Transnet National Ports Authority’s (TNPA’s) development of a groundbreaking water desalination plant is expected to improve the reliability of water supply to users of the Port of East London.
TNPA has awarded the joint venture, Norland Civil Engineers and Contractors and Impact Water Solutions (PTY) Ltd (IWS), trading as Sun Water East London, a R60-million contract to construct and operate the solar-powered water desalination plant over seven years.
TNPA acting chief executive, Phyllis Difeto, said the project was in line with the authority’s plan to increase and secure its utilities supply resilience by 2029.
“The introduction of this alternative water solution is a step towards the advancement of the port system and seeks to minimise TNPA’s reliance on external parties for the provision of fresh water,” Difeto said.
The desalination plant will produce 0.5 mega litres (ML) per day and convert seawater into potable water in line with drinking quality standards. Key to the project is the use of renewable energy to complement other energy sources.
“The use of solar-power technology will help towards reducing the cost of operations,” Difeto said.
IWS offers a wide range of services in the water sector with experience in developing, financing, building and operating decentralised water infrastructure by integrating renewable energy with innovative water technologies.
The other company in the JV, Norland Construction, specialises in concrete reservoirs, pipelines, irrigation canals, and other building earthworks. Norland Construction brings engineering and fit-for-purpose equipment to ensure delivery within the stipulated timeframe.
Approximately 100 direct and indirect jobs are expected to be created, and this is likely to increase during project execution.
