Sunrise operates the LPG import terminal under exclusive concession from the Transnet National Ports Authority, providing LPG importers access into the Western Cape. Volumes more than doubled from 52 016 t in 2018, the first full operational year, to 129 544 t in 2021. During this period, Sunrise recorded average year-on-year growth of 36% in LPG volumes moving through the terminal. Since operations began in May 2016, the terminal has facilitated more than 500 000 t of LPG imports into the country and beyond. The growth confirmed the rising recognition of the utility of LPG as an alternative energy source against the backdrop of continued load-shedding.
Despite boasting some of the best LPG import infrastructure in Africa, South Africa has a very low use of LPG per person. Just by leveraging existing infrastructure and policies, South Africa could save up to 550 MW of its daily grid demands, among numerous other economic growth enablers, Sunrise stated. To maximize its potential, government must act immediately on the LPG strategy’s call for a public awareness campaign, encouraging all South African energy consumers to switch to LPG and assuring them of its safety. The Sunrise Energy terminal is well-equipped to help South Africa tackle the challenges of load shedding.