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 Zitulele Laboratory. The project aims to enhance energy resilience, reduce reliance on grid power, 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.
• Designing, 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 and battery systems.
• Commissioning, performance testing, and preparation of detailed design and as-built drawings.
• Providing maintenance manuals, asset governance documents, and warranties.
• Labelling and marking of equipment according to standards.
• Handover, testing, and certification of the installed systems, including compliance with South African standards and regulations.
• Training NHLS staff on system operation and maintenance.
• Ensuring minimal disruption to hospital operations during installation, including phased work and after-hours activities where necessary.

Technical Requirements

The technical specifications include:

• Design and installation of a 50kW solar PV system with high-efficiency mono-crystalline panels, mounted on galvanized rails, with a 15-year warranty.
• Integration of a Lithium-ion battery system with a 61.44kWh capacity, covered by a 10-year warranty.
• Use of high-quality inverters, charge controllers, and energy management systems to optimize energy flow.
• System to include smart meters, battery management systems, and compliance with SANS standards.
• Provision of equipment warranties, minimum 10 years for PV modules, 15 years for batteries, and appropriate warranties for other components.
• Labelling and marking of all equipment per SANS standards.
• Testing and commissioning procedures, including islanding and synchronization tests, and compliance with grid connection requirements.
• Guarantee and maintenance period of 12 months post-installation, with retention of 5% of contract value for 3 months after practical completion.
• Design considerations for site-specific conditions, including geographical and structural constraints.

Skills Requirements

The successful bidder must demonstrate:

• CIDB registration in at least grade 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 manager with a minimum of 5 years’ experience in solar system design and installation, registered with ECSA as a Professional Engineer or Technologist, and possessing relevant CVs, certificates, and CVs.
• Qualified electricians with at least 5 years’ experience, Trade Test certificates, and relevant CVs.
• Capability to manage site activities, coordinate with hospital operations, and ensure safety compliance.
• Ability to provide comprehensive project approach, methodology, and detailed project plan with timelines.
• Knowledge of South African standards, regulations, and grid connection requirements.
• Capacity to train NHLS staff on system operation and maintenance.