Panel of service providers for supply, delivery and application of bioremediation / bio-treatment products at erwat water care works (36 months, as and when required)

ERWAT seeks to improve operational efficiency and environmental performance of its 19 wastewater treatment works through a proven biological bioaugmentation process. The process aims to reduce waste activated sludge generation, enhance effluent quality, increase biological stability, and lower operational costs associated with aeration and sludge disposal. The panel will supply, deliver, and apply bioremediation/bio-treatment products (powder/granulated) on an as-and-when-required basis for 36 months. Products must cater to varying effluent types (domestic, industrial, abattoir, beverages, fats, oils) and be applied at emergency dams, ponds, and maturation ponds. Multiple appointments may be made based on individual product compositions per mandatory Material Safety Data Sheet. Bidders must be manufacturers or approved distributors/suppliers with documentary proof. Products must be non-chemical, non-pathogenic, non-toxic, non-GMO, not animal derived, biodegradable, and safe for municipal systems. They must reduce nitrogen, fats/oils/greases, odours, pathogens, and metabolize nitrates/phosphates. Performance targets within 48 hours and minimum performance outcomes are specified. Supplier qualifications include 5 years' experience, 3 verifiable references across plant sizes, 2 scientific studies, qualified technical personnel, and CSD registration. Site implementation requires baseline assessment, dosing plan, and 6-month report. Compliance with NEMA, OHS Act, National Water Act is mandatory. Training and knowledge transfer (on-site training, user guide) required. Independent verification testing may be conducted.

Publish date: 06 November 2026

Compulsory virtual briefing: 17 November 2026 at 10:30 (registration required via Teams link from ERWAT website; register at least one day prior)

Closing date and time: 07 December 2026 at 12:00 noon

Query period: 5 working days after briefing for SCM and technical queries via email

SCM Enquiries:

• Contact: Ms Phumzile Mdlalose

Email: [email protected]

Telephone: 011 929 7000

• Contact: Ms Chantel Kearns

Email: [email protected]

Telephone: 011 929 7000

• Contact: Mr Inkosinathi Nhlapo

Email: [email protected]

Telephone: 011 929 7000

Technical Enquiries:

• Contact: Mr Stefanus Weyers

Email: [email protected]

Telephone: 011 929 7000

• Contact: Ms Mpho Malepe

Email: [email protected]

Telephone: 011 929 7000

Submission Address: ERWAT Head Office, R25 Bapsfontein Road, Norkem Park

ERWAT SCM Address: Hartebeestfontein Office Park, Bapsfontein/Bronkhorstspruit Road, Norkem Park

Submission method: Hardcopy original bid document deposited in tender box at ERWAT Head Office, R25 Bapsfontein Road, Norkem Park.

Electronic copy (PDF) to [email protected] by closing date/time (optional but encouraged); hardcopy prevails in discrepancies.

Closing date and time: 07 December 2026 at 12:00 noon.

Documents must be completed in ink; no correction fluid, erasable ink, or pencil.

All returnable forms completed and signed: MBD 1 (General Declaration), MBD 3.2 (Pricing Schedule – Non-firm prices), MBD 4 (Declaration of Interest), MBD 5 (Declaration for procurement above R10 million), MBD 6.1 (Preference Points Claim), MBD 8 (Past SCM Practices), MBD 9 (Certificate of Independent Bid Determination). MBD 7 excluded.

Pricing schedule must be completed in full (rate per kg); failure to complete leads to disqualification.

No retyping of bid document; no additional pricing schedules.

Joint ventures/consortia: signed teaming agreement, separate tax compliance and CSD for each party.

Proof of CSD registration, valid SARS tax compliance PIN/TCS certificate, updated municipal rates and taxes (≤3 months) for company and directors.

Lease agreement with SAPS affidavit if premises leased; tribal authority letter if on traditional land; marriage certificate if directors are spouses with different surnames.

Certificate of Analysis of product indicating suitability for bioremediation/bio-treatment (mandatory).

Compulsory virtual briefing attendance required (registration via ERWAT website link).

