11kV Switchgear and Underground Cable Installation

The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has issued a Request for Quotation (Reference KZN/PRASA/2026/11/03/Q) for the appointment of a service provider to supply, deliver and install 11kV switchgear and 11kV XLPE armoured, 3-core underground 95mm² copper cable at the Pinetown traction and distribution substation in the KwaZulu-Natal region. The contract also covers batteries, battery chargers and supporting infrastructure, with a total duration not exceeding six months for actual work. Work is to commence immediately from the date of award. The scope includes transporting equipment and cable to site, removing the existing 11kV switchgear, cable and PCB control panel (delivering the old panel to PRASA's Durban Electrical depot), and supplying and installing 12kV anti-vandal lightning arresters, termination kits and cable joint kits. The contractor must also install the sealed gel batteries (100Ah, 2V, 53 cells), battery chargers and solid wood battery stand, modify and commission the PCB control panel and its telecontrol connections, supply and install steel safe double and single door frames and doors, and carry out testing and commissioning of the substation and underground cable. Rectification of any defects or damage to electrical infrastructure arising during installation is required within seven days of notification.

Bidders must hold a valid CIDB grading of 3EP or higher and submit proof of a qualified electrician with trade test, or a technician or engineer in electrical engineering, together with a valid Category C Green Certificate. Evaluation follows a staged process: mandatory compliance (including attendance at the compulsory briefing session and site meeting), a functionality assessment with a minimum threshold of 70%, and then price and specific goals scored on an 80/20 preference point system. Functionality is scored on organisational experience in similar 11kV to 33kV PCB and XLPE cable installations (50 points), a project programme in MS Project format covering safety file completion and installation milestones (25 points), and a project approach and methodology addressing risks, mitigation, work on the railway reserve, traffic accommodation and plant and equipment (25 points). Bidders must also provide COID good standing, a valid SARS PIN and a CSD registration number. The contractor is responsible for its own safety, security, protective equipment, machinery and site access procedures, and must comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and submit a safety file for approval before starting work. Penalties apply for late completion, working on Metrorail sites without proper access or permits, and train delays or cancellations. Award is subject to PRASA securing budget allocation, and PRASA may cancel the RFQ if funding is not secured. Bids close on 24 November 2026 at 12:00 and must be deposited in Tender Box No. 04 at PRASA KZN offices, 65 Masabalala Yengwa Avenue, Greyville, Durban. The contract value is not stated in the document; pricing is to be submitted against the Bill of Quantities.