For over 30 years Power Process Systems (PPS), a trusted South African original equipment manufacturer (OEM), has been delivering robust electrical enclosures that protect infrastructure, support revenue collection, and enable safe energy delivery across the country.
Since it was established in 1993 PPS has grown to develop globally recognised innovations like the smart I-Kiosk, and it continues to shape the future of protection and resilience for utilities’ and industrial equipment through a culture of innovation, local empowerment, and market responsiveness.
Responding to necessity
In the early 1990s Eskom was facing a safety and budgetary crisis in Alexandra, Johannesburg, where unsafe street-level kiosks posed a significant risk. Replacing them entirely was costly, so Eskom turned to PPS for a solution that would meet the requirements within a limited financial allocation.
“Responding to this request, we developed a shroud which could be placed over the entire kiosk and locked to the existing structure. Eskom used these to cover all unsafe street boxes,” explains Nhlanhla Zondo, Director at PPS. The shroud was later developed into a fully fitted meter and distribution I-Kiosk.
Evolving with industry needs
From its start, originally producing fibreglass enclosures, PPS advanced to develop steel and composite solutions, responding to market dynamics and customer demands. “As the industry matured, we recognised the need to produce safer, stronger, and more cost-effective products. We have adapted accordingly, while never compromising on quality,” says Zondo.
A major inflection point for the business came with the rise of electricity theft and infrastructure vandalism, which has escalated dramatically over the past 15 years. “This has had crippling effects on revenue collection and protection, and it has bred an environment of corruption and collusion within some municipal structures,” Zondo notes.
Responding to these challenges, PPS developed the I-Kiosk, an intelligent, anti-vandal distribution and meter kiosk that is a world first. “It offers a physical and structural anti-vandal design with integrated, coordinated information, providing for access control of the I-Kiosk and surrounds to be managed and monitored, and staff to be audited,” Zondo says.
He highlights that this innovation has transformed how utilities safeguard their assets. It is one of the high points of PPS’s progressive product development over its 30 years in business. The brand has grown and gained recognition from the industry for trusted quality electrical enclosures.
Proven impact, trusted partnerships
Today, PPS solutions support municipalities, utilities, and public entities across South Africa and beyond. Its innovations, like the pole box for overhead reticulation and slam-lock kiosk designs, redefine infrastructure safety standards. “We are proud to offer real value in enabling better operational efficiencies for grid operators,” says Zondo.
As a local OEM, PPS sources all its manufacturing input materials locally. “Being at the forefront of manufacturing innovative technology means PPS is playing a role in the development of key technical skills and building workforce capacity,” he adds.
The company employs almost 200 people directly and over 300 indirectly. “We see ourselves not only as a manufacturer, but as a driver of technical skills and local capacity-building, particularly among youth.”
Preparing for a new energy era
Looking to the future, PPS is exploring diversification and product expansion in line with the changing energy sector. The company keeps a close watch on developments in renewables, decentralised energy generation, and advanced metering infrastructure.
“The electricity distribution industry is changing profoundly,” Zondo notes. “We are excited about the opportunities ahead for new technologies, new markets, and new partnerships.” Despite the rapid evolution of the sector, PPS remains grounded in its founding values of innovation, quality, local empowerment, and a commitment to serving South Africa’s infrastructure needs.
“Electricity plays a fundamental role in driving economic development and improving people’s lives and livelihoods. Our products play a part in ensuring that safe electricity is delivered to end users, and Eskom and municipalities can enhance their revenue protection mechanisms,” Zondo says.
For more information visit: www.ppspower.co.za