Looking at the current power crisis in SA, there can be no doubt that alternative solutions to coal and diesel generation need to be found. Renewable and green energy is obviously the ultimate end goal, but this is many years away, and in the interim, liquified natural gas (LNG) and other gas options like helium and hydrogen can ease the transition.

As we move away from fossil fuel power generation towards a greener future, gas will remain an integral part of the energy mix. This is an enabler for the creation of sustainable employment opportunities in SA. LNG is currently used in domestic settings to fuel appliances, specifically stoves and heating solutions.

However, it is set to become a greater part of the energy mix for the future of SA and much investment is going into developing this. Transnet is poised to send out a request for quotation to develop an LNG terminal at their Richards Bay port, Total Energies is planning on drilling off the south-west coast, and globally there is a contract to drill off the northwest coast of Nigeria, and more drilling licences being awarded in the Middle East.

The number of developments in the pipeline, specifically a dedicated port for LNG, show that SA is indeed gearing up to incorporate this fuel source in a bigger way. While domestic use will undoubtedly remain a substantial proportion of its use, there are many applications for LNG as an alternative fuel source and a long-term transition fuel as we move increasingly towards the use of renewable energy.

In addition to the increased use of LNG, there are other gases that also have energy applications. The recent discovery of helium in Virginia in the Free State has multiple uses, and carbon capture and green hydrogen production are also options that are being explored.

There are numerous developments around gas in SA and this is an opportunity and an enabler for employment, from fixed-term contracts around the construction phase of infrastructure, pipelines, ports and terminals to long-term maintenance and operations.

For those working in the development of gas in SA, finding the right people to fill all of these positions from the outset is critical to ensure projects run smoothly to prevent costly delays.

From project managers and supervisors to general labour to high artisans, the quality of construction and development needs to meet the highest standards while complying with all relevant health and safety regulations.

Recruitment and employee management are seldom core competencies for organisations that specialise in the construction and development of gas pipelines, which is why the right partner is crucial.

Recruitment is about more than just placing bodies in jobs, especially when lives could be at stake. In addition, while we may not have a skills gap as such, the reality is that, while the skill sets are available, many of the people in SA with these skills are currently working offshore where the opportunities are.

Finding the right skills and bringing them home will be an essential element of success. A structured, diversified employment solutions partner with the relevant skills, experience in the industry and access to a broad database of potential employees can be an invaluable asset.

• Sookun is managing director of Oxyon