Source: ReptileMAP records for 2629AB and 2629BA QDS Herpetofauna Of Conservation Concern The Giant Bullfrog (Pyxicephalus adspersus) is the only amphibian of conservation concern potentially occurring in the regional and local study areas. This species is listed as Least Concern on both the Global and Regional Red Lists, but it is listed as ‘protected’ on the NEMBA ToPs list (2007), as well as ‘protected’ in Mpumalanga Province according to the Mpumalanga Nature Conservation Act, 1998). It is further listed as Vulnerable on the Mpumalanga Red List. Giant Bullfrog inhabit seasonally shallow pans, wetland and rained-filled depressions in savanna and grassland ecosystems. These habitats are present in both the RSA and LSA. It is possible that the Giant KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 233 of 399 Bullfrog is present in the RSA, however, considering the degree of local habitat disturbances, it is unlikely that Giant Bullfrog are present in the LSA. Five reptile species potentially occurring in the RSA and LSA are of conservation concern. These are listed in Table 8-26, along with their conservation status, habitat preferences and a probability of occurrence. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 234 of 399 Table 8-26 - Reptile species of conservation concern occurring and potentially occurring in the study area Family Scientific Common Global Regional NEMBA Mpumalanga Habitat Preferences* Probability of Occurrence Name Name Red List Red List ToPS Status Status Status List Regional Local Study Area (IUCN, (2007) Study Area 2022-2) Cordylidae Chamaesaura Coppery Near Least - Near Grassy slopes and Possible Possible – Suitable aenea Grass Threatene Concern Threatened plateau. habitat present. Lizard d Cordylidae Smaug Giant Vulnerabl Vulnerabl - Vulnerable Favours flat to sloping Unlikely Unlikely – known giganteus Dragon e e highveld grassland distribution mainly Lizard habitats. to the south of the study area Lamprophiidae Amplorhinus Many- Least Least Near Reed beds, wetlands Possible Possible – Suitable multimaculatus spotted Concern Concern Threatened and riparian habitat present. Snake vegetation in grasslands. Lamprophiidae Homoroselaps Spotted Least Least - Near Semi-fossorial, Probable Possible – Suitable lacteus Harlequin Concern Concern Threatened favouring sandy soils, habitat present. Snake abandoned termitaria and rocky areas. Scincidae Acontias Short- Least Least - Vulnerable Fossorial and found in Unlikely Unlikely – No breviceps headed Concern Concern montane grassland. suitable habitat Legless present. Skink *Habitat preferences as per Branch (1998) and Bates et al., (2014). KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 235 of 399 Invertebrates Limited invertebrate data are available for the 2629AB and 2629BA QDS. The Virtual Museum platform only lists seven butterfly and four dragonflies for the QDS, but no spiders, scorpions or lacewings. A further review of the distribution maps of members of the Family Theraphosidae (baboon spiders) presented in Dippenaar-Schoeman (2014), also suggests that none of these taxa, which are of conservation concern, have previously been recorded in the region in which the RSA is located. Notwithstanding the above, one species of butterfly listed on LepiMAP is of conservation concern, namely the Marsh Sylph (Metisella meninx). This species is listed as Near Threatened on the Global, Regional and Mpumalanga Red Lists. Marsh Sylph favour marsh and wetland areas, as well as open grassland habitats, from 1 400 to 1 700 m. These habitats are presented in the RSA and LSA and it is therefore possible that the Marsh Sylph is present. 8.2.4 AVIFAUNA The following is extracted from the Avifauna Assessment compiled by Volant Environmental and included as Appendix F.15. 8.2.4.1 Potential Species Present in the Area Based on a list of bird species drawn from the nine pentads that covers and surrounds the Project Area of Influence (PAOI) a total of 205 species have been identified of which 29 species have been identified as Regional Priority Species, as identified by the BirdLife South Africa Best Practice Guidelines for Birds and Wind Energy. Of the Priority Species, nine have an Overall Priority Score of 290 or higher, placing them in the top 30 Regional Priority species, as identified by the BirdLife South Africa Best Practice Guidelines for Birds and Wind Energy (Table 8-27). These include Grey- Winged Francolin, Denham’s Bustards, Blue Korhaan, Northern Black Korhaan, Grey Crowned Crane, Black Winged Pratincole, White Stork, Saddle Billed Stork, Southern Bald Ibis. Regional Priority Species listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List includes:  Grey Crowned Crane (Balearica regulorum)  Secretarybird (Sagittarius serpentarius)  Martial Eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 236 of 399 Table 8-27 - Priority species that could potentially occur on the PAOI Source: Volant Environmental (2023) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 237 of 399 8.2.4.2 Observed Species All species that were seen or heard during walked transects and ground-truthing across the development site were recorded. A total of 30 unique species were identified. Of these species, two species of raptors were observed, namely Peregrine Falcon and Black-Winged Kite. 8.2.4.3 Walked and Driven Transects The most recorded species was Speckled Pigeon, with a total of 164 individuals across the transect, followed by Cape Sparrow (Table 8-28). Neither of these are considered a priority species. The Peregrine Falcon was seen hunting Speckled Pigeons during walked transects, while the Black- Winged Kite was detected during the driven transects. Table 8-28 - Species recorded during transect KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 238 of 399 8.2.5 AQUATIC BIODIVERSITY The following is extracted from the Aquatic Biodiversity compiled by WSP and included as Appendix F.9. The study area is located within the B11B quaternary sub-catchment of the upper Olifants Water Management Area (WMA). An unnamed tributary of the Koringspruit passes immediately to the north of the study area, while a small drainage line runs through the centre of the study area, eventually reporting to the Koornfontein River via the Gras Dam, and ultimately draining into the Olifants River (Synergistics Environmental Services, 2008). 8.2.5.1 Freshwater Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBAs) And Ecological Support Areas (ESAs) The proposed development site was compared to available relevant spatial biodiversity planning datasets in order to assess the local and regional biodiversity context of the site. The following datasets were considered:  Mpumalanga Biodiversity Sector Plan Freshwater Assessment (2011). The MBSP (2011) freshwater assessment spatial dataset includes various areas mapped as ‘other natural areas’ throughout the local study area (Figure 8-50), as well as part of the channelled valley bottom wetland associated with the Koringspruit which was classified as ‘Ecological Sensitivity Area (ESA): wetland’. It is important to note that the MBSP freshwater assessment was based largely on remotely sensed imagery, and thus some wetlands are not included (e.g. historic wetlands lost through drainage or ploughing); similarly, some features have been mapped as wetlands, which, once examined in the field, are not in fact wetlands. The most up-to-date spatial dataset at the national level is now considered to be the National Wetland Map 5 (see Figure 8-53), which displays a more accurate desktop derived coverage of wetlands in South Africa, and which indicates wetland habitat is located on the site. 8.2.5.2 Strategic Water Source Areas (SWSAs) No strategic water source areas occur in the region of the proposed development footprint; as such these are not included as receptors for the current impact assessment or considered further here. 8.2.5.3 Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Area (FEPA) Sub-Catchments The proposed development footprint in relation to FEPA sub-catchments and mapped National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas (NFEPA) wetlands is illustrated on Figure 8-51 and Figure 8- 52 respectively. As mentioned above, the National Wetland Map version 5 (NWM5) (Van Deventer et al., 2019), is the most up-to-date representation of the spatial extent and type of inland wetland ecosystem types at desktop level in South Africa. The NWM5 dataset indicates the presence of channelled valley bottom and seep wetland habitat within the study area (Figure 8-53); these systems were prioritised for infield verification, and site based assessments of wetland health and ecological importance, during the field survey. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 239 of 399 Figure 8-50: Study area in relation to MBSP Freshwater Assessment (MTPA, 2011) Figure 8-51: Study area in relation to FEPA sub-catchments KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 240 of 399 Figure 8-52: Proposed development in relation to NFEPA wetlands (NFEPA, 2011) Figure 8-53: Proposed development in relation to NWM5 wetlands (2018) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 241 of 399 8.2.5.4 Diatoms The assessment of diatoms was incorporated into this aquatic assessment study to provide further insight into the health and integrity of the watercourses in the study area. Diatoms have a rapid response to specific physico-chemical conditions in the water and are thus often the first indicator of environmental change. A sample was collected from the Koringspruit associated with the channelled valley bottom wetland and was submitted to Ecotone Freshwater Consultants cc for analysis. A comprehensive diatom report received from Ecotone Freshwater Consultants is included A of the Aquatic Biodiversity Specialist Report. A total of 11 diatom species were recorded at this site during the June 2022 assessment, and the dominant species recorded included Sellaphora sp., Navicula sp., and Nitzschia sp. These taxa are cosmopolitan in nature and have wide ecological amplitudes and thus caution must be taken when analysing the predominance of these species at specific sites. Diatom communities reflect ecological conditions over a period of 2-3 weeks and thus establishment of communities requires enough time to establish to reflect these conditions. Ecological information is provided below for the dominant and sub-dominant species in order to make ecological inferences for this site (Table 8-29; Taylor et al., 2007, Cantonati et al., 2017):  The ecological water quality at this site (CVB Koringspruit) reflected High quality with very low to no organic pollution (Table 8-29;): • The dominant diatom taxa pointed to well-oxygenated waters and eutrophic conditions with moderate to high electrolyte content. • The presence of some taxa pointed to brackish conditions. These taxa are tolerant to slightly polluted conditions. • The %PTV score indicated that there were low levels of organic pollution present at this site. Table 8-29 – Diatom analysis results and ecological water quality results Site %PTV SPI Ecological Category Class CVB (Koringspruit) 9.6 20.7 A High KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 242 of 399 Figure 8-54: Natural, modified and critical habitat 8.2.5.5 Wetlands Delineation And Classification Four wetlands have been identified to occur within a 500m of the proposed Project development (Figure 8-60). The infield sampling of soil and vegetation in conjunction with the recording of diagnostic topographical /terrain indicators and features, enabled the delineation of the following distinct watercourse units:  A Channelled valley bottom wetland (CVB),  Two isolated seepage wetlands (Seep 1 and Seep 2), and  Depression wetland Several areas of highly disturbed grassland were also identified within the study area. Excavations and earthworks in these areas have resulted in high levels of disturbance of the soil profile, with some ephemeral accumulation of water during periods of high rainfall enabling Imperata cyclindrica (which although it occurs in wetlands, is not a reliable wetland indicator, since it can proliferate in disturbed terrestrial areas with high rainfall) to proliferate; however water is not retained in these disturbed soils for long enough to sustain hydrophytic plant species, or soil form indicators to develop. These areas were therefore not classified as wetland habitat. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 243 of 399 Channelled Valley Bottom wetland A channelled valley bottom wetland associated with the Koringspruit occurs within the study area (Figure 8-55 and Figure 8-60). Channelled valley bottoms wetlands (CVB) are characterised by having a well-defined stream channel but lacking characteristic floodplain features, which was the case for the CVB wetland on site. These systems receive water inputs from the main channel and from adjacent slopes (Kotze et al., 2008). The CVB wetland was dominated by permanent and seasonal wetland plant species including Typha capensis, Phragmites australis, Schoenoplectus paludicola, and Cyperus latifolius as well as hygrophilous grassland community such as Eragrostis rotifer. The wetland was also characterised by temporary and seasonal hydromorphic soil characteristics (Figure 8-56), indicating brown wetland soils. The wetland is highly impacted and appears to receive effluent discharge from the Power Station. The wetland channel shows signs of extensive flows during large storm events and also lateral inputs from surrounding land uses. The CVB is situated adjacent to the proposed Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) footprint. Figure 8-55 - An overview of the Channelled Valley Bottom wetland (upstream) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 244 of 399 Figure 8-56 - Soil Sample taken at 50-60 cm in the seasonal zone of the wetland Seep 1 A seep wetland of approximately 24.5 ha traverses the eastern extent of the proposed PV site A footprint. The wetland is bordered by the Ash dam facility towards the north-east and crop fields to the south-west (Figure 8-60). The hydrology of the seep wetland is largely impacted by flow input from surrounding activities, particularly the seepage from the Ash dam, as evidenced by the soil sample taken at the permanent zone of the wetland (Figure 8-57). Furthermore, a dam which has been excavated in the wetland HGM, has resulted in impounding and pooling of water in the wetland (Figure 8-57). Dominant wetland vegetation at this site includes Typha capensis, Phragmites australis which dominated the permanent wet area, and Imperata cylindrica, which dominated much of the seasonal zone. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 245 of 399 Figure 8-57 - a) An overview of Seep 1 wetland and pooling of water at small dam, b) Soil sample taken in the permanent zone of the seep wetland indicating signs of soil contamination from the Ash dam Seep 2 A second seep wetland of approximately 20 ha in extent was identified in the northern extent of the study area (Figure 8-60). This wetland is located downslope of Eskom’s pollution control dams and is bordered by the Komati village to the west. The wetland is dominated by seasonal to permanent hydromorphic soil characteristics (Figure 8-59), with sedges and obligate wetland vegetation including Typha capensis, Phragmites australis and Cyperus latifolius occurring in the permanent zone, and I. cylindrica occurring in temporary-seasonally wet areas. Evidence of significant levels of disturbance in the form of small drains and berms diverting the water from the Eskom property into the receiving environment was observed in the Seep. Figure 8-58 - An overview of the seep wetland: upstream and downstream KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 246 of 399 Figure 8-59 - Soil sample taken at the permanent zone of the wetland Depression A shallow depression wetland is located within a crop field in the southern extent of the study area, outside of the Project site boundary. The wetland is approximately 3 ha in extent and is cut off from the Project site by the tarred R542 (Figure 8-60). The wetland appears to be geomorphologically intact (other than loss likely sustained to the R542 construction) and driven entirely by rainfall accumulation. The wetland is considered to be ephemeral in nature. Figure 8-60 - Wetland delineation and classification KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 247 of 399 Present Ecological State The most significant drivers of change currently present in the study area include industrial operations (seepage from ash dam, increased water inflow from Eskom operations) impoundment of water at dams, road crossings, mining operations in the catchments, spread of alien invasive species as well as formal and informal settlements within the wetland’s catchment. The Present Ecological State (PES) score for the wetlands in the study area are presented in Table 8-30, and discussed in greater detail in the paragraphs that follow. Table 8-30 - Summary of Impact Scores and PES Class Wetland Hydrology Geomorphology Water Vegetation Overall PES score and Unit Impact Impact Score Quality Impact Class Score Impact Score Score CVB 4.8 3.8 6.0 4.0 4.6 D Seep 1 5.0 3.9 6.0 3.5 4.6 D Seep 2 5.0 4.2 5.8 5.0 5.0 D Depression 3.0 3.0 4.6 4.0 3.5 C Channelled Valley Bottom Major impacts identified within the channelled valley bottom wetland include head cut erosion, impoundment of flow in dams and at road crossings, cattle farming and crop farming, and effluent discharge from industrial operations (Power Station). These impacts resulted in a Largely Modified Impact category (PES D), with the hydrology and water quality component contributing substantially to the modified state of the wetland. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 248 of 399 Figure 8-61 - Impacts: a) Soil Erosion at CVB main channel; b) pooling of water in dam; c) effluent discharge into the wetland; d0 crop farming and cattle grazing in the wetland Seep 1 The Present Ecological Status of the Seep 1 wetland was considered Largely Modified (PES D), on account of the hydrological state and the water quality of the wetland. The wetland appears to be substantially impacted by the adjacent infrastructure and activities, particularly the ash dam facility. As seen in Figure 8-57 the wetland soils are contaminated by sediment inputs from the ash dam. Furthermore, the increased surface water input from the ash dam facility and the impoundment of flow in the excavated dam (Figure 8-62) have changed the hydrological regime of the wetland. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 249 of 399 Figure 8-62 - Ash dam facility and pooling of water at dam Seep 2 Major impacts identified in the Seep 2 wetland include increased water inputs into the wetland system from the PCD, spread of alien invasive species, impoundment of flow along roads and dams, and the presence of drains and trenches. These disturbances, together with the likely impact on water quality as a result of seepage from the PCDs, have contributed to the Largely Modified state (PES Category D) of the wetland. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 250 of 399 Figure 8-63 - Impacts: a) pooling of water at dam; b) trenches and berms in wetland; c) effluent discharge into the wetland from a leaking pipe; d) impoundment of water at roads in wetland Depression The present ecological state of the depression wetland was considered Moderately Modified (PES category C), largely due to the presence of surrounding crop farming and the tarred R542 road in close proximity to the system. Ecological Importance And Sensitivity All wetlands in the study area were assessed as being of Low /Marginal EIS, with the exception of the CVB wetland which was assessed as being of Moderate EIS (Table 8-31). The moderate EIS of the CVB was attributed to its hydrological functional importance as this wetland performs a role in landscape connectivity at the regional level, providing regulating and supporting benefits such as streamflow regulation and flood attenuation. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 251 of 399 Table 8-31 - Summary of wetland EIS scores and ratings Wetland Ecological Hydrological Direct Human Integrated EIS Overall EIS Unit score and Class Importance Functions Benefits Score Score and Sensitivity Score Score CVB 1.2 1.0 0.0 1.2 Moderate Seep 1 0.8 0.9 00 0.9 Low/Marginal Seep 2 0.8 0.9 0.0 0.9 Low/Marginal Depression 0.8 0.9 0.0 0.9 Low/Marginal Ecoservices The importance scores for the ecosystem services provided by wetlands within the study area are illustrated in the spider diagrams presented in Figure 8-64, Figure 8-65 and Figure 8-66. The majority of the ecosystem services were rated as very low in terms of their overall importance. Regulating and supporting services such as sediment trapping, phosphate assimilation, nitrate assimilation and toxicant assimilation were determined as moderate, particularly for the CVB wetland which is also important in terms of streamflow regulation and flood attenuation. The CVB was also assessed as having a Moderately High importance in terms of the biodiversity maintenance (Figure 8-64). This was attributed to the likelihood of the African Grass Owl (Tyto capensis) to occur on site, based on the site sensitivity report generated by the national screening tool as well as the results of the avifauna survey undertaken on 17 June 2022 which confirmed suitable habitat for Grass Owl on site. Furthermore, the MBSP freshwater assessment (2011) maps the CVB wetland as an ecological support area. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 252 of 399 Figure 8-64 - Ecosystem Services supplied by/demanded from the CVB wetland Figure 8-65 - Ecosystem Services supplied by/demanded from seep wetlands KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 253 of 399 Figure 8-66 - Ecosystem Services supplied by/demanded from Depression wetland 8.2.5.6 Existing Impacts On Biodiversity And Drivers Of Change The proposed project infrastructure will be situated in close proximity to the existing power generation facilities and activities. All areas visited are currently experiencing some level of impact from the surrounding agricultural and industrial activities primarily through habitat transformation, and disturbance arising from power generation facilities and activities. The presence of the existing facilities within close proximity to the proposed development footprint is expected to have an exacerbating effect on nearby wetlands through the interruption of surface hydrology, and erosion as a result of increased surface water runoff due to the increased area of hardened surfaces in the study area. 8.2.5.7 Natural, Modified And Critical Habitats The study area is dominated by agricultural cultivation, power station infrastructure and residential/industrial areas, interspersed with some remnant wetland habitat. While some very disturbed wetland habitat has been identified in the eastern extent of PV Site A, it is no longer considered to constitute ‘Natural’ habitat as defined by WB ESS6, due to its heavily degraded state and loss of ecological function. The channelled valley bottom wetland to the north east of the site, and the seep wetland that crosses the northern boundary of the site, while moderately modified/disturbed, still support biodiversity and deliver ecological services to an extent that enables them both to be considered ‘Natural’ habitat (Figure 8-54) as defined by the lender standards. At present, no areas of potentially Critical Habitat, as defined by WB standards, have been identified within the study area. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 254 of 399 8.3 SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT 8.3.1 TRAFFIC The following is extracted from the Traffic Assessment compiled by Innovative Transport Solutions (Pty) Ltd (ITS) and included as Appendix F.10. Existing Road Network The roads in the vicinity of the proposed development are as follows:  R543: Is a Class 3 provincial road and is located to the south of the proposed PV Site A and the town of Komati. This road serves as an East‐West link between the R544 and the R35.  R35: Is a Class 3 provincial road and is located to the northeast of the proposed developments and the town of Komati. This road serves as the link between Middelburg and Bethal.  Main Road: Is a Class 4 municipal road and borders the proposed developments on the western boundaries of PV Site A and PV Site B.  Flamingo Street: Is a Class 5 municipal road and borders the proposed PV Site A on the northern boundary of the site. Flamingo Street also provides access to the town of Komati. The locations of these roads relative to the proposed development are shown in Figure 8-67. Figure 8-67: Locality map showing roads in the vicinity of the development (ITS, 2022) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 255 of 399 Trip Generation The trip generation of the proposed development is calculated based on the estimated number of person and truck trips during the construction of the sites. The operational phase of each site will also develop a certain number of person trips as well as the decommissioning phase. The expected number of persons tips based on the employment opportunities for the developments is 1285 during the construction phase, 150 person trips during the operational phase and 1285 persons trips during the decommissioning phase. Access The project area and surrounding areas are already easily accessible due to existing access roads. New access roads or tracks may be required to provide access to sections of the powerline route. Access to the proposed developments is proposed from Flamingo Street for PV Site A and from the current road that borders the airfield to the north, for PV Site B respectively. Access roads will be mostly a two-track gravel road under the OHPL in order to access pylons for construction and maintenance purposes. The width of the access roads will be determined during the design phase.. Capacity Analysis Traffic counts were conducted, at the intersections shown in Figure 8-68, covering a 12‐ hour period on Wednesday, 1 June 2022. Figure 8-68: Intersections for traffic count KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 256 of 399 PTV Vistro software was used to conduct the capacity analysis for the intersections included in the study area. The intersections that were included in the analysis are:  Int 1 – Main Road / Koornfontein Mine Access  Int 2 – R542 / Main Road  Int 3 – R35 / R542 to Emalahleni  Int 4 – R35 / R542 to Hendrina  Int 5 – R35 / Komati Power Station  Int 6 – Main Road / Flamingo St The capacity analysis results for the intersections included in the study area are included in the Traffic Impact Assessment (Appendix F.10). The existing road network is operating at acceptable levels of service with the existing geometry. The future traffic scenarios are also expected to operate at acceptable levels of service with the existing geometry. The existing geometry of the road network is shown schematically in Annexure A, Figure 8-69. No road upgrades are expected to be required to accommodate the additional traffic generated by the proposed developments. Figure 8-69: Trip Distribution KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 257 of 399 Public Transport Due to the locality of the proposed developments, no formal public transport facilities are located in close approximation to the proposed development. It is unlikely that public transport facilities will be required. 8.3.2 VISUAL The following is extracted from the Visual Impact Assessment compiled by LOGIS and included as Appendix F.11. 8.3.2.1 Land use and settlement patterns The majority of the study area is relatively sparsely populated with a population density of less than approximately 33 people per km2. Most of these people are located within the towns of Komati (at the power station) or at Blinkpan just north of the Goedehoop Colliery. Other than these towns, or residential areas, the rest of the study area is dotted with farm residences or homesteads. These residences are inhabited by the farmers producing mainly maize crops (dryland agriculture) within the region. Besides the agricultural activities the most prominent land use within the area is the mining and the associated power generation activities at the power station. Some of the homesteads within the study area include8:  Rooiblom  Welverdiend (1, 2 and 3)  Broodsnyersplaas  Blinkpan  Geluk  Bultfontein (1 – 8)  Willmansrust  Goedehoop (1, 2 and 3)  Koornfontein These homesteads range from 0km to 6km away from the site. The visual exposure for the various homesteads are discussed in Section 8.3.2.3. It is uncertain whether all of these farmsteads are inhabited or not. It stands to reason that farmsteads that are not currently inhabited will not be visually impacted upon at present. These farmsteads do, however retain the potential to be affected visually should they ever become inhabited again in the future. For this reason, the author of this document operates under the assumption that they are all inhabited. The R35 and R542 arterial roads provide motorised access to the project site from respectively the N4 and N12 national roads traversing north and north-west of the larger region. 8 The names listed below are of the homestead or farm dwelling as indicated on the SA 1: 50 000 topographical maps and do not refer to the registered farm name. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 258 of 399 There are no identified tourist attractions of designated protected areas within the study area. In spite of the overall rural character of the region, there are a large number of power lines and substations in the study area, mostly associated with the Komati Power Station, the coal mines and the railway lines traversing the study area. These include:  Camden-Duvha 400kV  Komati-Matla 275kV  Arnot-Kruispunt 275kV  Camden-Komati 275kV  Komati-Kruispunt 275kV  Halfgewonnen-Kudu 88kV  Kudu-Export 132kV  Broodsnyersplaas-Spoornet 132kV  Aberdeen-Gloria Colliery 132kV  Export-Duvha Colliery 132kV  Kudu-Nasarete 132kV  Hendrina-Aberdeen 132kV  Aberdeen-Kudu 132kV  Aberdeen-Ysterkop 132kV  Duvha Colliery-Kudu 132kV  Abina 132kV Overhead Line  Kudu-Dorstfontein 88kV  Komati-Kudu 1 and 2 132kV  Aberdeen-Spoornet 132kV  Klicoal-Kudu 132kV  Aberdeen-Gloria Shaft 132kV There are no additional solar or wind energy generation plants (or applications) within the study area. The closest approved application is the proposed installation of a solar photovoltaic power plant at the Eskom Duvha Power Station, some 18km north-west of the project site. The photographs below aid in describing the general environment within the study area and surrounding the proposed project infrastructure. Figure 8-70: The town of Komati located adjacent to the proposed sites (LOGIS, 2023) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 259 of 399 Figure 8-71: The town of Blinkpan just north of the Goedehoop Colliery (LOGIS, 2023) Figure 8-72: View over the Goedehoop Colliery (LOGIS, 2023) Figure 8-73: Example of a typical homestead located within the study area (LOGIS, 2023) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 260 of 399 Figure 8-74: View from the R542 towards the site from the west (LOGIS, 2023) Figure 8-75: View from the R35 towards the site from the south (LOGIS, 2023) Figure 8-76: View over PV Site A from the R542 (LOGIS, 2023) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 261 of 399 Figure 8-77: View over PV Site A from the outskirts of the town of Komati (LOGIS, 2023) Figure 8-78: View over PV Site B from the adjacent secondary road (LOGIS, 2023) Figure 8-79: Airstrip noted within PV Site B (LOGIS, 2023) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 262 of 399 8.3.2.2 Visual sensitivity The current visual sensitivity mapping undertaken in the VIA is in greater detail at the site scale for the proposed solar PV facilities and BESS infrastructure, and takes into account detailed viewshed mapping and local site conditions. In order to determine the overall visual sensitivity of the proposed sites in the absence of any mitigation, the matrix in Table 8-32 was utilised: Table 8-32 - Matrix to determine overall visual sensitivity for the proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility Sensitive Receptor Very High High Moderate Low Sensitivity Sensitivity Sensitivity Sensitivity (4) (3) (2) (1) 1. Topographic features incl Within 250m Within 250- Within 500m – >1km mountain ridges 500m 1km 2. Steep slopes Slopes with Slopes - - more than 1:4 between 1:4 and 1:10 3. Major rivers, water bodies, Within 250m Within 250- Within 500m – >1km perennial rivers and wetlands 500m 1km with scenic value 4. Coastal zone Within 1km Within 1-2km Within 2-3km >3km 5. Protected area: National Parks Within 2km Within 2-4km Within 4-6km >6km 6. Protected areas: Nature Within 1km Within 1-2km Within 2-3km >3km Reserves 7. Private reserves and game Within 500m Within 500m - Within 1-2km >2km farms 1km 8. Cultural landscape On the site Within 500m Within 500m – >1km itself 1km 9. Heritage Sites Grades I, ii and iii On the site Within 500m Within 500m – >1km itself 1km 10. Towns and Villages Within 500m Within 500m - Within 1-2km >2km 1km 11. Home/farmsteads Within 500m Within 500m - Within 1-2km >2km 1km 12. National Roads Within 500m Within 500m – Within 1-2km >2km 1km 13. Provincial/arterial roads Within 1km Within 1-3km Within 3-6km >6km KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 263 of 399 Sensitive Receptor Very High High Moderate Low Sensitivity Sensitivity Sensitivity Sensitivity (4) (3) (2) (1) 14. Scenic routes Within 500m Within 500m – Within 1-2km >2km 1km 15. Passenger rail lines Within 250m Within 250 - Within 500m – >1km 500m 1km 16. Located with Renewable energy No - - Yes development zone 17. VAC Low VAC Moderate VAC High VAC Very High VAC 18. Glint and Glare YES – Major YES – Major YES – Major No Road, airfield, Road, airfield, Road, airfield, or static or static or static ground-based ground-based ground-based receptors within receptors receptors 1km within 1 - 2km within 2 - 3km 19. Visual Quality Natural Natural Natural Built environment environment environment infrastructure intact with no intact with somewhat is dominant built limited built intact with fair with little to infrastructure infrastructure amount of built no natural infrastructure environment remaining 20. Presence of existing Absent Very low Present in High infrastructure densities moderate densities quantities Total Moderate (40) Overall visual sensitivity rating:  Low (0-20)  Moderate (21-40)  High (41-60)  Very High (61-80) The greater environment has been transformed owing mainly to dryland agriculture, as well as mining and other industrial activities (i.e. power stations, substations, etc.). Additionally, there are numerous existing powerlines that lie in close proximity to the site and traverse the study area, resulting in an overall low to moderate visual quality. Visual Absorption Capacity (VAC) of the receiving environment is deemed to be low owing to the low growing vegetation, predominant land use (dryland agriculture) and the high contrast of the proposed PV panels within the surrounding environment. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 264 of 399 The immediate area surrounding the proposed sites are the most populated with the study area with majority of the people residing in the residential areas of the towns of Komati, located directly adjacent to the proposed sites and Blinkpan to the north east. The R542, which is located along the southern boundary of PV Site A, is a provincial route that connects Emalahleni to Hendrina. Additionally, the R35, located further afield to the east of the proposed sites, is also a provincial route that connects Middelburg to the town of Bethal. Other than these arterial roads, a number of secondary roads also cross the study area. One airstrip, presumed to service the Komati Power Station was noted within the proposed development area of PV Site B. It is therefore assumed that this airstrip will no longer be in use following the development of PV Site B. Homesteads and farmsteads, by virtue of their visually exposed nature, are considered to be sensitive visual receptors. Residential receptors in natural contexts are more sensitive than those in more built-up contexts, due to the absence of visual clutter in these undeveloped and undisturbed areas. Commuters and possible tourists using the main arterial and secondary roads may also be negatively impacted upon by the visual exposure to the proposed facilities, however, this intrusion would be fleeting. 8.3.2.3 Potential Visual Exposure The result of the viewshed analysis for the proposed SEF is shown on the map below (Figure 8-80). The viewshed analysis was undertaken from a representative number of vantage points within the development footprints (i.e. PV Site A, PV Site B and the BESS sites) at an offset of 5m above ground level. This was done in order to determine the general visual exposure (visibility) of the area under investigation, simulating the maximum height of the proposed structures (PV panels, inverters, BESS, etc.) associated with the proposed project. Figure 8-80 also indicates proximity radii from the development footprints in order to show the viewing distance (scale of observation) of the facilities in relation to their surrounds. The viewshed analysis includes the effect of vegetation cover and existing structures on the exposure of the proposed infrastructure. The proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility is expected to be visible for up to 6km from the development sites. The visual exposure is relatively scattered due to the undulating nature of the topography, with lower-lying land (e.g. along the Koringspruit and Olifants Rivers) shielded from the infrastructure, and only higher-lying terrain being exposed. It should be noted that the potential visual exposure will not occur in isolation, but rather in conjunction with the existing mining, power line and power station infrastructure in closer proximity to the sites. The homesteads and roads expected to be visually influenced are listed below. The identification of these homesteads or farm dwellings are based on their locations as per the SA 1: 50 000 topographical maps . Should a homestead / residence / institution not be listed in terms of the SA 1: 50 000 topographical maps, then it is assumed that the impacts will be similar to the other identified residences within the same proximity radii. It should also be noted that this section of the report focusses only on the potential visual exposure at varying distances and it does not yet refer to visual impact significance or any correlation thereto. