Transnet takes Sasol, Total to court to recoup R1.3bn

JOHANNESBURG - Transnet is looking to recoup a combined R1.3-billion from Sasol and TotalEnergies.

The ailing state-owned entity has accused the companies of not paying the full tariffs required to use Transnet's pipeline to move crude oil from Durban to the Natref refinery in Sasolburg, Free State.

Transnet is arguing, in court, that it has been short-changed by the companies.

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It says Sasol has raked up a bill of R815-million while it is looking to recoup R461-million.

The latest court bid comes after the cancellation of an apartheid-era variation agreement that allowed companies to pay discounted tariffs to use the pipelines.

Transnet currently holds the licence to operate the petroleum pipeline system. It has argued that it is not obliged to grant discounts unless approved by Nersa.