WATER USAGE MANAGEMENT SERVICES

The National Water Act (Act 36 of 1998) recognises various categories of permissible water uses (as defined under the National Water Act) - Schedule 1 uses, generally authorised uses, existing lawful uses and licenced uses. GCS provides comprehensive services relating to water licencing and water use regulation in general, including:

Water Use Licencing – GCS specialises in handling the complete water use licensing process for an organisation so as to achieve maximum efficiency and minimal costs and delays Assessing compliance with licence conditions and licence amendment applications - GCS undertakes detailed assessments of an organisation's compliance with its water licence conditions and, where possible, advises on achieving and sustaining compliance. Water Use Validation and Verification – GCS assists organisations in the validation and verification of their water uses in terms of Section 35 of the National Water Act. GCS is also equipped to undertake comprehensive water use audits where necessary. Integrated Water Management Plans (IWMPs) – GCS is qualified to undertake IWMPs and similar management plans in terms of the requirements of the relevant DWAF (Department of Water Affairs and Forestry) Regional Offices. Water Use Registration - GCS assists organisations in identifying their specific water use registration requirements, completing the relevant registration forms and ensuring that the water uses are properly registered. Transfer of water use entitlements - the transfer of water use entitlements has become an important process in the water stressed sectors of the country. GCS provides the necessary assistance with regard to such transfers, including preparation and submission of the necessary documentation to the regulatory authority.

Assistance in compulsory licence processes - GCS has the expertise to assist organisations with, and advise on, compulsory licensing processes in order to ensure that organisations’ rights and interests are protected throughout the process. Water User Associations – GCS provides the necessary assistance to organisations to establish Water User Associations in terms of Chapter 8 of the National Water Act. Due Diligence / State of the Environment Audits – GCS organisations in various sectors on their current and potential future liabilities in accordance with the relevant legislation.