Diesel Generator, Tank & Switchgear Replacement

Airports Company South Africa SOC Limited (ACSA) invites tenders for the replacement of the standby diesel generators, fuel tank and switchgear at Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape. The project is procured under an NEC3 Engineering and Construction Contract (ECC) Option B (priced contract with bill of quantities), with a 15-month programme and a 24-month completion date stated in the contract data. The works support the continuous operation of the airport's critical electrical loads, including instrument landing systems, lighting, air conditioning, lifts and general office equipment, and must be delivered with minimal disruption to airport operations.

The scope includes the supply, delivery, installation, testing and commissioning of two new 500kVA generator sets (400/231V, 50Hz, 0.8 power factor) with automatic mains failure transfer, synchronising controllers compatible with the existing Deep Sea controllers across the airport, and a new floor-standing distribution board fitted with 800A air circuit breakers and switch disconnectors. The contractor must also decommission the existing 9m³ underground fuel tank and install a new 9m³ above-ground tank with two feeder tanks, a semi-bulk fuel management system, pumps, piping and a new fuel tank room, typically through a specialist subcontractor. Additional requirements include removal of existing generators, control panels and day tanks; LV cable connections; earthing; interfacing with the existing SCADA system and the PV plant under construction at the airport; a fire suppression system; and a 12-month guarantee and maintenance period, with a service contract option thereafter. Work must follow strict switching, earthing and permit procedures, and shutdowns must be planned after hours where they affect airport operations.

Tenderers are evaluated on a 80/20 price and preference basis after meeting a minimum functionality threshold of 60 out of 100. Functionality criteria cover company experience in standby generator installation, maintenance or commissioning (at least three to four similar completed projects with verifiable references), and key personnel: a contract manager with an electrical or mechanical engineering qualification at NQF 6 or higher and at least four years' contracts and project management experience, an electrical or mechanical technician with similar qualifications and experience, and a master electrician. A compulsory briefing and site inspection takes place on 10 November 2026, the closing date is 26 November 2026 at 12:00, and bids must be submitted in printed form (one original and one copy) with a USB copy. Bidders must also meet ACSA's environmental, health and safety requirements, including the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Construction Regulations 2014, and provide a valid COIDA letter of good standing.