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 St. Lucy’s Laboratory. The project aims to enhance energy resilience, reduce dependence on the national grid, support sustainability goals, and ensure uninterrupted power supply for critical health services and laboratory operations.

Scope

The scope of work includes:

• Conducting a feasibility study for the solar PV and BESS installation.
• Designing site-specific solutions considering geographical and infrastructural constraints.
• Procurement and supply of all materials, including PV modules, mounting structures, inverters, batteries, and associated equipment.
• Installation and commissioning of the solar PV system and BESS at designated NHLS sites, including the Data Centre and Laboratory.
• Testing, inspection, and certification of the installed systems.
• Providing maintenance manuals, asset governance documentation, and training for NHLS staff.
• Ensuring integration with existing grid infrastructure and standby generators.
• Post-installation support, including warranty, maintenance, and operational training.

Technical Requirements

The technical specifications include:

• Design of a 50kW solar PV system with site-specific mounting and installation criteria.
• Incorporation of energy storage to provide backup power for approximately four hours.
• Use of high-quality PV modules with a minimum 15-year warranty and mounting structures with a 25-year design warranty.
• Inverters capable of converting DC to AC power, compliant with relevant standards.
• Battery systems with a minimum 15-year warranty and lithium technology.
• Implementation of energy management systems (EMS) and battery management systems (BMS) for optimal operation.
• Compliance with South African standards (SANS), local regulations, and grid connection requirements.
• Provision of comprehensive testing, commissioning, and certification procedures.
• Warranty periods: PV modules (10 years), batteries (15 years), mounting structures (25 years), inverters (10 years).

Skills and Skills Requirements

The successful bidder must demonstrate:

• CIDB registration in grading designation 2EB or higher.
• Proven experience in designing and installing solar PV and energy storage systems, with at least three similar projects completed.
• Qualified project management personnel with relevant certifications (e.g., B-Tech/BSc in Electrical Engineering, ECSA registration).
• Skilled electrical technicians and engineers with valid trade and PV Green Card certifications.
• Capability to conduct site assessments, feasibility studies, and detailed design documentation.
• Experience in integrating renewable energy systems with existing infrastructure and grid compliance.
• Ability to provide training, maintenance support, and warranty services post-installation.
• Adherence to occupational health and safety standards, with qualified safety officers on site.