Mukona Consulting Engineers was appointed by DPower Civil and Structural Engineering to undertake a geotechnical and dolomite investigation for the proposed 33 kV Thakadu Overhead Line. The overhead line forms part of the infrastructure associated with the Thakadu/Nyarhi PV Solar Plant in the Orkney area.
The investigation was undertaken to assess subsurface soil and rock conditions, identify competent founding horizons and establish groundwater conditions along the proposed route. It also included a dolomite-stability assessment and a soil-nomination study in accordance with Eskom’s TRMSCAAC requirements.
Following the initial investigation, several proposed overhead-line structure positions were classified as D4 dolomite areas. Additional investigations were conducted at these locations to assess the influence of shallow groundwater and provide detailed foundation recommendations for the affected structures. The project commenced in 2025 and remains ongoing.