Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to conduct a feasibility study on the conversion of mining equipment to hydrogen-powered systems using hydrogen combustion technology. The study aims to assess the application potential, perform site and vehicle inspections, analyze regulatory and risk factors, and evaluate the integration of hydrogen combustion technology into mining vehicles for both surface and underground operations. It also seeks to develop a system-level understanding of hydrogen vehicle operations to inform future investment phases, focusing on fuel substitution and emissions reduction in mining fleets.

Scope

The scope of work includes:

• Collaborating with the Mineral Council South Africa (MCSA) and its Hydrogen Expert Team (HET) to deliver core tasks at Tharisa Mine (Marikana) and Sibanye Stillwater Mine (Rustenburg).
• Conducting technical assessments, including fuel consumption, power profiles, and vehicle performance simulations for both surface and underground mining vehicles.
• Producing deliverables such as detailed reports, simulation data, and technical analyses for each mining operation.
• Leveraging prior research and work from relevant entities like universities and science councils.
• Completing the study within approximately 24 weeks, including report preparation and submission.

Technical Requirements

The technical requirements encompass:

• Performing site and vehicle inspections to gather operational data.
• Assessing hydrogen combustion technology integration into mining vehicles.
• Generating simulation duty data sets to evaluate vehicle performance and fuel consumption.
• Delivering comprehensive reports on fuel substitution, emissions savings, and operational feasibility.
• Including a detailed methodology, activity plan, and risk management strategies.
• Providing specifications and technical attributes of proposed equipment and technology solutions.
• Developing a quality assurance plan for testing and verifying deliverables.

Skills Requirements

The tender requires the following skills and expertise from the service provider:

• Project Leadership: A team leader or project manager with at least 10 years’ experience in energy projects, hydrogen/energy systems, and project management, including leading hydrogen and energy projects.
• Hydrogen & Energy Expertise: A qualified hydrogen and energy specialist with a minimum of 5 years’ practical experience in feasibility studies, energy solutions, and data analysis related to hydrogen technologies.
• Financial Expertise: An expert in energy project financing with relevant qualifications and experience in structuring energy project funding.
• Technical Skills: Ability to develop and implement technical methodologies, conduct site assessments, and generate simulation data.
• Research & Development: Proven track record in research, advisory, and support roles in hydrogen and energy sectors, supported by reference letters for relevant projects.
• Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement: Experience working with industry stakeholders, including mining companies and hydrogen experts, with clear engagement plans.