Aries Substation 400kV Busbar Extension and 500 MVAR STATCOM Development

Mukona Geotechnics was appointed by Proconics, on behalf of Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd, to undertake a geotechnical investigation for the proposed extension of the existing Aries Substation in the Northern Cape.

The development includes an extension of the 400 kV busbar, the installation of a 500 MVAr STATCOM unit and the construction of a new internal access road. The investigation assessed the subsurface soil and rock conditions across the proposed development area and identified geotechnical constraints that could influence the design and construction works.

The results provided the parameters required for foundation design, including allowable bearing capacities, anticipated settlement and suitable foundation solutions. The investigation also determined California Bearing Ratio values for the design of the internal access road and provided recommendations for managing identified geotechnical risks.