Driving South Africa’s Sustainable Energy Future

CEF Overview

Role and Purpose

The Central Energy Fund (CEF) plays a pivotal role in identifying and implementing appropriate energy solutions to meet the future energy needs of South Africa, the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and the wider sub-Saharan region.

Its portfolio spans a diverse range of energy sectors — including oil, gas, electrical power, solar, wind, biomass, low-smoke fuels, and renewable energy sources — supporting South Africa’s progress toward a sustainable energy mix.

The CEF also manages the operation, development, and strategic assets of government’s oil and gas interests, aligning national energy security with long-term sustainability goals.

Oil and Gas Exploration

PetroSA

Through its integrated oil company subsidiary, PetroSA, the CEF engages in onshore and offshore exploration across South Africa and the African continent.

Synfuels Refinery

PetroSA operates a synfuels refinery outside Mossel Bay, producing environmentally friendly petroleum fuels and petrochemical products from gas and condensate.

Oil Storage Facilities

The CEF oversees the management and maintenance of South Africa’s vital oil-storage infrastructure to ensure energy resilience and security of supply.

Subsidiaries and Strategic Units

Strategic Fuel Fund (SFF)

Manages South Africa’s strategic crude oil reserves and supports national energy security during supply disruptions or emergencies.

Oil Pollution Control SA (OPC SA)

Provides oil prevention, control, and clean-up services in line with the National Environmental Management Act (Act 107 of 1998), mainly across ports and coastlines.

Petroleum Agency SA (PASA)

Responsible for the promotion and licensing of oil and gas exploration, development, and production within South Africa’s territorial and offshore areas.

iGas

Acts as the government’s official agent for developing the hydrocarbon gas industry, including LNG and LPG.

Sustainability and Renewable Energy

Transition to Cleaner Energy

The CEF advances South Africa’s transition to a sustainable energy future through investments in solar, wind, biomass, and clean-fuel technologies. These initiatives align with national commitments to carbon reduction, environmental stewardship, and inclusive growth.

Supports a diversified and resilient national energy mix
Promotes clean technology investment and long-term sustainability
Strengthens energy security while enabling inclusive growth

Learn More

For more information, visit the official Central Energy Fund (CEF) website.

Visit CEF Website