THE Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) recently announced the impending launch of the Fishwater Flats Biogas Renewable Energy Project. This pioneering endeavour marks the first biogas plant to be constructed on a wastewater treatment works site in the region, setting a significant precedent for future initiatives.
The project, led by the NMBM Electricity and Energy Directorate, brings together key stakeholders from various municipal directorates, including Electricity and Energy, Infrastructure and Engineering, and Public Health. Additionally, the collaboration involves Straits Group SA and the Development Bank of Southern Africa, illustrating a concerted effort across multiple sectors.
At the heart of the project is the transformation of the Fishwater Flats Wastewater Treatment Works (WWTW). By harnessing waste material, the plant aims to produce clean energy through biogas technology. This innovative approach promises to reduce the amount of solids generated by the treatment process, with each cubic metre of biogas equating to the destruction of approximately two to three kilograms of solids. Such a process not only enhances operational efficiency but also propels the municipality towards a more sustainable model of wastewater management.
Public Acting Executive Director for Electricity and Energy, Tholi Biyela, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, “The Municipality is extremely excited to be undertaking such an innovative project. Waste typically has a negative impact on the environment, but with this biogas plant, we are transforming that negative into a positive. This innovation will enable the Metro to become more energy-efficient, reduce emissions, and provide significant economic benefits to the local community.”
This biogas plant will contribute an additional 2.5 megawatts of electrical energy capacity to the Metro’s power grid. This enhancement not only strengthens the electricity supply but also aligns with both global and local sustainable development goals, reinforcing NMBM’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
A notable feature of the Fishwater Flats Biogas Project is its seamless integration with existing infrastructure. This ensures continuous service delivery while optimising resources, reflecting the forward-thinking nature of this initiative. The local development team has committed substantial time and expertise to ensure the project’s success, crafting tailored solutions that align with the Municipality’s strategic vision.
The construction phase, scheduled to last 24 months, is meant to provide substantial opportunities for local Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), who will work alongside the main contractor. In doing so, the project will invigorate the local economy by creating over 50 temporary jobs during construction and around 30 long-term skilled positions.
Planned for completion by December 2027, the Fishwater Flats Biogas Project represents a milestone in Nelson Mandela Bay’s renewable energy journey, signalling a promising future of sustainable growth and innovation.
