Supply, delivery, training and 12-Month technical support of drone inspection system for fossil power plants — ESKOM r&d

Background: Inspection and maintenance of fossil-fired boilers are challenging due to size, complexity, and confined environments. Traditional methods require scaffolding, extended cooling, and personnel entry into risky areas. Eskom Generation Engineering proposes integrating UAV technology into NDT/NDE programs for visual inspections of hard-to-reach boiler internal areas (burners, furnace waterwalls, superheaters, reheaters, economisers) without human entry.

Scope: Supply, deliver, and commission an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) platform capable of visual inspections and non-destructive testing within hard-to-reach internal boiler environments, including areas beyond direct visual line of sight and in GPS-denied conditions. Supply required accessories, consumables, and initial spare parts. Ensure ongoing availability of replacement components and spare parts. Provide user training for operation, safety, and basic maintenance. Offer post-purchase services including maintenance, servicing, and repair of the platform and supporting components.

Applicability: Eskom Research, Testing & Development Division, Digitalisation department, and Gx Boiler Engineering.

Normative references: Eskom Tender Technical Evaluation Procedure (240-48929482) and Use of UAV for NDT in Fossil-Fired Boilers – Technical Requirements Definition. Informative references: ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems, Eskom Procurement Policy (32-1034).

Closing date and time: 28 October 2026 at 10:00.

No compulsory briefing, site visit, or clarification deadlines are mentioned in this document.

Returnable documents required for technical evaluation (all must be submitted with the bid):

• Technical data sheets for the proposed drone (including descriptions, explanations, drawings) from the drone OEM.
• Product supply/reselling agreement between the supplier and the OEM for reselling the drone in South Africa, stating duration, software licence terms, warranties, and spare parts reselling rights.
• Company profile with registration details, profile, organogram with key personnel, years of operation, industry experience, local availability of critical spares, and technical support response time.
• Complete delivery set documentation: operational and maintenance manuals, document specifying all items supplied with the drone, list of critical spares.
• Proof of at least three previous contracts/orders of similar scope and complexity (traceable references).
• For each technical specification category, the specific returnables listed in the qualitative criteria (manufacturer datasheets, demonstration videos, test reports, certificates, etc.).

Submission method, address, email, number of copies, and packaging requirements are not specified in this document.

Two-stage technical evaluation:

Stage 1 – Mandatory Technical Evaluation Criteria (gatekeepers, pass/fail):

1. Technical data sheets for the proposed drone submitted.
2. Product supply/reselling agreement with OEM submitted.

Failure on any mandatory criterion disqualifies the bidder; no further evaluation.

Stage 2 – Qualitative Technical Evaluation Criteria (weighted, minimum overall threshold 70%):

• Supplier experience and capability: 25%
• Technical specifications of drone: 60%
• Training and Knowledge Transfer: 5%
• Warranties: 10%

Each individual technical specification is scored PASS/FAIL. Specifications are grouped into categories; each category scores 100% if all its specifications pass, reduced proportionally for failures. Category scores are combined using the above weightings to produce the overall technical score. A bidder must achieve at least 70% overall to qualify technically.

Drone platform for visual inspection and NDT in fossil-fired boiler interiors (GPS-denied, confined spaces).

Key specifications:

• Dimensions: fit within 550mm x 500mm x 400mm (LxWxH).
• Navigation: vertical/horizontal in narrow gaps; operate without GNSS (SLAM/vision/LiDAR); stable flight in spaces ≤1000mm diameter.
• Ingress protection: minimum IP44; operate in dusty, ash-laden environment without degradation.
• Protection: automated/assisted navigation modes; recoverable collision tolerance; collision-tolerant cage/guard; autonomous obstacle avoidance; obstacle detection ≥1000mm.
• Battery: interchangeable on-board batteries or tethered power; audible/visual status indicators; low battery warning/return-to-launch; flight time ≥7 minutes with active lighting and payload; standardized charging interfaces.
• Payload: user-interchangeable payloads without manufacturer assistance; integration of additional inspection payloads/sensors.
• Advanced navigation: operate in DVLOS (beyond visual line of sight); generate/transmit high-grade 3D point cloud map; LiDAR module minimum 32 beam, 90° vertical FOV; link inspection data to spatial coordinates in 3D model.
• Communication: tethered or signal-repeater configurations; live video and telemetry transmission; automatic safe recovery on communication loss; user authentication for system software.
• Lighting: operate in zero external light; onboard lights minimum 10,000 lumens.
• Visual camera: FHD (1080p) video streaming; 4K still image and UHD video capture; timestamp metadata; replay and post-processing; onboard data storage during communication loss.
• Thermal camera: high-resolution radiometric thermal images/video; resolution ≥160x120px @9fps; radiometric accuracy ±5°C or better.
• Data: raw/processed inspection data delivery within short period; export to external analysis software (LAS, OBJ, E57, CSV); secure storage and optional integration with asset management system; comparison with previous inspections for trend analysis.
• Operational: function in ambient temperatures ≤50°C; stable command and control link at minimum 50m within enclosed metallic structures.
• Secondary development: SDK and/or API access (manufacturer confirmation letter, developer portal, technical architecture).
• Training: drone operator training with signed confirmation letter detailing scope, duration, number of trainees, location, methodology, syllabus, assessment.
• Warranties: warranty period minimum 24 months for full score; 18-23 months partial; 12-17 months lower; less than 12 months fail. Documentation: user manual, warranty manual, or formal warranty letter.

