- Natref becomes the first refinery in Africa to secure ISCC+ certification for sustainable fuels.
- Certification also covers sustainable chemicals production at Secunda Operations.
Sasol has reached a significant milestone in South Africa’s energy and industrial transition, with its Natref refinery becoming the first in Africa to achieve product sustainability certification for key fuel production pathways. The milestone also includes certified sustainable chemicals production at the company’s Secunda Operations.
The achievement follows the successful completion of an International Sustainability and Carbon Certification ISCC+ final onsite audit conducted by TÜV SÜD, a global provider of testing, inspection and certification services. The certification covers the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel and Renewable Diesel through the co processing of used cooking oil and vegetable oil at Natref, as well as sustainable chemicals production at Secunda.
Sarushen Pillay, Executive Vice President for Business Building, Strategy and Technology at Sasol, said the certification marks a transition from ambition to execution.
He said the milestone demonstrates Sasol’s ability to deliver certified sustainable fuels and chemicals at scale using existing assets in South Africa. Independent certification, he added, enhances confidence in the company’s transition strategy, operational capability and competitiveness in global low carbon markets.
The certification strengthens Sasol’s readiness to supply sustainable fuels and chemicals into domestic, premium and export markets. It also reinforces the role of Natref and Secunda in supporting certified sustainable production across the value chain.
For customers, the certification provides assurance that Sasol’s products meet globally recognised sustainability standards, supporting traceability, regulatory compliance and decarbonisation efforts across industries.
Pillay noted that certification enables market access and supports credible sustainability claims by ensuring products are independently verified.
Walter Reithmaier, CEO of TÜV SÜD’s Industry and Infrastructure Division, emphasised the importance of independent verification. He said globally recognised certification schemes such as ISCC+, combined with impartial third party audits, are essential to demonstrate sustainability, traceability and greenhouse gas reduction across products and processes. He added that independent certification enhances transparency and builds trust across the supply chain.
The development strengthens Sasol’s role in supporting South Africa’s energy transition by enabling the supply of certified sustainable fuels and chemicals from existing local infrastructure. It highlights the company’s integrated capabilities and technical expertise to deliver products aligned with national priorities and global sustainability standards.
The certification also advances commitments outlined during Sasol’s Capital Markets Day in 2025, providing a platform to scale future opportunities, strengthen partnerships and support ongoing policy engagement linked to South Africa’s transition agenda.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
