The improvement of Environmental Impact Assessment Report quality for Solar Photovoltaic projects in South Africa

Abstract

The quality of Environmental Impact Assessment Reports (EIARs) plays a critical role in a well-functioning Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) system as EIARs are the key tool used by decision makers. Several studies have been conducted locally and abroad regarding the quality of EIARs across various sectors. This research presents the results of a comparative analysis of the report quality of EIARs between 2011 and 2017, compiled for Solar PV projects in South Africa. The aim of the study was to determine whether report quality for such projects improved over the stipulated timeframe. In order to do so, the Lee & Colley review package was adapted to the South African context and used to evaluate seven EIARs. The outcome of the study suggests minor improvements in EIAR quality for Solar PV projects over time. In particular, it was found that the methodology used and quantification of information (magnitude/significance) improved over the years. The two main contributing factors identified were the experience of environmental assessment practitioners (EAPs) that conducted the studies, and the introduction of environmental legislation, such as Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) regulations and/or sectoral guidelines.