Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to appoint an electrical contractor responsible for the design, supply, delivery, installation, and commissioning of a 50KW Solar Photovoltaic (PV) system combined with Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) at NHLS Willowvale Laboratory. This initiative aims to enhance energy resilience, reduce dependence on the national grid, and support NHLS's strategic goals of operational continuity, cost reduction, and environmental sustainability through renewable energy integration.

Scope

The scope encompasses:

• Conducting a feasibility study for the solar PV and BESS installation at NHLS Willowvale Laboratory and Data Centre.
• Designing site-specific solar PV and energy storage solutions, including mounting structures, PV modules, inverters, and associated electrical infrastructure.
• Procurement and supply of all materials, equipment, and labor necessary for installation.
• Installation, commissioning, and testing of the solar PV system and BESS, ensuring compliance with relevant standards and standards.
• Provision of asset governance documents, including design philosophy, detailed design, test certificates, BOQ, and as-built drawings.
• Training NHLS staff on system operation and maintenance.
• Post-installation maintenance and operational support, including development of maintenance strategies and feedback mechanisms.
• Ensuring minimal disruption to hospital operations during installation, with work scheduled in phases and possibly after hours or weekends.

Technical Requirements

The technical specifications include:

• Design of a site-specific solar PV system with an integrated BESS to optimize renewable energy use and reduce grid reliance.
• Inclusion of energy management systems (EMS), smart meters, and battery management systems (BMS) for real-time monitoring and optimization.
• Use of high-quality, SABS-approved components such as PV modules, mounting structures, inverters, batteries, and protection devices.
• Compliance with South African standards (SANS 10142, SABS standards) and grid connection requirements.
• Provision of warranties: PV modules (10 years), mounting structures (20 years), inverters (10 years), batteries (15 years), with detailed warranty documentation.
• Labelling and marking of all equipment according to standards.
• Implementation of safety measures, including signage, lockable isolation switches, and compliance with electrical and safety regulations.
• Testing and commissioning procedures, including system performance, safety, and grid compliance tests.
• Guarantee and maintenance period of 12 months post-commissioning, with a retention period of 3 months.

Skills Requirements

The bidder must demonstrate:

• CIDB registration in grading 2EB or higher.
• Proven experience in designing and installing solar PV and energy storage systems, with references for similar projects.
• Qualified project management personnel with at least 5 years’ experience, registered with ECSA as a Professional Engineer or Technologist, and with relevant solar system design and installation credentials.
• Qualified electricians with relevant experience (minimum 5 years), trade test certificates, and PV Green Card certification.
• Capability to develop and implement project execution plans, safety plans, and quality assurance procedures.
• Ability to provide training and knowledge transfer to NHLS staff for ongoing system operation and maintenance.
• Capacity to coordinate work schedules to minimize operational disruptions, including after-hours or weekend work if necessary.