22/01/2026
West Coast Saldanha Key developments and trends for 2026 include:
Green Hydrogen and eMethanol Hub: Saldanha is being developed as a key, multi-billion dollar green hydrogen export hub, with a strategic shift announced in 2025 to focus on eMethanol production. Phelan Green Energy is driving a R47 billion project to build a massive green hydrogen complex aimed at exporting 400,000 tonnes of eMethanol annually.
Port and Harbour Revitalisation: The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, in collaboration with the Saldanha Bay Municipality, is implementing plans to redevelop the neglected Saldanha Bay and St Helena Bay harbours to boost the local economy and create jobs. This includes supporting the Offshore Supply Base (OSSB) at the Port of Saldanha.
Freeport Saldanha (SBIDZ) Expansion: As South Africa's only sector-specific Special Economic Zone (SEZ) for oil, gas, and marine repairs, Freeport Saldanha continues to attract investment, with over R21 billion in commitments. The 2025/26 corporate plan highlights a focus on sustainable growth and strengthening the green hydrogen economy.
Smart City and Digital Infrastructure: The Saldanha Bay Municipality is implementing the Baobab Smart City project, focusing on an open-access fibre network to provide reliable internet connectivity to local businesses and residents. Additionally, a Digital Smart Skills Centre is being established to support the maritime and oil and gas sectors.
SMME Support and Innovation: The SBIDZ is fostering local entrepreneurship through the SME Co-lab Centre, which offers shared, Wi-Fi-enabled office space. The Saldanha Bay Innovation Campus is also operational, connecting academic and private sector partners to drive technology in the marine and energy sectors.
Asset Assist Programme: The Department of Small Business Development has re-launched the Asset Assist Programme, allowing local MSMEs to access up to R250,000 in funding for equipment and operational growth.
These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to align with the Western Cape's Growth for Jobs (G4J) strategy, aiming for economic recovery and the creation of thousands of jobs in the region.
