The city’s Energy Management Directorate is proud to announce the successful energising of the new KE Masinga 132kV Major Substation, a significant milestone in strengthening eThekwini’s electricity network.
KE Masinga Major Substation is a 132kV to 11kV Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS) facility.
It is the first brand-new GIS substation commissioned by the city in nearly a decade, marking a major step forward in adopting advanced technologies, improving network resilience, and ensuring a reliable electricity supply for decades to come.
Constructed at an approximate cost of R120-million, the KE Masinga Substation forms part of the city’s Transmission Network Master Plan, which looks 25 years ahead to guide upgrades, expansion, and strategic renewal of infrastructure to meet future demand.
Deputy Director for High Voltage Operations Veer Ramnarain expressed pride in the achievement.
“This energisation marks an important milestone for the Municipality. KE Masinga is not just another substation, it is a forward-looking investment that supports our strategic plan to modernise the network, improve reliability, and phase out aging infrastructure. This GIS technology enhances operational capability and positions the City to meet future load growth with confidence,” he said.
Ramnarain also thanked the multidisciplinary team behind the project.
The new substation is part of the City’s plan to phase out aging 33kV infrastructure, including City Central and Esplanade Substations. Customers previously supplied from these older substations will be migrated to KE Masinga, ensuring continuity.
It will also provide supply to Durban Station and support future economic growth and development in the city centre and surrounding areas.
