Australian company Kinetiko is taking a two-step permitting process to accelerate gas production at its South African Brakfontein project ahead of a looming national gas shortage, the company's executive chairperson said.
The company is applying both for a full production right and a bulk sampling permit, which executive chairperson Adam Sierakowski said could be approved more quickly and allow limited gas production within six months.
South Africa is moving towards gas as it transitions away from its primary energy source, coal, and Kinetiko's project provides the government with a home-based supply option together with liquefied natural gas import terminals.
Kinetiko said its full production right is expected to be in place by the end of 2027. If granted, it would be only South Africa's second onshore gas production right.
"We may have the right for a small amount of gas to be produced within the next six months, but we are targeting main phase 1 production for the end of 2027," Sierakowski told Reuters.