Three-phase evaluation:

1. Phase I – Initial screening: CSD registration, tax compliance (SARS PIN/TCS), municipal rates/taxes compliance (≤3 months), completed MBD forms, joint venture documentation.
2. Phase II – Technical/Functionality evaluation (minimum 80/100 points to proceed):

• Reference letters for bioremediation products: 0 (none), 20 (1–2), 30 (3), 40 (4), 50 (5+).
• Documented performance evidence (sludge reduction): 10 points.
• Technical product data sheet: 10 points.
• Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS): 10 points.
• Case studies/operational reports: 10 points.
• Scientific studies by internationally renowned bodies: 10 points.

One document per criterion; cannot be reused.

3. Phase III – Price/Financial and Specific Goals: PPPFA 2022 applied (likely 80/20 for bids above R50 million). Price scored per PPPFA; specific goals claimed via MBD 6.1 with evidence (CK document, CSD report, ID documents, MV force number, municipal account/lease, disability proof).

ERWAT reserves right to negotiate rates.

Bids failing minimum functionality score disqualified; financial proposal not considered.

Scope: Panel of service providers for supply, delivery, application of bioremediation/bio-treatment products at 19 ERWAT water care works (Ekurhuleni, Midvaal, Lesedi) for 36 months on as-and-when-required basis.

Product form: Powder/granulated bioaugmentation product.

Product characteristics: Specifically for sewage/wastewater treatment; balanced mixture of naturally occurring microorganisms, enzymes, bio-enhancers; non-chemical, non-pathogenic, non-toxic, non-GMO, not animal derived, biodegradable, safe for municipal systems; compatible with aerobic/anaerobic processes (oxidation ditches, SBRs, extended aeration, anaerobic digesters); no major plant modifications required.

Performance targets within 48 hours: COD 50–150 mg/L; orthophosphate <1.5 mg/L; ammonia elimination <10 mg/L; decomposition of organic matter/hydrocarbons; pH neutral to alkaline; suspended solids <20 mg/L; eliminate odours (H2S); eliminate pathogens without chlorine.

Minimum performance outcomes:

• ≥70% reduction in waste activated sludge volume.
• ≥40% increase in soluble COD fraction.
• ≥70% increase in biogas/methane yield.
• ≥10% increase in cake solids concentration.
• Effluent compliance: COD ≤75 mg/L, SS ≤25 mg/L, NH4-N ≤6 mg/L, NO3-N ≤15 mg/L.
• 20–30% reduction in aeration energy consumption.
• FOG liquefaction and elimination.
• Substantial odour reduction.
• Reduction in flocculant/chemical usage.

Product safety: BSL-1 strains; compliance with South African environmental/safety regulations; environmental impact assessment documentation.

Supplier qualifications:

• ≥5 years experience in wastewater biological process optimisation/sludge reduction.
• Minimum 3 verifiable references in SA/worldwide across small (≥2 ML/d), medium (≥10 ML/d), large (>100 ML/d) plants.
• Minimum 2 scientific research studies by internationally renowned bodies proving efficacy.
• Qualified technical personnel for plant operations and data analysis.
• CSD registered and compliant with municipal SCM and environmental legislation.

Site implementation: Baseline assessment (COD, BOD, MLSS, TN, TP, NH4-N, NO3-N, SS, sludge volumes); site-specific dosing plan; final report after 6 months with measurable improvements.

Compliance: NEMA, OHS Act, National Water Act; product safe for operators/environment.

Training: On-site training for operators/supervisors on handling, dosing, monitoring, troubleshooting; user guide/operations manual.

Independent verification testing possible; continued supply subject to demonstrated performance.

Methodology: Supplier shall conduct baseline assessment of process parameters (COD, BOD, MLSS, TN, TP, NH4-N, NO3-N, SS, sludge volumes). Prepare site-specific dosing plan identifying activation/dosing points, frequency, expected outcomes. Provide on-site activation, dosing, commissioning. Train municipal operators on application and monitoring. Submit final report after 6 months detailing measurable improvements in sludge volume, energy use, effluent compliance. Reporting: inception report (analysis and work plan), monthly status reports (technical/financial), closeout report – timelines per SLA. ERWAT may require presentations/interviews from shortlisted bidders.

