Tender Summary: Voltage Transformer (VT) Diagnostic and Replacement

Objectives

The primary objective is to appoint a single service provider to manage the end-to-end resolution of Voltage Transformer (VT) issues. This includes conducting fault diagnostics, producing engineering reports, supplying and replacing equipment, and performing testing and commissioning. The employer aims to restore system integrity through expert analysis, safe installation practices, and strict adherence to regulatory and utility coordination requirements.

Scope of Work

The scope of services includes the following components:

• Fault Diagnostics: Comprehensive investigation and analysis of VT faults.
• Engineering Reporting: Development of detailed engineering reports containing findings and recommendations.
• Supply and Replacement: Procurement and physical installation of new Voltage Transformers.
• Testing and Commissioning: Verification of equipment performance and safe integration into the operational system.
• Utility Coordination: Arranging or working within power isolations coordinated with eThekwini Electricity.
• Phased Execution: The project follows a structured phase approach, requiring formal sign-off of the Phase 2 engineering report and the Phase 4 commissioning certificate.

Technical Requirements

Bidders must satisfy all minimum technical requirements. Failure to comply renders the bid non-responsive:

• CIDB Grading: Estimated minimum contractor grading of 1EB or 1EP or higher.
• Experience: Demonstrable expertise in MV/HV (11kV) switchgear diagnostics, VT/CT testing, protection relay testing, and VT supply and installation.
• References: Evidence of at least two (2) relevant reference projects of similar scope completed within the last five (5) years.
• Documentation: Submission of a completed SBD 4 (Declaration of Interest), a valid Letter of Good Standing (COIDA), and method statements/risk assessments specific to live/HV switchgear work.
• Isolation Capability: Confirmation of the ability to arrange, or operate within, isolations coordinated with eThekwini Electricity.
• Sign-off Authority: A designated individual appointed by the bidder must personally sign off the Phase 2 report and Phase 4 commissioning certificate.

Skills Requirements

The successful bidder must demonstrate the following competencies:

• Advanced diagnostic skills for Medium Voltage (MV) and High Voltage (HV) systems, specifically at 11kV.
• Proficiency in testing Voltage Transformers (VT), Current Transformers (CT), and protection relays.
• Ability to author technical engineering reports and formulate actionable recommendations.
• Competence in executing safe live/HV switchgear operations, supported by robust risk management documentation.
• Capability to coordinate complex isolation schedules with external utility providers.
• Project management skills to oversee supply, installation, testing, and commissioning within a phased delivery model.

Explanation of Terms

• CIDB Grading (1EB/1EP): The Construction Industry Development Board assigns grading levels to contractors based on financial turnover and work complexity. 1EB and 1EP represent specific categories for electrical works, indicating the minimum capability threshold for this tender.
• SBD 4: A standard bidding document form used by bidders to declare any personal or organizational interests that may constitute a conflict of interest regarding the tender.
• COIDA Letter of Good Standing: Certification proving compliance with the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act, confirming the contractor has met contribution obligations and maintains valid insurance coverage for workplace injuries.
• MV/HV (11kV): Classifications for electrical voltage levels; the tender specifies work involving 11 kilovolts equipment, falling within the Medium Voltage range.
• VT/CT: Abbreviations for Voltage Transformer and Current Transformer, instruments used to step down high voltages and currents for metering and protection purposes.
• Phase 2/Phase 4: Indicates a segmented project timeline. Phase 2 culminates in an engineering report requiring sign-off, while Phase 4 concludes with a commissioning certificate requiring sign-off.