Part 2 - Eskom

ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED 40MW OPEN CYCLE GAS TURBINE POWER
PLANT IN THE AMERSFOORT AREA, MPUMALANGA
Bohlweki-SSI Environmental
be further investigated in the EIA report and more details with regard to the spatial
layout and dimensions should be made available for inclusion in the study.
Photograph 9.1 gives an indication of the visual appearance and the spatial extent of
a UCG pilot gas field. The low vertical dimensions of the pipes are noted. Vertical
intrusion of the horizon is a major factor in creating visual impacts, and in this
instance the visual impact is minimised by the low density and relative small
dimensions of the pipe work.
According to Photograph 9.1 the gas field displays a relative small footprint. The
impact on the surrounding area can be minimised, as is illustrated in the case of
Majuba showing that the grass fields are fairly undisturbed.
Photograph 9.1: UCG pilot plant on the farm Roodekopjes
9.3.3. OCGT Demonstration Plant
The 40MW demonstration plant will consist of a single production unit, similar to the
example in Photograph 9.2.
The following observations are noted from the Figure 9.3 and the photographs below:
• Total transformation of the OCGT plant area is evident from the aerial view in
Figure 9.3. This is to be expected, given all the related infrastructure involved.
The level of transformation of the moving gas field and the possible cumulative
effects need to be further investigated in the EIA report.
• Where the visual absorption capacity of the area in terms of trees and shrubs is
limited, vegetated berms can be effective to screen views of the site, especially at
close range (Photograph 9.2). It must be noted that the natural topography of the
site is very hilly, and serves as a natural visual screen from many angles.
E02.JNB.000308
ESKOM HOLDINGS LIMITED
01
89
08/10/2009