The National Cleaner Production Centre (NCPC) has played a critical role in supporting Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) on its journey to ISO 50001 certification. From preparing the Ports of Saldanha and Cape Town for audits, to delivering energy awareness training for staff across multiple sites, the NCPC provided technical expertise and guidance that helped TNPA meet the requirements of this international energy management standard.

The project, which spans three years, began in February 2024 and is part of TNPA's ongoing effort to achieve its Net-Zero 2040 Strategy. It kicked off with a systems optimisation training, resulting in the development of an in-house pumps expert. The company further integrated energy-saving practices at various sites, including Lighthouse and Navigational Services, as well as the Ports of Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, and Ngqura, along with TNPA's Head Office.

NCPC Project Manager, Bianca Lachman, and TNPA ISO 500001 project lead, credited the successful outcomes of the project to the company's leadership. “Implementing an Energy Management System (EnMS) requires the involvement of all internal stakeholders to reach our objectives, but more importantly, commitment from the leadership," said Latchman.

The energy-saving measures included replacing lighting across all ports, installing hydroboil timers at the Port of Ngqura, procuring energy-efficient tugboats for Durban and Port Elizabeth ports, and initiating solar installation projects that are currently underway.

These efforts have already delivered an estimated R2 million in savings, with further benefits expected as the project progresses. Despite challenges such as budget constraints and building wider awareness of energy management, TNPA highlights certification, financial savings, and staff training as major victories.

“ISO 50001 is more than just a certificate; it is a catalyst for sustainable transformation in South African industry,” said NCPC Director, Ndivhuho Raphulu. “Our partnership with TNPA demonstrates the value of structured energy management systems in achieving both economic and environmental goals.”

ISO 50001 is an international standard that provides a framework for organisations to manage energy use systematically. For TNPA, achieving certification means more than compliance: it represents a practical commitment to improving energy efficiency across its operations, cutting costs, and reducing its carbon footprint in line with its Net-Zero 2040 Strategy. By embedding structured energy management, TNPA is positioning itself as a leader in driving both operational excellence and environmental responsibility within South Africa’s ports sector.