In 1954 the first South African oil-from-coal plant was established at Sasolburg in the Free State. When the Shah of Iran was overthrown in 1979 and the continuation of oil supplies to South Africa became problematic and expensive, another two plants, Sasol 2 and Sasol 3, were established, this time at Secunda (“eMbalenhle”). These plants are still producing and the four mines, collectively known as the Secunda Collieries, that supply the plants with the 45 billion tons of coal that they collectively devour annually, are considered to be one of the world’s largest underground coal-mining complexes. Three of the largest power stations in the Southern Hemisphere (Matla, Kriel and Duvha) are situated in the vicinity of town.
Adventure And Sport
Sailing: The Highveld Sailing Club uses the facilities of the Trichardt Resort Dam.
