Substation projects stand at the forefront of Lyon and Partners’ preferred areas of expertise. Our track record speaks volumes as we’ve spearheaded numerous vital substation projects for esteemed clients including SOC’s, Municipalities, and Private Developers and Manufacturers. Our portfolio spans a diverse spectrum of transformer capacities ranging from 1 MVA to 80 MVA.
Some of our notable projects include the refurbishment of the Eskom Usutu West substation, the construction of a 2 x 50 MVA, 88/22 kV substation for the new Narrow Hot Strip Mill (NHSM) at SCAW Metals, the construction of a 2 x 20 MVA, 88/11kV Sicelo substation for Midvaal Local Municipality and the construction of a new 4 x 40 MVA, 132/11 kV Dan Tloome substation for Rand West City Local Municipality. Lyon and Partners was central to the establishment of the Graceview 4 x 20 MVA, 88/11 kV substation that feeds the Heineken Brewery and surrounding industrial parks in Midvaal Local Municipality.

Within our projects, we address the comprehensive spectrum of substation design requisites, encompassing both Primary and Secondary Plant equipment, earthing systems, lighting installations, lightning protection measures, telemetry solutions, and more. While we ensure an all-encompassing approach to design, we do opt to outsource Civil and Structural designs.

In our pursuit of excellence, we employ cutting-edge tools and software. For earthmat design, we leverage the capabilities of CDEGS Autogrid Pro or SafeGrid, ensuring optimal performance and safety. In the realm of protection calculations, we rely on sophisticated tools like PowaMaster or DigSilent PowerFactory to meticulously compute protection setting gradings, thus ensuring the integrity and reliability of the entire system.

We have demonstrated our expertise in diverse substation configurations, from conventional outdoor AIS to advanced GIS, high-bay, and hybrid approaches, delivering solutions tailored to the specific needs of the client. Moreover, our involvement extends beyond new installations, as we’ve actively participated in Substation Refurbishment Projects. These endeavours demand heightened attention to safety protocols, outage management, comprehensive project programming, planning, and rigorous project management oversight.

At Lyon and Partners, our dedication to excellence, coupled with our broad range of experience and commitment to innovation, ensures the seamless execution of substation projects that meet the highest standards of quality, reliability, and safety.

Subtransmission lines are integral components of our substations, presenting unique challenges and opportunities. Among our standout projects are the Simplon to Steenberg 132 kV BERSFORD overhead line, notable for its traverse over a mountain gorge with spans ranging from 800m to 1.2km. Another noteworthy endeavour is the elevation of an existing line near OR Tambo International Airport for the Gautrain Project, facilitating the passage of the Gautrain underneath.

The design and project management of an 11.5km, 132 kV overhead line constructed in Siyanqoba for the Emalahleni Local Municipality, a 132 kV overhead line towards Middelburg Ferrochrome for Eskom, a twin Chickadee, double-circuit 132 kV overhead line for the Dan Tloome Mega Development in Rand West City, and the installation of an 88 kV cable feeder system for SCAW Metals in Germiston, are other notable projects.

We oversee all aspects of the project design and construction, including surveying the line route and negotiating with landowners, to registering servitudes and conducting environmental impact assessments. In our subtransmission overhead line design, we leverage the power of PLS CADD. This comprehensive software package enables precise calculations for pole strengths, automatic pole spotting, sag and tension tables, line profiling, EMF considerations, conductor thermal ratings, and sequence impedances. The versatility of PLS software allows for customized structural designs and optimization to ensure optimal performance and efficiency.

Given the significant cost associated with high voltage underground cables, we thoroughly analyse to determine the most cost-effective solutions. Our involvement extends to projects including the replacement of aging cables and the design of new subtransmission cable installations, ensuring longevity and reliability for our clients.

At Lyon and Partners, we approach subtransmission line projects with precision, innovation, and a commitment to delivering solutions that meet the highest standards of performance and cost-effectiveness.

Lyon and Partners have taken the lead in designing and overseeing the implementation of a multitude of electrical reticulation projects servicing over 300,000 stands. These ventures encompass a diverse array of network configurations, including overhead, underground, and hybrid systems, as well as link services incorporating switching stations, switchgear, feeder cables, and overhead lines.

We are involved in various reticulation and MV bulk supply projects situated in Lesedi Local Municipality, Rand West City Local Municipality, Merafong City Local Municipality and Midvaal Local Municipality and Metsimaholo Local Municipality, as well as multiple mega housing developments, exceeding 15 000 residential units, initiated by the Department of Human Settlements including Borwa (Westonaria), Dan Tloome (Randfontein) and Elijah Barayi (Carletonville).

Our expertise in this area extends to serving a broad spectrum of clients, including Eskom, Municipalities, and Private Developers. Particularly for Municipal projects, we assume the pivotal role of securing funding from the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE), showcasing our proficiency in navigating complex regulatory landscapes and securing vital resources. Despite the inherent constraints of limited funding for electrification initiatives, we’ve distinguished ourselves by delivering exceptionally cost-effective designs that prioritize both performance and quality.

We rely on various software such as MicroStation, AutoCAD, ReticMaster, PowaMaster and PowerOffice enabling us to conduct calculations for voltage drops, load diversification, and feeder cable loading. PowerOffice is a powerful design tool instrumental in generating comprehensive schedules of quantities for all equipment utilized in the projects.

At Lyon and Partners, our commitment to innovation, efficiency, and quality shines through in every aspect of our work, ensuring that our electrical reticulation projects not only meet but exceed the expectations of our clients while remaining economically viable and sustainable.

Lyon and Partners have assumed the role of Project Managers for numerous high-profile projects, particularly for Eskom Key Customer Projects such as De Beers Mines, Anglo Platinum Mines, Aquarius Platinum Mines, Chrome and Ferrochrome Plants. Among our most notable undertakings was the Ngwedi MTS integration plan, a pivotal initiative aimed at alleviating load from existing power stations and redirecting it to the new Medupi power station. Lyon and Partners played a central role as Principal Agent and Project Manager for the Ngwedi MTS Integration, which boasted a substantial project value of R 521 million.

Our team includes Professional Project Managers registered with the South African Council for the Project and Construction Management Professions (SACPCMP), underscoring our unwavering commitment to compliance with industry regulations and standards. Adherence to PMBOK principles forms the bedrock of our project management approach, encompassing interface and time management, quality, contracts, procurement and cost management, and risk, health and safety management.

To streamline programme and cost management, Lyon and Partners utilises tools such as Microsoft Project. Once the project baseline is established, we can effectively monitor progress throughout the project lifecycle. This entails scheduling and tracking the actual percentage progress for each pertinent task or activity, ensuring seamless execution and timely delivery.

At Lyon and Partners, our dedication to excellence in project management is evident in our attention to detail, adherence to industry best practices, and use of cutting-edge tools and methodologies. We are committed to delivering results that not only meet but exceed the expectations of our clients, while upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.

Lyon and Partners boast a wealth of expertise and knowledge in the intricate design of pump stations, water and wastewater treatment works. Our comprehensive approach encompasses every facet of electrical and control design, from electrical bulk supplies to Motor Control Centres (MCCs) equipped with soft starters and variable speed drives. We also integrate emergency generators, SCADA control systems, Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Fibre optic and Data networks, as well as a suite of instrumentation and analysers. Collaborating closely with Process Engineers, we develop methodologies for plant and process control to ensure optimal performance and efficiency.

Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our adherence to the latest SANS, IEC, and other relevant standards across all our designs. Rigorous quality control inspections are conducted throughout the manufacturing and construction phases to uphold the highest standards of craftsmanship and reliability, while complying with the Blue Drop and Green Drop Quality Management Regulations.
Among our recent projects, we take pride in our contributions to critical infrastructure such as the Highbury Water Treatment Works (100 Ml/day), Sebokeng Wastewater Treatment Works Modules 4, 5, and 6 (150 Ml/day), Parys Wastewater Treatment Works (15 Ml/day), Midvaal Wastewater Treatment Works (20 Ml/day), and Heilbron Wastewater Treatment Works (15 Ml/day).

These projects underscore our unwavering commitment to delivering solutions that not only meet but exceed the expectations of our clients, while prioritizing sustainability, efficiency, and innovation.

Lyon and Partners play a pivotal role in the Master Planning of electrical networks for various Municipalities. In Midvaal Local Municipality, we embarked on a comprehensive aerial survey, leveraging cutting-edge aerial photography techniques to achieve an accuracy of 1-meter contour levels, with the assistance of a specialist company. These aerial photos serve as the foundation for strategically planning overhead line routes and identifying optimal positions for proposed substation sites.

The valuation of these line routes, crucial for negotiations with landowners, is obtained setting the stage for seamless agreements. Subsequently, our team liaises with surveyors to survey the designated line routes and register them with the office of the Surveyor General, as well as Attorneys to register the servitudes with the Deeds Office, ensuring legal compliance and seamless integration into the existing infrastructure.

Part of our Master Planning strategy involves forecasting loads over a 10 to 20-year period, a task that relies on a kVA/area design norm adjusted for various factors including coverage, density, and load type. With software such as PowaMaster/DigSilent, we simulate existing High Voltage (HV) and Medium Voltage (MV) networks, facilitating load flow calculations to identify areas of potential network constraints. This invaluable insight allows us to develop a targeted 5-year refurbishment and network expansion program aimed at enhancing network reliability and efficiency.

