TNPA develops its first water desalination plant at Port of East London

Transnet National Ports Authority’s (TNPA’s) development of a groundbreaking water desalination plant is set to improve the reliability of freshwater supply to users of South Africa’s only river port, the Port of East London.

TNPA has awarded a Joint Venture – Norland Civil Engineers and Contractors and Impact Water Solutions (PTY) Ltd (IWS), trading as Sun Water East London – an R60 million contract to construct and operate the solar-powered water desalination plant over seven years.

“Introducing this alternative water solution is a step towards advancing the port system and seeks to minimise TNPA’s reliance on external parties to provide fresh water.

“The project is in line with the Ports Authority’s strategic plan of increasing its utility supply resilience and ensuring the security of utility supply by 2029,” said acting TNPA Chief Executive Advocate Phyllis Difeto.

The first-ever seawater desalination plant will produce 0.5 mega litres (ML) per day and convert seawater into potable water in line with drinking quality standards. TNPA’s use of renewable energy to complement other energy sources is key to this initiative.

“The use of solar-power technology will help reduce the cost of operations,” added Adv Difeto.

IWS, a South African company offering a wide range of services in the water sector, has experience 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, among other capabilities.

Norland Construction brings engineering and fit-for-purpose equipment to ensure the highest quality of construction and delivery workmanship within the stipulated timeframe. Norland has embraced the principles of empowerment and currently holds a Level 1 B-BBEE scorecard.

Approximately 100 direct and indirect jobs are expected to be created, and this is likely to increase during project execution for the benefit of the East London community.