Technical evaluation methodology:

• Two-stage process: Stage 1 mandatory criteria (pass/fail), Stage 2 qualitative criteria (weighted scoring).
• Scoring: each individual technical specification evaluated PASS/FAIL. Specifications grouped into categories; each category scores 100% if all specs pass, reduced proportionally for failures. Category weights: Supplier experience 25%, Drone technical specs 60%, Training 5%, Warranties 10%.
• Minimum overall technical threshold: 70%.
• Technical Evaluation Team (TET) comprises six members: Chief Engineer, three Senior Engineers, Mechanical Engineer, two Engineers in Training.
• TET responsibilities per Eskom Tender Technical Evaluation Procedure (240-48929482).
• Acceptable/unacceptable technical risks and exceptions/conditions are defined in Tables 9–12 (not detailed in extracted text).

Supplier experience and capability requirements (25% weight):

• Company profile with registration details, profile, organogram with key personnel, years of operation, industry experience, local availability of critical spares, technical support response time.
• Complete delivery set documentation: operational and maintenance manuals, list of all items supplied with drone, list of critical spares.
• Proof of previous projects: at least 3 contracts/orders of similar scope and complexity for full score (5/5); 2 proofs for qualified compliance (4/5); 1 proof for non-compliance (2/5); none for totally deficient (0/5).
• Industry experience less than 12 months is noted as a qualification risk.

No specific key personnel qualifications (e.g., pilot licences, NDT certifications) are detailed beyond the organogram requirement.

The evaluation strategy references ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems as an informative reference. The document itself is a controlled disclosure document with revision control (Revision 1, compiled by Amelia Shiang, authorised by Nosipho Bodlingwe and Ouma Bosaletsi). No specific quality management requirements for the bidder (e.g., ISO 9001 certification, quality plans) are stated in this technical evaluation strategy.

Health and safety aspects are embedded in technical specifications:

• Drone must tolerate recoverable collisions within the inspection area.
• Collision-tolerant cage, guard, or frame to protect sensors, propellers, and delicate components.
• Autonomous obstacle avoidance with detection at ≥1000mm.
• Automatic safe recovery mode upon communication loss (hover/return/land).
• Operation in dusty, ash-laden environments without degradation of critical systems (IP44 minimum).
• Function in ambient temperatures up to 50°C.
• Stable command and control link at minimum 50m within enclosed metallic structures.

No separate health and safety plan, OHS compliance certification, or safety file requirements are mentioned.

Warranty requirements:

• Full compliance (score 5/5): warranty period of 24 months, evidenced by user manual, warranty manual, or formal warranty letter on company letterhead.
• Compliant with qualifications (score 4/5): warranty period of 18–23 months.
• Non-compliance (score 2/5): warranty period of 12–17 months.
• Totally deficient (score 0/5): warranty period less than 12 months.

No other contractual terms (duration, termination, penalties, liquidated damages) are detailed in this document.

Evaluation follows a two-stage strategy per Eskom Tender Technical Evaluation Procedure.

Stage 1 – Mandatory Technical Evaluation Criteria (gatekeepers):

• Technical data sheets for the proposed drone (with descriptions, explanations, drawings).
• Product supply/reselling agreement with OEM for South Africa, covering duration, software licence terms, warranties, spare parts reselling.

Assessed Yes/No; a ‘No’ on any criterion disqualifies the bidder.

Stage 2 – Qualitative Technical Evaluation Criteria (weighted, minimum 70% overall):

• Supplier experience and capability (25%): company profile, delivery set, proof of similar projects.
• Technical specifications of drone (60%): dimensional, ingress protection, protection, battery, payload, navigation, communication, lighting, visual camera, thermal camera, data, operational, secondary development.
• Training and Knowledge Transfer (5%): drone operator training confirmation letter with details.
• Warranties (10%): warranty period and documentation.

Scoring: each individual specification PASS/FAIL. Categories score 100% if all specs pass, reduced proportionally for failures. Category weights applied to produce overall technical score.

Closing date: 28 October 2026 at 10:00. No compulsory briefing or site visit dates are stated in the document.

Returnable forms - all must be completed, signed and submitted with the quotation: E-Tenderers E-Tendering Training Acknowledgement Form (Template ID: 240-9722574, Rev 1): must be completed in full. Non-completion or late submission will render the tenderer non-responsive and result in disqualification. Submission method and address must be obtained from the tender advert. Quotations received after the closing time, regardless of reason, will be excluded.

Bidders must complete and return the E-Tenderers E-Tendering Training Acknowledgement Form in full. Non-completion or late submission of this form will result in disqualification. No further evaluation criteria or scoring system is stated in the available document text.

Closing date and time

• 28 October 2026 at 10:00 SAST

Compulsory site visit / clarification meeting

• Attendance is mandatory where stipulated in the Tender Data; failure to attend results in disqualification. Date, time and venue are stated in the Tender Data (not specified in the extracted document).

Tender validity period

• As stated in the Tender Data; Eskom may request extension until contract(s) concluded.

Addenda and clarifications

• Tenderers must monitor the Eskom Tender Bulletin and National Treasury e-Tender Portal regularly for addenda and responses to clarifications.

Enquiries and communication

• All communication must be in writing, in English, addressed to the Eskom Representative only. No other Eskom official may be contacted.
• The Eskom Representative's details are stated in the Tender Data (not specified in the extracted document).
• Clarification requests must allow reasonable time for response and for tenderers to adjust tenders before closing.

Submission address

• For e-tendering: via the Eskom Tender Bulletin site on the Eskom E-tendering page.
• For non-e-tendering: the Eskom address and tender box stated in the Tender Data (not specified in the extracted document).

