Tendering News

Tendering News: Week 1

President Zuma announce huge housing project

"Government will spend close to R15 billion this year on housing. This is being done in part through the provision of housing grants, with homes being built in more than 8 000 human settlements projects across the country. We are also upgrading many of the 2 700 informal settlements which exist alongside almost every urban and peri-urban town, to address the squalid conditions of those living there.

In addition, government is making available a Guarantee Fund that will make it easier for working people to access a mortgage bond to build their own homes. It should eliminate many of the reasons given by financial institutions for not financing the development of affordable housing".

Nelson Mandela Bay to save R35 million

The city of Nelson Mandela Bay is set to save up to R35 million per annum in terms of electricity consumption, after signing a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding with solar company SASSA, which will see a saving of 40 MW per year or 6% of the city's annual consumption of 680 MW.

The MoU gives tangible effect to national government's solar water heater project, which has a goal of installing one million solar water heaters throughout South Africa by the year 2013.

In terms of the agreement, which is at zero cost to council, 120 000 solar water heaters will be rolled out to low- and middle-income earning households over the next two years. Beneficiaries will save a minimum of 90% of their water heating costs. The project roll-out will begin before the end of July 2010, with residents in Motherwell and KwaNobuhle being the first to benefit.

The MoU is signed against the backdrop of South Africa having recently experienced a shortage in power, and in the demand exceeding the electricity generation capacity. In addition, the renewable energy project positively contributes to a sustainable environment, makes a manifest difference in the lives of the beneficiaries, and provides for a safer and healthier life.

By providing power through solar heating, the excess electricity capacity results in reduced capital expenditure by the Municipality, as well as an opportunity for new developments in the city.

The MoU is non-exclusive, meaning that the NMBM may enter into similar MoUs with other participating solar companies.

By signing the MoU and ensuring its speedy implementation, the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality is providing strong evidence that service delivery is being radically accelerated in the Bay. - Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality