South Africa, Centurion: After more than two years of construction, Centurion’s Monavoni substation is close to being commissioned, with key civil and electrical works now largely finished. The project, which began in April 2023, is expected to significantly improve supply reliability for households and businesses affected by frequent power cuts and network overloads.
According to Tshwane metro spokesperson Lindela Mashigo, major construction milestones have now been reached, including the completion of bulk earthworks and structural foundations for high-voltage equipment. The main control building and guardhouse are 95 % complete, while the custom-built perimeter wall has been fully installed.
Two 40 MVA power transformers have been delivered and are being fitted on-site, forming the backbone of the new infrastructure. Mashigo noted that electrical installation work is 97 % complete, with control systems, lighting and preliminary energising of equipment already in progress.
Financially, the project remains on schedule and within budget. A total of $3 M (R51.93 M) has been spent so far, with the contractual completion date set for 31 March 2026.
Once operational, the substation will strengthen supply to Monavoni, Heuweloord, Stone Ridge and the Mall@R55 area. It will also ease loading on the nearby Brakfontein substation, reducing the risk of outages and enabling improved distribution planning.
Local economic benefits are expected, including support for new property developments, commercial centres and industrial growth along the busy R55 corridor. Mashigo added that the city’s long-term electricity master plan prioritises both grid capacity and community upliftment, with the project involving local contractors and skills development initiatives.
Source: Rekord
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