Submission method and packaging

• For e-tendering: upload and finalise the tender via the Eskom Tender Bulletin site on the Eskom E-tendering page. Electronic submission only; depositing a hard copy in the Eskom tender box is not permitted for e-tenders.
• For non-e-tendering: submit the complete original tender plus one complete hard copy, both in paper form, in separate packages marked "ORIGINAL" and "COPY". Seal both inside an outer package marked "Confidential" with the Eskom address, tender number, tenderer name, physical address, email and contact telephone number of the authorised representative.
• Eskom may also request an additional electronic copy, packaged separately and marked "ELECTRONIC COPY".
• Tenders must be in English, completed in ink (not pencil), and signed by a duly authorised representative.
• The signatory named will be held liable for the tender.

Closing time and late submissions

• Closing time: 28 October 2026 at 10:00 South African Standard Time (SAST, GMT+2).
• The Telkom time signal determines the closing time at the tender box. For e-tendering, the system will not allow finalisation or submission after the closing time.
• No late tender will be accepted. Proof of posting or courier delivery does not constitute proof of delivery.
• Eskom takes no responsibility for network issues, delays in uploading, misplacement, or delivery to the wrong location.
• Eskom employees may not deposit a tender on a tenderer's behalf.

Disqualification risks

• Failure to submit an original tender in paper form, or failure to submit a copy of the original, results in disqualification (for non-e-tendering).
• Failure to upload/finalise tender documents renders the tender non-responsive (for e-tendering).
• Any mandatory tender returnable not submitted by the closing date and time results in disqualification.
• 100% sub-contracting of the scope of work is prohibited; such tenders are ineligible.
• Failure to attend a compulsory site visit or clarification meeting results in disqualification.
• Misrepresentation or falsification of any information, certificate, affidavit or document results in disqualification and potential suspension from State-Owned Company business for up to 10 years.
• A tenderer under restriction to do business with Eskom or State-Owned Companies is disqualified.

Returnable forms

• Acknowledgement Form: confirms whether the tender is for the whole or part of the works, services or supply.
• Authority to Sign / Board Resolution: authorises the named signatory to bind the bidder.
• Proof of authority to act as agent: authenticated copy required where an agent submits on behalf of a principal.
• SDL&I Undertaking: must be completed and submitted by contract award; omission means the tender will not be considered for award.
• B-BBEE certificate/affidavit/CSD report: required at closing if B-BBEE is a pre-qualification criterion; for PPPFA point allocation, omission results in zero points but not disqualification if otherwise responsive.
• CIDB proof of registration: mandatory at closing where applicable; if only proof of application is available at closing, actual CIDB registration printout must follow by contract award.
• Designated materials and thresholds information: required by contract award.
• Proof of SHEQ systems, policies and capabilities: required at closing and/or contract award.
• Cataloguing information: may be required after contract award; if required, the Pricing Schedule must include a line item for cataloguing.

Tender validity

• Tenders must remain valid for acceptance for the period stated in the Tender Data. Eskom may request an extension; refusal results in exclusion. Extension does not permit modification of the tender.

Evaluation stages and scoring

• Basic compliance: checked before detailed evaluation. Non-compliance renders the tender non-responsive.
• Mandatory tender returnables: absence at closing disqualifies the tender.
• Pre-qualification criteria: applied after basic compliance and mandatory returnables. Eskom will not "double dip" by measuring the same criterion twice across phases.
• Functionality (if applicable): scored against stated criteria; tenderers must meet the minimum threshold in the Tender Data to proceed.
• Financial analysis (if applicable): Eskom assesses financial risk. If mitigating factors are insufficient or the risk is too high, the tenderer is not considered for award.
• Price evaluation: conducted per the Tender Data. Factors include CPA, FOREX, commodity exposure, unconditional discounts, technical adjustment, PV and forecasted rates of invoicing.
• B-BBEE evaluation: scored as stated on the CSD report or per certificate/affidavit. If B-BBEE level is a pre-qualification criterion, proof must be at closing or the tender is disqualified. For PPPFA point allocation only, missing or fraudulent/expired documents score zero but do not disqualify if otherwise responsive.
• Specific Goals: scored with reference to supporting documentation. Failure to meet Specific Goals or submit proof by closing scores zero points in the 90/10 or 80/20 allocation, but does not disqualify if otherwise acceptable.
• Ranking: price score plus Specific Goals score, ranked highest to lowest per the PPPFA.

Preference point system

• The tender uses either 90/10 or 80/20 Price and Preference point systems, as stated in the Tender Data.

Objective criteria

• May be applied under PPPFA section 2(1)(f) only if stipulated in the Invitation to Tender. Functionality and any B-BBEE scorecard element may not be used as Objective Criteria.

Reverse e-auction

• May be utilised if indicated in the Invitation to Tender. Tenderers submit a complete tender without prices; any included prices will not be considered.

Arithmetical errors

• Discrepancy between figures and words: words prevail.
• Errors checked in highest-ranked tenders: misplacement of decimal point, omissions in pricing schedule, incorrect multiplication of unit rate × quantity, incorrect addition of prices, use of fewer than 4 decimal places on exchange rate, incorrect exchange rate.
• Tenderer may confirm prices as tendered or accept corrections. If confirming: line-item total prevails over rate for multiplication errors; line-item total prevails over unit rate for decimal misplacement; total of prices prevails and tenderer revises selected item prices to match. Refusal to correct errors results in rejection.

Scope

• Supply, delivery, training, and technical support of a drone system for inspection and application in fossil power plants at Eskom Research and Development.
• Contract period: 12 months.

Sub-contracting

• 100% sub-contracting of the scope of work is prohibited.

Site familiarisation

• Compulsory site visit and/or clarification meeting may be required; details in the Tender Data.

SHEQ requirements

• Proof of safety, health, environmental and quality (SHEQ) systems, policies and capabilities must be provided to Eskom's satisfaction at closing and/or contract award.
• All SHEQ costs and personnel must be reflected in the tender.

Cataloguing

• The successful tenderer may need to provide cataloguing information per item after contract award and ensure materials are labelled per Eskom specifications.
• If cataloguing is required, the Pricing Schedule must include a quoted line item for cataloguing; Eskom will pay for this.

Pricing requirements

• All duties, taxes (including VAT) and levies included in rates and total; based on rates applicable 14 days before closing.
• Fixed prices for contract duration; no adjustment except as provided.
• South African Rand unless otherwise instructed; part payment in other currencies per conditions of contract at stipulated exchange rate and base date.
• No alterations to tender documents except per Eskom Representative instructions or to correct errors; alterations initialled by all signatories. No correction fluid or tape.
• Alternative tenders only with main tender and only if permitted; based on Tender Data criteria.
• Post-submission clarification permitted but mandatory returnables cannot be submitted late. Price breakdowns for clarification cannot change prices or substance, except for arithmetical error correction.
• Arithmetical errors: words prevail over figures. Eskom notifies tenderer to confirm or accept corrections. If confirming: line-item total prevails for multiplication errors; line-item total prevails for decimal misplacement; total of prices prevails for addition errors, with tenderer revising selected items. Refusal to correct results in rejection.
• Designated materials and thresholds information required by contract award; omission means no award consideration.

Pricing format and currency

• Rates and prices must be in South African Rand unless otherwise instructed.
• Prices must be fixed for the contract duration, not subject to adjustment except as provided in the Invitation to Tender.
• All duties, taxes (including VAT) and levies payable by the tenderer if successful must be included in rates, prices and tendered total. Applicable taxes are those in force 14 days prior to closing.
• Part payment in other currencies may be provided for in the conditions of contract; submit Rand amounts per the stipulated exchange rate and base date.

Insurance

• Eskom's insurance cover may not be sufficient; tenderers should seek qualified advice.

Security for performance

• If required, tenderers must indicate a minimum of two financial institutions likely to be approached for the required security. Eskom reserves the right to reject unsuitable institutions.

Financial analysis

• Eskom evaluates financial statements to determine risk. If risk is too high or mitigating factors insufficient, the tenderer is not considered for award.

Arithmetical error correction

• Eskom checks for errors and notifies the tenderer. The tenderer must confirm or accept corrected prices. Refusal results in rejection.

Legislative and regulatory compliance

• National Treasury Instruction Notes
• CIDB Regulations (for construction works)
• dtic designated materials for local content and/or production
• PPPFA Regulations
• Amended B-BBEE Codes
• Coida
• OHS Act
• Eskom SHEQ requirements
• Any other applicable legislation or regulatory instruments indicated in the Invitation to Tender

CSD registration

• CSD registration is required; B-BBEE level is scored from the CSD report or certificate/affidavit.

B-bbee

• If B-BBEE level is a pre-qualification criterion: proof (certificate, CSD number or CSD report) mandatory at closing; omission disqualifies.
• For PPPFA point allocation only: omission or fraudulent/expired documents scores zero points but does not disqualify if otherwise responsive.
• Sub-contracting to designated groups: sub-contractors' B-BBEE status, CSD number or certificate/affidavit required at closing.
• Fraudulent or expired B-BBEE documentation results in disqualification and reporting to the B-BBEE Commission, with potential 10-year suspension from State-Owned Company business.

CIDB

• Required only where stipulated in the Tender Data as a qualification criterion.
• Registration at closing, or capability to register within 21 working days from closing.
• Proof of CIDB registration mandatory at closing where applicable; omission disqualifies.
• If only proof of application available at closing: submit application proof by closing, then actual CIDB registration printout by contract award.

Contract Skills Development Goals (CSDG)

• Applicable to contracts of 12 months or more where:
• Contract value is R5 million or more (professional/service contracts); or
• CIDB grade 7 or higher (engineering/construction/design-build contracts).

Contract Participation Goals (CPG)

• Applicable to construction works contracts in General Building (GB) or Civil Engineering (CE) classes;
• Minimum estimated project duration of 6 months;
• Where at least 25% of main contract could reasonably be sub-contracted in CE, EB, GB or ME classes.

SDL&I Undertaking

• Must be fully completed and submitted by contract award; omission means the tender will not be considered for award.

Sheq

• Proof of SHEQ systems, policies and capabilities required at closing and/or contract award.

SHEQ requirements

• Tenderers must provide proof that safety, health, environmental and quality (SHEQ) systems, policies and capabilities are in place at closing and/or contract award.
• All SHEQ costs and personnel must be included in the tender.
• Compliance with Eskom SHEQ requirements and the OHS Act is mandatory.

Contract formation and validity

• Eskom may accept or reject any variation, deviation or alternative tender, and may accept any part of a tender.
• Eskom may cancel the tender before contract conclusion; may abandon, perform otherwise, or re-issue.
• No liability for losses from participation, amendment, termination, suspension or exclusion.
• Eskom reserves the right to mandated negotiations with selected tenderer(s).
• Tender validity must extend through the stated period; Eskom may request extension until contract conclusion. Refusal to extend excludes the tenderer.
• If validity expires before award, the process concludes without award.
• Confidentiality: all procurement matters treated as confidential; documents used only for tender preparation and submission.
• Successful tenderer must sign the Form of Agreement before validity expiry.
• Contract documents revised to account for addenda, returnables, negotiated changes and other agreed revisions.