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 265 of 399 The following is evident from the viewshed analyses:  0 – 1km • It is expected that the facility would be highly visible within this zone. A visually screened areas are scattered along the outskirts of the zone beyond the various higher mining and industrial features within this zone such as mine dumps and slime dams. The potential sensitive visual receptors within this zone include the town of Komati where visual exposure is expected from the outlying edges of the built-up areas, observers travelling along the R542 and R35 arterial roads, as well as the secondary road that runs along the western boundary of both the sites (PV Site A and PV Site B). It is expected that the PV facility would be highly visible to observers travelling along these roads. There are a number of homesteads located within a 1km radius of PV Site A, namely Goedehoop 3 and Geluk 1.  1 – 3km • This zone predominantly falls within mining land, vacant farmland and open space, but does contain sections of visual exposure to the abovementioned roads, some unknown homesteads further south along the R35, as well as the Geluk 2 homestead located to the east of the Komati Power Station and development sites. Of note is that scattered portions of the settlement of Blinkpan are expected to be visually exposed to the facility, however, this is expected to be limited exposure to the outskirts of the settlement, as a result of the visual clutter associated with built-up areas, as well as the well-established trees and vegetation planted within the residential erfs of Blinkpan.  3 - 6km • Within a 3 – 6km radius, the visual exposure will be significantly reduced, especially in the southern portion of this zone. Residences of the following homestead may be visually exposed: − Bultfontein 2 − Goedehoop 2 − Koornfontein − Welverdiend 3 − Broodsnyersplaas − Bultfontein 3 − Five (5) unknown homesteads scattered throughout the zone  > 6km • Beyond the 6km radius, the intensity of visual exposure is expected to be very low and highly unlikely due to the distance between the object (SEF and BESS Facility) and the observer, especially when taking into consideration the developed and industrial nature of the area in closer proximity to the proposed infrastructure. In general terms, it is envisaged that the structures, where visible from shorter distances (e.g. less than 1km and potentially up to 3km), and where sensitive visual receptors may find themselves within this zone, may constitute a high visual prominence, potentially resulting in a visual impact. This may include observers travelling along the R542 and R35 arterial roads, residents along the outskirts of the Komati residential area, and the homesteads mentioned above. It should once again KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 266 of 399 be stressed that the visual exposure of the PV and BESS structures will be in conjunction with the existing visual clutter (power lines, power station and mining infrastructure) within the region.. Figure 8-80: Potential visual exposure (visibility analysis) for Komati SEF and BESS Facility KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 267 of 399 8.3.2.4 Visual distance / observer proximity to the PV facility The proximity radii are based on the anticipated visual experience of the observer over varying distances. The distances are adjusted upwards for larger energy facilities/technologies (e.g. more extensive infrastructure associated with power plants) and downwards for smaller plants (e.g. smaller infrastructure associated with power plants with less generating capacity). This methodology was developed in the absence of any known and/or accepted standards for South African solar energy facilities. The principle of reduced impact over distance is applied in order to determine the core area of visual influence for these types of structures. It is envisaged that the nature of the structures and the predominantly rural and natural character of the study area would create a significant contrast that would make the facility visible and recognisable from greater distances. The proximity radii for the proposed PV facility were created in order to indicate the scale and viewing distance of the facility and to determine the prominence of the structures in relation to their environment. The proximity radii, based on the dimensions of the proposed development footprint are indicated on Figure 8-81, and include the following:  0 - 1km • Very short distance view where the PV facility would dominate the frame of vision and constitute a very high visual prominence.  1 – 3km • Short distance view where the structures would be easily and comfortably visible and constitute a high visual prominence.  3 - 6km • Medium to longer distance view where the facility would become part of the visual environment, but would still be visible and recognisable. This zone constitutes a moderate visual prominence.  > 6km • Long distance view of the facility where the structures are not expected to be immediately visible and not easily recognisable. This zone constitutes a lower visual prominence for the facility. The visual distance theory and the observer's proximity to the facility are closely related, and especially relevant, when considered from areas with a high viewer incidence and a potentially negative visual perception of the proposed facility. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 268 of 399 Figure 8-81: Proximity analysis and potential sensitive visual receptors KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 269 of 399 8.3.2.5 Viewer incidence / viewer perception The number of observers and their perception of a structure determine the concept of visual impact. If there are no observers or if the visual perception of the structure is favourable to all the observers, there would be no visual impact. It is necessary to identify areas of high viewer incidence and to classify certain areas according to the observer's visual sensitivity towards the proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility. It would be impossible not to generalise the viewer incidence and sensitivity to some degree, as there are many variables when trying to determine the perception of the observer: regularity of sighting, cultural background, state of mind, purpose of sighting, etc. which would create a myriad of options. Viewer incidence is calculated to be the highest along the public roads within the study area (i.e. R542, R34 and various secondary roads). Travellers using these roads may be negatively impacted upon by visual exposure to the facility. Additional sensitive visual receptors are located at the farm residences (homesteads) and town / villages (i.e. Komati and Blink pan) scattered throughout the study area. It is expected that the viewer’s perception, unless the observer is associated with (or supportive of) the PV facility, would generally be negative. These potentially affected sensitive visual receptors are listed in Section 8.3.2.3. It is expected that these landowners may experience visual impacts ranging from moderate to high significance, depending on their proximity to the facility. Refer to Figure 8-81 for the location of the potential sensitive visual receptors discussed above. The author (at the time of the compilation of this report) is not aware of any objections raised against the proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility. WSP can confirm that no comments were received on visual impacts during the Scoping And ESIA Phase. A summary of the comments and issues raised is included in Section 4.5.5 and Section 4.6.3. 8.3.2.6 Visual absorption capacity Visual Absorption Capacity (VAC) is the capacity of the receiving environment to absorb the potential visual impact of the proposed development. VAC is primarily a function of the vegetation and will be high if the vegetation is tall, dense and continuous. Conversely, low growing sparse and patchy vegetation will have a low VAC. The VAC also generally increases with distance, where discernible detail in visual characteristics of both environment and development decreases. The broader study areas land cover is primarily dryland agriculture and grassland which is defined as an area dominated by nearly continuous planted field or grasses often devoid of taller plants such as trees. Refer to Figure 8-82. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 270 of 399 Figure 8-82: Grassland and agricultural fields devoid of large trees It is clear that the natural vegetation within the study area has a low VAC. Where planted trees occur, the VAC is higher. This may be a common occurrence at homesteads and settlements, but does not apply as a rule. Similar high VAC may be found along maize fields, although that is strictly dependent on the time of the growing season. Within built-up areas (e.g. residential or industrial areas) the VAC is high due to the presence of built structures and visual clutter. Figure 8-83: Example of where vegetation and trees have been planted around homesteads Overall, the VAC of the receiving environment is moderate to high on the site itself and low in areas where transformation has occurred due to mining, agricultural activities or naturally occurring grasslands. In addition, the scale and form of the proposed PV structures mean that it is likely that the environment will visually absorb them in terms of texture, colour, form and light/shade characteristics. The PV structures should be absorbed by the visual clutter in the built up and industrial areas. Therefore, within this area the VAC will be taken into account. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 271 of 399 Figure 8-84: Example of visual clutter in built up areas Where homesteads and settlements occur, some more significant vegetation and trees may have been planted, which would contribute to the visual absorption capacity (i.e. shielding the observers from the infrastructure). As this is not a consistent occurrence, however, VAC will not be taken into account for any of the homesteads or settlements, thus assuming a worst-case scenario in the impact assessment. 8.3.2.7 Visual impact index The combined results of the visual exposure, viewer incidence/perception and visual distance of the proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility are displayed Figure 8-86. Here the weighted impact and the likely areas of impact have been indicated as a visual impact index. Values have been assigned for each potential visual impact per data category and merged in order to calculate the visual impact index. The criteria (previously discussed in this report) which inform the visual impact index are:  Visibility or visual exposure of the structures  Observer proximity or visual distance from the structures  The presence of sensitive visual receptors  The perceived negative perception or objections to the structures (if applicable)  The visual absorption capacity of the vegetation cover or built structures (if applicable) An area with short distance visual exposure to the proposed infrastructure, a high viewer incidence and a potentially negative perception (i.e. a sensitive visual receptor) would therefore have a higher value (greater impact) on the index. This helps in focussing the attention to the critical areas of potential impact and determining the potential magnitude of the visual impact. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 272 of 399 The index indicates that potentially sensitive visual receptors9 within a 1km radius of the proposed facility may experience a very high visual impact. The magnitude of visual impact on sensitive visual receptors subsequently subsides with distance to; high within a 1–3km radius (where/if sensitive receptors are present) and moderate within a 3–6km radius (where/if sensitive receptors are present). Receptors beyond 6km are expected to have a low potential visual impact. Likely areas of potential visual impact and potential sensitive visual receptors located within a 6km radius of the proposed Komati SEF and BESS are displayed on Figure 8-85. Magnitude of the potential visual impact The PV facility may have a visual impact of very high magnitude on the following identified observers within a 0-1km radius: Observers travelling along the:  R542 arterial road in the south (Site 1)  R35 arterial road in the east (Site 2)  Secondary road running along the western boundary of the PV sites (Site 3) Residents of/visitors to:  Komati outlying areas (Site 4)  Goedehoop 3 (Site 5)  Geluk 1 (Site 6) The PV Facility may have a visual impact of high magnitude on the following identified observers 1 – 3km radius: Residents of/visitors to:  Scattered portions of Blinkpans outlying areas  Two (2) unknown homesteads (Sites 7 and 8)  Geluk 2 (Site 9) The PV facility may have a visual impact of moderate magnitude impact on the following identified observers located between a 3 – 6km radius of the PV facility: Residents of/visitors to:  Bultfontein 2 (Site 10)  Goedehoop 2 (Site 11)  Four (4) unknown homesteads (Sites 12, 13, 15 and 18)  Koornfontein (Site 14)  Welverdiend 3 (Site 16)  Broodsnyersplaas (Site 17) 9 The names indicated on the map and listed below here are of the homestead or farm dwelling as indicated on the SA 1: 50 000 topographical maps and do not refer to the registered farm name. Should a homestead / residence / institution not be listed in terms of the SA 1: 50 000 topographical maps, then it is assumed that the impacts will be similar to the other identified residences within the same proximity radii. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 273 of 399  An unknown homestead near Abina (Site 19)  Bultfontein 3 (Site 20) The PV facility may have a visual impact of low magnitude impact on observers located beyond the 6km radius of the PV facility. Note: Where any of the above-mentioned homesteads are derelict or deserted, the visual impact will be non-existent, until such time as it is inhabited again. Figure 8-85: Visual impact index for the proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 274 of 399 Figure 8-86: Visibility index illustrating the frequency of exposure of the proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 275 of 399 8.3.3 HERITAGE The following is extracted from the Heritage Impact Assessment compiled by APAC and included as Appendix F.12. The Stone Age is the period in human history when lithic (stone) material was mainly used to produce tools. In South Africa the Stone Age can be divided in basically into three periods. It is however important to note that dates are relative and only provide a broad framework for interpretation. A basic sequence for the South African Stone Age (Lombard et.al 2012) is as follows:  Earlier Stone Age (ESA) up to 2 million – more than 200 000 years ago  Middle Stone Age (MSA) less than 300 000 – 20 000 years ago  Later Stone Age (LSA) 40 000 years ago – 2000 years ago It should also be noted that these dates are not a neat fit because of variability and overlapping ages between sites (Lombard et.al 2012: 125). There are no known Stone Age sites in close proximity to the study area, although rock paintings (associated with the Later Stone Age) are known south of eMalahleni (Witbank) near the confluence of the Olifants River and Rietspruit, as well as a rock art site to the southeast of Middelburg (Bergh 1999:4-5). Heritage surveys have recorded few outstanding Stone Age sites, rock paintings and engravings in the Eastern Highveld - mainly as a result of limited extensive archaeological surveys. Stone tools have however been recorded around some of the pans which occur on the Eastern Highveld (Pistorius 2010:16). Some individual Later Stone Age artifacts were identified in the larger area during a 2007 HIA for Goedgevonden Colliery, but the location of the site is not indicated (De Jong 2007: 19). No Stone Age sites or material were identified in the study area during the May 2023 field assessments. If any were to be present, they would most likely be individual stone tools or low-density scatters in open-air surface scatters around the area. The Iron Age is the name given to the period of human history when metal was mainly used to produce metal artifacts. In South Africa it can be divided in two separate phases (Bergh 1999: 96- 98), namely:  Early Iron Age (EIA) 200 – 1000 A.D  Late Iron Age (LIA) 1000 – 1850 A.D. Huffman (2007: xiii) however indicates that a Middle Iron Age should be included. His dates, which now seem to be widely accepted in archaeological circles, are:  Early Iron Age (EIA) 250 – 900 A.D.  Middle Iron Age (MIA) 900 – 1300 A.D.  Late Iron Age (LIA) 1300 – 1840 A.D. No Early or Middle Iron Age sites are known to occur in the study area (Bergh 1999: 6-7). According to Pistorius the Eastern Highveld had probably not been occupied by Early Iron Age communities, but was occupied by Late Iron Age farming communities such as the Sotho, Swazi and Ndebele who established stone walled settlement complexes. Seemingly these sites are more common towards the eastern perimeters of the Eastern Highveld. Small, inconspicuous stone walled sites have been observed along the Olifants River but are an exception and not the rule (Pistorius 2010:16-17). KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 276 of 399 There are a fairly large number of Late Iron Age stone walled sites in the bigger geographical area that includes Lydenburg, Dullstroom, Machadodorp, Badplaas and Belfast (Bergh 1999: 6-7). Late Iron Age sites have been identified to the north and east of Middelburg in the vicinity of Belfast (Bergh 1999: 7). Some of these sites might be related to the so-called Marateng facies of the Urewe pottery tradition of the LIA, dating to between AD1650 and 1840 (Huffman 2007: 207). During the 19th century the Ndzundza Ndebele inhabited the land to the north of Middelburg, but it seems as if the area directly surrounding the town was largely uninhabited. The Ndebele of Mzilikazi did move through this area during the difaqane which probably left it uninhabited for some time (Bergh 1999: 10-11). No Iron Age sites, features or material were identified in the area during the May 2023 assessments. The historical age started with the first recorded oral histories in the area. The first European people to move through this area were the party of the traveller Robert Schoon who passed through during 1836 (Bergh 1999: 13). Although the Voortrekkers moved across the Vaal River during the 1830’s, it seems as if Europeans only settled here after 1850 (Bergh 1999: 14-15). One historic event took place in the region. During the Anglo-Boer War, the British forces under Brigadier-General Beatson were attacked by the ZAR forces, led by Gen. Muller. More than 50 British soldiers were killed. Afterwards, Brigadier-Gen. Beatson accused the Australian forces of cowardice. They mutinied against him and some were arrested, court-martialled and sentenced to death. Fortunately, these sentences were later commuted to imprisonment. This battle took place on the farm Wilmansrust 47IS, just to the south of the power station. A monument to commemorate this event was erected on this farm, but during the early 1970s it was relocated to the town of Bethal. The site investigation for the power station was started in 1957, and the first unit was commissioned in 1961 and the last in 1966. In 1990 the station was completely mothballed (Van Schalkwyk 2007: 4). Construction of the power station began during 1961. No recent historical sites and features were identified and recorded in the study & development area in May 2023. Results of the May 2023 Field Assessment It was evident from the desktop study that archaeological/historical sites and finds do occur in the larger geographical landscape within which the specific study area is located. Based on this it is always possible that open-air Stone Age sites could be found in the area, in the form of individual stone tools or small scatters of tools if present. The possibility of Iron Age sites in the area is highly unlikely with no rocky outcrops, ridges and hills present. The likelihood of recent historical sites and features being present in the area is also low, although this could not be excluded. If any were to be present, it would most likely be remnants of homesteads and unknown/unmarked graves. During a 2007 Heritage Survey for the Komati Power Station Ash Dam Extension (on the farm Komati Power Station 58IS, a subdivision of the original farm Koornfontein 27IS), no Stone Age, Iron Age or recent historical sites, features or material were identified in the area (Van Schalkwyk 2007: 4). During the May 2023 field assessment, no sites, features or material of cultural heritage (archaeological and/or historical) origin or significance were identified in the study and proposed SEF development area. The planned SEF development and related infrastructure is located in already heavily disturbed areas and the likelihood of any cultural heritage sites or features being located here is very low. The often subterranean nature of archaeological and/historical sites and KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 277 of 399 features should however always be taken into consideration and there is always a possibility of these occurring in an area earmarked for development. This could include unmarked or unknown graves or burials. Figure 8-87: A view of the Komati Power Station (APAC, 2023) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 278 of 399 Figure 8-88: General view of a section of the area. Note the fairly open but disturbed nature of the area (APAC, 2023) Figure 8-89: Some open areas exist in Komati between the Power Station and the town (APAC, 2023) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 279 of 399 This is taken from the direction of the Power Station down the Eskom Powerline Corridor. Figure 8-90: A view of the area with the Ash Discard Dump visible (APAC, 2023) Figure 8-91: A view of a section of the area close to the proposed PV B area. Recently ploughed fields are evident here (APAC, 2023) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 280 of 399 Figure 8-92: More agricultural fields next to the R542 road, with the Power Station visible in the distance (APAC, 2023) Figure 8-93: Another section of the study and development area near the proposed PV A area (APAC, 2023) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 281 of 399 Figure 8-94: The impacts of agricultural and ESKOM related activities on the area is clearly visible in this image (APAC, 2023) Figure 8-95: A view of a part of Komati Town (APAC, 2023) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 282 of 399 8.3.4 PALAEONTOLOGY The following is extracted from the Palaeontology Desktop Assessment compiled by Dr H Fourie and included as Appendix F.13. The Ecca Group, Vryheid Formation (Figure 8-96) may contain fossils of diverse non-marine trace, Glossopteris flora, mesosaurid reptiles, palaeoniscid fish, marine invertebrates, insects, and crustaceans (Johnson 2009). Glossopteris trees rapidly colonised the large deltas along the northern margin of the Karoo Sea. Dead vegetation accumulated faster than it could decay, and thick accumulations of peat formed, which were ultimately converted to coal. It is only in the northern part of the Karoo Basin that the glossopterids and cordaitales, ferns, clubmosses and horsetails thrived (McCarthy and Rubidge 2005). Figure 8-96: Extent of the Karoo Supergroup (Johnson 2009) The Glossopteris flora is thought to have been the major contributor to the coal beds of the Ecca. These are found in Karoo-age rocks across Africa, South America, Antarctica, Australia and India. This was one of the early clues to the theory of a former unified Gondwana landmass (Norman and Whitfield 2006). Fossils in South Africa mainly occur in rocks of sedimentary nature and not in rocks from igneous or metamorphic nature. Therefore, if there is the presence of Karoo Supergroup strata the palaeontological sensitivity is generally LOW to VERY HIGH. The development footprint is situated on the Vryheid Formation (Pv) of the Ecca Group, Karoo Supergroup. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 283 of 399 The Phase 1: Field Study was undertaken in May 2023 in the winter in dry and cool conditions. The proposed area was accessible and open except for the area where the maize crop is, this is covered in a maize crop. A power station, towers, landing strip and lawned area are present. Outcrops are not visible, in some areas the grass is too lush and high, therefore no fossils were located. 8.3.5 SOCIO-ECONOMIC PROFILE The following is extracted from the Social Scoping Assessment compiled by WSP and included as Appendix F.14, as well as the Socio-Economic Impact Study for the Shutdown and Repurposing of Komati Power Station undertaken by Urban-Econ (2020). 8.3.5.1 Mpumalanga Province Mpumalanga Province is located in the north-eastern part of South Africa. The province borders two of South Africa's neighbouring countries, Mozambique and Swaziland; and four other South African provinces, namely, Gauteng, Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal and Free State Provinces (Figure 8-97). Mpumalanga is characterised by the high plateau grasslands of the Middleveld, which roll eastwards for hundreds of kilometres. It rises towards mountain peaks in the northeast and terminates in an immense escarpment. Figure 8-97: South African regional map Mpumalanga province covers an area of 76 495km² and has a population of approximately 4 300 000. The capital city of Mpumalanga is Mbombela, and other major cities and towns include Emalahleni, Standerton, eMkhondo, Malelane, Ermelo, Barberton and Sabie. The province is divided into three district municipalities: Gert Sibande, Ehlanzeni and Nkangala District KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 284 of 399 Municipalities. These three districts are further subdivided into 17 Local Municipalities. The proposed development falls within the STLM. The STLM falls within the NDM. The connection of key economic nodes in the province by a vast network of roads provides key opportunities for economic growth and development. The most notable development corridors for development are the Pretoria-Maputo and Johannesburg-Durban lines. As such, there exists multiple corridors for development in the province which may exploit opportunities various opportunities. However, it should be noted that the road transportation network in Mpumalanga is often considered as unmaintained, which may impede economic activity (Urban-Econ, 2020). For full context refer to Section 3.2 of the Urban-Econ Socio-Economic Study. 8.3.5.2 Nkangala District Municipality The NDM has municipal executive and legislative authority in an area that includes more than one municipality which makes it a Category C municipality , located in the Mpumalanga Province. It is one of three district municipalities in the province, making up 22% of its geographical area. The NDM comprises the Victor Khanye, Emalahleni, Steve Tshwete, Emakhazeni, Thembisile Hani, and Dr JS Moroka local municipalities (Figure 8-98). The NDM is headquartered in Middelburg. The NDM is the economic hub of Mpumalanga and is rich in minerals and natural resources. Figure 8-98: Nkangala District Municipality 8.3.5.3 Steve Tshwete Local Municipality STLM is approximately 3,976 square kilometres in extent, representing 23.7% of the NDM’s land mass. To the west it is bordered by the Emalahleni and Thembisile Hani Local Municipalities; the Govan Mbeki and Msukaligwa Local Municipalities in Gert Sibande District to the south; and the Emakhazeni and Chief Albert Luthuli Local Municipalities to the east (Figure 8-98). Adjacent to the KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 285 of 399 north of the STLM is Elias Motsoaledi Municipality which forms part of the Sekhukhune District Municipality in Limpopo Province. Population The STLM’s population increased to 278 749 between 2011 and 2016 (Figure 8-99) which represents an increase of 21.3% over the five-year period. The growth rate was 4.3% over the same period. It is estimated that in 2030 the population of the municipality will be approximately 510 000. Based on the Census 2011 data, the Komati Primary Study Area (PSA) had a population of between 4 000 and 5 000 persons a decade ago. Most of the persons within the study area resided in Komati village, with Sizanane representing the smallest community in the study area. The Blinkpan settlement has the largest population size of the mentioned main settlements within the study area of Komati. However, it has the smallest household size when compared to the Komati and Sizanane settlements. The Komati and Blinkpan settlements each have an average household size of 2.5 persons per household, while the Sizanane settlement has the smallest average household size at 1.4 persons per household. For full context refer to Section 3.4.5 of the Urban-Econ Socio-Economic Study. Gender The gender distribution of the municipality was almost equal with females representing 48% and males 52% of the population in 2011(Figure 8-100). As per the Census 2011, there were more males than females in the area, with an average male-to- female ratio of 1.55 to 1 (i.e. 155 males per 100 females). Sizanane had the highest male-to-female ratio despite being the smallest community within the PSA. The above ratio reflects the nature of the settlements being largely linked to the mining operations and hosting workers who migrate into the area. Representatives of the local communities suggested that the distribution between males and females may have changed since the Census due to the change in the structure of the local economies linked to the closure of mining operations. Conversely, some of the community members suggest that there is an equal distribution between males and females in the PSA. Importantly, a significant shift in the area in terms of gender distribution is apparent and the 2011 status quo no longer stands (Urban-Econ, 2020). For full context refer to Section 3.4.5 of the Urban-Econ Socio-Economic Study. Age People aged between 15 and 64 years old represent 70.7% of the population with 25% of the population representing the young (ages 0-14) and 4.3%, the elderly (ages 65+). KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 286 of 399 Figure 8-99: STLM population size Figure 8-100: STLM gender distribution KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 287 of 399 Ethnicity and Language Almost 74% of the municipality is represented by Black African people followed by nearly 22 % White and smaller portions representing remaining ethnicities as shown in Table 8-33. Table 8-33 - Distribution of STLM by population group Group Percentage Black African 73.6% Coloureds 2.6% Indian or Asian 1.6% White 21.8% Other 0.4% Isizulu is the language most spoken in the municipality followed by Afrikaans, isiNdebele, Sepedi and other in smaller proportions (Table 8-34). Table 8-34 - Distribution of STLM by language spoken Group Percentage IsiZulu 27,8% Afrikaans 22,1% IsiNdebele 14,6% Sepedi 10,6% English 5,8% Others 19.1% Education According to the 2011 census, approximately 17 000 people within the STLM, over the age of 20 had no form of formal education and approximately 42 500 people have completed secondary education. Approximately 2.2 % (5 050 people) have received higher educational training. Table 8- 35 shows the levels of education represented in the municipality. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 288 of 399 Table 8-35 - Distribution of the levels of education represented in the municipality Group Percentage No Schooling 3,1% Some Primary 37,8% Completed Primary 5,8% Some Secondary 31,1% Completed Secondary 18,5% Higher Education 2,2% Not Applicable 1,5% Vulnerable Groups Vulnerable groups include amongst others, the elderly, people with physical and learning disabilities and mental health issues, economically disadvantaged, racial and ethnic minorities, the uninsured, people with low income, the homeless, those with HIV and other incapacitating chronic health conditions, migrant workers, pregnant women, children and Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning and asexual (LGBTQIA). These groups are likely to occur in the broader Project affected area. Employment and Income Profile The unemployment rate of STLM decreased from 19.7% in 2011 to 16.4% and is among the lowest in the municipalities within the Mpumalanga province. The unemployment rate for females of 21.8% is nearly double that of males at 12.9%. The youth unemployment, as recorded by the 2011 census, is 27.1%. Types of Employment In 2011, 682 of the village's 1,821 residents were employed in the formal sector and 76 in the informal sector in Komati (Urban-Econ, 2020). Eskom is the major employer in the area. Komati is also surrounded by agricultural land where people will be employed in this sector. Labour The Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) is a household-based sample survey. It collects information on the labour market activity of individuals aged 15 years and older, and provides the official measures of employment and unemployment (Statistics South Africa, 2023). Mpumalanga reported the largest increase in employment for quarter 3 of 2023 at 44,000 (Statistics South Africa, 2023). Eskom has established a Just Energy Transition Office (JETO). The JETO will retain all overall responsibility for ensuring that the provisions of the ESMP are met and it is committed to implementing the labour management plans for Eskom’s contractors. These plans and procedures must be shared with the potential employees before their appointment. This introduction to the policies contained KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 289 of 399 within the labour management plan will include terms and conditions, risks and occupational health and safety mitigation measures, and the general HR policies, including access to submit concerns. Child labour Eskom will not employ child labour in the construction or in the operation of the facilities. In South Africa, it is the mandate of the Department of Labour to prevent, reduce and eventually eliminate child labour. Between 2010 and 2019, reports of children:  Doing work as prohibited by Basic Employment Act decreased from 122 to 83.  Working long hours of any type of work, decreased by 97 from 417 to 320.  Conducting “market” that interfered with schooling decreased from 14 to 3.  A child's work-related activities causing them to miss school or led them to experience difficulties at school decreased from 35 to 8.  Doing hazardous work decreased from 291 to 193 (Statistics South Africa, 2019). Housing The number of households in the STLM increased by almost 22,000, from 64,971 in 2011 to 86,713 in 2016. The STLM provides these households with water, electricity and waste services. The average size of a household has declined from 3.5 to 3.2 people in the same period (Steve Tshwete Local Municipality, 2016). Health The main challenge to health care in the STLM is the prevalence of HIV/AIDS. A decrease in the HIV/AIDS prevalence rate was recorded between 2011 and 2013, declining from 52% to 43%. This decrease is attributed to increased HIV Counselling and Testing campaigns in the local municipality and increased community awareness (Steve Tshwete Local Municipality, 2016).. Security and Safety The Blinkpan Police Station services the Komati community. The crime statistic published for the 2020/2021 financial year by the South African Police Service (SAPS) indicated that only 62 contact crimes were committed during the period, with assault with the intent to inflict grievous bodily harm recorded, common assault and robbery with aggravating circumstances representing 89% of contact crimes. In total, 298 community-reported serious crimes were reported at the Blinkpan Police Station, with 71% (208) being theft, followed by contact crimes (21%) and property-related crimes (6%). Eskom will either provide or contract security during the construction and operation of the project. These will be trained professionals who must sign a code of conduct to protect the local communities. Gender-based Violence (GBV) Regarding gender-based violence, i.e. Rape, Sexual assault and contact sexual offences, two cases were recorded at the Blinkpan Police Station during the 2020/2021 period. Both cases were rape cases. No local organisation in the Komati area offers gender-based violence (GBV) support services to victims. However, the Department of Social Development established a GBV command centre in 2013, allowing survivors to contact the centre and be assigned a social worker close to them. Some KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 290 of 399 national NGOs offer services to GBV victims: People Opposing Woman Abuse (POWA), Sonke Gender Justice and Shukumisa. Although these services are established nationally, local offices and/or councillors are made available to communities. Agricultural Lands There are 8 681 households that take part in agricultural activities in the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality. The main types are poultry (28%), livestock (24%) and vegetable growing (21%). Other crops and other types of agriculture represent 9% and 19%, respectively. Urban-Econ (2020) states the there is a richness of agricultural resources and land capability in the area surrounding the Komati Power Station. The vast portions of land in the PSA have the potential for cultivation. Most of the agricultural activities undertaken in the area are done on a commercial scale, albeit on dryland. There are few portions, however, where there is irrigated commercial farming in the area. Considering that the area has potential for agricultural production, there is an opportunity to introduce or enhance agro-processing activities. The proposed project is located on Eskom owned land. Eskom leases the land to a commercial farmer located within Solar Site B. The Eskom Real Estate portfolio manager facilitated meetings with Eskom and the farmer on the proposed project and the use of the leased land. Eskom will give the farmer four months’ notice for termination if there is only grazing taking place. However, if the farmer is planting crops Eskom will have to wait until harvest time, or compensate the farmer for the loss. For full context refer to Section 3.4.4 of the Urban-Econ Socio-Economic Study. 