Objectives

The primary objective is to appoint a suitably qualified service provider to manage and execute the renewal application for the Atmospheric Emissions License (AEL) covering the Bulk Manganese Ore Terminal at Port Elizabeth. The license authorizes operations at a throughput capacity of 6 million tons per annum (MTPA) and must fully comply with the National Environment: Air Quality Act 39 of 2004.

Scope of Work

The appointed provider will oversee the complete AEL renewal lifecycle, including:

• Developing and obtaining regulatory approval for a Plan of Study detailing atmospheric modelling protocols.
• Conducting comprehensive atmospheric impact assessments and dispersion modelling for all point, mobile, non-point, and area emission sources.
• Executing a statutory Public Participation Process (PPP) per Section 38 of NEM:AQA, engaging municipalities, land users, community representatives, and the public via digital and print channels.
• Compiling and submitting an Atmospheric Impact Report (AIR) and all supporting technical documentation to the licensing authority.
• Managing ongoing correspondence with the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality and uploading all submissions to the official regulatory portal.
• Responding promptly to regulatory queries, comments, and conditions throughout the evaluation phase.
• Holding monthly progress meetings, maintaining a permanently manned contact line, and adhering to Transnet’s integrated management, health, safety, and environmental standards.

Technical Requirements

Bidders must satisfy the following technical and administrative thresholds:

• Proven Track Record: Minimum two years of successful AEL application experience, verified by two written references from different clients.
• Process Documentation: A company letterhead statement outlining the complete AEL application workflow, realistic timeframes, and designated responsible parties for each step.
• Regulatory Registration: Certified proof of active registration with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP).
• Monitoring Capacity: Copies of tertiary qualifications and CVs for at least one individual qualified to conduct the environmental monitoring programme and contingency plan.
• Compliance & Security: Valid tax compliance status, Central Supplier Database (CSD) registration, and readiness to obtain security clearance up to CONFIDENTIAL/SECRET/TOP SECRET levels if required.
• Evaluation Framework: Scoring combines technical functionality (references, lead time, qualifications, SACNASP registration) and price, with a mandatory technical threshold required to advance.

Skills Requirements

The service provider must demonstrate specialized expertise in environmental licensing and regulatory compliance, including:

• In-depth knowledge of the National Environment: Air Quality Act, municipal licensing procedures, and atmospheric pollution control regulations.
• Proficiency in air quality dispersion modelling, atmospheric impact reporting, and environmental risk assessment methodologies.
• Strong project management capabilities to deliver within strict lead times while coordinating multi-disciplinary teams and external stakeholders.
• Qualified personnel holding relevant tertiary degrees and practical field experience, with at least one SACNASP-registered Professional Natural Scientist or Professional Engineer authorized to compile the legally binding AIR.
• Effective communication, negotiation, and conflict-resolution skills for managing regulatory feedback and public consultation outcomes.

Key Terminology & Complex Requirements

Atmospheric Emissions License (AEL): A legally mandated permit under South African environmental law for industrial facilities emitting pollutants. Renewal requires rigorous scientific validation, structured public consultation, and formal regulatory approval before operations can continue.

SAAELIP: The South African Atmospheric Emissions Licensing Information Portal, the official government platform used for digital submission, tracking, and management of AEL applications.

SACNASP: The statutory professional council that registers and regulates natural scientists and engineers in South Africa. Mandatory registration ensures the technical competence and legal validity of specialists compiling atmospheric impact reports.

6 MTPA: Abbreviation for 6 Million Tons Per Annum, representing the licensed operational throughput capacity for manganese ore handling at the terminal.