Evaluation framework

• Basic compliance and mandatory returnables are gate requirements; failure disqualifies or renders non-responsive.
• Pre-qualification criteria apply after gates, with no double-dipping across phases.
• Functionality: minimum threshold must be met to proceed, if applicable.
• Financial analysis: risk assessment of tenderer's financial statements; high risk or insufficient mitigation removes tenderer from award consideration.
• Price evaluation: includes CPA, FOREX, commodity exposure, unconditional discounts, technical adjustment, PV and forecasted invoicing rates.
• B-BBEE: scored from CSD report or certificate/affidavit. Pre-qualification level proof mandatory at closing; for points only, missing proof scores zero.
• Specific Goals: scored from supporting documentation; missing proof scores zero in 90/10 or 80/20.
• Ranking: price plus Specific Goals, highest to lowest.
• Objective criteria: only if stipulated; functionality and B-BBEE elements excluded.
• Reverse e-auction: if used, tenderers submit without prices.

Scope: supply, delivery, training and technical support of a drone system for inspection and application in fossil power plants.

Contract period: 12 months.

Quality assessment category: Category 3 (pre-contract award quality requirements per Eskom specification 240-105658000).

Site assessment applicability: to be indicated by tenderer.

Post-contract award: Eskom will conduct contract execution monitoring and supplier quality performance monitoring.

Eskom quality representative

• Name: Duncan Ntshangase
• Role: Officer Safety Health and Quality
• Date of authorisation: 17 September 2026

Scope: supply, delivery, training and technical support of a drone system for inspection and application in fossil power plants.

Contract period: 12 months.

Quality requirements: Category 3 supplier assessment applies (pre-contract award quality requirements per Eskom specification 240-105658000).

Post-contract award obligations:

• Contract execution monitoring.
• Supplier quality performance monitoring.
• Eskom rights of access and rights to information.
• Preservation of records.
• Quality audits.
• Management of nonconformities and nonconforming outputs identified by Eskom.
• Special processes control.

Applicable ISO 9001 clauses: 4 (Context of the Organisation), 5 (Leadership), 6 (Planning), 7 (Support), 8 (Operation), 9 (Performance Evaluation), 10 (Improvement).

Applicable ISO 9001 principles: Customer focus, Leadership, Engagement of people, Process approach, Improvement, Evidence-based decision making, Relationship management.

Returnable form: Form A (240-68099512 Rev 9) — Tenderer must complete and sign to acknowledge and accept Eskom Supplier Quality Requirements per specification 240-105658000 and ISO 9001 Standard.

ISO 9001 clauses required:

• Clause 4: Context of the Organisation
• Clause 5: Leadership
• Clause 6: Planning
• Clause 7: Support
• Clause 8: Operation
• Clause 9: Performance Evaluation
• Clause 10: Improvement

ISO 9001 principles required:

• Customer focus
• Leadership
• Engagement of people
• Process approach
• Improvement
• Evidence-based decision making
• Relationship management

Eskom specification: 240-105658000 (authorisation January 2022, review January 2027).

Post-contract quality obligations:

• Eskom rights of access.
• Eskom rights to information.
• Preservation of records.
• Quality audits.
• Management of nonconformities and nonconforming outputs identified by Eskom.
• Special processes control.

ISO 9001 requirements — all clauses applicable:

• Clause 4: Context of the Organisation
• Clause 5: Leadership
• Clause 6: Planning
• Clause 7: Support
• Clause 8: Operation
• Clause 9: Performance Evaluation
• Clause 10: Improvement

ISO 9001 principles — all applicable:

• Customer focus
• Leadership
• Engagement of people
• Process approach
• Improvement
• Evidence-based decision making
• Relationship management

Returnable form: Signed Form A acknowledging and accepting Eskom Supplier Quality Requirements and ISO 9001 Standard.

Quality management system: ISO 9001 compliance required.

Eskom specification: 240-105658000 (authorisation date January 2022, review date January 2027).

Supplier category: Category 3 assessment applies.

Returnable form: Signed Form A acknowledging Eskom Supplier Quality Requirements and ISO 9001 Standard.

OHS compliance requirements

• The supplier must comply with Eskom contractor Health and Safety requirements standards 32-136
• The supplier must comply with the OHS specification/requirements provided by Eskom
• The supplier must comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993
• The supplier must comply with the Compensation for Occupational Diseases and Illnesses Act 130 of 1993
• After contract award, the supplier must fully align company processes to Eskom's OHS requirements (policies, procedures, standards)
• Penalties shall be enforced on the main supplier for non-conformance to Eskom and/or statutory OHS requirements
• All employees and contractors must undergo relevant Eskom induction and the company's induction

Contractor management obligations

• The main supplier must demonstrate to Eskom the process and selection criteria applied when appointing contractors and suppliers
• The main supplier must provide notification to Eskom prior to appointment of any contractors or suppliers for commencement of work
• The main supplier must ensure contractors/suppliers have adequate resources and competencies
• The main supplier is accountable for management of its contractors/suppliers to ensure compliance with legal and Eskom requirements
• The main supplier must monitor contractors/suppliers through audits and assessments for OHS compliance during work execution
• The main supplier must provide grounds for termination of work by any contractor/supplier
• All non-conformances by contractors/suppliers at any tier must be dealt with directly through the main supplier's performance and penalty processes
• Eskom reserves the right to verify contractor management when deemed necessary
• The supplier may be required to provide testimonials/references and contact details of clients (including Eskom) for previous similar work

Closing: 28 October 2026 at 10:00

Submission method: not stated in the document — bidders must confirm with Eskom directly

Occupational Health and Safety

• The successful contractor must sign a Section 37(2) Agreement under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993.
• The agreement binds the contractor as an employer in their own right, with independent duties under the Act.
• The contractor must comply with Eskom's SHE specifications for the project.
• No variation to the agreement is valid unless confirmed in writing and signed by both parties.