8.3.5.4 Komati Village Population In 2011, the Komati had a population of 1,821 people. The gender distribution of the village was predominantly male, with females representing 42.2% and males 57.8% of the population in 2011(Figure 8-101). People between 15 and 64 years old represent 77.6% of the population, with 16.7% representing the young and 5.6% the elderly (Statistics South Africa, 2023). Figure 8-101 - Komati gender distribution (Statistics South Africa, 2023) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 291 of 399 Ethnicity and language Almost half of the village is represented by Black African people, followed by a nearly equal amount of White people, and smaller portions represent the remaining ethnicities, as shown in Table 8-36 (Statistics South Africa, 2023). Table 8-36 - Distribution of Komati Village by population group (Statistics South Africa, 2023) Group Percentage Black African 49.4% Coloureds 1.9% Indian or Asian 0.5% White 48.0% Other 0.2% Afrikaans is the most spoken language in the village, followed by isiZulu, English, Sepedi, and others in smaller proportions (Table 8-37). Table 8-37 - Distribution of Komati by language spoken Language Percentage Afrikaans 50.4% IsiZulu 14.9% English 10% SiSwati 5.7% IsiNdebele 5.1% Others 13.9% Education In 2011, approximately 49 people over 20 had no formal education, and about 142 people had received or completed a primary school level of education. About 661 people had received secondary education, and roughly 41% (746 people) had completed secondary educational training. Approximately 12.1% of the population had received a higher educational level of training. Table 8- 38 shows the levels of education represented in the village. Table 8-38 - Distribution of the levels of education represented in the village KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 292 of 399 Group Percentage No Schooling 2.7% Some Primary 5.5% Completed Primary 2.3% Some Secondary 36.3% Completed Secondary 41% Higher Education 12.1% Employment and Income Profile The labour force is still to be determined as it is influenced by the type of technology to be selected for the construction and operation of the SEF and BESS Facilities, as well as the selected supplier and contractor. However, the following indicative numbers10 can be used for planning purpose and have informed the ESIA:  Construction Phase: • Direct employment for construction and installation: 915 – 1070 employees  Operational phase: • Direct employment for operations and maintenance: 81 – 123 employees Several regional projects have been planned or are being implemented to reduce the impact of lost income in the STLM, NDM and Emalahleni local municipality, namely the establishment of the Steve Tshwete Hotel, the Centre of Excellence for Steel and Metal Fabrication, Crop farming with mine- affected water at the Mafube Colliery, the establishment of a Fly Ash Beneficiation Plant etc. Furthermore, the following activities that will be supported under Component C’s include among others: Agriculture (farming and gardens): Agrivoltaics project including; Training centres for welding, solar and wind turbine technical training, and community development training; Assembly of containerized microgrids; The establishment of an Early Childhood Development centre; Digital hubs and digital connection of communities; Upgrade/ expansion of sport and recreation facilities; Community support programs centres, health services, etc; Purchasing of land for the agricultural activities); Employment of labour, minor civil works, Renovation/construction associated with the digital hub; Catering services for employees working in projects and Renewable energy recycling facilities 10Source: VPC GmbH (October 2021) Draft Report for Komati Thermal Power Plant Technical Analysis on retiring and repurposing four coal plants, South Africa (P-2021-00547) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 293 of 399 These projects form part of the Component C projects in the Komati Power Station Environmental and Management Plan and will create an estimated 790 job opportunities. These jobs will offset some of the negative impacts resulting from the closure of Komati power station. 8.3.5.5 Social and Physical Infrastructure Schools There is one school in the Komati area (Laerskool Koornfontein). The nearest secondary school (Allendale Secondary School) is 27 kilometres from Komati. Healthcare The nearest hospital to the project location is the Impungwe Public Hospital which is 30 kilometres from Komati power station. The nearest provincial hospital is the Middleburg Provincial Hospital, which is 42 kilometres from Komati, in Middelburg Water In the STLM, 60.8% of households have access to piped water inside dwellings and 24.2% have access to piped water inside the yard. Community stands provide piped water to 13.1% of households while the remainder of the households rely on tankers, boreholes, dams and other sources of water. Raw water for Komati Power Station is obtained from the Nooitgedacht Dam (with a capacity of 78 477 m3) on the Komati River. Water is pumped to reservoirs at Klipfontein from where it gravitates to the power station; the total distance is approximately 64km. The water is treated by Komati Power Station to potable water standards as well as for power production. The water treatment plant also supplies water to certain communities. The plant’s capacity is 4.3 ML/day for potable water and 5.7 ML/day for demineralized water (Urban-Econ, 2020). The following communities receive water directly from the power station:  Komati Village – 45 ML/month;  Lakama Guesthouse – 1.5 ML/month; and  Koornfontein mine – 8 ML/month. For full context refer to Section 3.4.4 of the Urban-Econ Socio-Economic Study. Electricity Based on the District Municipality’s IDP, the STLM’s energy supply is licensed from a third party. The supply has become strained due to supply infrastructure failures and the unwillingness of coal suppliers to become long-term suppliers to Eskom. The export market is more lucrative for the coal suppliers. The STLM must make efforts to address the electricity supply issues by emphasising the following:  Partially licenced municipalities to provide electricity;  Municipalities exceeding their notified maximum demand;  Non-payment of bulk electricity;  Ageing of bulk electricity Infrastructure;  Inadequate bulk electricity infrastructure to meet the demand;  Lack of operation and maintenance plan; KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 294 of 399  Theft of solar panels from the borehole pump station; and With the stated supply constraints, households in the STLM have good access to electricity with a 91% of households having access to electricity. Access to Sanitation Over half (51%) of NDM households have access to flush toilet facilities and 43% use pit latrines. The rest of the households rely on other types of sanitation facilities. The majority of STLM households (84%) have access to flush toilet facilities,9% use pit latrines and the rest rely on other types of facilities (Urban-Econ Development Economists, 2022). Access to Waste Removal In contrast to the NDM, who only 40% of its population makes use of refuse dumps, 84.7% of the households in the STLM have their waste removed weekly by the municipality and only 11% of the households make use of a refuse dump. Telecommunications Komati is serviced by all the major network providers in the country. It has access to 4G/LTE coverage and access to the internet via the service provider rain. Public Transport The Komati area relies on taxis as the main form of public transportation. The area is serviced by the Middelburg District Taxi Association. Buses also operate in the area but are mainly used as scholar transport. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 295 of 399 9 IMPACT ASSESSMENT This Chapter identifies the perceived environmental and social effects associated with the proposed Project. The sensitive environmental features are included in Section 9.1 inclusive of the consolidated environmental sensitivity map in Figure 9-6. The assessment methodology is outlined in Section 3.6. The impact assessment in this section encompasses the geographical, physical, biological, social, economic, heritage and cultural aspects. 9.1 ENVIRONMENTAL SENSITIVITIES A summary of the specialist sensitivity verification are detailed in Table 9-1 below. The site verification process is discussed in the section below. Table 9-1 –Site Sensitivity Verifications Specialist Assessment Specialist Sensitivity Verification Agricultural Impact Assessment The areas of the site underlain by arable soils (Shortlands) and those that have been cultivated have been considered medium sensitivity areas. The areas of the site underlain by the uncultivated Valsrivier soils, the Sepane soils and the grassland areas were considered low sensitivity areas and the areas underlain by Witbank soils were considered very low sensitivity areas. Landscape/Visual Impact Assessment Medium Sensitivity Archaeological and Cultural Heritage Low Sensitivity Impact Assessment Palaeontology Impact Assessment Very High Sensitivity Terrestrial Biodiversity Impact This very high sensitivity rating, however, is only partly supported Assessment by the findings of this study. Most of the LSA is either modified or disturbed and therefore is not of very high sensitivity. Only the area of Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland, most of which is designated as CBA Optimal, is rated as having a High ecological importance. Aquatic Biodiversity Impact Medium Sensitivity Assessment Civil Aviation Assessment Low Sensitivity Defence Assessment The Department of Defence has been included on the project stakeholder database. No comment has been received to date. RFI Assessment The proposed development area is not located within any Astronomy Advantage Area and is therefore considered to be of low sensitivity. The SAWS and relevant telecommunications stakeholders have been included on the project stakeholder database. No comment has been received to date. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 296 of 399 Specialist Assessment Specialist Sensitivity Verification Geotechnical Assessment - Socio Economic Assessment - Plant Species Assessment Medium Sensitivity Animal Species Assessment Medium Sensitivity Avifauna Assessment Low Sensitivity 9.1.1 AGRICULTURAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT The project site areas were allocated agricultural sensitivities in accordance with Table 9-2. The DFFE 2021 land sensitivity database shows that the Project site comprises a combination of high and medium agricultural sensitivity areas, with a very small area of low sensitivity (see Figure 9-1). The soils survey of the site undertaken for this study showed that the site is less agriculturally sensitive than the DFFE database indicates. For the purposes of this study, the areas of the site underlain by arable soils (Shortlands) and those that have been cultivated have been considered moderate sensitivity areas (see Figure 9-2) because some of the Shortlands identified were relatively shallow and much of the previously cultivated land was underlain by Valsrivier soils. Limited development is typically allowed on agricultural land as the major agricultural concern for any development is the loss of high potential agricultural land and there is already a shortage of arable land available in South Africa. What is available is under threat from competing land uses, leading to a cumulative loss of arable land across the country. Further to this, subdivision of land may create portions that are too small to be agriculturally economically viable. The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) thus limits the portion of agricultural land that can be utilised for renewable energy development to 10% (CSIR, 2015). The areas of the site underlain by the uncultivated Valsrivier soils, the Sepane soils and the grassland areas were considered low sensitivity areas and the areas underlain by Witbank soils were considered very low sensitivity areas. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 297 of 399 Table 9-2 - Sensitivity Classes Sensitivity Areas Permitted Moderate Cultivated areas Linear infrastructure such as cabling and powerlines are allowed. SEF and ancillary infrastructure and roads should be avoided, if possible. Low Grassland SEF and ancillary infrastructure and roads are allowed. Very Low Developed areas SEF and ancillary infrastructure and roads are allowed. Figure 9-1 - Komati Site Agricultural Sensitivity KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 298 of 399 Figure 9-2 - Komati Site Soil Sensitivity Areas 9.1.2 LANDSCAPE/VISUAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT Based on the findings of the assessment , as well as the site visit undertaken, it can be found that the sensitivity of the visual receiving environment11 for the proposed Komati Solar PV and BESS Facility is actually confirmed to be high due to:  High potential for solar glint and glare on users of the R542 and R34 arterial routes, as well as residents (static ground-based receptors) located on the outskirts of the town of Komati;  Town dwellings located within 1km away from the proposed sites;  No natural mountain tops and ridges were noted to be located within 1km from the nearest site. Main topographical features of any elevation noted within the immediate vicinity of the site were man-made elements of an industrial nature (i.e. mine dumps, slime dams, ash ponds, etc.);  No PV panels are located on steep slopes, mountain tops or ridges;  Not located within a Renewable Energy Development Zone (REDZ); 11 The matrix and sensitivity rating dealt within this section of the report only confirms and verifies the sensitivity of the receiving environment in comparison to the outcomes of the DFFE Screening Tool. It does not, however, determine the overall visual impact of the proposed development on the sensitive receptors likely to be exposed to the proposed facility. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 299 of 399  Low VAC of the receiving environment; and  The already disturbed nature of the receiving environment (i.e. mining / industrial activities). 9.1.3 ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL HERITAGE IMPACT ASSESSMENT During the May 2023 field assessment, no sites, features or material of cultural heritage (archaeological and/or historical) origin or significance were identified in the study and proposed SEF development area. The planned SEF development and related infrastructure is located in already heavily disturbed areas and the likelihood of any cultural heritage sites or features being located here is very low. The often subterranean nature of archaeological and/historical sites and features should however always be taken into consideration and there is always a possibility of these occurring in an area earmarked for development. This could include unmarked or unknown graves or burials. The desktop research and physical field-based assessment confirmed this low sensitivity and that there are no sensitive heritage features in the study and proposed development area. 9.1.4 PALAEONTOLOGY IMPACT ASSESSMENT Fossils likely to be found are mostly plants such as ‘Glossopteris flora’ of the Vryheid Formation. The aquatic reptile Mesosaurus and fossil fish may also occur with marine invertebrates, arthropods and insects. Trace fossils can also be present. During storms a great variety of leaves, fructifications and twigs accumulated and because they were sandwiched between thin films of mud, they were preserved to bear record of the wealth and the density of the vegetation around the pools. They make it possible to reconstruct the plant life in these areas and wherever they are found, they constitute most valuable palaeobotanical records (Plumstead 1963) and can be used in palaeoenvironmental reconstructions. Details of the location and distribution of all significant fossil sites or key fossiliferous rock units are often difficult to be determined due to thick topsoil, subsoil, overburden and alluvium. Depth of the overburden may vary a lot. If fossils are found during construction and Phase 2 Palaeontological Mitigation will be required. The Phase 1: Palaeontology Field Study classifies the site as Very High Sensitivity due to plant fossils occurring in the Vryheid Formation and there is a risk that fossils may be exposed in the shale during the pre-construction and construction activities. All the land involved in the development was assessed and none of the property is unsuitable for development, however there is a risk that fossils may be exposed in the shale Should fossils be exposed the Chance and Find Protocol must be implemented. The site is currently used as a power station so the land use will not change. 9.1.5 TERRESTRIAL BIODIVERSITY IMPACT ASSESSMENT According to the Mpumalanga Biodiversity Sector Plan (2019), land in the north-west corner of the LSA is categorised as CBA Optimal. This very high sensitivity rating, however, is only partly supported by the findings of this study. Most of the LSA is either modified or disturbed and therefore is not of very high sensitivity. Only the area of Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland, most of which is designated as CBA Optimal, is rated as having a High ecological importance. However, the project layout has been optimised to avoid the CBA Optimal Area. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 300 of 399 9.1.6 AQUATIC BIODIVERSITY IMPACT ASSESSMENT Based on the findings of the Aquatic study, the presence of wetland features on site was confirmed, however, these wetlands were considered to be in a largely modified PES state with low/marginal EIS function and WetEcoservices and are therefore rated to be in a ‘Medium Sensitivity’. Although some areas of natural habitat have been mapped in the study area, no ‘no-go’ areas were mapped in the that relate to the aquatic biodiversity sensitivity. 9.1.7 CIVIL AVIATION ASSESSMENT An airstrip, presumed to service the Komati Power Station was noted within the proposed development area of PV Site B (Figure 9-3). Satellite imagery shows no obvious facilities (i.e. hangarage) for residential aircraft. Historical photos show that there has been no active use or maintenance of runways in the past 6 years (Figure 9-4). The aerodrome is thus considered unserviceable by general aviation. Therefore, the sensitivity is considered to be low. The relevant Authorities (i.e. ATNS and SACAA) have been included on the project stakeholder database. As of the 1st of May 2021, ATNS has been appointed as the new Obstacle application Service Provider for Windfarms and later Solar Plants. Their responsibility would pertain to the assessments, maintenance, and all other related matters in respect to Windfarms and in due time Power Plant assessments. Figure 9-3 - Airstrip noted within PV Site B Source: LoGIS, 2023 KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 301 of 399 Figure 9-4 – Satellite Imagery of Airstrip within PV Site B (left – 2003, Right - 2017) Source: Google Earth, 2023 9.1.8 DEFENCE ASSESSMENT The defence theme is considered to be of low sensitivity and the relevant stakeholders have been included on the project stakeholder database i.e. Department of Defence and no comment has been received to date. 9.1.9 RFI ASSESSMENT The proposed development area is not located within any Astronomy Advantage Area and is therefore considered to be of low sensitivity. The SAWS and relevant telecommunications stakeholders have been included on the project stakeholder database. No comment has been received to date. 9.1.10 ANIMAL AND PLANT SPECIES ASSESSMENT The findings of this study indicate that the LSA is rated ‘Medium Sensitivity’ with respects to terrestrial animals. No ‘no go’ areas were identified with respects to terrestrial animals. The site is classified as Medium Sensitivity, as confirmed by the findings of the study. No ‘no-go’ areas were identified in the LSA. This section presents summary comment on the ecological importance of identified habitat units in the study area, as per the SANBI (2020) protocol. It is informed by the combined findings of both the Terrestrial Animal Species Specialist Assessment and the Terrestrial Plant Species Specialist Assessment for the proposed Project. A map of ecological importance is shown in Figure 9-5, while a summary matrix is shown in Table 9-3. The Cultivated Fields, Alien Tree Stands, and Transformed Areas with Disturbed or Landscaped Vegetation habitats units are either transformed or subject to high levels of ongoing anthropogenic disturbance and are classified as modified habitat, i.e., anthropogenic activity has substantially modified primary ecological functioning and species composition. In line with the SANBI (2020) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 302 of 399 rating criteria, the biodiversity importance of Cultivated Fields, Alien Tree Stands, and Transformed Areas with Disturbed and Landscaped Vegetation is rated Very Low. Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland and Mixed Moist Grassland are considered natural habitat, i.e., these areas are comprised of viable assemblages of indigenous species and retain their primary ecological functions. The ecological importance of Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland is rated high, while that of Mixed Moist Grassland is rated medium. Table 9-3 - Ecological importance of habitat units identified in the local study area Habitat Unit Conservation Functional Biodiversity Receptor Ecological Importance Integrity Importance Resilience Importance Cultivated Fields Very Low Very Low Very Low Low Very Low Alien Tree Stands Very Low Very Low Very Low Low Very Low Transformed Areas with Very Low Very Low Very Low Low Very Low Disturbed or Landscaped Vegetation Mixed Themeda triandra High High High Medium High Grassland Mixed Moist Grassland High Medium Medium Medium Medium KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 303 of 399 Figure 9-5 – Ecological importance of habitat units in the local study area 9.1.11 AVIFAUNA ASSESSMENT The habitat that the PAOI will be located on is relatively homogenous consisting largely of old transformed and developed. No areas of avifaunal sensitivity were located on the development area, or immediate surrounds. The Avifauna Assessment noted that the vegetation present on the development site yielded few species of concern, and at low abundance. No nesting sites or roost sites of red-listed species were located on site. No significant seasonal variation in species assemblages and movements across the development site are likely to occur, less so for probable species of concern, thus the overall impact of the development on avifauna is considered to be low. 9.2 SENSITIVITY MAPPING A consolidated environmental sensitivity map has been compiled based on the sensitivities and buffers outlined in the following specialist studies:  Air Quality Assessment: • Sensitive receptors within a 10 km radius of the proposed project  Noise Assessment: KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 304 of 399 • Sensitive receptors within a 5 km radius of the proposed project  Visual Assessment: • High and Medium visual sensitive receptors  Surface Water Assessment: • Rivers  Terrestrial Plant and Animal Assessment: • CBAs • High Ecological Importance Areas  Aquatic Biodiversity Assessment: • Wetlands The sensitivities provided by the specialists have been overlaid on the layout map and is indicated in Figure 9-6. The no-go areas are indicated on Figure 9-7. It must be noted that the updated project layout avoids the no-go areas. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 305 of 399 Figure 9-6 – Site layout overlain onto a Consolidated Sensitivity Map KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 306 of 399 Figure 9-7 – No-Go Sensitivity Map KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 307 of 399 9.3 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT 9.3.1 SURFACE WATER ASSESSMENT 9.3.1.1 Construction Phase Construction activities could result to erosion from de-vegetated areas, leading to runoff carrying a high silt load and contaminants such as fuel, hydraulic fluids, degreasers, chemicals, and cement. However, due to the gentle slope, sandy soil nature, and low rainfall with high evaporation in the area, limited runoff is expected except for exceptionally high rainfall events. Surface water impacts identified during the construction phase includes:  Stormwater runoff (Table 9-4); and  Erosion (Table 9-5). Table 9-4 – Impact of stormwater runoff during the construction phase Potential Impact: Stormwater Runoff Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 4 1 3 2 2 20 Low (-) With Mitigation 2 1 1 2 2 12 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Construct pollution control systems such as bunded areas, and runoff control systems such as diversion berms and water collection areas such as the process water/evaporation dam first, before undertaking any other activities;  Construct berms down-gradient of construction areas to collect dirty runoff. Allow silt to settle, examine for contamination with oil and/or hydraulic fluids. Remove contaminated material monthly for remediation or appropriate disposal in accordance with prevailing legislation. Clean silt can be used during re-vegetation of bare areas;  Place drip trays under vehicles when parked;  Service vehicles in a workshop, not in the field;  If in-field refuelling is done from a tanker, it should be done in a designated dirty area and a spill kit and clean- up team must be available on site;  Spillages should be cleaned up immediately and contaminated soil must either be remediated in situ or disposed of at an appropriately licensed landfill site;  Potentially contaminating wastes (empty containers for paint, solvents, chemicals, etc.) and cement should be stored in bunded areas until removed by a reputable contractor for disposal at an appropriately licensed site;  Provision of adequate sanitation facilities in the form of chemical toilets that are serviced regularly; and KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 308 of 399  Providing environmental awareness training for workers on site. Table 9-5 – Impact of erosion during the construction phase Potential Impact: Erosion Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 2 2 3 2 4 36 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 1 2 2 12 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  For stockpiles and foundation excavations, it is recommended to place diversion berms or silt fences on the upslope and downslope, respectively. Any topsoil cleared for the development of the PV Plant footprints and hardstand areas should be stockpiled for the decommissioning and rehabilitation of the facility. If possible, the stockpiles should have gentle slopes of 1 in 5 or less to promote revegetation and limit erosion. The stockpile should be bunded until revegetation occurs. Although the gentle slopes require a larger surface area for the stockpile, this approach is considered the lower-impact option as it minimises erosion while disturbing a larger surface area. 9.3.1.2 Operational Phase Once operational, the 100 MW Solar Photovoltaics (PV) Energy Facility (SEF), 150 MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), and ancillary infrastructure installation will have a minor impact on water demand, which will be positive. However, during the operational phase, there is a possibility of increased spillage of fuels, lubricants, and other chemicals from the BESS. The installation and operation of the PV plants will result in the creation of relatively small impervious areas (e.g., buildings, roads, and the surfaces of the PV panels). These areas will not have a significant enough footprint to greatly affect the overall infiltration rate on-site. Vehicular movement between the solar panels may disturb the sandy soil surface, but it will not significantly reduce the infiltration rate due to the natural resistance of sandy soils to compaction. Therefore, localised runoff from these small footprints, with sufficient spaces in for vehicular access for cleaning and maintenance, is unlikely to accumulate and cause erosion or migrate off-site. Surface water impacts identified during the operational phase includes:  Flooding (Table 9-6);  Stormwater runoff (Table 9-7); and  Erosion (Table 9-8). KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 309 of 399 Table 9-6 – Impact of flooding during the operational phase Potential Impact: Flooding Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 3 1 3 2 2 18 Low (-) With Mitigation 2 1 1 2 2 12 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Remove settled silt from runoff control berms regularly, examine for contamination with oil and/or hydraulic fluids. Subject contaminated material to remediation or appropriate disposal in accordance with prevailing legislation. Clean silt can be used during re-vegetation of bare areas. Table 9-7 – Impact of stormwater runoff during the operational phase Potential Impact: Stormwater runoff Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 4 1 3 2 2 20 Low (-) With Mitigation 2 1 1 2 2 12 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Place drip trays under vehicles when parked.  Service vehicles in a workshop, not in the field.  Spillages should be cleaned up immediately and contaminated soil must either be remediated in situ or disposed of at an appropriately licensed landfill site.  Potentially contaminating wastes (empty containers for paint, solvents, chemicals, etc.) and cement should be stored in bunded areas until removed by a reputable contractor for disposal at an appropriately licensed site.  Provide environmental awareness training for workers on site.  Clean-up of spills as soon as they occur.  Maintenance of any abstraction pumps to prevent spills.  Maintenance of the BESS to ensure optimal functionality and prevent fire risks.  Maintenance and quality control of firefighting equipment and systems.  Mitigations for spillage or leakages will include bunded areas to store chemicals and/or fuel, containerisation of the BESS and cleaning up spills as soon as they occur. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 310 of 399 Table 9-8 – Impact of erosion during the operational phase Potential Impact: Erosion Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 2 2 3 2 4 36 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 1 2 2 12 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Remove settled silt from runoff control berms regularly, examine for contamination with oil and/or hydraulic fluids. Subject contaminated material to remediation or appropriate disposal in accordance with prevailing legislation. Clean silt can be used during re-vegetation of bare areas. 9.3.1.3 Decommissioning Phase The decommissioning phase will have a shorter duration compared to the construction and operational phases. Surface water impacts identified during the decommissioning phase includes:  Stormwater runoff (Table 9-9). Table 9-9 – Impact of stormwater runoff during the decommissioning phase Potential Impact: Stormwater runoff Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 4 1 3 2 2 20 Low (-) With Mitigation 2 1 1 2 2 12 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Construct pollution control systems such as bunded areas, and runoff control systems such as diversion berms and water collection areas such as the process water/evaporation dam first, before undertaking any other activities;  Construct berms down-gradient of construction areas to collect dirty runoff. Allow silt to settle, examine for contamination with oil and/or hydraulic fluids. Remove contaminated material monthly for remediation or appropriate disposal in accordance with prevailing legislation. Clean silt can be used during re-vegetation of bare areas; KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 311 of 399  Place drip trays under vehicles when parked;  Service vehicles in a workshop, not in the field;  If in-field refuelling is done from a tanker, it should be done in a designated dirty area and a spill kit and clean- up team must be available on site;  Spillages should be cleaned up immediately and contaminated soil must either be remediated in situ or disposed of at an appropriately licensed landfill site;  Potentially contaminating wastes (empty containers for paint, solvents, chemicals, etc.) and cement should be stored in bunded areas until removed by a reputable contractor for disposal at an appropriately licensed site;  Provision of adequate sanitation facilities in the form of chemical toilets that are serviced regularly; and  Provide environmental awareness training for workers on site. 9.3.2 GROUNDWATER ASSESSMENT The main impacts considered are in terms of groundwater quality and quantity. Quality impacts could result from:  Hydrocarbons associated with heavy moving equipment during site preparation and construction.  Site equipment including transformers, solar PV modules, inverters, excavators, graders, trucks, compacting equipment and construction material etc.  Fuel storage areas (diesel and oil for example).  Existing contaminated footprint where washing of the panels could result in an increased leaching of contamination to the groundwater.  The following parameters were noted as needing to be considered for the new activity: arsenic, cadmium, chromium, iron, lead, mercury, nickel, selenium, manganese, and zinc from the ash and coal storage areas; polychlorinated biphenyls, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethyl benzene, xylene), and other petroleum hydrocarbons from oil storage and mechanical and electrical equipment; and copper, iron, nickel, chromium, and zinc from panel cleaning and cooling tower blowdown wastewaters Quantity impacts could result from:  Reduced recharge as solar panels and an increased compacted/hard standing footprint will reduce the extent that rainfall can infiltrate to ground and recharge the aquifer.  Localised ad hoc artificial recharge from water used to wash the panels and/or footprint areas. It is noted that there is no groundwater abstraction planned for this project. The Komati Power Station has an existing WUL (WUL No. 27/2/1/C211/1/1 issued on 17 July 2009)) that allows for abstraction of water on Remainder of the farm Komati Power Station 65IS (project site). This water supply will be used during the projects construction and operational activities. The WUL is valid until 31 October 2025 therefore Eskom will be required to obtain a new, valid WUL for the abstraction of water post 31 October 2025. Komati Power Station operates a water treatment plant which supplies water to certain communities. The facility’s capacity is 4.3 ML/day for potable water and 5.7 ML/day for demineralized water (Urban-Econ, 2020). The source of water for the project will be from the KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 312 of 399 existing Water Treatment Plant at the Power Station. For drinking purposes, potable water will be supplied by Komati Power Station for the construction phase workers. The main receptors are community boreholes located in the surrounding farms and rivers both in terms of the aquatic ecology and as potential pathway of contaminated water downstream. The KPS is vulnerable to groundwater contamination due to the shallow water table. This is mitigated by the low conductivity (k) and low recharge. Groundwater is also abstracted from the adjacent Goedehoop Colliery and utilized for supply. Based on the Hydrocensus data provided by Eskom in 2019, the water quality data obtained for the hydrocensus boreholes are generally below the SANS 241:2015 limits for domestic use for the analysed parameters. 9.3.2.1 Construction Phase There are no groundwater quantity impacts identified during construction as water will not be obtained from the groundwater resource. The aquifers within the proposed areas are limited and there are no groundwater users within the KPS boundary. A reduction in recharge will therefore have a limited impact on receptors in the area. However, groundwater is generally impacted (quality) by sources within the KPS, limiting the infiltration of rain through contaminated soils, particularly in the coal stock yard area which has been identified as a potential source, would reduce the leachate of contamination to the groundwater. This is therefore likely to result in a net positive benefit to the groundwater. The low k and low recharge will limit the migration of contamination to receptors. Groundwater quality impacts during the construction phase includes:  Hydrocarbon spills from moving equipment (Table 9-10);  Leachate/spills from fuel storage areas (Table 9-11); and  Contamination from spoil from excavated trenches which could leach to the groundwater (Table 9-12). Table 9-10 – Impact of hydrocarbon spills from moving equipment during the construction phase Potential Impact: Hydrocarbon Spills Reversibility Significance Probability Decrease in groundwater quality Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 2 1 3 2 3 24 Low (-) With Mitigation 1 1 3 1 2 12 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  All equipment that has the potential to leach contamination to the environment should be stored on hard standing and in a bunded area (e.g., Fuel storage, soaps, greases, transformers etc.).  Vehicles should be routinely inspected, and maintenance carried out to reduce likelihood of spillages. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 313 of 399  Transfer of fuels and parking of vehicles should be on hard standing.  Spill kits should be used to clean up spills when they occur. Table 9-11 – Impact of leachate/spills from fuel storage areas during the construction phase Potential Impact: Leachate/spills Reversibility Significance Probability Decrease in groundwater quality Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 2 1 3 2 3 24 Low (-) With Mitigation 1 1 3 1 2 12 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  All equipment that has the potential to leach contamination to the environment should be stored on hard standing and in a bunded area (e.g., Fuel storage, soaps, greases, transformers etc.).  Vehicles should be routinely inspected, and maintenance carried out to reduce likelihood of spillages.  Transfer of fuels and parking of vehicles should be on hard standing.  Spill kits should be used to clean up spills when they occur. Table 9-12 – Impact of spoil from excavated trenches may be contaminated and could leach to the groundwater during the decommissioning phase Potential Impact: Spoil from excavated Reversibility Significance trenches Probability Magnitude Character Duration Decrease in groundwater quality Extent Without Mitigation 2 1 3 2 3 24 Low (-) With Mitigation 1 1 3 1 2 12 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Ensure appropriate management of excavations especially where these are required within areas proximal to residential dwellings of Komati.  Spoil recovered from trenches in the areas where contamination has been identified should be assessed and the spoil disposed in an appropriate manner. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 314 of 399 9.3.2.2 Operational Phase Groundwater impacts during the operational phase includes:  Reduced recharge due to increase in hardstanding footprint (Table 9-13);  Localised artificial recharge due to washing of solar panels (Table 9-14);  Reduced leachate from contaminated soils (Table 9-15);  Localised leachate from equipment (Table 9-16); and  Localised increased leachate from contaminated soils due to following washing of solar panels (Table 9-17). Table 9-13 – Impact to groundwater during operational phase Potential Impact: Groundwater Reversibility Significance Probability Reduced recharge due to increase in Magnitude Character Duration hardstanding footprint Extent Without Mitigation 3 1 3 4 3 33 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 3 4 2 20 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  All equipment that has the potential to leach contamination to the environment should be stored on hard standing and in a bunded area (e.g., Fuel storage, soaps, greases, transformers etc.).  Surface water controls to capture and contain wash water for re-use/management will reduce the impact to groundwater. Table 9-14 – Impact to groundwater and rivers during the operational phase Potential Impact: Groundwater and rivers Reversibility Significance Probability Localised artificial recharge due to washing of Magnitude Character Duration solar panels Extent Without Mitigation 2 1 3 4 3 30 Low (-) With Mitigation 1 1 3 1 2 12 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Surface water controls to capture and contain wash water for re-use/management will reduce the impact to groundwater.  The potential for leachate from contaminated footprints where panels are washed is likely to be limited given the low k and low recharge. However, site monitoring to monitor existing plumes from historical operations should continue as required by the site WUL. Eskom KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 315 of 399 will be required to ensure that future monitoring is aligned with the WB ESS and EHSG. Table 9-15 – Impact to groundwater during operational phase Potential Impact: Groundwater Reversibility Significance Probability Reduced leachate from contaminated soils Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 2 1 4 4 3 33 Moderate (+) With Mitigation 2 1 5 4 3 36 Moderate (+) Mitigation and Management Measures  All equipment that has the potential to leach contamination to the environment should be stored on hard standing and in a bunded area (e.g., Fuel storage, soaps, greases, transformers etc.).  Surface water controls to capture and contain wash water for re-use/management will reduce the impact to groundwater.  The potential for leachate from contaminated footprints where panels are washed is likely to be limited given the low k and low recharge. However, site monitoring to monitor existing plumes from historical operations should continue as required by the site WUL. Table 9-16 – Impact to groundwater and rivers during operational phase Potential Impact: Groundwater and Rivers Reversibility Significance Probability Localised leachate from equipment Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 3 1 5 4 3 39 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 4 4 2 22 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  All equipment that has the potential to leach contamination to the environment should be stored on hard standing and in a bunded area (e.g., Fuel storage, soaps, greases, transformers etc.).  Surface water controls to capture and contain wash water for re-use/management will reduce the impact to groundwater.  The potential for leachate from contaminated footprints where panels are washed is likely to be limited given the KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 316 of 399 low k and low recharge. However, site monitoring to monitor existing plumes from historical operations should continue as required by the site WUL. Table 9-17 – Impact to groundwater and rivers during operational phase Potential Impact: Groundwater and rivers Reversibility Significance Probability Localised increased leachate from Magnitude Character Duration contaminated soils due to following washing Extent of solar panels Without Mitigation 3 1 5 4 3 39 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 4 4 2 22 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  All equipment that has the potential to leach contamination to the environment should be stored on hard standing and in a bunded area (e.g., Fuel storage, soaps, greases, transformers etc.).  Surface water controls to capture and contain wash water for re-use/management will reduce the impact to groundwater.  The potential for leachate from contaminated footprints where panels are washed is likely to be limited given the low k and low recharge. However, site monitoring to monitor existing plumes from historical operations should continue as required by the site WUL. 9.3.2.3 Decommissioning Phase Groundwater impacts during the operational phase includes:  Hydrocarbon spills from moving equipment (Table 9-18); and  Leachate from equipment no longer in use (Table 9-19). Whilst footprint areas are considered contaminated in terms of Section 37(2) of the NEM: WA, it is WSP’s considered opinion that that the demonstrated contamination specific to these areas “does not present an immediate risk, but that measures are required to address the monitoring and management of that risk”. The areas in which concentrations were notably higher were however associated with the impacts from the Ashing area and around the coal stock yard where a remediation plan may be required. The PV and BESS areas are unlikely to require a specific remediation plan and monitoring, as is required by the existing WUL, should be sufficient. No further monitoring commitments are therefore recommended. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 317 of 399 Table 9-18 – Impact of hydrocarbon spills from moving equipment during decommissioning phase Potential Impact: Hydrocarbon Spills Reversibility Significance Probability Decrease in groundwater quality Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 2 1 3 2 3 24 Low (-) With Mitigation 1 1 3 1 2 12 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Vehicles should be routinely inspected, and maintenance carried out to reduce likelihood of spillages.  Parking should be on hard standing.  Spill kits should be used to clean up spills when they occur.  Redundant equipment must be demolished and removed to an appropriate waste facility. Table 9-19 – Impact of leachate from equipment no longer in use during decommissioning phase Potential Impact: Leachate from Reversibility Significance equipment no longer in use Probability Magnitude Character Duration Decrease in groundwater quality Extent Without Mitigation 3 1 4 5 3 39 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 3 4 3 30 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Vehicles should be routinely inspected, and maintenance carried out to reduce likelihood of spillages.  Parking should be on hard standing.  Spill kits should be used to clean up spills when they occur.  Redundant equipment must be demolished and removed to an appropriate waste facility. 9.3.3 SOILS AND AGRICULTURAL POTENTIAL ASSESSMENT The greatest impacts to soil are typically felt during the site preparation and construction phase of development as a result of vehicular movement, the removal of vegetation within the development footprint and associated disturbances to soil, and access to the site. Site preparation is followed by earthworks required for establishment of structures, leading to stockpiling and exposure of loose soils, as well as movement of construction equipment and personnel within the project area. Based on the information available, the following potential negative impacts of the proposed development were KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 318 of 399 considered and evaluated for the construction, operational and decommissioning phases and the cumulative impacts were assessed. It is understood that all infrastructure will be placed outside of the onsite wetland areas and that no cultivation is being undertaken at the site currently. The proposed infrastructure will be placed in the existing footprint of the Komati Power Station, within which there are already built-up areas and mining areas. 9.3.3.1 Construction Phase Impacts to soil and agricultural potential during the construction phase includes:  Loss of Soil (Table 9-20); • The stripping of soil, especially topsoil, ahead of the development of roads and infrastructure will lead to a loss of usable soil if not undertaken correctly. The soil horizons need to be separately stripped, stockpiled and reused to rehabilitate the disturbed footprint. The disturbed footprint is likely to be relatively small and will not result in a significant loss of soil and agricultural potential. Post construction rehabilitation in the form of shaping and grassing of disturbed areas should be undertaken in order to stabilise loose soil and reduce erosion losses. • Usable soil is also likely to be lost to compaction. The clay-rich soils identified on site (Shortlands, Valsrivier, Sepane) will be vulnerable to compaction and wet soils (Sepane) will be more vulnerable to compaction than the dry soils (Valsrivier, Shortlands). Soil compaction reduces the pore space available for air and water within soil, reducing soil arability and increasing the risk of soil erosion. Soil compaction cannot be fully mitigated against as compacted soil cannot regain its original structure.  Erosion and Sedimentation (Table 9-21); • Soil stripping, clearing of vegetation, movement of vehicles and earthworks are very likely to result in increased loose material being exposed and consequent erosion. Some erosion will occur wherever soils are disturbed, especially if mitigation measures are not correctly put in place. The site soils are clay-rich (Valsrivier, Shortlands, Sepane) so are not very vulnerable to erosion. Soil erosion could lead to sedimentation of the nearby wetlands, and to the loss of valuable topsoil that is essential for rehabilitation purposes.  Loss of Agricultural Land (Table 9-22); • There exists the potential for loss of agricultural land owing to direct occupation of the footprint of the energy facility infrastructure. The movement of vehicles and equipment is likely to result in compaction, disturbance and possible sterilization of soils and associated change in land capability. As mentioned, the site’s clay-rich soils will be vulnerable to compaction which cannot be fully mitigated against as compacted soil cannot regain its original structure.  Soil Contamination (Table 9-23). • Movement of vehicles and plant / equipment on site could result in leaks and spills of hazardous materials including hydrocarbons. Contaminated soil is expensive to rehabilitate and contamination entering the soils of the project area will infiltrate into the ground as well as migrate from site during rainfall events. The clay-rich soils identified on site will be vulnerable to contamination as they are chemically active so will interact with the contaminants. All soils will be at risk of contamination especially during the construction phase. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 319 of 399 Table 9-20 – Impact of loss of soil during the construction phase Potential Impact: Loss of soil Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 4 1 3 4 5 60 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 3 1 3 4 2 22 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Strip and stockpile all useable soil material.  Soil stockpiles should be kept low (below 3m tall).  Irrespective of where soil is stockpiled, it should be vegetated as soon as possible to protect against erosion, discourage weeds and maintain active soil microbes.  Soils can be ripped to make them more suitable for cultivation post-decommissioning.  Onsite vehicle routes must be limited on site by demarcating traffic areas and limiting vehicle access.  Soils must only be stripped when they are dry.  All stripping and stockpiling should be undertaken according to the guidelines below: • Demarcate the area to be stripped clearly, so that the contractor does not strip beyond the demarcated boundary. • The stripped soil should be relocated by truck along set removal paths. • The area to be stripped requires storm water management and the in-flow of water should be prevented with suitable structures. • Prepare the haul routes prior to stripping. • Stripping should not be undertaken in wet conditions. Table 9-21 – Impact of erosion and sedimentation during the construction phase Potential Impact: Erosion and Reversibility Significance sedimentation Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 4 1 3 4 5 60 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 3 4 3 30 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Limit earthworks and vehicle movement to demarcated paths and areas.  Limit the duration of construction activities, especially those involving earthworks / excavations. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 320 of 399  Access roads associated with the development should have gradients or surface treatment to limit erosion, and road drainage systems should be accounted for.  Existing roads should be used and regraded instead of creating new roads wherever possible.  Removal of vegetation must be avoided until such time as soil stripping is required and similarly exposed surfaces and soil stockpiles should be re-vegetated or stabilised as soon as is practically possible.  Phase-specific storm water management plans should be designed for the site and adhered to.  During periods of strong winds, stockpiles that have not yet been vegetated should be covered with appropriate material Table 9-22 – Impact of loss of agricultural land during the construction phase Potential Impact: Loss of Agricultural Reversibility Significance Land Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 4 1 3 4 5 60 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 3 4 5 30 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Limiting vehicle routes on site by demarcating traffic areas.  Limiting site vehicle access.  Reuse of existing roads will prevent additional areas from becoming compacted.  Stripping soils when they are dry.  Compacted soils can be ripped to make them more suitable for cultivation. Table 9-23 – Impact of soil contamination during the construction phase Potential Impact: Soil contamination Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 4 2 3 5 5 70 High (-) With Mitigation 3 1 3 4 2 22 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  On-site vehicles should be well-maintained,  Drip trays should be placed under parked vehicles; KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 321 of 399  On-site pollutants/hazardous materials should be contained in a bunded area and on an impermeable surface;  Ensure proper control of dangerous substances entering the site, and  Adequate disposal facilities must be provided. 9.3.3.2 Operational Phase Impacts to soil and agricultural potential during the operational phase includes:  Loss of Soil (Table 9-24);  Erosion and Sedimentation (Table 9-25);  Loss of Agricultural Land (Table 9-26);  Soil Contamination (Table 9-26). Table 9-24 – Impact of loss of soil during the operational phase Potential Impact: Loss of soil Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 1 1 3 4 5 45 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 1 1 3 4 1 9 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Strip and stockpile all useable soil material.  Soil stockpiles should be kept low (below 3m tall).  Irrespective of where soil is stockpiled, it should be vegetated as soon as possible to protect against erosion, discourage weeds and maintain active soil microbes.  Soils can be ripped to make them more suitable for cultivation post-decommissioning.  Onsite vehicle routes must be limited on site by demarcating traffic areas and limiting vehicle access.  Soils must only be stripped when they are dry. Table 9-25 – Impact of erosion and sedimentation during the operational phase Potential Impact: Erosion and Reversibility Significance sedimentation Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 2 1 3 4 5 50 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 1 1 3 4 2 18 Low (-) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 322 of 399 Mitigation and Management Measures  Access roads associated with the development should have gradients or surface treatment to limit erosion, and road drainage systems should be accounted for.  Existing roads should be used and regraded instead of creating new roads wherever possible.  Removal of vegetation must be avoided until such time as soil stripping is required and similarly exposed surfaces and soil stockpiles should be re-vegetated or stabilised as soon as is practically possible.  Phase-specific storm water management plans should be designed for the site and adhered to.  During periods of strong winds, stockpiles that have not yet been vegetated should be covered with appropriate material Table 9-26 – Impact of loss of agricultural land during the operational phase Potential Impact: Loss of Agricultural Reversibility Significance Land Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 2 1 3 4 5 50 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 3 4 3 30 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Reuse of existing roads will prevent additional areas from becoming compacted.  Stripping soils when they are dry.  Compacted soils can be ripped to make them more suitable for cultivation. Table 9-27 – Impact of soil contamination during the operational phase Potential Impact: Soil contamination Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 2 2 3 5 5 60 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 3 4 3 30 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  On-site vehicles should be well-maintained,  Drip trays should be placed under parked vehicles;  On-site pollutants/hazardous materials should be contained in a bunded area and on an impermeable surface;  Ensure proper control of dangerous substances entering the site, and KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 323 of 399  Adequate disposal facilities must be provided. 9.3.3.3 Decommissioning Phase Impacts to soil and agricultural potential during the decommissioning phase includes:  Loss of Soil (Table 9-28);  Erosion and Sedimentation (Table 9-29);  Loss of Agricultural Land (Table 9-30); and  Soil Contamination (Table 9-31). Table 9-28 – Impact of loss of soil during the decommissioning phase Potential Impact: Loss of soil Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 1 1 3 4 3 27 Low (-) With Mitigation 1 1 3 4 1 9 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Strip and stockpile all useable soil material.  Soil stockpiles should be kept low (below 3m tall).  Irrespective of where soil is stockpiled, it should be vegetated as soon as possible to protect against erosion, discourage weeds and maintain active soil microbes.  Soils can be ripped to make them more suitable for cultivation post-decommissioning.  Onsite vehicle routes must be limited on site by demarcating traffic areas and limiting vehicle access.  Soils must only be stripped when they are dry.  All stripping and stockpiling should be undertaken according to the guidelines below: • Demarcate the area to be stripped clearly, so that the contractor does not strip beyond the demarcated boundary. • The stripped soil should be relocated by truck along set removal paths. • The area to be stripped requires storm water management and the in-flow of water should be prevented with suitable structures. • Prepare the haul routes prior to stripping. • Stripping should not be undertaken in wet conditions. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 324 of 399 Table 9-29 – Impact of erosion and sedimentation during the decommissioning phase Potential Impact: Erosion and Reversibility Significance sedimentation Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 3 1 3 4 5 55 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 3 4 2 20 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Limit earthworks and vehicle movement to demarcated paths and areas.  Limit the duration of construction activities, especially those involving earthworks / excavations.  Access roads associated with the development should have gradients or surface treatment to limit erosion, and road drainage systems should be accounted for.  Existing roads should be used and regraded instead of creating new roads wherever possible.  Removal of vegetation must be avoided until such time as soil stripping is required and similarly exposed surfaces and soil stockpiles should be re-vegetated or stabilised as soon as is practically possible.  Phase-specific storm water management plans should be designed for the site and adhered to.  During periods of strong winds, stockpiles that have not yet been vegetated should be covered with appropriate material Table 9-30 – Impact of loss of agricultural land during the decommissioning phase Potential Impact: Loss of Agricultural Reversibility Significance Land Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 1 1 3 4 1 9 Very Low (-) With Mitigation 1 1 3 4 1 9 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Limiting vehicle routes on site by demarcating traffic areas.  Limiting site vehicle access.  Reuse of existing roads will prevent additional areas from becoming compacted.  Stripping soils when they are dry.  Compacted soils can be ripped to make them more suitable for cultivation. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 325 of 399 Table 9-31 – Impact of soil contamination during the decommissioning phase Potential Impact: Soil contamination Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 2 1 3 5 2 22 Low (-) With Mitigation 1 1 3 4 2 18 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  On-site vehicles should be well-maintained,  Drip trays should be placed under parked vehicles;  On-site pollutants/hazardous materials should be contained in a bunded area and on an impermeable surface;  Ensure proper control of dangerous substances entering the site, and  Adequate disposal facilities must be provided. 9.3.4 TERRESTRIAL ANIMAL SPECIES IMPACT ASSESSMENT 9.3.4.1 Construction Phase Loss and Disturbance of Fauna Habitat Habitat loss and disturbance refers to the removal or degradation of natural habitat. In terrestrial ecosystems, this primarily occurs through vegetation clearing and bulk earth works during construction.  In total, the proposed layout of Project will result in the direct loss of 48.43 ha of natural habitat and 147.28 ha of modified habitat - refer to Table 9-32:  The proposed PV Site A footprint mostly impacts modified habitat, specifically the Cultivated Fields and Transformed Areas with Disturbed or Landscaped Vegetation habitat units, with some Mixed Moist Grassland impacted;  The proposed PV Site B footprint comprises a mixture of modified and natural habitats, with both Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland and Mixed Moist Grassland directly impacted;  The BESS sites are all located on land designated under the Transformed Areas with Disturbed or Landscaped Vegetation habitat unit. The loss of modified habitats is not considered an impact of concern with respects to fauna SCC. However, the loss natural habitat is an impact of concern, and has been assessed separately for the Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland and Mixed Moist Grassland habitat units. Table 9-32 – Extent of habitat loss associated with proposed Project activities Habitat Type Habitat Units Approx. Extent (Ha) of Loss Modified Habitats Cultivated Fields 92.75 Alien Tree Stands 1.73 KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 326 of 399 Habitat Type Habitat Units Approx. Extent (Ha) of Loss Transformed Areas with Disturbed or Landscaped 52.80 Vegetation Sub Total 147.28 Natural Habitats Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland 21.48 Mixed Moist Grassland 26.95 Sub Total 48.43 Although localised disturbances are present in the Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland, in general, this habitat unit is considered a primary vegetation community and representative of Eastern Highveld Grassland vegetation type. It is rated as having a high ecological importance. This is consistent with the MBSP delineation of this portion of the LSA as CBA Optimal. Prior to mitigation, the loss of Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland habitat is considered an impact of very high magnitude, permanently affecting vegetation within and potentially adjacent to the development footprints (local). It is also considered to have a definite probability, resulting in a before impact rating of “very high” significance. With the application of standard mitigation, which includes the avoidance of Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland habitat that is designated as CBA Optimal, the impact magnitude can be reduced to low. Impact extent will be reduced to the site only, and duration will be long-term (i.e., project life), while probability will be reduced to medium. This results in an after-mitigation impact of “low” significance for the loss of Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland.. With respect to the Mixed Moist Grassland, this habitat unit is rated as having a medium ecological importance on account of various disturbances. Prior to mitigation this impact has a magnitude of high and will have a local extent. Duration will be permanent and it is definite that the impact will occur. This results in an impact significance of “high”. With the implementation of standard mitigation measures, this impact can be reduced to a low magnitude, with a long-term duration. Spatial extent will be reduced to the site only and probability will decrease from definite to probable. After mitigation, the loss of Mixed Moist Grassland is rated to be of “low” significance. The impact to fauna habitat is indicated in Table 9-47 and Table 9-34 . KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 327 of 399 Table 9-33 – Impact to fauna habitat during the construction phase Potential Impact: Fauna Habitat Reversibility Significance Probability Loss and disturbance of natural habitat - Magnitude Character Duration Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland Extent Without Mitigation 5 2 5 5 5 85 Very High (-) With Mitigation 2 1 3 4 4 30 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Project infrastructure should positioned to avoid clearing all land designated as CBA Optimal (refer to Terrestrial Biodiversity Specialist Report);  As much of the proposed Project infrastructure as possible should be located on areas of modified habitat;  All vegetation clearing for the Project should be restricted to the proposed Project footprints only, with no clearing permitted outside of these areas;  The footprints to be cleared of vegetation should be clearly demarcated prior to construction to prevent unnecessary clearing outside of these areas. No heavy vehicles should travel beyond the marked works zone;  Temporary facilities associated with construction, such as contractor site offices, portable toilets, storage and laydown areas, should be located on land that is currently transformed or developed;  Removed topsoil should be stockpiled and used to rehabilitate all non-operational disturbed areas.  A comprehensive rehabilitation/ landscaping protocol should be developed and implemented to stabilise and revegetate all non-operational sites that have been disturbed by construction.  Table 9-34 – Impact to fauna habitat during the construction phase Potential Impact: Fauna Habitat Reversibility Significance Probability Loss and disturbance of natural habitat - Magnitude Character Duration Moist Mixed Grassland Extent Without Mitigation 4 2 3 5 5 70 High (-) With Mitigation 2 1 3 4 3 30 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  As much of the proposed Project infrastructure as possible should be located on areas of modified habitat;  All vegetation clearing for the Project should be restricted to the proposed Project footprints only, with no clearing permitted outside of these areas; KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 328 of 399  The footprints to be cleared of vegetation should be clearly demarcated prior to construction to prevent unnecessary clearing outside of these areas. No heavy vehicles should travel beyond the marked works zone;  Temporary facilities associated with construction, such as contractor site offices, portable toilets, storage and laydown areas, should be located on land that is currently transformed or developed;  Removed topsoil should be stockpiled and used to rehabilitate all non-operational disturbed areas.  A comprehensive rehabilitation/ landscaping protocol should be developed and implemented to stabilise and revegetate all non-operational sites that have been disturbed by construction. Establishment and Spread of Alien Invasive Species Habitat disturbances caused by vegetation clearing and earth works during construction can facilitate the establishment and spread of AIS. Alien plant infestations can spread exponentially, suppressing or replacing indigenous vegetation. This may compromise ecosystem functioning resulting in a loss of biodiversity. Nineteen NEMBA listed AIS were recorded in the study area. Proposed Project activities will cause the physical disturbance of vegetation and soils, which will facilitate the spread of AIS. Before mitigation, impact magnitude is high, while duration is long term and it has a high probability. The spatial extent of AIS spread is local. Prior to mitigation, the establishment and spread of AIS is rated an impact of “moderate” significance. This impact is relatively easy to mitigate. With the implementation of active control during the construction phase, this impact can be reduced to a low magnitude, with a short-term duration. Spatial extent will be reduced to the site only and the probability of the impact occurring as predicted would be reduced to low. After mitigation, this impact is rated to be of “very low” significance. The impact of the establishment and spread of alien invasive species is indicated in Table 9-35. Table 9-35 – Impact of the establishment and spread of alien invasive species during the construction phase Potential Impact: Establishment and Reversibility Significance spread of alien invasive species Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 4 2 1 4 4 44 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 1 2 2 12 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  An AIS control and eradication plan must be developed for the Project that focuses on controlling and eradicating all AIS occurring throughout the LSA. The plan must include: KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 329 of 399 • Identification of AIS management units • Prioritisation of sites and species requiring control; • Targets and indicators of success; • Scheduling of AIS control; • Species-specific control methods, using a combined approach of both chemical and mechanical control methods; and • Provision for follow-up treatments, as informed by regular AIS monitoring. Direct Mortality, Injuring and Disturbance of Fauna Large and mobile fauna are likely to move off to avoid disturbances caused by construction activities. However, smaller and less mobile species may be trapped, injured and killed during vegetation clearing and earth works. Fauna that are particularly susceptible to direct mortality and disturbance include reptiles, amphibians and fossorial (burrowing) mammals. Other common causes of fauna death or injury include vehicle collisions along access roads, hunting and snaring by workers, and trapping of fauna in fences, excavations and trenches. Before mitigation, impact magnitude is high, while duration is immediate and it has a high probability. The spatial extent will be local. Prior to mitigation, the mortality, injuring and disturbance of mammals is rated an impact of “moderate” significance. After mitigation, which includes, inter alia, active supervision by an environmental control officer (ECO) at all times during the construction phase, this impact can be reduced to a low magnitude, with an immediate duration. The spatial extent will be reduced to the site and probability will also be reduced to low. After mitigation the killing, injuring and disturbance of fauna is rated of “very low” significance. The impact of the direct mortality, injuring and disturbance of fauna is indicated in Table 9-36. Table 9-36 – Impact of the direct mortality, injuring and disturbance of fauna during the construction phase Potential Impact: Direct mortality, injuring Reversibility Significance and disturbance of fauna Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 4 2 5 1 4 48 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 3 1 2 14 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  An ECO should be on-site during vegetation clearing to monitor and manage any wildlife-human interactions. The ECO should be trained in inter alia, snake handling and basic fauna identification;  Any fauna species trapped in construction areas, should be safely and correctly relocated to an adjacent area of natural habitat; KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 330 of 399  A low-speed limit (recommended 20-40 km/h) should be enforced on site to reduce wildlife collisions;  The handling, poisoning and killing of on-site fauna by workers and contractors must be strictly prohibited;  The rules and regulations concerning all wildlife should be communicated to workers and contractors through on-site signage and awareness training (induction);  An incidence register should be maintained throughout all phases of the Project detailing any wildlife mortalities/injuries caused by on-site activities. The register should be used to identify additional biodiversity management requirements;  As required, active dust suppressions should be implemented on-site to limit dust-related disturbances to fauna. Loss of Fauna Species of Conservation Concern (SCC) Several fauna SCC have historic distribution ranges that encompass the LSA, and thus potentially occur in areas of natural habitat. Habitat suitability assessments indicated that most of these SCC are unlikely to be present in the LSA, due inter alia, a lack of suitable habitat as a result of the fragmented and highly disturbed nature of most of the LSA. Based on anecdotal evidence, one Red List taxa was noted to be present in the LSA, namely the Serval. This adaptable species is able to tolerate a high degree of habitat disturbances (pers. obs.), and it is considered unlikely that habitat disruptions associated with the proposed Project will negatively impact the local Serval population. The probability of occurrence of the Maquassie Musk Shrew and African Marsh Rat was assessed to be possible. Both taxa favour moist grassland-type habitat, which is present in the LSA and will be impacted by proposed Project infrastructure. However, considering the already disturbed nature of this habitat unit in the LSA, it is unlikely that these areas constitute important life-cycle habitat for these taxa, and Project disturbances are thus unlikely to negatively affect Maquassie Musk Shrew and African Marsh Rat populations, if they are indeed present. Before mitigation, impact magnitude is very high, while duration is permanent. It has a moderate probability of occurrence. The spatial extent of the impact is at the local scale. Prior to mitigation, this impact is rated of “moderate” significance. This impact can be reduced to a medium magnitude, and will remain of permanent duration. Spatial extent will be reduced to the site, but probability will be reduced to low. After mitigation this impact is rated to be of “low” significance. The impact of the loss of fauna SCC is indicated in Table 9-37. Table 9-37 – Impact of the loss of fauna SCC during the construction phase Potential Impact: Loss of fauna species of Reversibility Significance conservation concern Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 5 2 5 5 3 51 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 3 1 3 5 2 24 Low (-) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 331 of 399 Mitigation and Management Measures  As much of the proposed Project infrastructure as possible should be located on areas of modified habitat;  All vegetation clearing for the Project should be restricted to the proposed Project footprints only, with no clearing permitted outside of these areas;  The footprints to be cleared of vegetation should be clearly demarcated prior to construction to prevent unnecessary clearing outside of these areas. No heavy vehicles should travel beyond the marked works zone;  Temporary facilities associated with construction, such as contractor site offices, portable toilets, storage and laydown areas, should be located on land that is currently transformed or developed;  Removed topsoil should be stockpiled and used to rehabilitate all non-operational disturbed areas.  A comprehensive rehabilitation/ landscaping protocol should be developed and implemented to stabilise and revegetate all non-operational sites that have been disturbed by construction.  The loss of natural habitat, particularly CBA Optimal land, is an impact that cannot be fully mitigated through standard mitigation and rehabilitation measures. A biodiversity offset strategy should therefore be developed and implemented for the proposed Project.  An ECO should be on-site during vegetation clearing to monitor and manage any wildlife-human interactions. The ECO should be trained in inter alia, snake handling and basic fauna identification;  Any fauna species trapped in construction areas, should be safely and correctly relocated to an adjacent area of natural habitat;  A low-speed limit (recommended 20-40 km/h) should be enforced on site to reduce wildlife collisions;  The handling, poisoning and killing of on-site fauna by workers and contractors must be strictly prohibited;  The rules and regulations concerning all wildlife should be communicated to workers and contractors through on-site signage and awareness training (induction);  An incidence register should be maintained throughout all phases of the Project detailing any wildlife mortalities/injuries caused by on-site activities. The register should be used to identify additional biodiversity management requirements;  As required, active dust suppressions should be implemented on-site to limit dust-related disturbances to fauna. 9.3.4.2 Operational Phase Establishment and Spread of Alien Invasive Species The potential establishment and spread of AIS in the study area will continue to be an impact of concern during the operational phase. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 332 of 399 Before mitigation, impact magnitude is high, while duration is long term and the impact has a high probability of occurring as predicted. The spatial extent of alien invasive species spread is local. Prior to mitigation, the establishment and spread of alien invasive species is rated an impact of “moderate” significance. With the continued implementation of an active alien species control programme during the operational phase this impact can be reduced to a low magnitude, with a short-term duration. Spatial extent will be reduced to the site only and probability at low. After mitigation, this impact is rated to be of “very low” significance. The impact of the establishment and spread of alien invasive species is indicated in Table 9-38. Table 9-38 – Impact of the establishment and spread of alien invasive species during the operational phase Potential Impact: Establishment and Reversibility Significance spread of alien invasive species Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 4 2 1 4 4 44 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 1 2 2 12 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Active alien invasive species control should continue throughout the operational phase, as per the approved AIS control and eradication programme. 9.3.4.3 Decommissioning Phase Establishment and Spread of Alien Invasive Species As Project infrastructure is dismantled and removed from site during the decommissioning phase, the associated disturbances are likely to facilitate alien invasive species colonisation in, and immediately adjacent to, the study area. Before mitigation, impact magnitude is high, while duration is long term and the impact has a high probability of occurring as predicted. The spatial extent of alien invasive species spread is local. Prior to mitigation, the establishment and spread of alien invasive species is rated an impact of “moderate” significance. With the continued implementation of an active alien species control programme during decommissioning, this impact can be reduced to a low magnitude, with a short-term duration. Spatial extent will be reduced to the site only and the probability of the impact occurring would be low. After mitigation, this impact is rated to be of “very low” significance. The impact of the establishment and spread of alien invasive species is indicated in Table 9-39. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 333 of 399 Table 9-39 – Impact of the establishment and spread of alien invasive species during the operational phase Potential Impact: Establishment and Reversibility Significance spread of alien invasive species Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 4 2 1 4 4 44 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 1 2 2 12 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Active alien invasive species control should continue during the decommissioning phase and follow up control should be carried out for a five- year period following decommissioning. 9.3.5 TERRESTRIAL PLANT SPECIES IMPACT ASSESSMENT 9.3.5.1 Construction Phase Loss and Disturbance of Flora Habitat Habitat loss and disturbance refers to the removal or degradation of natural habitat. In terrestrial ecosystems, this primarily occurs through vegetation clearing and bulk earth works during construction. In total, the proposed layout of Project will result in the direct loss of 48.43 ha of natural habitat and 147.28 ha of modified habitat - refer to Table 9-40:  The proposed PV Site A footprint mostly impacts modified habitat, specifically the Cultivated Fields and Transformed Areas with Disturbed or Landscaped Vegetation habitat units, with some Mixed Moist Grassland impacted;  The proposed PV Site B footprint comprises a mixture of modified and natural habitats, with both Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland and Mixed Moist Grassland directly impacted;  The BESS sites are all located on land designated under the Transformed Areas with Disturbed or Landscaped Vegetation habitat unit. The loss of modified habitats is not considered an impact of concern. However, the loss natural habitat is an impact of concern, and has been assessed separately for the Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland and Mixed Moist Grassland habitat units. Table 9-40 – Extent of habitat loss associated with proposed Project activities Habitat Type Habitat Units Approx. Extent (Ha) of Loss Modified Habitats Cultivated Fields 92.75 Alien Tree Stands 1.73 Transformed Areas with Disturbed or Landscaped 52.80 Vegetation KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 334 of 399 Habitat Type Habitat Units Approx. Extent (Ha) of Loss Sub Total 147.28 Natural Habitats Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland 21.48 Mixed Moist Grassland 26.95 Sub Total 48.43 Although localised disturbances are present in the Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland, in general, this habitat unit is considered a primary vegetation community, and is rated as having a high ecological importance. This is consistent with the MBSP delineation of this portion of the LSA as CBA Optimal. Prior to mitigation, the loss of Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland habitat is considered an impact of very high magnitude, permanently affecting vegetation within and potentially adjacent to the development footprints (local). It is also considered to have a definite probability, resulting in a before impact rating of “very high” significance. With the application of standard mitigation, which includes the avoidance of all land designated as CBA Optimal, the impact magnitude can be reduced to low. Impact extent will be reduced to the site only, and duration will be long-term (i.e., project life), while probability will be reduced to medium. This results in an after-mitigation impact of “low” significance for the loss of Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland. With respect to the Mixed Moist Grassland, this habitat unit is rated as having a medium ecological importance on account of various disturbances. Prior to mitigation this impact has a magnitude of high and will have a local extent. Duration will be permanent and it is definite that the impact will occur. This results in an impact significance of “high”. With the implementation of standard mitigation measures, this impact can be reduced to a low magnitude, with a long-term duration. Spatial extent will be reduced to the site only and probability will decrease from definite to medium. After mitigation, the loss of Mixed Moist Grassland is also rated to be of “low” significance. The impact to flora habitat and species is indicated in Table 9-41 and Table 9-42 . Table 9-41 – Impact to flora habitat and species during the construction phase Potential Impact: Flora habitat and species Reversibility Significance Probability Loss and disturbance of natural habitat - Magnitude Character Duration Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland Extent Without Mitigation 5 2 5 5 5 85 Very High (-) With Mitigation 4 1 3 4 4 48 Moderate (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Project infrastructure should be positioned to avoid clearing all land designated as CBA Optimal;  As much of the proposed Project infrastructure as possible should be located on areas of modified habitat; KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 335 of 399  All vegetation clearing for the Project should be restricted to the proposed Project footprints only, with no clearing permitted outside of these areas;  The footprints to be cleared of vegetation should be clearly demarcated prior to construction to prevent unnecessary clearing outside of these areas. No heavy vehicles should travel beyond the marked works zone;  Temporary facilities associated with construction, such as contractor site offices, portable toilets, storage and laydown areas, should be located on land that is currently transformed or developed;  Removed topsoil should be stockpiled and used to rehabilitate all non-operational disturbed areas.  A comprehensive rehabilitation/ landscaping protocol should be developed and implemented to stabilise and revegetate all non-operational sites that have been disturbed by construction.  Table 9-42 – Impact to flora habitat and species during the construction phase Potential Impact: Flora habitat and species Reversibility Significance Probability Loss and disturbance of habitat - Moist Mixed Magnitude Character Duration Grassland Extent Without Mitigation 4 2 3 5 5 70 High (-) With Mitigation 3 1 2 4 3 30 Moderate (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Project infrastructure should be positioned to avoid clearing all land designated as CBA Optimal;  As much of the proposed Project infrastructure as possible should be located on areas of modified habitat;  All vegetation clearing for the Project should be restricted to the proposed Project footprints only, with no clearing permitted outside of these areas;  The footprints to be cleared of vegetation should be clearly demarcated prior to construction to prevent unnecessary clearing outside of these areas. No heavy vehicles should travel beyond the marked works zone;  Temporary facilities associated with construction, such as contractor site offices, portable toilets, storage and laydown areas, should be located on land that is currently transformed or developed;  Removed topsoil should be stockpiled and used to rehabilitate all non-operational disturbed areas.  A comprehensive rehabilitation/ landscaping protocol should be developed and implemented to stabilise and revegetate all non-operational sites that have been disturbed by construction.  KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 336 of 399 Establishment and Spread of Alien Invasive Species Habitat disturbances caused by vegetation clearing and earth works during construction can facilitate the establishment and spread of AIS. Alien plant infestations can spread exponentially, suppressing or replacing indigenous vegetation. This may compromise ecosystem functioning resulting in a loss of biodiversity. Nineteen NEMBA listed AIS were recorded in the study area. Proposed Project activities will cause the physical disturbance of vegetation and soils, which will facilitate the spread of AIS. Before mitigation, impact magnitude is high, while duration is long term and it has a high probability. The spatial extent of AIS spread is local. Prior to mitigation, the establishment and spread of AIS is rated an impact of “moderate” significance. This impact is relatively easy to mitigate. With the implementation of active control during the construction phase, this impact can be reduced to a low magnitude, with a short-term duration. Spatial extent will be reduced to the site only and the probability of the impact occurring as predicted would be reduced to low. After mitigation, this impact is rated to be of “very low” significance. The impact of the establishment and spread of alien invasive species is indicated in Table 9-43. Table 9-43 – Impact of the establishment and spread of alien invasive species during the construction phase Potential Impact: Establishment and Reversibility Significance spread of alien invasive species Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 4 2 1 4 4 44 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 1 2 2 12 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  An AIS control and eradication plan must be developed for the Project that focuses on controlling and eradicating all AIS occurring throughout the LSA. The plan must include: • Identification of AIS management units • Prioritisation of sites and species requiring control; • Targets and indicators of success; • Scheduling of AIS control; • Species-specific control methods, using a combined approach of both chemical and mechanical control methods; and • Provision for follow-up treatments, as informed by regular AIS monitoring. Loss of Flora Species of Conservation Concern Based on reviewed literature and datasets, several flora SCC are known from the region and potentially occur in patches of natural habitat in the study area. No Red List flora species were recorded in the study area during the field survey. However, the provincially protected Eulophia KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 337 of 399 ovalis var. ovalis and Orthochilus leontoglossus were recorded within, or in close proximity to, the proposed PV Site B footprint and these and potentially other flora SCC may be impacted during vegetation clearing. Before mitigation, impact magnitude is very high, while duration is permanent. It has a high probability of occurrence. The spatial extent of the impact is at the local scale. Prior to mitigation, this impact is rated of “high” significance. With mitigation, which includes restricting vegetation clearing to the immediate development footprints and rescuing and relocating SCC occurring within the development footprints, this impact can be reduced to a medium magnitude, and will remain of permanent duration. Spatial extent will be maintained at the site only, but probability will be reduced to low. After mitigation this impact is rated to be of “low” significance. The impact of the loss of flora SCC is indicated in Table 9-44. Table 9-44 – Impact of the loss of flora SCC during the construction phase Potential Impact: Loss of flora species of Reversibility Significance conservation concern Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 5 2 5 5 4 68 High (-) With Mitigation 3 1 3 5 2 24 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Surveys of each development footprint should be conducted to identify and record the number of flora SCC that require rescue and relocation;  Based on the findings of the SCC survey, application(s) for rescue and relocation permits should be submitted to the relevant authority.  No vegetation clearing or rescue and relocation operations should be allowed until the correct permits have been obtained; and  Rescued plants should be relocated to an adjacent area of similar natural habitat, and correctly cared for after relocation until such a time as out-planting has been deemed successful. 9.3.5.2 Operational Phase Establishment and Spread of Alien Invasive Species The potential establishment and spread of AIS in the study area will continue to be an impact of concern during the operational phase. Before mitigation, impact magnitude is high, while duration is long term and the impact has a high probability of occurring as predicted. The spatial extent of alien invasive species spread is local. Prior to mitigation, the establishment and spread of alien invasive species is rated an impact of “moderate” significance. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 338 of 399 With the continued implementation of an active alien species control programme during the operational phase this impact can be reduced to a low magnitude, with a short-term duration. Spatial extent will be reduced to the site only and probability at low. After mitigation, this impact is rated to be of “very low” significance. The impact of the establishment and spread of alien invasive species is indicated in Table 9-45. Table 9-45 – Impact of the establishment and spread of alien invasive species during the operational phase Potential Impact: Establishment and Reversibility Significance spread of alien invasive species Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 4 2 1 4 4 44 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 1 2 2 12 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Active alien invasive species control should continue throughout the operational phase, as per the approved AIS control and eradication programme. 9.3.5.3 Decommissioning Phase Establishment and Spread of Alien Invasive Species As Project infrastructure is dismantled and removed from site during the decommissioning phase, the associated disturbances are likely to facilitate alien invasive species colonisation in, and immediately adjacent to, the study area. Before mitigation, impact magnitude is high, while duration is long term and the impact has a high probability of occurring as predicted. The spatial extent of alien invasive species spread is local. Prior to mitigation, the establishment and spread of alien invasive species is rated an impact of “moderate” significance. With the continued implementation of an active alien species control programme during decommissioning, this impact can be reduced to a low magnitude, with a short-term duration. Spatial extent will be reduced to the site only and the probability of the impact occurring would be low. After mitigation, this impact is rated to be of “very low” significance. The impact of the establishment and spread of alien invasive species is indicated in Table 9-46. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 339 of 399 Table 9-46 – Impact of the establishment and spread of alien invasive species during the decommissioning phase Potential Impact: Establishment and spread Reversibility Significance of alien invasive species Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 4 2 1 4 4 44 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 1 2 2 12 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Alien invasive species monitoring should be conducted on an annual basis during decommissioning and on a biennial basis for a six-year period following decommissioning;  Monitoring should focus on all sites disturbed by decommissioning activities;  Monitoring should assess species type and density, and these data should inform the scope of ongoing alien invasive species control and the need for additional rehabilitation/revegetation interventions. 9.3.6 AQUATIC BIODIVERSITY IMPACT ASSESSMENT 9.3.6.1 Construction Phase Construction phase impacts on aquatic (wetland and riparian systems) largely arise as a result of direct impacts on the receiving environment due to clearing of land within wetlands or their immediate catchments in advance of project development, and resultant loss of wetland habitat. The earthworks and activities involved during the construction phase of the Project can exert negative impacts on sensitive ecosystems including loss of wetland habitat, catchment landcover changes resulting in increased sediment entry to downstream systems, construction of wetland/riparian system crossings causing impoundments/barriers to movement for aquatic species, contamination of water bodies by construction materials / vehicles (hydrocarbons etc), increased potential of erosion due to surface runoff and soil disturbances and the establishment and spread of alien and invasive species (AIS). Impacts envisaged during the construction phase are outlined in the sections below. Loss and Disturbance Of Wetland Habitat Site establishment and construction of the proposed project infrastructure, particularly PV Site A which is located at the boundary of Seep 1, will lead to the destruction and disturbance of wetland habitat within the project footprint. Based on the optimised project layout, the proposed project infrastructure layout avoids the direct loss of wetland habitat. The magnitude of impact is therefore expected to be medium due to the close proximity of the proposed project infrastructure and the destructive nature of the construction phase around wetlands. The impact will be of site-based extent, having a permanent impact duration. The impact of loss of wetland habitat it indicated in Table 9-47. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 340 of 399 Table 9-47 – Impact of loss and disturbance of wetland habitat during the construction phase Potential Impact: Loss and disturbance of Reversibility Significance wetland habitat Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 4 1 5 5 5 75 High (-) With Mitigation N/A Mitigation and Management Measures N/A Changes In Wetland Health/Functioning Bulk earthworks involved in site development in the immediate catchment of wetlands can cause indirect impacts on wetland habitat through compaction/removal of recharge or interflow soils, as well as increased sediment deposition to downslope wetland ecosystems in stormwater runoff. If not carefully managed, this impact can result in a medium impact magnitude, having a local impact scale and lasting for the duration of the construction phase, resulting in a Moderate impact significance prior to mitigation. With the implementation of recommended mitigation measures to address reduced wetland functioning, such as diffuse distribution of clean stormwater runoff around the PV and BESS foundations and road crossing to affected downslope wetland systems, the impact significance can be reduced to a Low impact significance. The impact of the changes in wetland health/functioning is indicated in Table 9-48. Table 9-48 – Impact of the changes in wetland health/functioning during the construction phase Potential Impact: Changes in wetland Reversibility Significance health/functioning Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 3 2 3 3 4 44 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 3 2 3 24 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Areas of undisturbed, natural grassland and wetland habitat should be avoided to the extent possible.  Areas of direct loss that cannot be avoided must be addressed via additional conservation actions/offsets as required.  A loss/disturbance buffer zone of at least 100 m should be maintained between the maximum extent of construction works and the outer boundary of wetlands and riparian zones. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 341 of 399  To prevent loss of natural habitat in wetlands beyond the direct disturbance footprint, prior to any vegetation clearing, the development footprints should be clearly marked out with flagging tape/posts in the field.  Vegetation clearing should be restricted to the proposed project footprints only, with no clearing permitted outside of these areas.  The extent of disturbance should be limited by restricting all construction activities to the servitude as far as practically possible.  Locate all stockpiles, laydown areas and temporary construction infrastructure at least 50 m from the edge of delineated wetlands.  Wetland/river crossings should be constructed utilizing designs that ensure that hydrological integrity of the affected wetlands is preserved, and natural flow regimes are maintained (i.e. no impoundment upstream of crossings, or flow concentration downstream of crossings.  Ideally construction activities within wetlands should take place in winter (during the dry season).  Where summer construction is unavoidable, temporary diversions of the streams might be required.  Install erosion prevention measures prior to the onset of construction activities. Measures should include low berms on approach and departure slopes to crossings to prevent flow concentration, sediment barriers along the lower edge of bare soil areas, placement of hay bales around the within wetland construction areas, and re-vegetation of disturbed areas as soon as possible. Contamination of Riparian Systems Stripping of topsoil and civil works activities, resulting in a decrease in water quality due to erosion, sedimentation and the alteration in the distribution and quantity of surface water runoff, will have a medium impact magnitude with a local extent impact and a short-term impact duration. The impact significance prior to mitigation is Moderate, with the implementation of recommended mitigation measures, this impact can be reduced to a Very Low impact significance. The impact of the contamination of riparian systems is indicated in Table 9-49. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 342 of 399 Table 9-49 – Impact of the contamination of riparian systems during the construction phase Potential Impact: Contamination of Reversibility Significance riparian systems Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 3 2 3 2 4 40 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 1 1 2 10 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Diffuse distribution of clean stormwater runoff around the PV and BESS foundations and road crossing to affected downslope wetland systems  To prevent loss of natural habitat in wetlands beyond the direct disturbance footprint, prior to any vegetation clearing, the development footprints should be clearly marked out with flagging tape/posts in the field.  Vegetation clearing should be restricted to the proposed project footprints only, with no clearing permitted outside of these areas.  The extent of disturbance should be limited by restricting all construction activities to the servitude as far as practically possible.  Locate all stockpiles, laydown areas and temporary construction infrastructure at least 50 m from the edge of delineated wetlands.  Wetland/river crossings should be constructed utilizing designs that ensure that hydrological integrity of the affected wetlands is preserved, and natural flow regimes are maintained (i.e. no impoundment upstream of crossings, or flow concentration downstream of crossings.  Ideally construction activities within wetlands should take place in winter (during the dry season).  Where summer construction is unavoidable, temporary diversions of the streams might be required.  Install erosion prevention measures prior to the onset of construction activities. Measures should include low berms on approach and departure slopes to crossings to prevent flow concentration, sediment barriers along the lower edge of bare soil areas, placement of hay bales around the within wetland construction areas, and re-vegetation of disturbed areas as soon as possible. Soil Erosion The removal of wetland vegetation for the construction of the proposed development could result in an increase of bare soil/surfaces in the study area which will lead to increased runoff, ultimately resulting in soil erosion. The impact on soil erosion is considered to have a medium magnitude, with local impact extent and a long-term impact duration, resulting in a Moderate impact significance pre mitigation. With mitigation, the impact can be reduced to a Low impact significance. The impact of wetland soil erosion is indicated in Table 9-50. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 343 of 399 Table 9-50 – Impact of wetland soil erosion during the construction phase Potential Impact: Wetland soil erosion Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 3 1 3 4 4 44 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 3 2 3 24 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  To prevent loss of natural habitat in wetlands beyond the direct disturbance footprint, prior to any vegetation clearing, the development footprints should be clearly marked out with flagging tape/posts in the field.  Vegetation clearing should be restricted to the proposed project footprints only, with no clearing permitted outside of these areas.  The extent of disturbance should be limited by restricting all construction activities to the servitude as far as practically possible.  Locate all stockpiles, laydown areas and temporary construction infrastructure at least 50 m from the edge of delineated wetlands.  Wetland/river crossings should be constructed utilizing designs that ensure that hydrological integrity of the affected wetlands is preserved, and natural flow regimes are maintained (i.e. no impoundment upstream of crossings, or flow concentration downstream of crossings.  Ideally construction activities within wetlands should take place in winter (during the dry season).  Where summer construction is unavoidable, temporary diversions of the streams might be required.  Install erosion prevention measures prior to the onset of construction activities. Measures should include low berms on approach and departure slopes to crossings to prevent flow concentration, sediment barriers along the lower edge of bare soil areas, placement of hay bales around the within wetland construction areas, and re- vegetation of disturbed areas as soon as possible. Establishment And Spread Of Alien Invasive Species (AIS) Disturbances caused by vegetation clearing and earth works during construction will exacerbate the establishment and spread of alien invasive vegetation. Alien plant infestations can spread exponentially, suppressing, or replacing indigenous vegetation. This may result in a breakdown of ecosystem functioning and a loss of wetland biodiversity. Consequently, this impact is considered to have a medium impact severity, with a local impact extent and a long-term impact duration, resulting in a Moderate impact significance prior to mitigation. With the development of an auditable AIS Management Plan for the project, and the strict implementation of the recommended active control and monitoring measures throughout the construction phase, the impact significance can be reduced to a Very Low. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 344 of 399 The impact of the spread of AIS is indicated in Table 9-51. Table 9-51 – Impact of the spread of AIS during the construction phase Potential Impact: Spread of AIS Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 3 2 3 4 4 48 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 1 2 2 12 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  An alien and invasive species management plan should be developed for the Project, which includes details of strategies and procedures that must be implemented on site to control the spread of alien and invasive species. A combined approach using both chemical and mechanical control methods, with periodic follow-up treatments informed by regular monitoring, is recommended. Changes In The Extent And Condition Of Ecosystems Supplying Ecosystem Services Ecosystem services supplied in the study area include biodiversity maintenance, and regulating and supporting services. Since the project infrastructure will not cause any changes to the watercourse's ability to regulate streamflow or its assimilation of pollutants, no impacts on the supply/provision of regulating and supporting services is predicted. However, some loss of wetland habitat will occur due to the construction of project infrastructure (i.e BESS) which will reduce the available area of habitat for the African Grass Owl (Tyto Capensis). This impact was assessed as having a medium impact magnitude due to the already disturbed nature of the study area. The impact is of local extent and lasting for the duration of the project life resulting in a Moderate impact significance. With the implementation of mitigation measures the magnitude can be reduced to a low, extent to site only and the duration to short term, resulting in a Low impact significance. The impact of the changes in the extent and condition of ecosystems supplying ecosystem services is indicated in Table 9-51. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 345 of 399 Table 9-52 – Impact of the changes in the extent and condition of ecosystems supplying ecosystem services during the construction phase Potential Impact: changes in the extent Reversibility Significance and condition of ecosystems supplying Probability Magnitude Character ecosystem services Duration Extent Without Mitigation 3 2 3 5 4 52 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 3 2 2 16 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  To prevent loss of natural habitat in wetlands beyond the direct disturbance footprint, prior to any vegetation clearing, the development footprints should be clearly marked out with flagging tape/posts in the field.  Vegetation clearing should be restricted to the proposed project footprints only, with no clearing permitted outside of these areas.  The extent of disturbance should be limited by restricting all construction activities to the servitude as far as practically possible.  Locate all stockpiles, laydown areas and temporary construction infrastructure at least 50 m from the edge of delineated wetlands.  Wetland/river crossings should be constructed utilizing designs that ensure that hydrological integrity of the affected wetlands is preserved, and natural flow regimes are maintained (i.e. no impoundment upstream of crossings, or flow concentration downstream of crossings.  Ideally construction activities within wetlands should take place in winter (during the dry season).  Where summer construction is unavoidable, temporary diversions of the streams might be required.  Install erosion prevention measures prior to the onset of construction activities. Measures should include low berms on approach and departure slopes to crossings to prevent flow concentration, sediment barriers along the lower edge of bare soil areas, placement of hay bales around the within wetland construction areas, and re-vegetation of disturbed areas as soon as possible. 9.3.6.2 Operational Phase Operational phase impacts relate to the possible exacerbation of the construction-phase impacts, including soil erosion, surface water and soil contamination and ongoing risk of spread of the alien and invasive plant species that may have colonised new areas during the construction phase. Spread of AIS The potential establishment of alien invasive species in, and immediately adjacent to, wetlands in the vicinity of the proposed development footprint will continue to be an impact of concern during the operational phase. Without mitigation, the impact significance is considered Moderate impact. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 346 of 399 With the development of an auditable AIS Management Plan for the project, and the strict implementation of the recommended active control and monitoring measures throughout the operational phase, the impact significance can be reduced to a Very Low impact. The impact of the spread of AIS is indicated in Table 9-60. Table 9-53 – Impact of the spread of AIS during the operational phase Potential Impact: Spread of AIS Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 3 2 3 4 4 48 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 1 1 2 10 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  An alien and invasive species management plan should be developed for the Project, which includes details of strategies and procedures that must be implemented on site to control the spread of alien and invasive species. A combined approach using both chemical and mechanical control methods, with periodic follow-up treatments informed by regular monitoring, is recommended. Soil Erosion The increased presence of hardened surfaces in the study area can exacerbate soil erosion, through increased and concentrated surface run off. This impact is assessed as having a medium impact magnitude, with a long-term impact duration and a high probability of occurrence. Without mitigation this impact will have a Moderate impact significance on wetland soils and with mitigation it can be reduced to a Low impact significance. The impact of wetland soil erosion is indicated in Table 9-54. Table 9-54 – Impact of wetland soil erosion during the operational phase Potential Impact: Wetland soil erosion Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 3 1 3 4 5 55 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 3 1 3 21 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  To prevent loss of natural habitat in wetlands beyond the direct disturbance footprint, prior to any vegetation KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 347 of 399 clearing, the development footprints should be clearly marked out with flagging tape/posts in the field.  Wetland/river crossings should be constructed utilizing designs that ensure that hydrological integrity of the affected wetlands is preserved, and natural flow regimes are maintained (i.e. no impoundment upstream of crossings, or flow concentration downstream of crossings. Water Quality Deterioration and Contamination of Wetland Soils Quarterly washing and maintenance of the PV panels could potentially have a negative impact on water quality and wetland soils, due to inputs of detergents, and possible erosion paths forming in the soils of adjacent wetland areas, should large amounts of water be discharged to the environment. This impact will have a medium impact magnitude with a long-term impact duration resulting in a Moderate impact significance prior to mitigations. With mitigation, the impact can be reduced to a Very Low impact significance. The impact of water quality deterioration and contamination of wetland soils is indicated in Table 9- 54. Table 9-55 – Impact of water quality deterioration and contamination of wetland soils during the operational phase Potential Impact: Water quality Reversibility Significance deterioration and contamination of Probability Magnitude Character wetland soils Duration Extent Without Mitigation 3 1 3 4 4 44 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 1 1 2 10 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Wetland/river crossings should be constructed utilizing designs that ensure that hydrological integrity of the affected wetlands is preserved, and natural flow regimes are maintained (i.e. no impoundment upstream of crossings, or flow concentration downstream of crossings.  Monitoring of wetland health to be conducted within one year of completion of construction, to measure any changes to the baseline status and ensure that recommended mitigation measures are sufficient to address any significant impacts.  Follow up monitoring of wetland health PES/EIS every three years throughout the operating period. 9.3.7 AVIFAUNA ASSESSMENT Outlined below are the potential impacts and associated risk factors that may be generated by the proposed development. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 348 of 399 According to Birdlife South Africa’s Best Practice Guidelines on Birds and Solar Energy, the associated concerns with PV facilities are summarized below:  Displacement of species of conservation concern.  Loss of habitat and disturbance during construction and operational phases.  Collision with solar panels and power line infrastructure. The proposed Komati SEF development will cover an area of approximately 200 ha, located within the Eastern Highveld Grassland vegetation type. This habitat represents the vegetation type of the surrounding area, whilst the development area itself is transformed, with large sections of developed areas and agriculture present. Of the 29 species of concern that have been reported in the broader area, only two were recorded during the site visit, both Peregrine Falcon and Black-Winged Kite being of least concern. The development is unlikely to have a significant impact on these species, but direct habitat loss and displacement will likely affect common local bird assemblages. Potential impacts on avifauna associated with the proposed development are outlined in more detail below. 9.3.7.1 Construction Phase As a result of direct habitat loss to accommodate the construction of the solar energy facility, avifauna of all sizes will be affected to varying degrees. Smaller passerines will be highly susceptible to these changes, losing potential feeding, roosting, and breeding habitat. These habitat loss impacts are permanent in nature, whilst disturbances may be limited to the construction and operational phases, after which some species will begin to reutilize suitable parts of the development site again. Larger raptors and terrestrial species with larger home ranges and a tendency to show higher sensitivity to disturbances might be less likely and/or slower to return to the development area. The impact of habitat loss, displacement, and disturbance of avifauna is indicated in Table 9-56. Table 9-56 – Impact of habitat loss, displacement, and disturbance of avifauna during the construction phase Potential Impact: Habitat loss, Reversibility Significance displacement, and disturbance of avifauna Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 3 2 3 4 3 36 Medium (-) With Mitigation 2 2 1 4 3 27 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Limit destruction of habitat during construction phase strictly to the development footprint  All building waste produced during construction should be removed and disposed of at an official waste management facility.  Any liquid or chemical spills should be dealt with immediately to avoid contamination of the environment on site. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 349 of 399  No construction should take place near to any active raptor or priority species nests should these be located prior to the implementation of the construction phase. Nesting should be allowed to run until completion and until chicks have successfully fledged before disturbance in the area recommences.  Where trenches or holes are required to be dug, these are to be filled shortly afterwards. These open holes serve as potential pit-fall traps for fledgling birds and should not be left open for extended periods of time.  Nesting sites and/or sensitive microhabitats should be avoided where possible, especially during the peak summer breeding seasons.  An environmental induction prior to construction for all staff and contractors to explain that no animals are to be harmed or hunted, and that all necessary process to limit littering, chemical pollution, fires are implemented on site.  Low speed limits should be adhered to on site, to avoid collisions with avifauna, especially nocturnal species (e.g. owls, nightjars, and thick-knees) that actively hunt and inhabit the roads after dark. 9.3.7.2 Operational Phase Due to their size, small passerines carry less risk regarding collisions with overhead lines and the risks of electrocutions on power line infrastructure. Larger species of raptor and terrestrial birds are thus at a higher risk, and large raptors are prone to electrocution due to their tendency to roost, rest, and hunt from power lines and power line structures. This is of concern as many of these species are red-listed and are also prone to impacts from habitat loss and disturbance and can thus be severely affected by solar developments across all their accompanying impacts. The impact of collision risk and electrocutions with powerlines and infrastructure is indicated in Table 9-57. Table 9-57 – Impact of collision risk and electrocutions with powerlines and infrastructure on avifauna during the operational phase Potential Impact: Habitat loss, Reversibility Significance displacement, and disturbance of avifauna Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 2 2 1 4 3 27 Low (-) With Mitigation 2 2 1 4 3 27 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  If raptor or other bird species are found on any power line infrastructure, these should be left undisturbed until nesting and fledging of the chicks has taken place. If any nests are deemed to be of risk to the safety of the power line, nests of non-priory species should be KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 350 of 399 removed before/after breeding has taken place. If the nest is of a priority species, an avifaunal specialist should be contacted to best advise on how to move forward with the best interests of the priority species in mind.  Monthly monitoring is recommended post construction, especially for the first year, to note any high-risk areas, whether on the power lines themselves or ancillary infrastructure. Regular carcass searches will help pin- point high risk areas, and mitigation measures such as bird flappers can be installed in these zones to mitigate further injuries and death to local avifauna. 9.3.8 TRAFFIC ASSESSMENT 9.3.8.1 Construction Phase The impact of construction vehicles on roads and access roads during the construction phase is included in Table 9-58. Table 9-58 – Impact of construction vehicles on roads and access roads during the construction phase Potential Impact: Transportation Reversibility Significance Impact of construction vehicles on roads and Probability Magnitude Character access roads Duration Extent Without Mitigation 1 1 3 2 4 28 Low (-) With Mitigation 1 1 3 2 4 28 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures N/A 9.3.8.2 Operational Phase The impact of transportation activities during the operational phase is included in Table 9-59. Table 9-59 – Impact of transportation activities during the operational phase Reversibility Significance Potential Impact: Transportation Probability Magnitude Character Duration Transportation activities during operations Extent Without Mitigation 1 1 1 4 4 28 Low (-) With Mitigation 1 1 1 4 4 28 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures N/A KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 351 of 399 9.3.8.3 Decommissioning Phase The impact of construction vehicles on roads and access roads during the decommissioning phase is included in Table 9-58. Table 9-60 – Impact of transportation activities during the decommissioning phase Reversibility Significance Potential Impact: Transportation Probability Magnitude Character Duration Impact of construction vehicles on roads and Extent access roads Without Mitigation 1 1 1 4 4 28 Low (-) With Mitigation 1 1 1 4 4 28 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures N/A 9.3.9 VISUAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT 9.3.9.1 Construction Phase During the construction period it is expected that any visual impact of concern on sensitive visual receptors within the study area will be temporary and limited to a short-term period (2-5 years). The direct construction visual impacts of the proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility includes the visual impact of construction on sensitive visual receptors in close proximity (within 1km) to the proposed PV facility as indicated in Table 9-61. During the construction period, there will be an increase in heavy vehicles utilising the roads to the construction sites that may cause, at the very least, a visual nuisance to other road users and landowners in the area within 1km. Additionally, stripping of the vegetation and the resultant dust of the construction activities, as well as construction equipment (i.e. cranes), temporary laydown areas, construction camps, etc. may also be visible at the site, resulting in a visual impact occurring during construction. Construction activities may potentially result in a high temporary visual impact, that may be mitigated to moderate on residents of towns and homesteads located within 1km of the proposed PV Facility. Of note is that residents located on the outskirts of Komati do not have built-up areas surrounding them and therefore visual clutter is not expected to mitigate the visual exposure on these sensitive receptors located within 1km. Additionally, it is expected that construction activities may potentially result in a moderate temporary visual impact, that may be mitigated to a slightly lower moderate on observers travelling along the various roads within 1km to the proposed PV facility. A mitigating factor in the above scenario is that observers travelling along the various roads (i.e. R542, R35, and secondary road) will only experience a visual impact for a brief period of time and it is expected the visual exposure of the PV facility structures will be in conjunction with the existing visual clutter (power lines, power station and mining infrastructure) within the region. This reduces the probability of this impact occurring. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 352 of 399 Table 9-61 – Impact of visual effect on sensitive visual receptors in close proximity (within 1km) to the proposed PV facility during the construction phase Potential Impact: Visual effect of construction activities on sensitive Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude receptors Character Duration Visual impact of construction activities on Extent sensitive visual receptors in close proximity to the proposed PV facility. Without Mitigation 10 4 1 2 4 64 High (-) With Mitigation 6 4 1 2 3 36 Moderate (-) Mitigation and Management Measures Planning:  Retain and maintain natural vegetation in all areas outside of the development footprint, but within the project site.  Consult adjacent landowners (if present) in order to inform them of the development and to identify any (valid) visual impact concerns. Construction:  Ensure that vegetation is not unnecessarily removed during the construction period.  Plan the placement of laydown areas and temporary construction equipment camps in order to minimise vegetation clearing (i.e. in already disturbed areas) where possible.  Restrict the activities and movement of construction workers and vehicles to the immediate construction site and existing access roads.  Ensure that rubble, litter, and disused construction materials are appropriately stored (if not removed daily) and then disposed of regularly at licensed waste facilities.  Reduce and control construction dust using approved dust suppression techniques as and when required (i.e. whenever dust becomes apparent).  Restrict construction activities to daylight hours whenever possible in order to reduce lighting impacts.  Rehabilitate all disturbed areas immediately after the completion of construction works. 9.3.9.2 Operational Phase Visual related impacts identified during the operational phase include:  Visual impact on observers (residents at homesteads and visitors/tourists) in close proximity (i.e. within 1km) to the PV facility (Table 9-63);  Visual impact on residents at homesteads within a 1 – 3km radius of the facility (Table 9-64);  Visual impact on observers travelling along the roads and residents at homesteads within a 3 – 6km radius of the facility (Table 9-65);  Visual impact on observers travelling along the roads, residents at homesteads and protected areas beyond the 6km radius of the facility (Table 9-66); KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 353 of 399  Visual impact of lighting at night on sensitive visual receptors (Table 9-67);  The visual impact of solar glint and glare as a visual distraction and possible road travel hazard (Table 9-68);  The visual impact of solar glint and glare on residents of homesteads in closer proximity (within 1km) to the PV facility (Table 9-69);  Visual impact of the ancillary infrastructure on observers in close proximity to the structures (Table 9-69); and  Impact of sense of place during the operational phase (Indirect Impact) (Table 9-71). Of note is that residents located on the outskirts of Komati do not have built-up areas surrounding them and therefore visual clutter is not expected to mitigate the visual exposure on these sensitive receptors located within 1km. A mitigating factor in this scenario is that observers travelling along the various roads (i.e. R542, R35, and various secondary roads) will only experience a visual impact for a brief period of time and it is expected the visual exposure of the PV facility structures will be in conjunction with the existing visual clutter (power lines, power station and mining infrastructure) within the region. This reduces the probability of this impact occurring. Mitigation of this impact is possible and both specific measures as well as general “best practice” measures are recommended in order to reduce/mitigate the potential visual impact. Table 9-62 – Impact of Visual impact on residents at homesteads, towns and visitors/tourists within 1km to the PV facility during the operational phase Potential Impact: Visual impact on Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude observers (residents and visitors) Character Duration Visual impact on observers (residents and Extent visitors) in close proximity (within 1km) to the proposed PV facility. Without Mitigation 10 4 1 4 4 72 High (-) With Mitigation 6 4 1 4 3 42 Moderate (-) Mitigation and Management Measures Planning:  Retain/re-establish and maintain natural vegetation in all areas outside of the development footprint/servitude, but within the project site.  Consult adjacent landowners (if present) in order to inform them of the development and to identify any (valid) visual impact concerns. Operations:  Maintain the general appearance of the facility as a whole.  Retain/re-establish and maintain natural vegetation (if present) immediately adjacent to the development footprint, where possible.  Investigate the potential to screen affected receptor sites (if applicable and located within 1km of the facility) with planted vegetation cover. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 354 of 399 Table 9-63 – Impact of visual impact on observers (residents and visitors) in close proximity (within 1km) to the proposed PV facility during the operational phase Potential Impact: Visual impact on Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude observers (residents and visitors) Character Duration Visual impact on observers (residents and Extent visitors) in close proximity (within 1km) to the proposed PV facility. Without Mitigation 10 4 1 4 3 54 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 6 4 1 4 3 42 Moderate (-) Mitigation and Management Measures Planning:  Retain/re-establish and maintain natural vegetation in all areas outside of the development footprint/servitude, but within the project site.  Consult adjacent landowners (if present) in order to inform them of the development and to identify any (valid) visual impact concerns. Operations:  Maintain the general appearance of the facility as a whole.  Retain/re-establish and maintain natural vegetation (if present) immediately adjacent to the development footprint, where possible.  Investigate the potential to screen affected receptor sites (if applicable and located within 1km of the facility) with planted vegetation cover. Table 9-64 – Impact of visual effect of the proposed PV facility within 1- 3km radius during the operational phase Potential Impact: Visual Impact Reversibility Significance Visual impact on residents at homesteads Probability Magnitude Character within a 1 – 3km radius of the facility. Duration Extent Without Mitigation 8 3 1 4 3 45 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 6 3 1 4 2 26 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures Planning:  Retain/re-establish and maintain natural vegetation in all areas outside of the development footprint/servitude, but within the project site. Operations:  Maintain the general appearance of the facility as a whole.  Retain/re-establish and maintain natural vegetation (if present) immediately adjacent to the development footprint, where possible. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 355 of 399  Investigate the potential to screen affected receptor sites (if applicable and located within 1km of the facility) with planted vegetation cover. Residual Impact  The visual impact will be removed after decommissioning, provided the facility infrastructure is removed and the area rehabilitated. Failing this, the visual impact will remain Table 9-65 – Impact of visual effect of the proposed PV facility within 3- 6km radius during the operational phase Potential Impact: Visual Impact Reversibility Significance Visual impact on residents at homesteads Probability Magnitude Character within a 3 – 6 km radius of the facility. Duration Without Mitigation 6 Extent 2 1 4 2 24 Low (-) With Mitigation 4 2 1 4 2 20 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures Planning:  Retain/re-establish and maintain natural vegetation in all areas outside of the development footprint/servitude, but within the project site. Operations:  Maintain the general appearance of the facility as a whole.  Retain/re-establish and maintain natural vegetation (if present) immediately adjacent to the development footprint, where possible.  Investigate the potential to screen affected receptor sites (if applicable and located within 1km of the facility) with planted vegetation cover. Residual Impact  The visual impact will be removed after decommissioning, provided the facility infrastructure is removed and the area rehabilitated. Failing this, the visual impact will remain. Table 9-66 – Impact of visual effect of the proposed PV facility within the greater area (beyond 6km radius) during the operational phase Potential Impact: Visual Impact Reversibility Significance Visual impact on residents at homesteads Probability Magnitude Character within the greater area (beyond 6km radius). Duration Extent Without Mitigation 4 1 1 4 2 18 Low (-) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 356 of 399 With Mitigation 4 1 1 4 1 9 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures Planning:  Retain/re-establish and maintain natural vegetation in all areas outside of the development footprint/servitude, but within the project site. Operations:  Maintain the general appearance of the facility as a whole.  Retain/re-establish and maintain natural vegetation (if present) immediately adjacent to the development footprint, where possible.  Investigate the potential to screen affected receptor sites (if applicable and located within 1km of the facility) with planted vegetation cover Residual Impact  The visual impact will be removed after decommissioning, provided the PV infrastructure is removed and the area rehabilitated. Failing this, the visual impact will remain Table 9-67 – Impact of operational, safety and security lighting of the facility at night during the operational phase Potential Impact: Safety and security lighting of the facility Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude Character Visual impact of lighting at night on sensitive Duration visual receptors. Extent Without Mitigation 6 3 1 4 3 39 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 4 3 1 4 2 22 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures Planning & operation:  Shield the sources of light by physical barriers (walls, vegetation, or the structure itself).  Limit mounting heights of lighting fixtures, or alternatively use foot-lights or bollard level lights.  Make use of minimum lumen or wattage in fixtures.  Make use of down-lighters, or shielded fixtures.  Make use of Low-Pressure Sodium lighting or other types of low impact lighting.  Make use of motion detectors on security lighting. This will allow the site to remain in relative darkness, until lighting is required for security or maintenance purposes. Residual Impact  The visual impact will be removed after decommissioning, provided the PV infrastructure is removed and the area rehabilitated. Failing this, the visual impact will remain KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 357 of 399 Table 9-68 – Impact of solar glint and glare as a visual distraction and possible air/road travel hazard during the operational phase Potential Impact: Solar glint and glare Reversibility Significance The visual impact of solar glint and glare Probability Magnitude Character as a visual distraction and possible road Duration travel hazard. Extent Without Mitigation 10 4 11 4 3 54 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 6 4 4 3 42 Moderate (-) Mitigation and Management Measures Planning & operation:  Retain/re-establish and maintain natural vegetation (if present) immediately adjacent to the development footprint.  Use anti-reflective panels and dull polishing on structures, where possible and industry standard.  Adjust tilt angles of the panels if glint and glare issues become evident, where possible.  If specific sensitive visual receptors are identified during operation, investigate screening at the receptor site, where possible.  Recommended that a Glint and Glare Assessment be undertaken if the airstrip noted on PV Site B will be retained and used during the operational phase of the development. Residual Impact  The visual impact will be removed after decommissioning, provided the PV infrastructure is removed and the area rehabilitated. Failing this, the visual impact will remain Glint and glare occurs when the sun reflects off surfaces with specular (mirror-like) properties. Examples of these include glass windows, water bodies and potentially some solar energy generation technologies (e.g. parabolic troughs and CSP heliostats). Glint is generally of shorter duration and is described as “a momentary flash of bright light”, whilst glare is the reflection of bright light for a longer duration. The visual impact of glint and glare relates to the potential it has to negatively affect sensitive visual receptors in relatively close proximity to the source (e.g. residents of homesteads and users of the roads), or aviation safety risk for pilots (especially where the source interferes with the approach angle to the runway). The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of the United States of America have researched glare as a hazard for aviation pilots on final approach and may prescribe specific glint and glare studies for solar energy facilities in close proximity to aerodromes (airports, airfields, military airbases, etc.). It is generally possible to mitigate the potential glint and glare impacts through the design and careful placement of the infrastructure. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 358 of 399 Table 9-69 – Impact of solar glint and glare on static ground-based receptors (residents of homesteads) in close proximity (within 1km) to the PV facility during the operational phase Potential Impact: Solar glint and glare Reversibility Significance The visual impact of solar glint and glare on Probability Magnitude Character residents of homesteads in closer proximity Duration (within 1km) to the PV facility Extent Without Mitigation 8 4 1 4 4 64 High (-) With Mitigation 6 4 1 4 2 28 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures Planning & operation:  Use anti-reflective panels and dull polishing on structures, where possible and industry standard.  It is recommended to avoid using deeply textured glass, as research has indicated that employing smooth or lightly textured glass, effectively mitigates any glint and glare impacts.  Adjust tilt angles of the panels if glint and glare issues become evident, where possible.  Provide significant screening around the development site. This can be achieved through the application of one or a combination of the following methods: • Retain/re-establish and maintain natural vegetation (if present) immediately adjacent to the boundary of the entire development footprint. • Construct and plant a vegetated berm • Should no existing vegetation be present in certain areas or should it be insufficient in height to provide sufficient screening in certain areas, then it is recommended that vegetated berms be constructed and planted. This vegetated berm is required to consist of the following: − Plant species that are preferably locally endemic but at a minimum at least indigenous. − A combination of plant species of various height variations (i.e low shrubs to tall trees) to ensure sufficient coverage exceeding the expected panel heights. − Evergreen species to ensure coverage through all seasons of the year, especially winter.  Should the construction and planting of a vegetated screen not be possible then it is recommended that a wall be constructed exceeding the height of the panels.  Reduce the mounting height of the panels to as low as possible to ensure that the screening measures recommended above are possible to implement  Retain/re-establish and maintain natural vegetation (if present) immediately adjacent to the development footprint. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 359 of 399  Adjust tilt angles of the panels if glint and glare issues become evident, where possible.  If specific sensitive visual receptors are identified during operation, investigate screening at the receptor site, where possible.  Recommended that a Glint and Glare Assessment be undertaken if the airstrip noted on PV Site B will be retained and used during the operational phase of the development. Table 9-70 – Impact of ancillary infrastructure during the operational phase Potential Impact: Ancillary Infrastructure Reversibility Significance Visual impact of the ancillary infrastructure on Probability Magnitude Character observers in close proximity to the structures Duration Without Mitigation 4 Extent 4 1 4 2 24 Low (-) With Mitigation 4 4 1 4 2 24 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures Planning:  Retain/re-establish and maintain natural vegetation in all areas outside of the development footprint/servitude, but within the project site. Operations:  Maintain the general appearance of the facility as a whole.  Retain/re-establish and maintain natural vegetation (if present) immediately adjacent to the development footprint, where possible.  Investigate the potential to screen affected receptor sites (if applicable and located within 1km of the facility) with planted vegetation cover Residual Impact  The visual impact will be removed after decommissioning, provided the PV infrastructure is removed and the area rehabilitated. Failing this, the visual impact will remain Table 9-71 – Impact of sense of place during the operational phase ( Indirect Impact) Potential Impact: Sense of Place Reversibility Significance The potential impact on the sense of place of Probability Magnitude Character the region Duration Extent Without Mitigation 8 1 1 4 2 26 Low (-) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 360 of 399 With Mitigation 8 1 1 4 2 26 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures Planning:  Retain/re-establish and maintain natural vegetation in all areas outside of the development footprint/servitude, but within the project site. Operations:  Maintain the general appearance of the facility as a whole Residual Impact  The visual impact will be removed after decommissioning, provided the PV infrastructure is removed and the area rehabilitated. Failing this, the visual impact will remain 9.3.9.3 Decommissioning Phase During decommissioning there may be a noticeable increase in heavy vehicles utilising the roads to the site that may cause, at the very least, a visual nuisance to other road users and landowners in closer proximity (< 1km) to the decommissioning activities. A mitigating factor in this scenario is that observers travelling along the various roads (i.e. R542, R35, and secondary road) will only experience a visual impact for a brief period of time and it is expected the visual exposure of the PV facility structures will be in conjunction with the existing visual clutter (power lines, power station and mining infrastructure) within the region. This reduces the probability of this impact occurring. Visual related impacts identified during the operational phase include:  Visual impact of decommissioning activities on sensitive visual receptors in close proximity (within 1km) to the proposed facility (Table 9-72). Table 9-72 – Impact of visual intrusion of activities to remove infrastructure during the decommissioning phase Potential Impact: Sensitive visual Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude receptors Character Duration Visual impact of construction activities on Extent sensitive visual receptors in close proximity (within 1km) to the proposed facility.. Without Mitigation 8 4 1 1 4 52 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 6 4 1 1 3 33 Moderate (-) Mitigation and Management Measures Decommissioning:  Remove infrastructure not required for the post- decommissioning use of the site.  Rehabilitate all areas as per the rehabilitation plan undertaken. Consult an ecologist regarding rehabilitation specifications.  Monitor rehabilitated areas post-decommissioning and implement remedial actions as required Residual impacts: KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 361 of 399  None, provided rehabilitation works are carried out as specified 9.3.10 ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL HERITAGE IMPACT ASSESSMENT 9.3.10.1 Construction Phase During the May 2023 field assessment, no sites, features or material of cultural heritage (archaeological and/or historical) origin or significance were identified in the study and proposed SEF development area. The impact of the proposed development on the recorded and known cultural heritage sites in the area is therefore deemed as very low as indicated in Table 9-73. However, there is always a possibility of sites, features and material being missed as a result of various factors such as vegetation cover hampering visibility on the ground, as well as the often-subterranean nature of cultural heritage resources (including low stone-packed or unmarked graves). These factors need to be taken into consideration and it is therefore recommended that a Chance Finds Protocol be drafted and implemented for the proposed Eskom Komati SEF Development. Once any cultural heritage sites are identified, there will be no significant further impacts on the local heritage. Therefore the impact assessment is only applicable to the construction phase. The operation and de-commissioning phases of the development will NOT impact the archaeological and cultural heritage of the site. Table 9-73 – Impact to cultural heritage sites during the construction phase Potential Impact: Impact to cultural Reversibility Significance heritage sites Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 2 1 5 5 1 13 Very low (-) With Mitigation 2 1 5 5 1 13 Very low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Implement the Chance Finds Protocol 9.3.11 PALAEONTOLOGY IMPACT ASSESSMENT 9.3.11.1 Construction Phase The development footprint is situated on the Vryheid Formation (Pv) of the Ecca Group, Karoo Supergroup with a Very High palaeontological sensitivity. The nature of the impact is the destruction of Fossil Heritage. Loss of fossil heritage will have a negative impact. The extent of the impact only extends in the region of the development activity footprint and may include transport routes. The expected duration of the impact is assessed as potentially permanent. The intensity/magnitude of the impact is high as it is destructive. The probability of the impact occurring will be definite and will occur regardless of preventative measures (shale is present at different levels/depths). The occurrence of fossils is probable. Only not present in the sandstone layers. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 362 of 399 In the absence of mitigation procedures (should fossil material be present within the affected area) the damage or destruction of any palaeontological materials will be irreversible. With Mitigation (Protocol for a Chance Find) the impact will be moderate and the cumulative impact is low. Impacts on palaeontological heritage during the construction and preconstruction phase could potentially occur and is regarded as having a high possibility. The potential impact on fossil heritage resources that may be found within the project footprint is indicated in Table 9-74. Details of the location and distribution of all significant fossil sites or key fossiliferous rock units are often difficult to be determined due to thick topsoil, subsoil, overburden and alluvium. Depth of the overburden may vary a lot. The threats are:-  Earth moving equipment/machinery (front end loaders, excavators, graders, dozers) during construction,  The sealing-in or destruction of fossils by development, vehicle traffic, and human disturbance. If any substantial new fossil sites are revealed during the Construction Phase of the developments they should be handled using the Chance Fossil Finds Protocol included in the ESMP. If no new fossils are found then no mitigation is required. Table 9-74 – Impact of destruction of fossil heritage during the construction phase Potential Impact: Destruction of fossil Reversibility Significance heritage Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 5 1 5 5 4 64 High (-) With Mitigation 4 1 5 5 2 30 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Implement the Chance Fossil Finds Protocol Once any new fossil finds have been collected there will be no significant further impacts on local palaeontological heritage. Therefore the impact assessment is only applicable to the construction phase. The operation and de-commissioning phases of the development will NOT impact the palaeontology. 9.3.12 SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT 9.3.12.1 Construction Phase There is a commercial farmer currently renting the property that whereon which the project is proposed to be established. Before the development of this project, the commercial agreement for the lease of the land will come to an end. The conditions of this agreement stipulate that four months’ notice must be provided to the lessee holder, informing them of the expiry of the lease. The following social impacts have been identified for the construction phase: KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 363 of 399  Economic; and  Employment. The impacts are discussed below. Economic Impact During the project’s construction phase, the Principal Engineer appointed by Eskom will require various goods and services. These requirements are likely to generate economic opportunities for local businesses. The construction workforce (sourced from outside the surrounding communities) is anticipated to use local accommodations (guest houses or rental options), adding to the local economy. Provided that a significant proportion of money derived from wages earned would likely be spent in the vicinity of the project area, it is expected to create substantial revenue flows within the surrounding communities. Acting as a catalyst for growth in the formal and secondary economy. Additionally, workers sourced from the surrounding communities are foreseen to spend an even more significant proportion of their wages within the local communities, further adding to the flows of revenue, including the provision of transport by local service providers. Positive economic impacts also result in the improvement of informal economies. Hawkers are expected to increase in and around the construction site, and an increase in sex work is to be expected. The significance of the economic impact during the construction phase is indicated in Table 9-75. Table 9-75 – Economic impact during the construction phase Potential Impact: Economic Impact Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 1 2 1 3 2 14 Very Low (+) With Mitigation 4 4 3 4 3 45 Moderate (+) Mitigation and Management Measures  Communities near the Project should be given special consideration regarding the benefits arising from the Project, as they will be most affected.  Principal Engineer should first preference appropriate subcontractors in the surrounding communities, followed by those in the municipal area and those outside the province.  Resources required during construction should be sourced, preferably from local businesses. Accommodation needed for contractors should favour local guesthouses and hotels.  Eskom should support development initiatives for communities in the Project area. Employment During construction, the contractor will require mostly highly skilled workers and some low-skilled employees. Procurement of labour should largely favour the local community. The introduction of KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 364 of 399 this Project can increase the employment rate and further allow skills development for the local community. The significance of the impact to employment during the construction phase is indicated in Table 9-76. Table 9-76 – Impact of employment during the construction phase Potential Impact: Employment Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 2 3 2 3 2 20 Low (+) With Mitigation 4 3 3 4 4 56 Moderate (+) Mitigation and Management Measures  Recruitment policies must ensure preference for residents. Additionally, a monitoring system should be implemented to assess local employment levels. A local skills database should be developed and updated regularly to maximise the uptake of local labour.  A detailed HR and OHS system by the Project developer and its partners as the Project moves towards implementation will be developed.  Labour and contract conditions compliance with national legislation will be monitored by the EPC contractor and department of labour. Population Influx The project announcement could result in an influx of people seeking employment opportunities. However, as the project is to take up some of the existing Eskom workforce, the influx is expected to be low but should still be managed. The general labour is expected to be sourced from the surrounding communities, and installing the solar panels is expected to be undertaken mainly through skilled individuals. The influx of labour could result in the development of informal dwellings and possibly informal settlements in the area. It is unlikely that all these people will be employed during construction, thus resulting in increased unemployment. The increased number of unemployed people mainly single men may lead to increased social ills such as crime, alcohol abuse, gender-based violence, etc., increasing pressure on local resources, infrastructure and social services. It is possible to mitigate the impact, however it is unlikely to be completely eradicated. Construction activities can also take much longer than initially planned at the beginning of a project. This can result in extended stays away from home for the labourers, generally men, which may lead to increased prostitution. An increase of prostitution may correlate with an increase in SEA/SH instances in the area due to the hidden nature of the activities posing a risk for local women and girls. The significance of the impact of the population influx during the construction phase is indicated in Table 9-77. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 365 of 399 Table 9-77 – Impact of population influx during the construction phase Potential Impact: Population influx Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 3 3 2 3 3 33 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 2 1 2 2 14 Very Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  A community awareness campaign to be implemented in the surrounding communities to sensitise community members to traffic safety risks and communicable disease awareness.  