News
Coega
Special
Economic
Zone,
Wastewater
Treatment
Works
(Zone
5)
SMEC mobilises for wastewater treatment works at Coega, Zone 5, Gqeberha.

SMEC has commenced design for the new wastewater treatment works in Zone 5 of the Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ). This project represents a significant milestone in sustainable wastewater reuse in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, showcasing SMEC’s commitment to delivering innovative, sustainable and environmentally responsible infrastructure that supports economic growth.

 

Empowering economic growth with environmental responsibility

The Coega SEZ, one of South Africa’s premier industrial zones, is designed to attract both domestic and international investors through advanced infrastructure and strategic access to global markets. The Coega Development Corporation (CDC), a state-owned entity in South Africa, is committed to sustainable development, balancing economic opportunity with rigorous environmental stewardship.

 

Zone 5 of the Coega SEZ is designated as a core area for industrial expansion and development, with a specific focus on sustainable resource management. The Coega Wastewater Treatment Works in Zone 5 will address the increasing demand for sustainable water management solutions.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Project scope and key objectives

SMEC’s scope for the new Coega Wastewater Treatment Works, Zone 5, covers the entire consulting engineering cycle of the facility, including planning, full design, construction management and commissioning, structured in a series of stages.  The key objectives include:

  • Scalable, future-proofed design: The treatment works will be engineered with a modular approach, allowing for phased capacity expansions to meet the SEZ’s needs through 2040 and beyond. Initial capacity will support both domestic and industrial wastewater streams with a capacity of 20 Ml/day for each treatment facility.
  • Innovative water treatment technology: SMEC’s design will feature advanced treatment processes, including the option to run the works in multiple process options, optimised energy usage and automation, ensuring compliance with the highest environmental and operational standards.
  • Environmental compliance and sustainable effluent management: The project will incorporate sustainable practices to meet South Africa’s National Water Act standards. Treated effluent will be redirected for industrial reuse within the SEZ, reducing reliance on local potable water sources and promoting a circular economy model. The beneficiation of the sludge within the SEZ will help to minimise environmental impact.
  • Green energy: SMEC is currently supporting talks that will allow possible Green Hydrogen generation from the waste products of the treatment process. As the Coega SEZ is situated close to one of the larger ports of South Africa, this could be used to fuel ships through Green Maritime Methanol.

The project planning phase is expected to conclude in Q1 of 2025, whilst the construction phase is planned for later in 2025. The estimated construction time for a 20Ml/d module is 18 to 24 months.

 

International expertise, local knowledge

SMEC’s appointment underscores the company’s ability to bring global best practice to regional areas, leveraging international expertise while benefiting from the site’s proximity, located just a 20-minute drive from its Gqeberha office.

 

 

This appointment reflects SMEC’s ability to meet the rigorous standards expected in domestic and industrial wastewater treatment worldwide. The project is set to feature innovative technologies that will meet current and future wastewater needs and industrial water demands as the Coega SEZ continues to expand.
— Dr Michele Kruger, Senior Technical Principal, SMEC

“We are excited to bring our expertise to the new Coega Wastewater Treatment Works, a project that demonstrates how infrastructure can align economic growth with environmental sustainability. This facility will set new standards for wastewater management in industrial zones. Our approach is centred on delivering a solution that balances innovation, efficiency and future scalability. As we design and implement the new Coega Wastewater Treatment Works, we are mindful of its potential to integrate with emerging technologies and solutions, such as green hydrogen production. This facility could be a stepping stone toward broader sustainability goals.”

The project is being delivered with the support of various stakeholders such as the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality, the Department of Water and Sanitation and the South African National Treasury.

Enhancing water security and regional growth

As South Africa faces mounting water scarcity challenges, the new Coega Wastewater Treatment Works, Zone 5, will contribute to greater water security for the Eastern Cape, supporting both industrial and residential needs. The treated wastewater will reduce strain on municipal water supplies, ensuring more resources are available for essential community uses.

By treating wastewater and redirecting it for industrial reuse, SMEC’s approach to this project reflects a forward-looking model for water management in industrial zones worldwide. This appointment reinforces SMEC’s role as a trusted partner in delivering complex, sustainable infrastructure solutions that drive both immediate and long-term value.

About SMEC

SMEC is an award-winning engineering and consultancy firm known for its commitment to sustainable infrastructure development. With a global footprint and a legacy of excellence in delivering infrastructure solutions across diverse markets, SMEC combines technical expertise with a focus on social and environmental impact, striving to engineer positive change in every project.