Scope: supply, delivery, training, and technical support of a drone system for inspection and application in fossil power plants

Duration: 12 months

Location: Eskom Research and Development

The attached document is a Quality Control Plan / Inspection Test Plan (QCP/ITP) template, indicating quality assurance and inspection protocols will apply to deliverables

Intervention points include: hold points, witness points, document review, surveillance, and verification

Inspection methods referenced: visual, microscopy, NDT, liquid/dye penetrant, magnetic particle, EDDY current

Acceptance criteria may include: functionality requirements, performance measures, regulatory compliance, chemical testing

Note: this is a template form — tender-specific technical details (drone specifications, quantities, exact delivery locations, training scope) are not present in the extracted source

Supply, delivery, training and technical support of a drone system for inspection and application in fossil power plants at Eskom Research and Development, for a 12-month period.

Closing date: 28 October 2026 at 10:00

Other dates: not stated in available text

Eskom representative: Duncan Ntshangase

Email: not stated

Telephone: not stated

Submission address: not stated

Delivery address: not stated

Returnable documents required:

• Form A: completed and signed
• Training Plan
• Draft Contract/Project Quality Plan
• Draft Inspection and Test Plan (ITP) or Quality Control Plan (QCP) from similar/previous work

Submission method: not stated in available text

Closing: 28 October 2026 at 10:00

Quality documentation package (mandatory):

• QMS Manual or documented QMS description and scope
• Quality Policy (top management approved)
• Quality Objectives (top management approved)
• Document and record control procedure (ISO 9001:2015 Clause 7.5)
• Nonconforming outputs control procedure (Clause 8.7)
• Nonconformity and corrective action procedure (Clause 10.2)
• Internal audit procedure (Clause 9.2)
• Organisation chart and responsibility matrix (including quality management function)
• External provider control procedure: evaluation, selection, performance monitoring, re-evaluation criteria (Clause 8.4)

Quality evaluation scoring (total 12 points):

Section A — QMS documentation (7 points):

• QMS Manual/scope document: 1 point
• Quality Policy: 1 point
• Quality Objectives: 1 point
• Document/record control (Clause 7.5): 1 point
• Nonconforming outputs control (Clause 8.7): 1 point
• Nonconformity and corrective action (Clause 10.2): 1 point
• Internal audit (Clause 9.2): 1 point

Section B — QMS in operation (2 points):

• Organisation chart and responsibility matrix with quality role: 1 point
• External provider control procedure: 1 point

Section C — Contract Quality Plan (1 point):

• Draft Contract Quality Plan specific to this scope (ISO 10005)

Section D — Quality Control Plan (1 point):

• Draft ITP or QCP from similar/previous work

Section E — Additional requirements (1 point):

• Form A completed and signed
• Training Plan

Note: This is a Category 3 tender with quality deliverables evaluated indicator = 1.

Scope: Supply, delivery, training and technical support of a drone system for inspection and application in fossil power plants

Duration: 12 months

Location: Eskom Research and Development

Deliverables:

• Drone system supply and delivery
• Training (plan required as returnable)
• Technical support

Quality deliverables required:

• Draft Contract Quality Plan specific to scope
• Draft ITP/QCP based on similar previous work
• Training Plan

Estimated value: not stated

Bid security, bonds, guarantees, retention, payment terms: not stated in available text

Quality management:

• ISO 9001:2015 compliance required (certification not mandatory; documented QMS acceptable)
• Category 3 quality requirements apply

Registration and tax:

• CSD registration: not stated in available text
• Tax compliance status: not stated in available text

B-BBEE: not stated in available text

CIDB: not stated (non-construction tender)

Local content: not stated in available text

Quality evaluation scoring (total 12 points):

Section A — QMS documentation (7 points):

• QMS Manual or scope document: 1 point
• Quality Policy (top management approved): 1 point
• Quality Objectives (top management approved): 1 point
• Document and record control (ISO 9001:2015 Clause 7.5): 1 point
• Nonconforming outputs control (Clause 8.7): 1 point
• Nonconformity and corrective action (Clause 10.2): 1 point
• Internal audit (Clause 9.2): 1 point

Section B — QMS in operation (2 points):

• Organisation chart and responsibility matrix including quality management function (Clause 5.3): 1 point
• External provider control: evaluation, selection, performance monitoring, re-evaluation criteria (Clause 8.4): 1 point

Section C — Contract Quality Plan (1 point):

• Draft Contract Quality Plan specific to this scope (ISO 10005)

Section D — Quality Control Plan (1 point):

• Draft ITP or QCP from similar/previous work

Section E — Additional requirements (1 point):

• Form A completed and signed
• Training Plan

Scope: supply, delivery, training, and technical support of a drone system for inspection and application in fossil power plants at Eskom Research and Development.

Contract period: 12 months.