Grading studies are a cornerstone of our approach, enabling us to calculate protection settings for switching stations and substations. These settings are instrumental in safeguarding expensive electrical assets from network faults, excessive overloading and minimising unnecessary outages, ensuring the resilience and reliability of electrical networks.

We have been involved in the development of electrical master plans for Rand West City Local Municipality, Lesedi Local Municipality, Moqhaka Local Municipality, Midvaal Local Municipality, Bojanala Special Economic Zone and SCAW Metals.

A comprehensive master plan report is provided, with detailed drawings of existing and proposed network alterations, which provides clients with strategic guidance for future infrastructure expansion and development.

At Lyon and Partners, our dedication to excellence in Master Planning ensures that Clients are equipped with a robust electrical infrastructure plan capable of meeting the demands of tomorrow’s communities.

Lyon and Partners has been involved in various building projects spanning diverse sectors including the prestigious Emerald Casino & Hotel, university complexes, hospitals, and schools.

Our involvement in the Emerald Casino & Hotel project encompassed an integrated lighting and power layout designs, telephone and computer networking, as well as security and access control systems. A key focus was the implementation of backup supply systems, which included uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) for critical areas such as the Casino floor, slot machines, and security cameras, complemented by two emergency generating sets boasting capacities of 800 kVA and 1.2 MVA for the Casino floor, hotel, Aquadome, leisure areas, and restaurants, among other facilities. The use of design tools such as Relux, assists with lighting designs tailored to the unique requirements of each space.

The North West University’s construction of a new administration building, psychosocial health block, the additional lecture spaces, the Vaal University of Technology’s auditorium, engineering block as well as the African Languages and Disability unit, are just some of our notable electrical building installations for the Higher Education sector.

At Lyon and Partners, we pride ourselves on our ability to deliver innovative solutions that not only meet but exceed the expectations of our clients. The Emerald Casino & Hotel project stands as a shining example of our commitment to excellence and creativity in the electrical building industry.

Lyon and Partners boast extensive expertise in every facet of standby and continuous operating generating sets, spanning a diverse array of applications, including Water and Wastewater Treatment Plants, factories, and office buildings. Our expertise extends from the design up to the implementation of these critical backup systems.

Our approach to generator integration is as varied as the projects we undertake, ranging from straightforward manual control setups to sophisticated automatic changeover systems that seamlessly transition between utility and generator power.
Whether integrating into Low Voltage or Medium Voltage networks, Lyon and Partners deliver solutions that prioritise reliability and efficiency. Our portfolio includes installations at facilities such as Sebokeng Wastewater Treatment Works, Meyerton Wastewater Treatment Works, Pakworks and the North West University Faranani student accommodation, boasting generating capacities ranging from 30kVA to 1.6MVA, operating in both singular and parallel mode.

We have rendered professional services to Safripol (Pty) Ltd for the connection of Safripol’s photovoltaic embedded generation plant in Sasolburg to the Eskom grid.
At Lyon and Partners, our dedication to excellence, coupled with our broad range of experience and commitment to innovation, ensures the seamless execution of generation projects that meet the highest standards of quality, reliability, and safety.

Lyon and Partners has extensive experience in public lighting, encompassing a wide spectrum of applications including streetlights, high mast lights, decorative lighting, and sports facility illumination, among others. Our commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of our work, with a steadfast dedication to compliance with industry standards and ensuring the safety and well-being of the general public.

In our pursuit of optimal lighting solutions, we combine technical expertise with a keen understanding of aesthetic and functional considerations. Whether illuminating urban areas, enhancing architectural features with decorative lighting, or providing illumination for sports facilities, our designs prioritise efficiency, reliability, and visual appeal.
Some of our lighting projects include the North West University sportsground lighting, Menlyn Shopping Mall Christmas Celebration lights and high mast light installations in the Rooiberg and Skierlik areas in Thabazimbi.

At Lyon and Partners, we recognize the vital role that public lighting plays in enhancing community safety, security, and quality of life. As such, our team evaluates factors such as light levels, uniformity, glare control, and energy efficiency to create lighting solutions that not only meet but exceed the expectations of our clients and the communities they serve.

From initial design concept to installation, Lyon and Partners is dedicated to delivering public lighting solutions that illuminate and inspire, enriching the built environment and contributing to the overall vitality and vibrancy of our cities and towns.

Lyon and Partners demonstrates the capability to conduct thorough analyses and feasibility studies for a diverse range of engineering projects. This involves developing a preliminary design encompassing a basic scope of work, cost estimates, and an estimated project delivery timeline. Collaborating closely with clients, we evaluate the viability of each project through a comprehensive techno-economic assessment, culminating in the formalization of findings within a detailed feasibility report.

