Cummins offers a range of solutions for load-shedding and back-up power
January 2022
Electrical Power & Protection
Cummins’ technology is particularly suited to dealing with load-shedding due to features such as full load acceptance for critical equipment. A full range of alternative power solutions is available from mines to factories and even the small business and residential sector.
“Our key differentiator is that we can supply a small 17 kVA genset for residential or commercial use, all the way to a 3750 kVA unit for mining, data centre and hospital applications, for example,” comments Warrick Gibbens, power generation leader, Cummins Southern Africa.
Cummins’ energy-efficient engines comply with international emission standards and have a high fuel tolerance level, which makes them ideal for arduous African operating conditions. In terms of automatic start-up, Cummins gensets have one of the best response times on the market.
In addition, Cummins can also supply one-stop solutions for multiple back-up power requirements for largescale clients such as mining operations or factories. It not only provides the gensets themselves, but all ancillary components, from air and oil filters and even coolant.
“Our value proposition is to offer the highest-quality products and also ensure that they are serviced and maintained properly,” says Gibbens. “Cummins also has a fully-fledged training facility where our technicians and clients can receive customised training on any engine platform. This training is fully accredited, with certificates presented to all successful candidates.”
Another significant benefit for Cummins’ clients is that it can supplement its gensets with maintenance contracts of varying duration, depending on the application and specific requirements. This ranges from simple inspection and cleaning to a recommended yearly service of any standby units. “Clients also have peace of mind in that we only use certified installers, in addition to being able to offer the type of warranty that sets an industry benchmark,” stresses Gibbens.
Cummins can even become involved with the design phase of alternative power solutions, all the way through to installation and commissioning. Fully trained technicians are located throughout South Africa, in addition to an extensive dealer network that can also accommodate remote locations.
“The aim is to limit the impact of load-shedding for our customers and to ensure they have minimal downtime,” explains Gibbens. “An innovative solution in this regard is the PowerCommandCloud 550 remote monitoring system, which is ideal for large-scale customers such as financial institutions that operate multiple gensets.”
PowerCommandCloud 550 provides a convenient means of remotely monitoring gensets, transfer switches and output controls. Users can access the system from any computer using a Microsoft Silverlight-enabled web browser, with no additional software required.
Customers also stand to benefit from Cummins South Africa now officially being a Level 4 B-BBEE contributor. “It positively contributes to our customers’ own scorecards, enabling them to increase their procurement spend as they are now dealing with a compliant Level 4 supplier, it’s a win-win for all stakeholders,” concludes southern Africa managing director, Racheal Njoroge.
Further reading:
South African businesses can alleviate energy price crisis
Electrical Power & Protection
While grid instability remains a concern, the immediate and most critical driver of South African commercial and industrial investment in renewable energy is the escalating cost of electricity.
Read more...
Real-time modelling is the key to a resilient, bi-directional energy grid
Schneider Electric South Africa
Electrical Power & Protection
Utilities and municipalities are facing a challenge as the country’s legacy power grid, engineered for one-way energy delivery from centralised suppliers to end-users, must rapidly evolve to meet a new paradigm.
Read more...
Shielding data centre growth from the looming power crunch
Schneider Electric South Africa
Electrical Power & Protection
Today’s digital economy is placing unprecedented strain on the power grid. The good news is that these challenges are not insurmountable. By adopting proactive strategies such as alternative power sources, infrastructure planning and software, operators can secure capacity, build resilient facilities and scale sustainably.
Read more...
Circuit breaker innovations
Schneider Electric South Africa
Electrical Power & Protection
Recent advancements in circuit breaker technology have seen a major step forward in setting new standards for efficiency and sustainability in data centres, industrial and commercial infrastructure.
Read more...
Common battery tester errors and what they mean
Comtest
Electrical Power & Protection
Battery testers help quickly assess battery health, diagnose issues, and determine whether a battery needs a charge or replacement. This guide covers some of the most common battery tester errors, what they mean, and what can cause them.
Read more...
Cathodic protection design considerations that influence ESG outcomes
Omniflex Remote Monitoring Specialists
Electrical Power & Protection
Major infrastructure like wharves, bridges, pipelines and tanks are at constant risk of corrosion. David Celine, managing director of cathodic protection specialist Omniflex, explains how CP system design can support ESG commitments, while simultaneously lowering costs and improving maintenance capabilities.
Read more...
Africa’s digital future – building critical power infrastructure for data centre leadership
Electrical Power & Protection
Africa’s digital economy is growing rapidly, and countries like South Africa, Nigeria and Kenya are leading the way. However, a major challenge remains. Sustainable and reliable power systems must form the backbone of Africa’s digital growth to ensure lasting success.
Read more...
Recovering condensate and waste heat
Electrical Power & Protection
According to Associated Energy Services, strong partnerships with thermal energy users optimise opportunities to benefit from condensate return. waste heat recovery and the prevention of system contamination.
Read more...
Quantum engine powered by particle entanglement
Electrical Power & Protection
In a landmark achievement that signals a new era in energy research, a team of physicists in China has carried out the first successful test of a quantum engine powered by particle entanglement. This technological breakthrough represents a fundamental shift in our approach to energy production.
Read more...
Advancing sustainability in South Africa’s fruit industry
Schneider Electric South Africa
Electrical Power & Protection
Schneider Electric, together with Technoserve Medium Voltage, has implemented its advanced SF6-free MV switchgear at Two-a-Day situated in Grabouw in the Overberg district.
Read more...