The Central Energy Fund (CEF), a South African state-owned institution, has reaffirmed plans to redevelop the former SANPC refinery site in Durban South, in South Africa (CEF press release, 09/09/2026). In the short term, the company plans to utilise existing storage and logistics infrastructure to support fuel imports and strengthen security of supply. The second phase would involve rebuilding refining operations at the site, targeting a processing capacity of around 400,000 bbl/d. In the longer term, refining throughput could be expanded to 400,000-650,000 bbl/d, subject to financing, regulatory approvals and project viability.
CEF argues that restoring refining capacity would enhance South Africa’s energy security, support industrial activity and reduce reliance on imported petroleum products. The country’s refining sector has experienced a significant decline in recent years. According to the CEF, while domestic refineries met around 78% of fuel demand in 2019, this share has fallen to approximately 39% in 2026 following the closure or mothballing of major facilities. As a result, imports now account for about 61% of South Africa’s refined product supply, making the country vulnerable to supply shocks and volatile oil prices.