LocalNews

Vopak South Africa expands its operation in Lesedi

Vopak Expands Bulk Fuel Storage Facility in Heidelberg

In early September, Vopak Lesedi Terminal announced the expansion of its bulk fuel terminal in Heidelberg, Gauteng, marking a significant milestone for the region’s energy infrastructure.

The expansion project, known as the Vopak Ubun2 Project, will increase the terminal’s storage capacity by 40,000 cubic meters (m³/cbm), bringing the total to 140,000 m³.

Local dignitaries, including the Executive Mayor of Lesedi, Councillor Mluleki Nkosi, and Municipal Manager Mr. Sbusiso Dlamini, attended the official SOD-turning ceremony to celebrate the launch of the project.

Vopak Lesedi Terminal plays a crucial role in South Africa’s fuel supply chain. It is connected to Vopak Terminal Durban via the Transnet Multi-Product Pipeline, facilitating the transport of refined petroleum products, such as petrol and diesel.

The expansion will include the construction of two new tanks, each with a capacity of 20,000 m³. One of the tanks will feature an internal floating roof (IFR), designed to improve operational flexibility. The additional storage will also be integrated into the existing manifolds, supporting import, export, and road-loading operations.

Speaking at the event, Vopak South Africa President, Mr. Oliver Naidu, highlighted the significance of the expansion, calling it a long-held dream for the company. He emphasized Vopak’s dedication to meeting the growing needs of customers and bolstering South Africa’s energy security. Mr. Naidu also praised the support from local leadership, acknowledging the Executive Mayor’s role in driving the project forward.

In response, Mayor Nkosi expressed his gratitude to Vopak for their contribution to improving the community, underscoring the importance of public participation in ensuring that local communities benefit from new opportunities arising from such projects.

Political party ActionSA also welcomed the announcement of private investment in infrastructure development during a public participation meeting organized by the Office of the Speaker of Lesedi Municipality at Ratanda Multipurpose Centre on Wednesday, September 18.

The party acknowledged that the construction of the two 20,000 m³ tanks at Vopak’s facility would enhance the terminal’s operational flexibility and contribute to local job creation.

“ActionSA noted that this infrastructure project presents much-needed employment opportunities and is poised to boost the local economy,” Lesedi’s Regional Chairperson Neo Kutoane stated.

The party urged Vopak to adhere to fair employment processes, ensuring there is no political influence or nepotism in the hiring process.

“The high turnout at the public participation meeting reflected the pressing issue of unemployment in Lesedi. ActionSA encouraged the youth of Lesedi Local Municipality to seize this opportunity, emphasizing that job creation through infrastructure development is critical to revitalizing the struggling economy,” Kutoane said.

The Vopak Ubun2 Project is set to strengthen Gauteng’s fuel infrastructure and stimulate economic growth in the region.

Residents of Lesedi filled the Ratanda Multi-purpose Hall on Wednesday, September 18, to hear about the Vopak Ubunt2 project which will see the Lesedi Terminal undergo an expansion of its bulk fuel storage operation.

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