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 Eastern Cape facilities, specifically for the Aliwal North Laboratory. This initiative aims to enhance energy resilience, reduce dependence on the national grid, mitigate power outages, and support the NHLS's strategic goals of sustainability, cost reduction, and operational continuity through renewable energy integration.

Scope

The scope encompasses:

• Conducting feasibility studies for the solar PV and BESS installation at designated NHLS sites.
• 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 the project.
• Installation, commissioning, and testing of the solar PV system and BESS, ensuring compliance with standards and safety regulations.
• Integration with existing power systems, including grid connection and standby generators.
• Provision of asset governance documents such as design philosophies, test certificates, BOQ, as-built drawings, and maintenance manuals.
• Training NHLS staff for operation and maintenance of the installed systems.
• Post-installation support, including warranty, maintenance, and defect rectification during the warranty period.

Technical Requirements

The technical specifications include:

• Design of a 50kW solar PV system with site-specific considerations based on sunlight hours and site limitations.
• Incorporation of energy storage via Lithium-ion batteries with a minimum warranty of 15 years.
• Use of high-quality, SABS-approved components such as PV modules, mounting structures, inverters, and batteries.
• Installation of appropriate protection devices, labelling, and compliance with SANS standards and electrical regulations.
• Implementation of energy management systems (EMS) and battery management systems (BMS) for optimal operation.
• Testing and commissioning procedures, including islanding, synchronization, and safety checks.
• Provision of warranties: PV modules (10 years), batteries (15 years), inverters (10 years), mounting structures (20 years), and fire protection (5 years).
• Labelling and marking of all equipment according to standards.
• Preparation of detailed design, as-built drawings, and asset management documentation.
• Guarantee and maintenance obligations for 12 months post-commissioning, with retention of 5% of contract value for 3 months after practical completion.

Skills Requirements

The contractor must demonstrate:

• CIDB registration in grading designation 2EB or higher.
• Proven experience in designing and installing solar PV and BESS projects, with references for similar projects valued at a minimum of R200,000 each.
• Qualified project management personnel with at least 5 years’ experience, registered with ECSA as Professional Engineers or Technologists, with relevant CVs and CVs of project managers.
• Skilled electricians with relevant trade test certificates, minimum 5 years’ experience, and registered with ECSA.
• Capability to conduct site assessments, feasibility studies, and detailed design work.
• Ability to prepare comprehensive project execution plans, including timelines, risk management, and resource allocation.
• Knowledge of South African standards (SANS), electrical safety, and grid compliance requirements.
• Capacity to provide training and transfer knowledge to NHLS staff for ongoing operation and maintenance.