Monavoni Substation refurbishment pushed past March deadline

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23-02-2026
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Pretoria Rekord
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The Tshwane municipality has confirmed that the contractor has requested more time to complete outstanding work due to bad weather and late delivery of materials.

The refurbishment and expansion of the Monavoni 132/11kV Substation in Centurion, which was expected to be completed by the end of March this year, will no longer meet its original deadline as outstanding work still needs to be finalised on site.

MMC for Utility Services Frans Boshielo stated that despite steady progress on-site and mitigation measures implemented by the appointed service provider, the remaining scope of work means the project will not be completed within the original timeframe.

He added that the contractor has requested an extension of time to complete the outstanding work, but the Tshwane municipality has not yet communicated a revised expected completion timeline.

Boshielo described the project, which began in April 2023, as a key part of the metro’s broader energy stabilisation plan.

He explained that it is aimed at strengthening the metro’s electricity network through the refurbishment and expansion of the substation.

“This critical infrastructure development is designed to enhance power supply capacity and reliability in Monavoni and surrounding areas.

“The project includes the construction of a new 40MVA firm capacity substation, as well as the supply, delivery, installation, testing, and commissioning of all associated electrical and civil infrastructure,” he said.

He noted that the overall project is about 75% complete, with several major components now nearing finalisation.

According to the MMC, civil works are progressing well, with bulk earthworks largely complete.

Meanwhile, the substation building, guardhouse, and perimeter wall have reached 95% completion.

“Electrical works are also advancing, with major 132kV yard equipment, including surge arrestors, voltage transformers, current transformers, isolators, and circuit breakers, now approximately 95% installed,” said Boshielo.

However, Boshielo stated that the project has experienced delays due to inclement weather and challenges in the delivery of certain materials.

The outstanding scope of work includes the installation of the remaining high-voltage yard equipment and the stringing of the line from the Brakfontein T yard, as well as the final testing and commissioning of the substation.

“The service provider remains committed to completing the project as soon as possible and continues to work closely with the city’s technical teams to ensure that all work is delivered to the required quality and safety standards,” he said.

The MMC also highlighted that the project is contributing to local economic development, noting that about 25% of the workforce has been sourced from the local community.

He added that around R7.5-million has been directed toward small businesses from historically disadvantaged groups within the area, ensuring that infrastructure investment delivers tangible socio-economic benefits at a local level.

A row of electrical switchgear and feeder control panels installed inside the Monavoni Substation building. Photo: Facebook/MMC Frans Boshielo

“Through continued oversight, strong contractor performance, and close co-ordination with technical teams, the city remains focused on delivering infrastructure that meets the needs of residents and supports a reliable, efficient, and sustainable power supply,” stated Boshielo.

He further emphasised that the municipality remains committed to igniting service excellence and improving the quality of life for all residents.

The latest update comes after Tshwane metro spokesperson Lindela Mashigo stated in November 2025 that the project was nearing completion after more than two years of construction, with a contractual completion date set for March 31.

At the time, Mashigo said the project had progressed well beyond the halfway mark previously reported in July 2025, with substantial milestones achieved, including the completion of bulk earthworks and high-voltage yard equipment foundations.

“Financially, the project remains on track. R51.93-million has been invested to date, with R14.9-million spent in 2023/24, R30.99-million in 2024/25, and R6.42-million allocated for 2025/26,” said Mashigo at the time.

Once operational, the Monavoni Substation is expected to increase electricity reliability for thousands of households and businesses in Monavoni, Heuweloord, Stone Ridge, and the Mall@R55 area.

Mashigo explained that the facility will also relieve pressure on the Brakfontein Substation by redistributing loads, greatly reducing the risk of localised outages.

“The enhanced network will support new housing developments, business parks, retail centres, and public amenities along the R55 growth corridor. This will boost investor confidence and attract further private-sector development, particularly in Peach Tree and Copperleaf,” he said.