New control hub monitors metro’s power supply in real time
A complete overhaul of the metro’s Electricity Control Centre was done, with a cutting-edge video wall to boost real-time monitoring, faster responses, and smarter power management.
The metro has taken a major leap in managing its electricity grid with the launch of the Electricity Network Control Centre project.
The recently established video wall project is based in Capital Park.
MMC for Utility Services, Frans Boshielo, officially unveiled the new centre on July 14.
According to Boshielo, this new system is a milestone in modernising the metros’ energy operations and strengthening real-time monitoring of the city’s power supply.
As a licensed Electricity Distribution Operator under the National Energy Regulator of South Africa, the metro’s electricity infrastructure supplies power to homes, businesses, industries, and farms.
Boshielo added that complaints and enquiries are logged at this control centre.
“The control centre is the nerve centre of our grid operations and the only municipal end-to-end control office of its kind in Gauteng.”
The centre manages the metro’s electricity network from high-voltage transmission levels (275kV – 33kV) to medium-voltage distribution levels (11kV – 400V).
He said it also co-ordinates demand-side management and oversees critical operational activities.
“For decades, operators relied on a fixed tiled mimic board, installed in 1988 to monitor the grid.
However, as the network expanded, the old system became outdated.”
Boshielo said the metro’s 2024/25 financial year budget paved the way for a complete overhaul.
The Video Wall Project included:
– Removal of the obsolete Tiled Mimic Boards
– Installation of a modern LED video wall display system
– Deployment of controllers and processors to manage display data and broadcast urgent messages
– A redesigned control room layout with improved flooring, lighting, and ergonomic workstations.
“This upgrade transforms the way we manage Tshwane’s electricity grid,” Boshielo stated.
“Operators now have real-time situational awareness, better communication across operational areas, and improved monitoring of substations and transmission lines.”
The new system is also future-ready, supporting embedded generation and energy wheeling policies that allow consumers and independent power producers to participate in the grid and advance South Africa’s Just Energy Transition.
Key benefits include:
– Faster decision-making during outages or incidents.
– Better co-ordination across departments.
– An optimised workspace for operators.
– Scalability for future smart grid integration.
“This investment cements Tshwane’s leadership in municipal electricity management,” said Boshielo.
“It’s a critical foundation for advancing towards a smarter, more sustainable energy future.”
Boshielo commended the dedicated team of engineers and technicians who delivered the upgrade.
He said their work ensures residents can expect improved reliability and responsiveness as the metro’s electricity grid evolves.
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