The National Transmission Company South Africa (NTCSA) has entered into long-term agreements with 19 local companies providing various categories of overhead line construction panels to enhance the capacity of the transmission grid.
This follows the May 2023 open tender enquiry issued by Eskom Transmission Division, which preceded the NTCSA.
The application process to join the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) panel will be open to the market around July each year, allowing all companies to participate. Suppliers will compete for different contracts expected to be worth around R32 billion over eight years.
“The NTCSA’s strategic move to accelerate the development of transmission infrastructure through partnerships is a significant step towards enhancing South Africa's power network that underscores the importance of strategic planning and efficient execution,” says Segomoco Scheppers, Interim NTCSA CEO.
The contracting strategy has been designed to facilitate efficient procurement processes, maintain and strengthen governance and reduce lead times to deliver on Transmission Development Plan requirements while promoting localisation in accordance with legislation, according to the NTCSA.
The scope of work has been divided into three panels (EPC, procurement and construction as well as construction) to allow for specialised focus on each aspect of infrastructure development, optimising the overall process, Scheppers says. “Having the three panels provides flexibility in the procurement strategy approach and ensures inclusivity of all contractor capabilities.”
The services will encompass engineering detailed designs, procurement, construction, testing, commissioning and handover of assets to the NTCSA.
“This approach shows a dedication to maintaining consistency and stability in the energy sector. It gives these companies a platform to compete for different tenders, which is expected to encourage innovation and efficiency. This will ultimately benefit the rollout of the NTCSA’s infrastructure development plan,” Scheppers says.
Local companies that have signed agreements are:
1. Ady Em Technical
2. Bona-GPWG joint venture
3. Imbawula Technical Services and Suppliers Group
4. KRM Global Works
5. Letacla
6. Melees Electrical Lines
7. Mico Construction
8. Mkhulu Electro Distribution Projects
9. Murray & Roberts
10. NYC Water and Mining
11. Olot Engineering
12. Power Line Africa (SA)
13. Rethuseng Live Line and Services
14. Siya and Aya Engineering
15. Siyavuya Power Projects
16. SKM Africa
17. Take Five To Make Ten General Trading
18. Thenga Holdings
19. Tractionel Enterprise