Experience and qualifications: Minimum 5 years' experience in wastewater biological process optimisation or sludge reduction. Minimum 3 verifiable references of similar work in South Africa and worldwide across small (≥2 ML/d), medium (≥10 ML/d), large (>100 ML/d) plants. Minimum 2 scientific research studies by internationally renowned bodies proving efficacy. Employ or have access to qualified technical personnel capable of supporting plant operations and data analysis. Registered on CSD and compliant with municipal SCM and environmental legislation. Key personnel expertise evaluated: understanding of project specifications, experience with similar projects, quality of test results for effluent quality control after bioremediation application. Contactable references with full details required for verification.

Quality requirements: Product must have Certificate of Analysis (COA) certifying quality, purity, composition, specifications. Technical product data sheet describing composition, application method, storage conditions, shelf life. Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) confirming compliance with national health/environmental regulations. Documented performance evidence from full-scale/pilot wastewater applications showing improvements in sludge reduction, COD/BOD removal, energy efficiency. Case studies/operational reports from municipal/industrial wastewater plants where technology successfully applied. Scientific studies/references by internationally renowned research bodies proving efficacy in sludge reduction, odour remediation, biogas production. Independent verification testing of process results may be conducted by Municipality. Continued supply subject to demonstrated performance improvements and compliance with statutory/safety requirements. Reporting: inception report (analysis and work plan), monthly technical/financial status reports, closeout report – due dates per SLA.

Pricing schedule: Rate-based tender (Rand per kg) for supply, delivery, offloading, application of bioremediation/bio-treatment products. Price inclusive of all direct/indirect costs (transport, accommodation, delivery, collection, labour, landfill fees). Quantities indicative; ERWAT may increase/decrease. Evaluation for price scoring by calculating line items to indicative sum per PPPFA 2022. Indicative values not totals; purchase orders issued at rates on as-and-when basis within budget. ERWAT may implement scope partially/fully; use priced BOQ as cost-effective. Bidders must complete pricing schedule on original ERWAT document; no retyping, no additional schedules. Failure to complete fully leads to disqualification. Prices written/typed in ink; no pencil/tippex. Only R0 accepted for no-charge items. Blank, N/A, strike-through disqualify. Two pricing schedules submitted: original ERWAT document prevails.

Pricing: Rate-based (Rand per kg) inclusive of supply, delivery, offloading, application, all direct/indirect costs (transport, accommodation, labour, landfill fees, etc.).

Quantities indicative; ERWAT may increase/decrease.

Price evaluation: Indicative sum calculated from line items for PPPFA scoring.

Payment terms: 30 days from receipt of valid invoice/tax invoice and statement.

Invoices must reflect official ERWAT order number; VAT Act compliance required.

VAT inclusive at 15%.

No bid security, bond, or guarantee mentioned.

ERWAT reserves right to implement scope partially or fully; rates fixed for contract period.

Pricing schedule must be completed in full on original document; no retyping, no additional schedules.

Only R0 accepted for no-charge items; blank, N/A, strike-through lead to disqualification.

CSD registration: Compulsory (National Treasury Central Supplier Database).

Tax compliance: Valid SARS tax compliance status PIN or printed TCS certificate; foreign suppliers complete pre-award questionnaire on MBD 1.

Municipal rates and taxes: Updated record (≤3 months) for bidding company and all directors; lease agreement with SAPS affidavit if leased; tribal authority letter if on traditional land; marriage certificate if directors are spouses with different surnames.

Returnable forms (completed and signed): MBD 1, MBD 3.2, MBD 4, MBD 5, MBD 6.1, MBD 8, MBD 9 (MBD 7 excluded).

Joint ventures/consortia: Signed teaming agreement; separate tax compliance and CSD for each party; lead partner identified with power of attorney.