As part of onboarding workers, training should be provided on preventing GBV SEA and SH and included in the code of conduct for all employees.  Labour aspects falls under the Human Resource departments at Eskom, and JETO will oversee the implementation of labour management plans for the sub-projects. and contractors.  Eskom should establish a grievance redress mechanism that allows for the addressing of SEA and SH matters. The grievance mechanism should allow for anonymous lodging of SEA and SH grievances. Ensuring that victims can report confidentially and without fear of retaliation.  Victims of SEA and SH will be referred to organisations which can provide support. If the incidents are Project related the Project will pay for any counselling or other support the victim might need.  The Komati Power Station Component C Project Environmental and Social Management Plan contains a Code of Conduct that states that all employees should not engage in any illegal or unwanted sexual behaviour.  Eskom will need to engage with communities using a dedicated community liaison officer and have an effective stakeholder engagement plan, including a grievance redress mechanism for communities to access and lodge complaints.  Local employment should be a priority for the construction contractor. Training programmes must be implemented to enable local participants in employment opportunities.  No recruitment should occur at the Project gate to prevent informal settlements around the Project site.  Increase security in the Project area should be provided to regulate access to the site and prevent informal settlements.  The possible use of temporary labour camps should be investigated if required.  The Project should work with the local municipality to prevent the formation of informal settlements. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 366 of 399 Vulnerable Groups Vulnerable groups include amongst others, the elderly, people with physical and learning disabilities and mental health issues, economically disadvantaged, racial and ethnic minorities, the uninsured, people with low income, the homeless, those with HIV and other incapacitating chronic health conditions, migrant workers, pregnant women, children and LGBTQIA. The following are the potentially vulnerable in the project affected area:  Women: a woman’s accesses to resources (physical and financial) are restricted due to traditional and cultural practices. Women were identified to have low representation in community level decision making;  Women: are also vulnerable to exposure to SE/SH and GBV;  Single-headed Households, including female and child-headed households: Single headed households are identified as households where the head of the household is both the primary income source as well as the caregiver. This group is particularly vulnerable due to reduced access to income generating opportunities and higher levels of food insecurity;  Elderly: The elderly within the community are less likely to receive an income and are reliant upon other members of a household. It should be noted that elder men have an elevated status and play a prominent role in traditional institutions and community level decision making;  Children: Children are mainly reliant upon older members of the household to access resources and for the maintenance of their general wellbeing;  Child Headed households: Child Headed Households are identified as the most vulnerable group as children are dependants, and not providers, such households are often incapable of generating adequate income or providing the care or protection that parents traditionally provide;  Households with low income; and  People with Physical / Mental Health Illnesses and Disabilities: The project area has no institutional systems or services to encourage the economic and social participation of disabled stakeholders in the community.  LGBTQIA: These people are often discriminated against on the basis of their sexual orientation and the project area does not have formal structures and forums that can address discrimination challenges that such people experience. Additionally, Urban-Econ identified the following vulnerable groups as part of their Socio-Economic Impact Study (Urban-Econ Development Economists):  Women and the elderly;  Minority groups;  Child-headed households;  Disabled individuals and  Unskilled/illiterate individuals. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 367 of 399 Table 9-78 - Impact on vulnerable groups during the construction phase Potential Impact: Vulnerable Groups Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 2 1 2 4 1 9 Very Low (+) With Mitigation 2 1 1 4 3 24 Low (+) Mitigation and Management Measures  Assisting vulnerable households to access social service assistance networks.  Providing skills training and capacity building to enable the vulnerable to start their own business or obtain better jobs.  Ensure the project supports equal employment opportunities.  The project must assist vulnerable households to access benefits from the project by providing vulnerable groups equal access to employment and the Component C projects.  The Project must provide women with a safe place to work.  Instances related to SH/SE and GBV perpetrated by the Project workforce must be dealt with immediately by instating disciplinary procedures.  The Project must be designed to enable those with disabilities can access the Project infrastructure should they need to do so by including design features such as ramps, wider doorways, passages and features for the visually impaired. Grievance Redress Mechanism A Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) dedicated to the project is informed by the World Bank’s ESS10 by using existing Eskom mechanisms relevant to stakeholder management or channels dedicated to the raising of concerns by stakeholders including vulnerable groups. The GRM is established utilising existing Eskom mechanisms, in addition to those specifically related to or devised for KPS. A dedicated stakeholder manager/management team at KPS is to be responsible for the broader SEP, in addition to the GRM. Support for the dedicated KPS stakeholder team is to be provided by Eskom’s Gx (i.e., the Stakeholder and Communication Manager as per the advisory services outlined in an agreed-upon service level agreement and Mpumalanga stability teams or community structures). A designated representative(s) from the KPS stakeholder management team is to be appointed to manage the GRM. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 368 of 399 Labour Management Procedures Labour aspects falls under the Human Resource departments at Eskom, and JETO will oversee the implementation of labour management plans for the sub-projects. and contractors. The general provisions in this section reflect labour management requirements that comply with national legislation and World Bank standards. These provisions will be adopted and operationalised by both the JETO and the contractors on each sub-project through their internal Human Resources department. Human Resources will need to establish specific procedures that specifically address labour requirements for each sub-project as well as the needs of vulnerable groups. As part of the Labour Management Procedures and contractor engagement, the related management objectives for the EJETP/ Eskom will be followed. The South African legislative framework and regulation provide protections for workers which is equivalent to protections required in World Bank funded projects in accordance ESS2 – Labour and Working Conditions. 9.3.12.2 Operational Phase The following social impacts have been identified for the operational phase:  Low Carbon Power Generation;  Employment Opportunities;  Visual; and  Solar glint and Glare. The impacts are discussed below. Low Carbon Power Generation The facility will produce no waste or emissions during the operational phase. South Africa’s per capita greenhouse emissions are the highest in Africa (Jainb, 2017) thus, this project will aid in reducing the carbon footprint and emissions. The significance of the impact of low carbon generation during the operational phase is indicated in Table 9-79. Table 9-79 – Impact of low carbon power generation during the operational phase Potential Impact: Low Carbon Generation Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 1 2 3 4 2 20 Low (+) With Mitigation 4 3 3 4 4 56 Moderate (+) Mitigation and Management Measures  Ensuring that the power generated from the proposed project provides for homes, farms and businesses in the surrounding communities.  Recording and publishing the economic benefit or development of the Komati Power Station PV facility to the regional and national economy to encourage more renewable energy sources for South Africa. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 369 of 399 Employment Opportunities The maintenance of the facility and the functioning of the facility will create long-term employment opportunities. It is assumed that unskilled labour will be sourced from the local community and skilled labour will be sourced as far as possible from the local welfare. The proposed project will aid in solving two of the leading challenges faced by most municipalities in the country, namely the need for electricity and the lack of adequate employment opportunities. The labour force is still to be determined as it is influenced by the type of technology to be selected for the construction and operation of the SEF and BESS Facilities, as well as the selected supplier and contractor. However, the following indicative numbers12 can be used for planning purpose and have informed the ESIA:  Construction Phase: • Direct employment for construction and installation: 915 – 1070 employees  Operational phase: • Direct employment for operations and maintenance: 81 – 123 employees The significance of the impact of employment opportunities during the operational phase is indicated in Table 9-80. Table 9-80 – Impact of employment opportunities during the operational phase Potential Impact: Employment Reversibility Significance Opportunities Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 3 4 3 5 2 30 Low (+) With Mitigation 4 4 4 5 4 68 High (+) Mitigation and Management Measures  During the operational phase, locally employed individuals should receive training and undergo skills development programmes.  Employees should be allowed to participate in mentorship programmes to further their development.  The Project will monitor labour and contract conditions compliance with national legislation and with the Labour Management Plan which will be prepared for the Project... 12Source: VPC GmbH (October 2021) Draft Report for Komati Thermal Power Plant Technical Analysis on retiring and repurposing four coal plants, South Africa (P-2021-00547) KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 370 of 399 9.3.12.3 Decommissioning Phase The following social impacts have been identified for the decommissioning phase:  Loss of employment;  Reduced community investment; and  Ancillary infrastructure. The impacts are discussed below. Loss of employment During this phase, the operational workforce will lose their jobs, and it may lead to adverse social consequences in the municipality and labour-sending areas such as:  Increase or return the unemployment rate to previous levels within the project area.  Financial hardship.  Family tensions and breakdown.  Alienation, shame and stigma.  Crime. The significance of the impact of the loss of employment during the decommissioning phase is indicated in Table 9-81. Table 9-81 – Impact of loss of employment during the decommissioning phase Potential Impact: Loss of employment Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 4 4 3 4 3 45 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 2 4 3 27 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Timely and adequate consultation with employees dependent on the Project for employment.  Assisting employees seeking alternative employment at other power plants or related facilities.  Training and educating employees to equip them with skills that could benefit them in other industries. Reduced community investment There will be reduced local spending by Eskom and its staff and contractors. Consequently, local business revenue may be affected, and tax payments will decrease. The significance of the impact of reduced community investment during the decommissioning phase is indicated in Table 9-82. Table 9-82 – Impact of reduced community investment during the decommissioning phase KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 371 of 399 Potential Impact: Reduced community Reversibility Significance investment Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 3 4 3 3 3 39 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 1 2 4 3 27 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  Engage local and regional government concerning the decommissioning phase.  Develop alternative projects which can support the local economy. Ancillary infrastructure Structures used during construction and operation will be abandoned and might attract criminals. Maintenance of these structures might decrease after the Project operation, leading to hazards to the health and welfare of the community. The batteries/equipment may have reached the end-of-life and may leak. The significance of the impact of the ancillary infrastructure during the decommissioning phase is indicated in Table 9-83. Table 9-83 – Impact of the ancillary infrastructure during the decommissioning phase Potential Impact: Ancillary infrastructure Reversibility Significance Probability Magnitude Character Duration Extent Without Mitigation 3 3 3 3 4 48 Moderate (-) With Mitigation 2 2 1 3 2 16 Low (-) Mitigation and Management Measures  End-of-Life shutdown procedure must be undertaken, including a risk assessment of the activities involved.  Where possible, re-purpose the solid-state batteries/containers and equipment with the associated environmental impact considered.  Disposal according to local regulations and other directives such as the European Batteries Directive.  End-of-life, which is affected by temperature and time, cycles etc., should be predefined, and monitoring should be in place to determine if it has been reached.  Eskom shall develop exit strategies for all its community development initiatives. 9.3.13 RISK The main risks to the environment, as a result of BESS installations, are fires and pollution arising from spillage of the liquid component of the cells by accident. The risk sources are shown KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 372 of 399 schematically in Figure 9-8 and discussed below. In terms of other environmental impacts such as the impact of the clearance of vegetation, the visual impact and increase traffic, these have been assessed within the respective specialist assessments (see Section 9). Figure 9-8 - Risk sources of the battery facility As has been noted above, there is a small volume of liquid within the cells (most of which is absorbed into the solid components of the battery) and this is sealed in a plastic housing at the cell level as well as at the module level and then these are housed in a container ensuring there are three levels of containment. This ensures that the risk of a spill of any liquid is unlikely to the extent that it does not warrant detailed assessment in the impact assessment phase and has been screened out. Regarding the potential fire, the design of these battery systems will be undertaken in compliance with all the local and international standards that ensures that fire risk is minimal. The electrical nature of the facility is such that there is a risk of overheating of components that could lead to electrical fire. Due to the risk overheating batteries may have on human health (in terms of off- gassing) and implications for the performance of the batteries, the facility is carefully monitored to prevent this. Each container is equipped with a built-in fire detection and suppression system that in KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 373 of 399 an unlikely event of a fire will supress the fire using an inert gas. The nature of the vegetation of the site is also such that the risk of the facility being exposed to a significant wildfire leading to the ignition of the facility is also remote (assuming the facility is kept free of combustible materials). Each container is also spaced about 3m apart ensuring the chance of a fire spreading between two containers (which are made of metal and thus not easily flammable) is also minimal. These design measures, the HVAC systems and the continuous monitoring of the battery cells for heat/fire are such that the likelihood of a fire spreading in the facility following ignition is very remote. When the battery cells reach end of life they will be returned to a battery provider for recycling or disposal in accordance with the legal practices. Currently there are no Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling facilities in South Africa but EWASA are lobbying for one (Dataweek, 2019). Due to the value of these materials making up the batteries it is unlikely they will end up in landfill, and more likely be recycled by a future bespoke facility in South Africa or exported for recycling. In terms of air emissions from the battery facility during operations, this is not considered to be an issue and does not pose a risk during operation to the environment or staff. Based on the technology used and the safety mechanisms forming part of the design of the facility, the likelihood of the construction and/or operation of the battery storage facility causing a fire/spill is considered to be low and therefore the risk of having the battery facility on site is considered to be negligible. 9.4 IMPACT SUMMARY A summary of the identified impacts and corresponding significance ratings for the proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility is indicated in Table 9-84 below. With the implementation of the mitigation measures prescribed by the specialists, the impacts are rated as Moderate to Very Low. Table 9-84 – Impact Summary Aspect Impact Description Phase Character Without With Mitigation Mitigation Surface water Stormwater Runoff C (-) 20 Low 12 Very Low Erosion C (-) 36 Moderate 12 Very Low Flooding O (-) 18 Low 12 Very Low Stormwater Runoff O (-) 20 Low 12 Very Low Erosion O (-) 36 Moderate 12 Very Low Stormwater Runoff D (-) 20 Low 12 Very Low Groundwater Hydrocarbon Spills C (-) 24 Low 12 Very Low Leachate/spills C (-) 24 Low 12 Very Low Spoil from excavated C (-) 24 Low 12 Very Low trenches KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 374 of 399 Aspect Impact Description Phase Character Without With Mitigation Mitigation Reduced recharge due O (-) 33 Moderate 20 Low to increase in hardstanding footprint Localised artificial O (-) 30 Low 12 Very Low recharge due to washing of solar panels Reduced leachate from C (+) 33 Moderate 36 Moderate contaminated soils Localised leachate from O (-) 39 Moderate 22 Low equipment Localised increased O (-) 39 Moderate 22 Low leachate from contaminated soils due to following washing of solar panels Hydrocarbon Spills D (-) 24 Low 12 Very Low Leachate from D (-) 39 Moderate 30 Low equipment no longer in use Soils and Loss of soil C (-) 60 Moderate 22 Low Agricultural Potential Erosion and C (-) 60 Moderate 30 Low sedimentation Loss of Agricultural C (-) 60 Moderate 30 Low Land Soil contamination C (-) 70 High 22 Low Loss of soil O (-) 45 Moderate 9 Very Low Erosion and O (-) 50 Moderate 18 Low sedimentation Loss of Agricultural O (-) 50 Moderate 30 Low Land Soil contamination O (-) 60 Moderate 30 Low Loss of soil D (-) 27 Low 9 Very Low Erosion and D (-) 55 Moderate 20 Low sedimentation Loss of Agricultural D (-) 9 Very Low 9 Very Low Land KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 375 of 399 Aspect Impact Description Phase Character Without With Mitigation Mitigation Soil contamination D (-) 22 Low 18 Low Terrestrial Loss and disturbance of C (-) 85 Very High 36 Moderate Animal Species natural habitat - Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland Loss and disturbance of C (-) 70 High 27 Low natural habitat - Moist Mixed Grassland Establishment and C (-) 44 Moderate 12 Very Low spread of alien invasive species Direct mortality, injuring C (-) 48 Moderate 14 Very Low and disturbance of fauna Loss of fauna species of C (-) 51 Moderate 24 Low conservation concern Establishment and O (-) 44 Moderate 12 Very Low spread of alien invasive species Establishment and D (-) 44 Moderate 12 Very Low spread of alien invasive species Terrestrial Plant Loss and disturbance of C (-) 85 Very High 48 Moderate Species natural habitat - Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland Loss and disturbance of C (-) 70 High 30 Moderate natural habitat - Moist Mixed Grassland Establishment and C (-) 44 Moderate 12 Very Low spread of alien invasive species Loss of flora SCC C (-) 68 High 24 Low Establishment and O (-) 44 Moderate 12 Very Low spread of alien invasive species Establishment and D (-) 44 Moderate 12 Very Low spread of alien invasive species KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 376 of 399 Aspect Impact Description Phase Character Without With Mitigation Mitigation Aquatic Loss of wetland habitat C (-) 75 High N/A Biodiversity Changes in wetland C (-) 44 Moderate 24 Low health/functioning Contamination of C (-) 40 Moderate 10 Very Low riparian systems Wetland soil erosion C (-) 44 Moderate 24 Low Spread of AIS C (-) 48 Moderate 12 Very Low Changes in the extent C (-) 52 Moderate 16 Low and condition of ecosystems supplying ecosystem services Spread of AIS O (-) 48 Moderate 10 Very Low Wetland soil erosion O (-) 55 Moderate 21 Low Water quality O (-) 48 Moderate 10 Very Low deterioration and contamination of wetland soils Avifauna Habitat loss, C (-) 36 Moderate 27 Low displacement, and disturbance of avifauna Habitat loss, O (-) 27 Low 27 Low displacement, and disturbance of avifauna Traffic Impact of construction C (-) 28 Low 28 Low vehicles on roads and access roads Transportation activities O (-) 28 Low 28 Low during operations Impact of construction D (-) 28 Low 28 Low vehicles on roads and access roads Visual Impact of visual effect C (-) 64 High 36 Moderate on sensitive visual receptors in close proximity (within 1km) Impact of visual impact O (-) 72 High 42 Moderate on observers (residents KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 377 of 399 Aspect Impact Description Phase Character Without With Mitigation Mitigation and visitors) in close proximity (within 1km) Impact of visual effect of O (-) 45 Moderate 26 Low the proposed PV facility within 1- 3km radius Impact of visual effect of O (-) 24 Low 20 Low the proposed PV facility within 3- 6km radius Impact of visual effect of O (-) 18 Low 9 Very Low the proposed PV facility within the greater area (beyond 6km radius) Impact of operational, O (-) 39 Moderate 22 Low safety and security lighting of the facility at night during the operational phase Impact of solar glint and O (-) 54 Moderate 42 Moderate glare as a visual distraction and possible air/road travel hazard Impact of solar glint and O (-) 64 High 42 Moderate glare on static ground- based receptors (residents of homesteads) in close proximity (within 1km) Impact of ancillary O (-) 24 Low 24 Low infrastructure during the operational phase Impact of sense of O (-) 26 Low 26 Low place during the operational phase ( Indirect Impact) Visual impact of D (-) 52 Moderate 33 Moderate construction activities on sensitive visual receptors in close proximity (within 1km) Heritage Impact to known cultural C (-) 12 Very Low 12 Very Low heritage sites KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 378 of 399 Aspect Impact Description Phase Character Without With Mitigation Mitigation Palaeontology Destruction of fossil C (-) 85 Very High 33 Moderate heritage Social Economic Impact C (+) 14 Very Low 45 Moderate Employment C (+) 20 Low 56 Moderate Population influx C (-) 33 Moderate 14 Very Low Vulnerable Groups C (+) 9 Very Low 24 Low Low Carbon Generation O (+) 20 Low 56 Moderate Employment O (+) High 30 Low 68 Opportunities Loss of employment D (-) 45 Moderate 27 Low Reduced community D (-) Low 39 Moderate 27 investment Ancillary infrastructure D (-) 48 Moderate 16 Low 9.5 CUMULATIVE IMPACT ASSESSMENT Cumulative impacts are those that result from the successive, incremental, and/or combined effects of an action, project, or activity, when added to other existing, planned, and/or reasonably anticipated future ones. A cumulative impact assessment is the process of (a) analysing the potential impacts and risks of proposed developments in the context of the potential effects of other human activities and natural environmental and social external drivers on the chosen Valued Environmental and Social Components (VECs) over time, and (b) proposing concrete measures to avoid, reduce, or mitigate such cumulative impacts and risk to the extent possible (IFC GPH). The cumulative impacts identified are as follows:  Soils and Agricultural Potential • The proposed Project infrastructure will be placed within the existing footprint of the Komati Power Station, within which there are already built-up areas and mining areas. The Goedehoop Colliery is directly next door to Komati and is an extensive coal mining operation. Although the proposed solar project is unlikely to contribute significantly as compared to its surroundings, there will be a cumulative impact of the proposed development.  Surface water: • Since each panel in the proposed Komati SEF is separate, there will be no accumulation of runoff, and the rainwater will be routed directly to the ground where it can infiltrate. In practical terms, there will be no significant increase in runoff. Furthermore, if the panels are constructed close to ground level, the runoff from individual panels will not increase the risk of erosion. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 379 of 399 Consequently, the catchment characteristics will effectively only experience minor changes (as opposed to a site with a large surface area of development), and thus it is not anticipated that the hydrology of the catchment will be significantly altered or pushed beyond an acceptable level of change. • From a hydrological perspective, considering the catchment size of the Komati Solar Facility, low rainfall and suggested mitigation measures, the proposed development will have a low cumulative impact.  Groundwater: • Cumulative impacts are limited due to the low k and recharge. Monitoring and management as provided in the WUL should continue. Eskom will be required to ensure that future monitoring is aligned with the WB ESS and EHSG.  Terrestrial Biodiversity: • The Regional Study Area(RSA) is characterised by large areas of modified habitat, principally resulting from agriculture, but also increasingly mining. The progressive loss of natural grassland habitat in the RSA as a consequence of this Project and other development projects, is a cumulative loss of concern. • Cumulative habitat loss is rated an impact of very high magnitude, permanently affecting habitat within and adjacent to the development footprints (local). It is also considered to have a high probability, resulting in a before impact rating of “high” significance. With mitigation, the impact magnitude can be reduced to medium. Impact extent will be retained at local, and duration will be long-term (i.e., project life), while probability will be reduced to low probability. This results in an after-mitigation impact of “low” significance.  Aquatic Biodiversity: • The landscape within which the proposed infrastructure is located is almost completely modified and fragmented as a consequence of the existing surrounding land uses (i.e., power station, mining, agricultural practices, residential areas, and informal settlement). • While the currently proposed project infrastructure largely avoids the loss of significant areas of natural habitat due to active avoidance of these areas as part of the ongoing planning process, vegetation clearing would result in loss of additional 24.5 ha of moderately/largely modified seep habitats (Seep 1), contributing to cumulative impacts in terms of direct loss of seep wetlands at the landscape level.  Traffic: • The two projects within a 30km radius from the Komati Power Station will have little to no cumulative impact due to their relative locations. Furthermore, each development is located in close proximity to a regional road that easily gives access to national road network and other regional roads. The traffic impact will not overlap and thus the cumulative impact will be insignificant.  Visual: • Of note is that the proposed site is located within an area where a large network of power lines traverses the study area and congregate at the existing Komati Power Station, as well as in an area where mining and other industrial activities are already one of the dominant industries. It KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 380 of 399 is generally acceptable, from a visual impact point of view, to place industrial infrastructure within existing industrial areas. Therefore, the existing visual disturbances brought about by the Komati Power Station and the various mines in close proximity of the proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility to these, somewhat mitigates the visual impact of the structures and activities. Ironically this will also contribute to the potential cumulative visual impact of industrial infrastructure within the region. It is however still preferable to consolidate the proposed infrastructure in areas of existing visual disturbance, rather than to spread it over larger areas. • Considering the above, and the generally disturbed nature of the area surrounding the site itself, the potential cumulative visual impact is considered to be within acceptable limits.  Heritage • With no sensitive cultural heritage resources existing in the Komati Power Station proposed SEF project area, the cumulative heritage impacts of these other projects will be non-existent. It does need to be mentioned that this statement in no way claims that there are no sites of cultural heritage origin or significance located at or in close proximity to these other project areas. The potential cumulative social impacts are as follows:  Sense of Place • The potential cumulative impacts on the areas sense of place will be largely linked to potential visual impacts. The relevant issues include: − Perceived or actual change in land use across a character type or region. − Loss of a characteristic element (e.g., viewing type or feature) across a character type caused by developments across that character type.  Employment • One of the positive short-term social impacts will be the creation of jobs. Construction activities will create several temporary employment opportunities. Other social impacts include the increased demand on local services, the influx of job seekers, social problems arising from population increase in the area, change in land use and the effect on sense of place.  Economic benefits • Increased expenditure during the construction of the proposed facility will contribute to the local economy. The income of the workers will also increase spending in the local community and thus stimulate the formal and informal sectors and secondary industries, having a positive multiplier effect. • The local businesses used will be skilled in the construction of solar facilities leading to a wider range of opportunities for the business and its workers. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 381 of 399 10 SPECIALIST CONCLUSIONS 10.1.1 SURFACE WATER Based on these findings, it is recommended to authorize the proposed activity and all ancillary infrastructure, as it has been determined that the surface water impacts resulting from the activity are minimal and within an acceptable level of change. The summarized impacts are provided below:  Level of change to runoff regime is minimal, i.e., frequency and magnitude of peak discharges from sub-catchments is not expected to be changed and baseflow is not expected to be impacted.  As all the proposed infrastructure are located within the Komati Power Station’s footprint, it is unlikely that their zone of influence will extend to the watercourses within the site footprint.  It was found that no PV Solar and BESS sites are positioned within watercourses and therefore no risk of impact to the riverbeds or banks exists.  The only constituent of concern that may pollute waterways is suspended solids from disturbed soils. These solids can be managed and allowed to settle out of surface runoff prior to release to the environment. Therefore, the resultant impact on surface water quality will be negligible. In addition to the impacts being minimal, all impacts can be avoided, managed, and mitigated by implementing the Surface Water Management Plan (SWMP) presented in this report. To achieve this, all SWMP interventions should be included in the ESMP. Is it recommended that the SWMP be developed further during the Detailed Design by:  Developing a stormwater layout and designs based on the above information and infrastructure layout plan;  Sizing the culverts or drifts associated with the proposed road crossings such that they can handle at least the 1:20-year flood event, or a minimum of 600 mm diameter or height (for maintenance purposes);  Developing conceptual designs into detailed designs with sufficient details to support construction; and  The plan should be incorporated into an environmental specification for use during construction and incorporated into the operation environmental management of the site. In conclusion:  The proposed infrastructure is not at risk of flood damage.  The proposed facility will have an intrinsically low impact on surface water resources;  The potential stormwater impacts that do not exist can be managed in a practical and cost- effective way; and  The plan is conceptual, because only a conceptual infrastructure layout was made available at the time of the study – that said, moderate to low rainfall and low flow gradients characteristic of the area suggest that details design should not vary considerably from the concepts presented in this report. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 382 of 399 10.1.2 GROUNDWATER The potential impacts from the PV and BESS activities are anticipated to be low to moderate and can be mitigated. A positive impact may be possible during operation where the activities could reduce the recharge through contaminated soils to groundwater. Further monitoring requirements, other than the existing monitoring as provided by the WUL, has not been identified. Eskom will be required to ensure that future monitoring is aligned with the WB ESS and EHSG. 10.1.3 SOILS AND AGRICULTURAL POTENTIAL Potential Project impacts in all phases include a loss of soil through stripping and compaction, erosion and consequent sedimentation, a loss of agricultural land and soil contamination. If the recommended mitigation measures are correctly implemented and appropriate monitoring is undertaken, all the potential impacts can be reduced to Low aside from the cumulative impacts. It is recommended that infrastructure be sited away from the arable areas wherever possible and well away from the wetlands within the larger site. 10.1.4 TERRESTRIAL ANIMAL SPECIES The LSA is centred on Komati Power Station and Komati residential village. Accordingly, large portions of the LSA are under built infrastructure or are highly modified. Natural habitat that is present, varies in condition and is confined to small fragmented patches of land that are typically bounded or enclosed by infrastructure, such as roads and fences. Connectivity with habitat patches across the broader landscape are thus considered poor. Based on historic distribution ranges, several fauna SCC potentially occur in the landscape in which the LSA is located. However, because the LSA is mostly transformed, disturbed and fragmented, the site is not considered to constitute important life-cycle habitat for local populations of fauna SCC, with the results of habitat suitability assessments indicating that most SCC are unlikely to be present. This notwithstanding, proposed Project activities are likely to have some impact on general fauna through direct habitat loss and disturbance, amongst other identified impacts. These impacts can be restricted to the proposed development footprints and/or successfully mitigated, through the correct application of the management and mitigation measures outlined in this report. In accordance with the outcomes of the impact assessment and taking cognisance of the baseline conditions as presented in the report, as well as the impact management measures prescribed in the report, the proposed Project, is not deemed to present significant negative environmental issues or impacts, and it should thus be authorised. 10.1.5 TERRESTRIAL PLANT SPECIES The LSA is centred on Komati Power Station and Komati residential village. Accordingly, large portions of the LSA are under built infrastructure or are highly modified. Natural habitat that is present, is confined to small patches of land that are typically bounded or enclosed by infrastructure, such as roads and fences. The LSA is located in the Eastern Highveld Grassland vegetation type, which is currently listed as Endangered at a national level (NEMBA, 2021). According to the Mpumalanga Biodiversity Sector KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 383 of 399 Plan (2019), land in the north-west corner of the LSA is categorised as CBA Optimal. This area overlaps with the proposed PV Site B development footprint and is characterised by the Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland habitat unit, which was rated as having High ecological importance on account of its relatively undisturbed nature and the presence/potential presence of flora SCC. . It must be noted that CBA’s in this context, have been identified by the provincial authorities as areas that are required to meet local provincial biodiversity conservation targets for biodiversity pattern (species and ecosystems) and ecological processes (MPTA 2014). They are not areas that have been identified as Critical Habitat, as defined in ESS6, paragraph 23. The Environmental Screening Tool rates the terrestrial biodiversity theme for the entire LSA as ‘Very High Sensitivity’. This rating however, is only partly supported by the findings of this study. Most of the LSA is either modified or disturbed and therefore is not of very high sensitivity. Only the area of Mixed Themeda triandra Grassland, most of which is designated as CBA Optimal, is rated as having a High ecological importance. The Environmental Screening Tool sensitivity rating for the terrestrial plant species theme is ‘Medium Sensitivity’. This rating is confirmed by the findings of this study. The loss of natural habitat through vegetation clearing, particularly the land designated as CBA Optimal in the north-west corner of the LSA, is an impact of concern. However, by avoiding this CBA Optimal area , amongst other measures, the residual impact significance of natural habitat loss can be reduced to low. In accordance with the outcomes of the impact assessment and taking cognisance of the baseline conditions, as well as the impact management measures, the proposed Project, is not deemed to present significant negative environmental issues or impacts, and it should thus be authorised. 