Power Plant Electrical Network Controller

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Power Plant Electrical Network Controller. A Power Plant Electrical Network Controller operates, controls, supervises and coordinates the power supply in a power generating plant by ensuring that the continuous supply of radial and integrated electrical networks is maintained. A qualified learner will be able to: • Operate, sustain operability of and monitor electrical apparatus on radial and integrated networks. • Control electrical networks from a control centre. • Perform phasing and/or synchronising on high voltage integrated systems. • Maintain continuity of supply of electricity to the national grid and for local reticulation. Typical graduate attributes include proficiency, efficiency, and effectiveness in controlling electrical networks and ensuring continuous supply of power to the national grid. Another significant attribute would be an appreciation of the significant level of responsibility carried by the Electrical Network Controller and the stresses associated with the occupation, bearing in mind that power plants are national key points. Additionally, the Power Plant Electrical Network Controller needs to operate maturely, demonstrating problem-solving skills.

The currently registered FETC: Electrical Network Control (SAQA ID 48978) sought to empower many who were involved in electrical network control at power plants around the country. Learners who obtained the qualification were recognised on a national level for operating and controlling of radial and integrated power generating and transmission systems. Power Plant Electrical Network Controllers play a crucial role in ensuring the continuous supply of power to the country. Without these network controllers the continuity of power supply will be severely impacted and so will the South African economy. The generation of power is and will always be a national priority and the importance of training network controllers in line with the needs of power stations and latest technologies cannot be overstated. These Power Plant Electrical Network Controllers require for training at a national level so that the country's power stations can supply power without interruption. The competencies required to perform as Power Plant Electrical Network Controllers necessitate the development of a qualification that encompasses all the requisite theory, practical and work exposure. The training must address the power generation sector's employment requirements and enhance professional competence on a national level. The training also needs to build the capacity of Electrical Network Controllers to work under very demanding, stressful and constrained circumstances and to cope with dynamic, inherently dangerous and changing circumstances. They need the skills and competencies to operate react with confidence when stabilising the network in transient and difficult conditions. This qualification therefore sets the standards for Electrical Network Controllers in power generation and transmission phases. No other national qualification that provides the requisite technical skills for these electrical controllers exists. The skills and competencies of this qualification cannot be acquired through other formal or informal training offerings. The legacy qualification which was pegged at NQF Level 4 previously has now been realigned to a NQF Level 5 qualification. The complexity and level of responsibility of the Electrical Network Controller's occupation needed to be recognised at NQF Level 5 and ought to be brought in line with the trajectory on which other qualifications with the power generation sector are pegged. The person completing this Occupational Certificate: Power Plant Electrical Network Controller will also have several options within the power generation field in terms of a learning pathway. A trained Power Plant Electrical Network Controllers will ultimately benefit as an individual in terms of a career in power generation and will enhance the capacity of the sector especially considering the country's current and foreseeable power generation challenges. A capacitated electrical network controller will use their skills to ensure continuous supply of power and thus benefit society and the country's economy. The qualification will ensure professionalism, proficiency, and excellence in the control of integrated electrical networks. Typical learners will be those already employed in power generation environment and who have the drive to assume the responsibilities of Power Plant Electrical Network Controllers, and others who wish to pursue a career in the power generation environment.

• Operate, sustain operability of and monitor electrical apparatus on radial and integrated networks.
• Control electrical networks from a control centre.
• Perform phasing and/or synchronising on high voltage integrated systems.
• Maintain continuity of supply of electricity to the national grid and for local reticulation.