Environmental deliverables required with bid:

• Signed Environmental Policy: must demonstrate top management commitment to environmental management.
• Aspects and Impacts Register: identification, assessment, and control of activities with potential environmental impact, scoped to the work. Must include the methodology used, the identified activities based on scope of work, and control measures.
• Environmental Method Statement: explanation of methods to manage specific environmental aspects of the activity.

Environmental methodology requirements:

• Aspects and Impacts Register: identify, assess, and control activities with potential environmental impact. Must include the methodology used, activities identified based on scope of work, and control measures.
• Environmental Method Statement: explain the method for managing specific environmental aspects of the activity.

Environmental submission requirements:

• Signed Environmental Policy demonstrating top management commitment to environmental management.
• Aspects and Impacts Register scoped to the work: identify, assess, and control activities with potential environmental impact. Must include methodology, identified activities based on scope of work, and control measures.
• Environmental Method Statement: explain methods for managing specific environmental aspects of the activity.

Evaluation outcome: Recommended or Not Recommended.

Environmental evaluation criteria apply to this tender. Bidders are assessed as Recommended or Not Recommended based on environmental submission requirements.

Supply, delivery, training and technical support of a drone system for inspection and application in fossil power plants at Eskom Research and Development, for a 12-month period.

Closing: 28 October 2026 at 10:00

No briefing dates, site visits or clarification deadlines stated in the available document text.

Returnable OHS documents required with bid:

• Annexure B: signed acknowledgement of Eskom's OHS legal and other requirements
• OHS Plan: must address project-specific OHS risks and align with Eskom's health and safety specification
• Baseline OHS Risk Assessment (BRA): identification, assessment and management of safety, health and environmental risks; methodology must be included
• Valid Letter of Good Standing (COIDA or equivalent)
• OHS policy signed by CEO, compliant with OHS Act Section 7
• 37(2) Eskom Agreement
• Acknowledgement Form: Life-saving Rules

Submission method: not stated in available text — verify with Eskom procurement

Closing: 28 October 2026 at 10:00 (from tender record)

Disqualification risk: any mandatory OHS returnable omitted or unsigned

Scope: supply, delivery, training and technical support of a drone system for inspection and application in fossil power plants

Duration: 12 months

Client: Eskom Research and Development

Location: Gauteng

OHS-specific technical requirements:

• OHS Plan must address project/scope-specific OHS risks
• Baseline risk assessment must cover safety, health and environmental risks related to drone operations in fossil power plant environment
• Risk assessment methodology must be documented and submitted
• Compliance with Eskom Life-saving Rules required

OHS compliance (mandatory for this tender):

• Valid Letter of Good Standing with COIDA or equivalent compensation fund
• OHS policy signed by CEO, compliant with OHS Act Section 7
• Signed 37(2) Eskom Agreement
• Signed acknowledgement of Eskom's OHS legal and other requirements (Annexure B)
• Signed Life-saving Rules acknowledgement form

No B-BBEE, CIDB, CSD or tax compliance details found in available text — verify with full tender document

Issue date: 05 October 2026

Non-compulsory clarification meeting: 14 October 2026, 10h00–11h30 SAST, via MS Teams. Attendance confirmation required with Eskom Representative (name, position, contact details of each attendee).

Clarification queries deadline: 5 working days before tender submission deadline (i.e., by 21 October 2026).

Closing date and time: 28 October 2026 at 10h00 SAST.

Tender validity period: 120 days from closing date and time (until 26 February 2027). May be extended if evaluation exceeds 120 days.

Non-compulsory clarification meeting:

• Date: 14 October 2026
• Time: 10h00–11h30 SAST
• Venue: MS Teams (virtual)
• Attendance confirmation required: Tenderers must notify Eskom Representative with name, position, and contact details of each proposed attendee.

Clarification queries deadline: 5 working days before tender submission deadline (i.e., by 21 October 2026).

Eskom Representative (all queries):

• Name: Spha Madondo
• Role: Eskom Representative
• Telephone: 011 516 7994
• Email: [email protected]

All queries and clarifications must be addressed in writing to this representative only; no other Eskom official may be contacted.

Fraud/corruption reporting: 0800 11 2722 / [email protected]

Submission address: Eskom E-tendering portal https://etendering.eskom.co.za/

Service/delivery location: Eskom Research and Development, fossil power plants (exact sites per scope in NEC3 document).

Submission method: Electronic only via Eskom E-tendering portal (https://etendering.eskom.co.za/). No hard copies accepted.

Closing date and time: 28 October 2026 at 10h00 SAST. Late tenders will not be accepted.

File requirements: All documents in PDF (max 50 MB per file, total submission max 900 MB). Price list must be submitted in both PDF and Excel format. No zip/condensed files.

Resubmission: Only the latest version is accepted; previous submissions become null and void. Submission status must show as complete.

