Energy Development advances in Richards Bay: EOI released by ZET
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
By: Dylan Naidoo
Not too long ago saw the introduction of South Africa’s first liquefied natural gas (LNG) development, reflected by the recently signed partnership between ExxonMobil and the Zululand Energy Terminal (ZET) at the Port of Richards Bay. This signing signifies a shift for the infrastructure of gas imports into the Port of Richards Bay, as according to Mthobisi Nozulela from IOL, this comes at the right time amidst a current gas shortage in South Africa. With this exciting development set to potentially reinvigorate investment interest, ZET has recently released an Expression of Interest (EOI) for Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractors for this new development.
As standard, potential EPC contractors are required to follow standard procurement procedures, as stipulated in the EOI document. This is shortly followed up by a Request for Information (RFI) which is issued by qualifying contractors should they be fit for the project, which is then progressed to a Request for Quotation (RFQ).
IOL claims that this project is estimated to be valued at R15 billion, signaling a major opportunity for potential contractors to be involved in this grand project. This project aims not only to develop LNG infrastructure for imports for South Africa, but it also allows for further investment interest at the port of Richards Bay. “The participation of a global energy leader such as ExxonMobil reinforces the strategic importance of Richards Bay as an entry point for LNG and supports our vision of developing the infrastructure needed to unlock a competitive and sustainable gas market.” says Oliver Naidu, Director of ZET.
The terminal is expected to bring in many benefits, including the strengthening of South Africa’s energy security, support the development of gas in South Africa, as well as assist in the energy transition towards renewable energy.
EPC contractors that are successfully selected will be assigned to “support local supplier participation, skills development and the utilisation of local labour.” The EPC Contractors assistance will benefit heavily from working for ZET, as they will be at the forefront of development at a multi-billion-rand development project set to completely transform the energy terminal of Richards Bay.
EPC contractors are encouraged to access the following document links below for submission information. This EOI was issued on 18 June 2026 and is closing on 9 July 2026 at 17:00 (SAST). Submissions must be sent to tenders@zlet.co.za.
Document Links:
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