10.1.6 AQUATIC BIODIVERSITY The proposed Project development intercepts two seepage wetlands (herein referred to as Seep 1 and Seep 2) and is located within a 500m buffer of a channelled valley bottom wetland to the north and a depression wetland to the south. The wetlands within the study area were found to be in Largely Modified state (PES D) with the exception of the depression wetland located outside of the project development boundary. All wetlands in the study area were assessed as being of Low /Marginal EIS, with the exception of the channelled valley bottom wetland which was assessed as being of Moderate EIS. The moderate EIS of the channelled valley bottom was attributed to its hydrological functional importance as this wetland performs a role in landscape connectivity at the regional level, providing regulating and supporting benefits such as streamflow regulation and flood attenuation. Although largely modified, the channelled valley bottom wetland and the seep wetland that cross the northern boundary of the site support biodiversity and deliver ecological services to an extent that enables them to be considered ‘Natural habitat’ as defined by the lender standards, as such, these areas should be regarded as ‘no go areas’ for development. The Environmental Screening Tool rates the aquatic biodiversity theme as ‘Very-High Sensitivity’ based on the presence of wetland features in and around the study area. Based on the findings of this study, the presence of wetland features on site was confirmed, however, these wetlands were considered to be in a largely modified PES with low/marginal EIS function and WetEcoservices and are therefore rated to be in a ‘Medium Sensitivity’. Notwithstanding this, any development within any of the areas mapped as wetland systems, should be avoided were possible. Where avoidance of KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 384 of 399 such systems is not possible a wetland offset will be required in accordance with the Biodiversity Offset Guideline (2023). According to the diatom assessment, the diatom assemblages were generally comprised of species characteristic of fresh brackish, acidic water and eutrophic conditions. The pollution levels indicated that there were low levels of pollution present at the stie, while the presence of some taxa point to a slightly acidic condition. According to the ecological water quality, the site showed high conditions with low levels of organic pollution. The proposed project infrastructure will be situated in close proximity to the existing power generation facilities and activities. All areas visited are currently experiencing some level of impact from the surrounding agricultural and industrial activities primarily through habitat transformation, and disturbance arising from power generation facilities and activities. The most significant drivers of change currently present in the study area include industrial operations (seepage from ash dam, increased water inflow from Eskom operations) impoundment of water at dams, road crossings, mining operations in the catchments, spread of alien invasive species as well as formal and informal settlements within the wetland’s catchment. The earthworks and activities involved during the construction phase of the Project can exert negative impacts on sensitive ecosystems including loss of wetland habitat, catchment landcover changes resulting in increased sediment entry to downstream systems, construction of wetland/riparian system crossings causing impoundments/barriers to movement for aquatic species, contamination of water bodies by construction materials / vehicles (hydrocarbons etc), increased potential of erosion due to surface runoff and soil disturbances and the establishment and spread of alien and invasive species (AIS). Provided that recommended mitigation measures are not implemented some of these impacts such as the establishment and spread of AIS, soil erosion and surface water and soil contamination are likely to carry on into the operational phase. The proposed Project development is considered to have a Moderate impact significance prior to mitigation, with the exception of the loss of wetland habitat impact, which is considered high and cannot be mitigated. Since lender standards require no net loss of natural habitat, a suitable offset that addresses the predicted loss of wetland habitat will need to be designed and implemented, in agreement with the relevant authorities – principally the Department of Water and Sanitation. However, if wetland habitat is avoided and regarded as a ‘no-go area’, then the wetland offset requirement can be avoided. With the implementation of recommended mitigation measures and monitoring measures, the significance of all other impacts can be reduced to Low or Very low. 10.1.7 AVIFAUNA The current Komati SEF development would contribute to approximately 200 ha of habitat loss in an already transformed area, with LOW avifaunal significance, and thus supports the sensitivity rating of the Screening Tool. The vegetation present on the development site yielded few species of concern, and at low abundance. No nesting sites or roost sites of red-listed species were located on site. No significant seasonal variation in species assemblages and movements across the development site are likely to occur, less so for probable species of concern, thus the overall impact of the development on avifauna is considered to be LOW. The impacts expected by the development of the Komati SEF will comprise of habitat destruction and the displacement, and disturbance of local bird assemblages, as well as the direct mortalities of avifauna which are likely to arise from electrocution from power line infrastructure, and expected KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 385 of 399 collisions with solar panels, overhead power lines and any ancillary infrastructure. The displacement, habitat destruction and disturbance of avifauna, however, is likely to be restricted to the development site itself. Small passerines are most likely to be affected by the construction of the development site, however, none of which were recorded on site, are red-list species. Impacts on larger non-passerines might occur, but none of which were recorded on site and likely occur uncommonly in the area. To further reduce risk on avifauna, mitigation measures during both the construction and post- construction phases can be executed. These mitigation measures include restricting habitat loss and limiting disturbance to the footprint of the development area itself, whilst bird flappers can be successfully used to reduce collisions with overhead powerlines and ancillary infrastructure, especially in areas of high-risk areas which will become apparent during the monitoring phase. With these mitigation measures in place, impact on avifauna by the development of this site will be further reduced, maintaining a low risk, and thus no fatal flaws are assigned to the development of this site with respect to avifauna. Impact Statement The proposed development footprint of Komati SEF is considered suitable for development. No avifaunal impacts associated with the Komati SEF that cannot be mitigated to an adequate level were detected. Based on our findings and the area of development provided for this assessment, the Komati SEF should be allowed to proceed into the EIA phase from an avifaunal viewpoint. 10.1.8 TRAFFIC The following conclusions were made:  PV SEF with ancillary BESS, to generate a total of 150 MW of energy, are planned on Eskom- owned land parcels surrounding the existing Komati Power Station in Middelburg.  In the TIA, the impact of the transportation activities of the proposed Komati SEF developments on the road network was investigated. The transportation activities include transportation activities during the construction phase, operational phase and the decommissioning phase of the project.  The proposed developments are located on Eskom properties which are currently zoned for various land uses including mining and an airstrip. Permission for the applicable land use rights will have to be obtained from the relevant authorities through a town planning process. The proposed 150 MW PV facilities are to be spread over two sites known as PV Site A and PV Site B.  Traffic counts were conducted, at the intersections shown in Annexure A, Figure A2 of Appendix F.10 covering 12 hours on Wednesday, 1 June 2022.  A growth rate of 2% per annum was applied to the 2022 background peak hour traffic volumes to estimate the future background volumes for the 2024, 2027 and 2047 horizon years.  The expected number of person trips based on the employment opportunities for the developments are 1 285 during the construction and decommissioning phase as well as 150 person trips during the operational phase.  Access to the proposed developments is proposed from Flamingo Street for PV Site A and from the current road that borders the airfield to the north, for PV Site B respectively.  PTV Vistro software was used to conduct the capacity analysis for the intersections included in the study area. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 386 of 399  The existing road network is operating at acceptable levels of service with the existing geometry.  The future traffic scenarios are also expected to operate at acceptable levels of service with the existing geometry.  Other renewable energy projects within a 30 km radius of the Komati Power Station will have no significant cumulative impact because their traffic impact will not overlap.  Due to the locality of the proposed developments, no formal public transport facilities are located in close approximation to the proposed development. It is not expected that public transport facilities will be required.  The environmental impact of the transportation activities during the construction, operations and decommissioning phases of the proposed development, with a significance rating of N2, is expected to be low. 10.1.9 VISUAL The VIA practitioner takes great care to ensure that all the spatial analyses and mapping is as accurate as possible. The intention is to quantify, using visibility analyses, proximity analyses and the identification of sensitive receptors and the potential visual impacts associated with the proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility. These processes are deemed to be transparent and scientifically defensible when interrogated. The construction and operation of the proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility may have a visual impact on the study area, especially within a 1km radius (and potentially up to a radius of 3km) of the proposed facility. The visual impact will differ amongst places, depending on the distance from the facility. As a result of the already disturbed and developed nature of the receiving environment the significance of the visual impacts is expected to range from moderate to low, if the recommended mitigation measures are implemented,. The proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility is located within an area where a limited number of other PV facilities have been authorized within 30km of the site. There are no additional solar energy generation plants (or applications) within the study area itself and the closest approved application is the proposed installation of a solar photovoltaic power plant at the Eskom Duvha Power Station, some 18km north-west of the project site. Since both of the other identified PV facilities are located more than 15km away from the proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility, it is not expected that a cumulative visual impact of significance will be experienced by sensitive receptors within the region (within 30km). Of note is that the proposed site is located within an area where a large network of power lines traverses the study area and congregate at the existing Komati Power Station, as well as in an area where mining and other industrial activities are already one of the dominant industries. It is generally acceptable, from a visual impact point of view, to place industrial infrastructure within existing industrial areas. Therefore, the existing visual disturbances brought about by the Komati Power Station and the various mines in close proximity of the proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility to these, somewhat mitigates the visual impact of the structures and activities. Ironically this will also contribute to the potential cumulative visual impact of industrial infrastructure within the region. It is however still preferable to consolidate the proposed infrastructure in areas of existing visual disturbance, rather than to spread it over larger areas. Considering the above, and the generally disturbed nature of the area surrounding the site itself, the potential cumulative visual impact is considered to be within acceptable limits. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 387 of 399 According to the Provincial Government of the Western Cape, Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (DEA&DP) Guideline for Involving Visual and Aesthetic Specialists in the EIA Process (Oberholzer, 2005), the criteria that determine whether or not a visual impact constitutes a potential fatal flaw are categorised as follows: 1 Non-compliance with Acts, Ordinances, By-laws and adopted policies relating to visual pollution, scenic routes, special areas or proclaimed heritage sites. 2 Non-compliance with conditions of existing Records of Decision. 3 Impacts that may be evaluated to be of high significance and that are considered by the majority of the stakeholders and decision-makers to be unacceptable. In terms of the above and to the knowledge of the author the proposed development is compliant with all Acts, Ordinances, By-laws and adopted policies relating to visual pollution, scenic routes, special areas or proclaimed heritage sites, as well as conditions of existing Records of Decisions (if any in place). Since no objections have been reported from stakeholders or decision-makers within the region to the knowledge of the author, this assessment has adopted a risk averse approach by assuming that the perception of most (if not all) of the sensitive visual receptors, would be predominantly negative towards the development. Therefore, with the information available to the specialist at the time of writing this report, it cannot be empirically determined that the statistical majority of objecting stakeholders were exceeded. If evidence to the contrary surfaces during the progression of the development application, the specialist reserves the right to revise the statement below. One airstrip, presumed to service the Komati Power Station was noted within the proposed development area of PV Site B. It is therefore assumed that this airstrip will no longer be in use following the development of PV Site B. However, should this airstrip still intend to be used then it is recommended that that a Glint and Glare Assessment be undertaken and that the impacts as assessed be amended. A number of mitigation measures have been proposed. Regardless of whether or not mitigation measures will reduce the significance of the anticipated visual impacts, they are considered to be good practice and should all be implemented and maintained throughout the construction, operation and decommissioning phases of the proposed facility. If mitigation is undertaken as recommended, it is concluded that the significance of most of the anticipated visual impacts will remain at or be managed to acceptable levels. As such, the Komati SEF and BESS Facility would be considered to be acceptable from a visual impact perspective and can therefore be authorised. It should be noted that the results/deductions in this report are based solely from a visual perspective in relation to potential visual impacts and sensitive visual receptors and exclude any potential issues/comments/fatal flaws identified by other specialist studies 10.1.10 HERITAGE APelser Archaeological Consulting (APAC) was appointed by WSP Group Africa (Pty) Ltd to conduct a Phase 1 Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) for the Komati Solar Energy Facility (SEF). A Palaeontological Impact Assessment (PIA) forms part of the study and will be presented in a KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 388 of 399 separate report. The Komati Power Station is situated about 37km from Middelburg, 43km from Bethal and 40km from Witbank, via Vandyksdrift in the Mpumalanga Province of South Africa. It was evident from the desktop study that archaeological/historical sites and finds do occur in the larger geographical landscape within which the specific study area is located. It is always possible that open-air Stone Age sites could be found in the area, in the form of individual stone tools or small scatters of tools if present. The possibility of Iron Age sites in the area is highly unlikely, while the likelihood of recent historical sites and features being present in the area is also low. During a 2007 Heritage Survey for the Komati Power Station Ash Dam Extension (on the farm Komati Power Station 58IS, a subdivision of the original farm Koornfontein 27IS), no Stone Age, Iron Age or recent historical sites, features or material were identified in the area. During the May 2023 field assessment, no sites, features or material of cultural heritage (archaeological and/or historical) origin or significance were identified in the study and proposed SEF development area. The impact of the proposed development on the recorded and known cultural heritage sites in the area is deemed as Neglible based on the Impact Assessment criteria used. However, there is always a possibility of sites, features and material being missed as a result of various factors such as vegetation cover hampering visibility on the ground, as well as the often-subterranean nature of cultural heritage resources (including low stone-packed or unmarked graves). These factors need to be taken into consideration and it is therefore recommended that a Chance Finds Protocol be drafted and implemented for the proposed Eskom Komati SEF Development. Finally, from a Cultural Heritage point of view, it is recommended that the proposed Solar Energy Facility (SEF) and ancillary infrastructure as part of Eskom’s repurposing program for the Komati Power Station be allowed to continue, taking into consideration the recommendations provide above. 10.1.11 PALAEONTOLOGY The Phase 1: Palaeontology Field Study classifies the site as Very High Sensitivity due to plant fossils occurring in the Vryheid Formation and there is a possibility risk that fossils may be recovered exposed in the shale during the pre-construction and construction activities. All the land involved in the development was assessed and none of the property is unsuitable for development , however there is a risk that fossils may be exposed in the shale. Should fossils be exposed the Chance and Find Protocol must be implemented. Areas that would involve mitigation and may need a permit from the South African Heritage Resources Agency are discussed. If any palaeontological material is exposed during clearing, digging, excavating, or drilling, SAHRA must be notified. All development activities must be stopped, a 30 m barrier constructed, and a palaeontologist should be called in to determine proper mitigation measures. Condition in which development may proceed: It is further suggested that a Section 37(2) agreement of the Occupational, Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993 is signed with the relevant contractors to protect the environment (fossils) and adjacent areas as well as for safety and security reasons. 10.1.12 SOCIAL The development of the proposed Komati SEF and BESS aligns with legislative and policy frameworks. The Project will create employment, training, and business opportunities during the KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 389 of 399 construction and operation. The potential negative impacts of the construction and operation phases can be mitigated. The proposed development will also represent an investment in clean, renewable energy infrastructure for the country which will go some way to offset the negative environmental and socio- economic impacts associated with coal-based fossil fuel energy generation. Renewable energy also addresses climate change and assists the country in meeting its climate change reduction goals. Construction, operation and decommissioning phase impacts have been rated as medium negative and medium positive impacts, respectively. If mitigation measures are implemented, it is anticipated that the consequence and probability of the negative impacts will be reduced. Given the above, i the mitigation measures described in the social assessment have been incorporated into the proposed project's Environmental and Social Management Plan. Additionally, measures must be put in place to monitor and assess the implementation of these mitigation measures and take corrective action where necessary. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 390 of 399 11 IMPACT STATEMENT The essence of any impact assessment process is aimed at ensuring informed decision-making, environmental accountability, and to assist in achieving environmentally sound and sustainable development. In assessing the environmental feasibility of the proposed construction of the proposed Project, the requirements of all relevant legislation have been considered. The identification and development of appropriate mitigation measures that should be implemented to minimise potentially significant impacts associated with the project, has been informed by best practice principles, past experience, and the relevant legislation (where applicable). The conclusions of this ESIA are the result of comprehensive assessments. These assessments were based on issues identified through the legislated S&EIA process and public participation undertaken to date. Mitigation measures have been developed where applicable for the above aspects and are presented within the ESMP (Appendix G). It is imperative that all impact mitigation recommendations contained in the ESMP, of which the environmental impact assessment took cognisance, are legally enforced. Considering the findings of the respective studies, no fatal flaws were identified for the proposed Project. Should the avoidance and mitigation measures prescribed be implemented, the significance of the considered impacts for all negative aspects pertaining to the environmental aspects is expected to be low. It is thus the opinion of the EAP that the Project can proceed, and that all the prescribed mitigation measures and recommendations are considered by the issuing authority. 11.1 RECOMMENDATIONS The following key aspects are recommended:  The layouts submitted in the ESIA are not final. The final layouts are to be submitted to the DFFE for approval prior to construction;  The ESMP submitted in the ESIA is not final. The final ESMP is to be submitted to the DFFE for approval prior to construction;  The ESMP and ESIA mitigation measures must be adhered to;  Recommendations for the layout as provided by the relevant specialists must be implemented as far as possible;  The final ESMP must form part of all contractual documents with contractors during construction and operational phases of the project. Furthermore, a dedicated Environmental Control Officer (ECO) must be appointed to ensure compliance to all EA conditions and ESMP commitments throughout the construction phase;  Applications for all relevant and required permits must be submitted prior to construction; and  Where required, water use authorisation under NWA is to be obtained from the Department of Water and Sanitation prior to construction. The following specialist recommendations have been made in respect of the project and have been included in the ESMP (Appendix G):  Surface water: KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 391 of 399 • Is it recommended that the SWMP be developed further during the Detailed Design by: − Developing a stormwater layout and designs based on the above information and infrastructure layout plan; − Sizing the culverts or drifts associated with the proposed road crossings such that they can handle at least the 1:20-year flood event, or a minimum of 600 mm diameter or height (for maintenance purposes); − Developing conceptual designs into detailed designs with sufficient details to support construction; and − The plan should be incorporated into an environmental specification for use during construction and incorporated into the operation environmental management of the site. • Monitoring and management are key to the success of a SWMP. The following are therefore included as a key aspect of SWMP. − Frequent inspections until the success of the design and any unexpected problems are resolved/confirmed and maintenance frequency is determined; − Review of the plan after a few years to improve, where possible, its practicality, cost- effectiveness or efficacy; − Alerts that do not rely on a full-time environmental management on site (which may not be feasible) including: ▪ Automatic alert system for the wastewater conservancy tank (e.g., a float driven switch alert system); ▪ Brief, annual refresher training on stormwater protection that should not take more than fifteen minutes for each staff member; and ▪ Well placed signs that remind staff members or reporting of incident/issues, as soon as possible and reduce the likelihood that forgetfulness or confusion will prevent reporting.  Groundwater: • The potential impacts from the PV and BESS activities are anticipated to be low to moderate and can be mitigated. A positive impact may be possible during operation where the activities could reduce the recharge through contaminated soils to groundwater. • Further monitoring requirements, other than the existing monitoring as provided by the WUL, has not been identified.  Soils and agricultural potential: • Should the project go ahead, the following aspects should be monitored visually by the ECO during the construction phase: − Ensure that all operations are restricted to the areas demarcated as construction areas and not move outside of those areas. − Ensure that the topsoil is stripped ahead of excavations. − Monitor the vegetative cover of the soil stockpiles. − Monitor signs of erosion and consequent sedimentation. − Monitor signs of contamination of soils, especially where vehicles and equipment are present. − Monitor rehabilitation progress at the locations where the infrastructure is situated. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 392 of 399 • It is recommended that infrastructure be sited away from the arable areas wherever possible and well away from the wetlands within the larger site.  Terrestrial animal and plant species: • it is recommended that the following conditions be included in the EA: − If Eskom intend to develop infrastructure on land designated CBA Optimal, then it will be necessary to develop and implement a biodiversity offset strategy, as per the as per the National Biodiversity Offset Guideline (2023). If, however, this CBA Optimal area is avoided and regarded as a no-go area for infrastructure development, then a biodiversity offset will not be required.  Aquatic biodiversity: • An alien and invasive species management plan should be developed for the Project, which includes details of strategies and procedures that must be implemented on site to control the spread of alien and invasive species. A combined approach using both chemical and mechanical control methods, with periodic follow-up treatments informed by regular monitoring, is recommended. • Specific provision for biodiversity conservation, including details of any required offsets, should be made in the project BMP/BAP, in alignment with the objectives of the MBSP (2011) and ESS6. • Inclusion of a practical framework and schedule, details of key performance indicators, and recommended monitoring protocols for the delivery of existing and currently recommended mitigation measures in the BMP is recommended.  Traffic: • The proposed development should be considered favourably from a traffic engineering point of view by Steve Tshwete Local Municipality.  Visual: • The VIA practitioner takes great care to ensure that all the spatial analyses and mapping is as accurate as possible. The intention is to quantify, using visibility analyses, proximity analyses and the identification of sensitive receptors and the potential visual impacts associated with the proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility. These processes are deemed to be transparent and scientifically defensible when interrogated. • The construction and operation of the proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility may have a visual impact on the study area, especially within a 1km radius (and potentially up to a radius of 3km) of the proposed facility. The visual impact will differ amongst places, depending on the distance from the facility. Overall, the significance of the visual impacts is expected to range from moderate to low, as a result of the already disturbed and developed nature of the receiving environment. • The proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility is located within an area where a limited number of other PV facilities have been authorized within 30km of the site. There are no additional solar energy generation plants (or applications) within the study area itself and the closest approved application is the proposed installation of a solar photovoltaic power plant at the Eskom Duvha Power Station, some 18km north-west of the project site. Since both of the KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 393 of 399 other identified PV facilities are located more than 15km away from the proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility, it is not expected that a cumulative visual impact of significance will be experienced by sensitive receptors within the region (within 30km). • Of note is that the proposed site is located within an area where a large network of power lines traverses the study area and congregate at the existing Komati Power Station, as well as in an area where mining and other industrial activities are already one of the dominant industries. It is generally acceptable, from a visual impact point of view, to place industrial infrastructure within existing industrial areas. Therefore, the existing visual disturbances brought about by the Komati Power Station and the various mines in close proximity of the proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility to these, somewhat mitigates the visual impact of the structures and activities. Ironically this will also contribute to the potential cumulative visual impact of industrial infrastructure within the region. It is however still preferable to consolidate the proposed infrastructure in areas of existing visual disturbance, rather than to spread it over larger areas. Considering the above, and the generally disturbed nature of the area surrounding the site itself, the potential cumulative visual impact is considered to be within acceptable limits. • According to the Provincial Government of the Western Cape, Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (DEA&DP) Guideline for Involving Visual and Aesthetic Specialists in the EIA Process (Oberholzer, 2005), the criteria that determine whether or not a visual impact constitutes a potential fatal flaw are categorised as follows: − Non-compliance with Acts, Ordinances, By-laws and adopted policies relating to visual pollution, scenic routes, special areas or proclaimed heritage sites. − Non-compliance with conditions of existing Records of Decision. − Impacts that may be evaluated to be of high significance and that are considered by the majority of the stakeholders and decision-makers to be unacceptable. • In terms of the above and to the knowledge of the author the proposed development is compliant with all Acts, Ordinances, By-laws and adopted policies relating to visual pollution, scenic routes, special areas or proclaimed heritage sites, as well as, conditions of existing Records of Decisions (if any in place). • Since no objections have been reported from stakeholders or decision-makers within the region to the knowledge of the author, this assessment has adopted a risk averse approach by assuming that the perception of most (if not all) of the sensitive visual receptors, would be predominantly negative towards the development. • Therefore, with the information available to the specialist at the time of writing this report, it cannot be empirically determined that the statistical majority of objecting stakeholders were exceeded. If evidence to the contrary surfaces during the progression of the development application, the specialist reserves the right to revise the statement below. • One airstrip, presumed to service the Komati Power Station was noted within the proposed development area of PV Site B. It is therefore assumed that this airstrip will no longer be in use following the development of PV Site B. However, should this airstrip still intend to be used then it is recommended that that a Glint and Glare Assessment be undertaken and that the impacts as assessed be amended. • A number of mitigation measures have been proposed. Regardless of whether or not mitigation measures will reduce the significance of the anticipated visual impacts, they are KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 394 of 399 considered to be good practice and should all be implemented and maintained throughout the construction, operation and decommissioning phases of the proposed facility. • If mitigation is undertaken as recommended, it is concluded that the significance of most of the anticipated visual impacts will remain at or be managed to acceptable levels. As such, the Komati SEF and BESS Facility would be considered to be acceptable from a visual impact perspective and can therefore be authorised. • It should be noted that the results/deductions in this report are based solely from a visual perspective in relation to potential visual impacts and sensitive visual receptors and exclude any potential issues/comments/fatal flaws identified by other specialist studies.  Heritage: • A Chance Finds Protocol should be drafted and implemented for the proposed Eskom Komati SEF Development.  Palaeontology: • If any palaeontological material is exposed during clearing, digging, excavating, or drilling, SAHRA must be notified. All development activities must be stopped, a 30 m barrier constructed, and a palaeontologist should be called in to determine proper mitigation measures. • Include a Chance Fossil Finds Protocol in the ESMP.  Social: • The mitigation measures described in the social assessment must be incorporated into the proposed project's Environmental and Social Management Plan. • Additionally, measures must be put in place to monitor and assess the implementation of these mitigation measures and take corrective action where necessary. 11.2 FINAL LAYOUT The final layout for the Komati Solar PV and BESS Facility is provided in (Figure 11-1). The layout has been optimised based on the findings of the terrestrial and aquatic specialist studies. The layout now excludes the CBA Optimal area and High Ecological Sensitivity Area located within Solar PV Site B and excludes the Seep 1 wetland (including 33m buffer) located within the Solar PV Site A. The optimised layout is included in Figure 11-1. The sensitivities provided by the specialists have been overlaid on the layout map and is indicated in Figure 11-2. The no-go areas are indicated on Figure 11-3. It must be noted that the updated project layout avoids the no-go areas. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 395 of 399 Figure 11-1 – Komati Solar PV Facility Optimised Layout KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 396 of 399 Figure 11-2 – Komati Solar PV Facility Optimised Layout Sensitivity Map KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 397 of 399 Figure 11-3 – Komati Solar PV Facility Optimised Layout – No Go Map KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 398 of 399 12 CONCLUSION The proposed Komati SEF and BESS Facility project is to assist with the repurposing of the Komati Power Plant. The “no project” alternative would result in the entire power station being dismantled without creating new infrastructure and repurposing of the plant. Without implementing this project, the use of renewable options for power supply would be compromised in the future, potentially leading to significant negative impacts on environmental and social well-being. The analysis carried out in the ESIA has identified a variety of impacts and mitigation measures that has facilitated the preparation of the ESMP for the project to guide Eskom and its contractors during construction, operations and decommissioning phases of the proposed project. Therefore, the implementation of the identified mitigation measures will reduce any negative environmental and social impacts of the project to an acceptable level and will enhance the positive impacts to maximize their effect on the surrounding communities. KOMATI POWER STATION SOLAR PV FACILITY, BESS AND ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE PUBLIC | WSP Project No.: 41103965 April 2024 Eskom Holdings SOC (Ltd) Page 399 of 399 EAP CV Public SPECIALIST CVS Public PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS REPORT Public MAPS Public DFFE SCREENING TOOL REPORT Public SPECIALIST STUDIES Public GEOTECHNICAL DESKTOP STUDY Public AIR QUALITY DESKTOP ASSESSMENT Public NOISE DESKTOP ASSESSMENT Public SURFACE WATER ASSESSMENT Public HYDROGEOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT Public SOIL AND AGRICULTURAL POTENTIAL ASSESSMENT Public TERRESTRIAL ANIMAL SPECIES ASSESSMENT Public TERRESTRIAL BIODIVERSITY AND PLANT SPECIES ASSESSMENT Public AQUATIC BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT Public TRAFFIC ASSESSMENT Public VISUAL ASSESSMENT Public HERITAGE ASSESSMENT Public PALAEONTOLOGY ASSESSMENT Public SOCIAL ASSESSMENT Public AVIFAUNA ASSESSMENT Public CONTAMINATED LAND ASSESSMENT Public EMPR Public Building 1, Maxwell Office Park Magwa Crescent West, Waterfall City Midrand, 1685 South Africa wsp.com PUBLIC