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) for the NHLS Eastern Cape Elizabeth Laboratory. The project aims to enhance energy resilience, reduce reliance on the grid, support sustainability goals, and ensure continuous operation of critical health services by integrating renewable energy solutions.

Scope

The scope of work includes:

• Conducting a feasibility study for the solar PV and BESS installation at NHLS facilities, including mounting structures and installation criteria.
• Design, engineering, manufacturing, procurement, and supply of all materials and labor required for the project.
• Delivery, offloading, construction, erection, and installation of the solar PV panels, mounting systems, inverters, batteries, and related equipment.
• Commissioning, performance testing, and preparation of detailed design and as-built drawings.
• Provision of maintenance manuals, asset governance documents, and warranties.
• Testing and inspection of the installation to ensure compliance with standards and specifications.
• Handover, commissioning, and ensuring operational readiness of the system.
• Training NHLS staff on system operation and maintenance.
• Development of maintenance and operational strategies for ongoing system management.

Technical Requirements

The technical specifications include:

• Design of site-specific solar PV and BESS solutions considering geographical and site limitations.
• Integration with existing grid infrastructure and standby generators.
• Use of high-quality, SABS-approved components such as PV modules, mounting structures, inverters, batteries, and protection systems.
• Implementation of energy management systems (EMS) and battery management systems (BMS) for optimal operation.
• Provision of equipment warranties: PV modules (10 years), performance (25 years), mounting structures (20 years), inverters (10 years), batteries (15 years), civil works (1 year).
• Labelling and marking of all equipment in accordance with SANS standards.
• Compliance with South African standards (SANS 10142, SANS 10400), electrical codes, and grid connection requirements.
• Testing, commissioning, and certification of the system, including safety and grid compliance tests.
• Preparation of detailed operation and maintenance manuals and asset management documentation.

Skills Requirements

The tender requires bidders to demonstrate:

• CIDB registration in the grading designation 2EB or higher.
• Proven experience in designing and installing solar PV and BESS projects of similar size and complexity.
• Availability of qualified personnel, including:
• Project Manager: with a B-Tech/BSc in Electrical Engineering, registered with ECSA, with at least 5 years’ experience in solar system design and installation, and relevant certifications (e.g., PV GreenCard).
• Electricians: with relevant trade test certificates, a minimum of 5 years’ experience, and familiarity with SANS 10142 standards.
• Support staff: with experience in electrical testing, commissioning, and system integration.
• Capability to undertake site assessments, detailed design, procurement, installation, testing, and commissioning.
• Ability to provide comprehensive warranties, maintenance, and operational support.
• Capacity to develop and transfer skills to NHLS staff, including training on system operation and maintenance.
• Experience in project management, including adherence to timelines, safety standards, and quality assurance.