What’s actually been approved – and what hasn’t
CCN Editor – George April
CAPE TOWN:- Two recent Facebook posts about the Phelan Green eSAF project have caused confusion in local groups.
PICTURE – Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa Minister of Electricity and Energy at the podium during the Official Opening Address at the African Green Hydrogen Summit 2026 at Century City.
On 15 September 2026 the national government announced the first six “First Wave” green hydrogen projects. The Phelan Green electro-Sustainable Aviation Fuel (eSAF) project near Hopefield is the most advanced of the six.
Key confirmed points:
- The Phelan Family Board has approved Phase 1 (R12 billion of the total R47 billion project).
- Equity has been committed (US$100 million from the Phelan family).
- Construction is planned to start in the” first quarter of 2027”.
- The project is included in the official National Green Hydrogen Deal Book as a First Wave Project.
– Job numbers cited: approximately 2,500 construction jobs and 500 permanent operational jobs.
These claims in the circulating posts are correct.
What has “not” been approved yet
- Environmental authorisation has “not” been granted.
- The Final Scoping Report was submitted in June 2026.
- The project is currently in the full Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) phase with the Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (for the eSAF/hydrogen plant).
- A separate process is running with the national Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment for the large solar component.
- Water-use licences, atmospheric emission licences and other permits are still outstanding.
Concerns raised by residents about water, biodiversity (Hopefield Sand Fynbos), visual impact, landscape change and safety remain part of the formal assessment process.
Bottom line for tomorrow’s meeting in Thusong Hall – Hopefield
The project now has strong national political support and committed private equity. It is no longer just a proposal on paper. However, it still requires environmental and other regulatory approvals before construction can legally begin. Residents still have the right and the opportunity, to participate in the ongoing EIA process and raise concerns.
This is the current, verified status as of Tuesday 16 September 2026.