The outline scheme or services report is then submitted together with the Town Planner’s application to the relevant authority for either a property rezoning, or the establishment of a new township. The report defines all high-level design parameters for the electrical network required for the proposed development.

Through our approach and attention to detail, Lyon and Partners ensures that each project moves forward with a clear understanding of its technical and economic viability, setting the stage for successful implementation and development.

Lyon and Partners excel in delivering sophisticated solutions for reactive compensation and harmonic filtering needs. Reactive compensation technologies, including capacitor banks, reactors, and static VAR compensators (SVCs), are expertly deployed to optimize power factor, diminish line losses, and bolster voltage stability in industrial and commercial environments.

Harmonic filtering solutions, utilizing both active and passive filters, effectively counteract harmonic distortion arising from non-linear loads. By ensuring compliance with stringent power quality standards and shielding sensitive equipment, we enable industries to operate seamlessly and sustainably.
A notable project was the implementation of a 20 MVAr Reactive Compensation and Harmonic Filtering System for the new Narrow Hot Strip Mill (NHSM) of SCAW Metals in Germiston.

Through our unwavering commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, Lyon and Partners empower businesses to achieve optimal energy utilization, lower operational costs, and reduce environmental impact.

The essence of a tariff investigation lies in conducting a cost of supply study, aiming to ascertain the revenue generated by the Municipal Tariff Structure in the sale of electricity and ensuring alignment with the actual cost of supplying electricity. This comprehensive study serves as a vital tool for Municipalities, aiding them in the submission of tariff approval processes to the Electricity Regulator (NERSA) and substantiating the requisite cost drivers for any tariff increase applications.

Tariff studies entail a multifaceted approach, encompassing various stages such as thorough data collection, review of information, and the development of sophisticated client-based financial models.
Through these processes, Lyon and Partners strive to provide Municipalities with insights and comprehensive analyses, enabling informed decision-making and ensuring the integrity and sustainability of their tariff structures.

In addition to our proficiency in building services, Lyon and Partners has experience in Integrated Security Systems. Our most significant project was the successful completion of designs for over 32 substations and depots for City Power of Johannesburg, encompassing multiple National Key Point sites.
At Lyon and Partners, we are committed to providing cutting-edge services, achieved through strategic partnerships with industry experts. By leveraging our expertise and collaborative approach, we ensure the delivery of modern and tailored solutions that meet the highest standards of security and reliability.

While Engineer, Procure, and Construct (EPC) projects may not constitute Lyon and Partners’ primary focus, the company has a proven track record of successfully completing several such ventures in the past.

When undertaking EPC projects, Lyon and Partners assume full responsibility for all project facets, including obtaining environmental approvals, ensuring health and safety compliance, addressing land and rights issues through negotiation, as well as managing procurement and registering servitudes. Throughout the construction phase, a dedicated and competent team is mobilized to ensure the delivery of a high-quality, cost-effective end product. Particular emphasis is placed on the testing and commissioning stage, ensuring that the completed plant aligns seamlessly with the customer’s requirements and operates efficiently. By prioritizing meticulous planning, diligent execution, and rigorous quality assurance measures, Lyon and Partners consistently deliver EPC projects that meet or exceed client expectations.

In addition to the standard consulting services, procurement and construction services can be provided under the Contract Administration and Close-Out stage to deliver a fully turnkey service. Construction responsibilities involve additional risks and higher indemnity insurance, whereby Lyon and Partners will be the engineer and contractor responsible for:

• Detailed engineering and designs
• Equipment procurement
• Installation
• Testing
• Commissioning and handing over

The impact of Audiovisual considerations cannot be overstated, as they greatly influence the atmosphere, functionality, and overall impression of educational facilities, sports and recreational venues, public spaces like airports, and businesses alike. In numerous scenarios, Audiovisual systems serve as invaluable communication tools, facilitating effective lecturing, business collaboration, and more.
A notable achievement for Lyon and Partners was our appointment for both the electrical and audiovisual installation of the Auditorium building at the Vaal University of Technology. Comprising of 21 auditoriums with seating capacities ranging from 120 to 300, this project demanded a comprehensive integrated audiovisual and lighting system.
Central to the design was a sophisticated lighting control system accessible from the podium, enabling users to select different lighting schemes with ease. The audiovisual system seamlessly synchronized with these lighting schemes, activating screens, projectors, and input sources—including microphones, computers, DVDs, and visualizers—while adjusting lighting levels to match the selected scene. Moreover, the system was equipped for video conferencing and media recording, further enhancing its versatility.
Careful attention was paid to the design of the audio system to ensure optimal performance in relation to the auditorium’s size and acoustics. The culmination of these efforts is a highly functional and efficient learning, business, and collaboration environment, illustrating Lyon and Partners’ commitment to delivering tailored solutions that meet the diverse needs of our clients.