The Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) is positioning itself for the development of infrastructure to support the renewable energy sector.
According to Thecla Mneney, TNPA general manager for infrastructure, there is a growing interest in renewable energy, particularly green hydrogen.
“The unique geographical location of each of the eight ports operated by TNPA, lends itself well to being at the forefront of these developments,” he said.
Mneney added that TNPA was committed to introducing the latest technology and innovation at the ports and had a Smart People’s Port Programme in place to drive this process.
“As part of this programme, TNPA has notably procured hydraulic mooring units and is currently utilising them at the ports of Ngqura and Cape Town, known to suffer operational downtime due to extreme wind and long waves.
“Additional units are expected to be delivered this year and will be deployed across the port system.”
He said the hydraulic mooring units ensured vessels were safely secured to the quay, thereby improving safety during loading and offloading operations
“These units also minimise operational downtime caused by strong winds and surges from long wave actions, which in turn contributes to better ship turnaround time.
“TNPA is also looking at ensuring automation is included as part of the design specifications wherever practical at the various ports.
In addition, there are initiatives to advance the use of drones for asset inspections and the adoption of technologies for smart predictive asset management.
“A key feature of the Smart People’s Programme is to ensure adequate training and change management of employees who will operate and maintain the new automated assets,” said Mneney.