B-BBEE: Preference points claimed via MBD 6.1; evidence includes CK document, CSD report, ID documents of owners, MV force number, municipal account/lease agreement, disability proof. No minimum B-BBEE level specified.

CIDB: Not required (non-construction).

Certificate of Analysis: Mandatory for product suitability for bioremediation/bio-treatment.

Product documentation: MSDS, Certificate of Analysis (COA), technical product data sheet, case studies, scientific studies.

Environmental compliance: NEMA, OHS Act, National Water Act; BSL-1 strains.

No fronting; anti-competitive behaviour prohibited.

No persons in service of state.

No municipal arrears >3 months without payment arrangement proof.

No bid defaulters listed on Register of Bid Defaulters.

Compulsory virtual briefing attendance (registered email must match attendance register).

Health and safety requirements: Compliance with Occupational Health and Safety Act. Bioaugmentation product must be safe for operators and environment; must not introduce harmful organisms/chemicals. All strains used must be Biosafety Level 1 (BSL-1). Site induction training mandatory before any work. Work permits/access control and authorizations required after Safety and Health Plan approval. Product must comply with National Environmental Management Act and National Water Act. Product must not discolour water, leach toxic chemicals, adversely affect water quality/process units (BNR, Biofilter), contain binding agents/chemicals, or cause further water quality damage. Emergency procedures and safe handling covered in on-site training and user guide/operations manual.

Environmental requirements: Product must be environmentally friendly, not harm aquatic ecosystems. Compliance with National Environmental Management Act, National Water Act. Strains used must be BSL-1. Documentation certifying quality/safety including environmental impact assessment of biological product required. Performance outcomes include ≥70% sludge reduction, ≥40% increase in soluble COD, ≥70% biogas yield improvement, ≥10% cake solids increase, effluent compliance (COD ≤75, SS ≤25, NH4-N ≤6, NO3-N ≤15), 20–30% aeration energy reduction, FOG elimination, odour reduction, chemical reduction. Independent verification testing of process results may be conducted. Continued supply subject to demonstrated environmental performance improvements and statutory compliance.

Contract: ERWAT standard Service Level Agreement (SLA) binding; tender document takes precedence over SLA in contradictions. Contract period: 36 months. ERWAT may appoint 1–4 service providers on as-and-when-required basis. Rates of highest scoring bidder (subject to market-related rate) may be offered to 2nd, 3rd, 4th ranked bidders at ERWAT's discretion. Appointed bidders must attend site induction training before work; obtain work permits/access control after Safety and Health Plan approval. Penalties for delivery per Clause 22 of National Treasury General Conditions of Contract. Payments per SLA; standard terms 30 days from valid invoice with ERWAT order number. Invoices must comply with VAT Act; VAT penalties for bidder's account. Confidentiality: all ERWAT information accessed must be kept confidential; breach may terminate contract. Compliance with Promotion of Access to Information Act. Data extraction and destruction: submit all data in readable format at contract end; retain records minimum 6 months then destroy with proof. No counter conditions allowed; restrictive practices prohibited per Competition Act. Fronting condemned; investigations may invalidate bid/contract and restrict bidder up to 10 years. ERWAT may require presentations/interviews and inspect premises/plant/equipment during evaluation.

Three-phase evaluation:

Phase I – Initial screening: CSD registration, tax compliance, municipal rates/taxes, completed MBD forms, joint venture documentation.

Phase II – Functionality evaluation (minimum 80/100 points):

• Reference letters for bioremediation products: 0 (none), 20 (1–2), 30 (3), 40 (4), 50 (5+).
• Documented performance evidence (sludge reduction): 10 points.
• Technical product data sheet: 10 points.
• MSDS: 10 points.
• Case studies/operational reports: 10 points.
• Scientific studies by internationally renowned bodies: 10 points.

One document per criterion; no reuse.

Phase III – Price/Financial and Specific Goals: PPPFA 2022 applied; price scored per PPPFA; specific goals via MBD 6.1 with supporting evidence. ERWAT may negotiate rates. Bids below 80 functionality points disqualified.