Mandatory returnables (disqualifiable if omitted or unsigned by closing):

• Annexure A: Authorisation Form (with board resolution/power of attorney)
• Annexure B: Acknowledgement Form
• Annexure C: Tenderer's Particulars
• Annexure D: Integrity Declaration Form (with Supplier Integrity Pact downloaded from Eskom Tender Bulletin)
• Annexure H: SBD 1 Invitation to Bid (all tenderers)
• Annexure I: SBD 6.1 Preference Points Claim Form (PPPFA 2022)
• Annexure J: SBD 4 Bidders Disclosure
• E-tendering Help Manual acknowledgement form

Returnables required at closing (non-disqualifiable; 5 working days to remedy if missing):

• Specific Goals evidence (failure scores zero points but does not disqualify)
• Tax Clearance Certificates (foreign tenderers with SA footprint not on CSD; local tenderers without SARS PIN)
• Tax Evaluation Questionnaire (if services contract)
• Employment Equity Act compliance proof (SA designated employers only)

Returnables required for evaluation (score zero if missing):

• Technical criteria documents per Appendix A

Returnables required prior to contract award:

• NEC Term Short Contract (TSC3) completed
• Completed pricing schedule (if not in NEC)
• Additional documents: ECSA/SACPCMP registrations, CVs, permits, licences (if applicable to scope)
• Mandatory contractual requirement: CSD registration (CSD number/report)
• Additional contractual requirements: COIDA certificate of good standing or proof of application (SA tenderers); Quality Requirements Category 3 (ISO 9001:2015) documentation; OHS Plan, Baseline OHS Risk Assessment, Valid Letter of Good Standing, OHS policy signed by CEO, 37(2) Eskom Agreement, Acknowledgement Form Life-saving Rules; Environmental Policy, Aspects and Impacts register, Environmental Method Statement; Latest approved annual financial statements (full set with director's report, auditor's report, financial statements, notes, public interest score, ITA34C copies)

JV/consortium requirements: Letter of intent or valid JV agreement with joint and several liability, single designated bank account, profit-sharing ratios, confirmation of single business entity operation.

Evaluation follows a three-stage process:

1. Basic compliance and eligibility: Must meet all eligibility criteria (no restrictions, no sanctions, no conflict of interest, authorised signatory, not 100% subcontracted, JV joint and several liability). Must submit complete tender with commercial, financial, technical information and mandatory commercial returnables.
2. Functionality (gatekeeper) – threshold 70/100:

• Supplier Experience and capability: 25%
• Technical Specifications of Drone: 60%
• Training and Knowledge Transfer: 5%
• Warranties: 10%

Detailed criteria in Appendix A. Tenderers below 70% are disqualified.

3. Price and Specific Goals (80/20 system for tenders ≤ R50 million):

• Price: 80 points (inclusive of VAT, corrected for arithmetical errors, NPV comparison, unconditional discounts considered)
• Specific Goals: 20 points (PPPFA 2022). Failure to submit evidence scores zero for that goal but does not disqualify.

Ranking: Combined price + specific goals score, highest to lowest.

Alternative tenders not allowed. No public tender opening. Contractual requirements (CSD, SHEQ) assessed after ranking; proof required before award.

Pricing format: Completed pricing schedule (PDF and Excel). Prices evaluated inclusive of VAT, corrected for arithmetical errors, excluding contingencies, adjusted for variations, compared on Net Present Value basis using tendered programme, price adjustment factors, and exchange rate fluctuations. Unconditional discounts considered; conditional discounts not evaluated but implemented at payment.

Bid security / performance guarantee: Not required (provision of security for performance marked not applicable).

Payment terms:

• Contracts ≤ R50 million (incl. VAT): 30 days from receipt of undisputed invoice.
• Contracts > R50 million (incl. VAT): 60 days from receipt of undisputed invoice.

Eskom reserves the right to negotiate with preferred bidders if tendered prices are not market-related.

Financial due diligence: Latest approved annual financial statements required (full set with director's report, auditor's report, statement of financial position, comprehensive income, changes in equity, cash flows, notes). For non-audited SA entities: public interest score (actual score, owner-managed status, external preparation confirmation) and ITA34C copies for current and previous years. For unincorporated JV/SPV: each partner must submit full financial statements.

No advance payment or retention percentages specified in extract.

Eligibility:

• Registered on Central Supplier Database (CSD) – mandatory contractual requirement (CSD number/report).
• Not restricted from doing business with Eskom or State-Owned Companies.
• Not on National Treasury restricted list or Tender Defaulters list.
• Not a national of a country on international sanctions list.
• No conflict of interest (common controlling partner/shareholder, relationships enabling information access or influence).
• Tender signed by authorised person (Authorisation Form with board resolution/power of attorney).
• Not subcontracting 100% of scope.
• JV/consortium agreement must state joint and several liability.

Tax compliance:

• SA tenderers: SARS e-filing PIN for verification via CSD, or tax clearance certificate.
• Foreign tenderers with SA footprint (not on CSD, no SARS PIN): certified tax clearance certificate.
• Foreign tenderers with no SA footprint: SBD 1 only, no tax proof required.

B-BBEE / Specific Goals:

• Proof of B-BBEE status level required: SANAS-accredited certificate, sworn affidavit (EME ≤ R10M, QSE ≤ R50M), or other prescribed evidence.
• Specific Goals scored out of 20 points per PPPFA 80/20. Failure to submit evidence scores zero for that goal, no disqualification.

Employment Equity: Designated employers (SA) must furnish proof of compliance and submission of EE report to Department of Labour.

Health and safety: COIDA certificate of good standing or proof of application (SA tenderers only).

Quality: ISO 9001:2015 Category 3 documentation as detailed in technical specifications.

Environmental: Environmental policy, aspects/impacts register, method statement.

CIDB: Not applicable.

Local content: Not applicable (no designated materials).

Standard forms (compress to obligation):

• SBD 1: Invitation to Bid – offer cover page with bidder details.
• SBD 4: Declaration of Interest – discloses state employment/connection of directors/shareholders.
• SBD 6.1: Preference Points Claim – claims B-BBEE points under PPPFA 80/20.
• SBD 6.2: Local Production and Content – not applicable.
• Authority to Sign / Board Resolution: included in Annexure A Authorisation Form.