Russia and South Africa discuss construction of gas generation and LNG shipments

MOSCOW. Aug 15 (Interfax) - Russian Deputy Energy Minister Sergey Mochalnikov discussed with South African Ambassador to Russia Mzuvukile Jeff Maqetuka cooperation between the two countries within BRICS on the eve of the ministerial meeting on energy, which will be held in Johannesburg on August 18.

They discussed issues of current cooperation in the field of trading oil and petroleum products, the Russian ministry said. It was noted that cooperation in the standardization and conformity assessment of oil and gas equipment could become a new promising area.

In addition, during the meeting, the issue of consumption growth in South Africa was raised, which requires the development of generating capacities.

"Our countries are interested in developing mutually beneficial cooperation in the energy sector. Today, we are working with our South African partners on the possibility of building a gas power plant. We are already discussing the supply of equipment, and considering the possibility of organizing the supply of Russian liquefied natural gas for the effective operation of new generating capacities," Mochalnikov said.

The parties also discussed the prospects for further cooperation in the field of electric power. Thus, it was noted that the implementation of renewable energy projects by Russian companies in South Africa is proceeding to plan. Issues related to the operation of coal-fired power plants in South Africa, which are currently loaded at half-capacity, were also discussed.

Russian companies are ready to assist in the repair and renovation of coal-fired energy facilities in South Africa through concession agreements that can be secured at the intergovernmental level, the deputy minister said.