For over three decades, Power Process Systems (PPS) has been a trusted South African original equipment manufacturer (OEM), delivering cutting-edge, robust electrical enclosure solutions that protect infrastructure, support revenue collection, and enable safe energy delivery across the country.
From humble beginnings in 1993 to developing globally recognised innovations like the smart I-Kiosk, PPS continues to shape the future of utility protection and industrial resilience through a culture of innovation, local empowerment, and market responsiveness.
A vision born out of necessity
PPS was established at a time of pressing infrastructural need. In the early 1990s, Eskom faced 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. The solution had to take budget considerations into account, as replacing the kiosks was not an option due to limited financial allocations regarding the problem.
“We were approached to offer a solution and developed a shroud which could be placed over the entire kiosk and locked to the existing structure. Eskom then used these to cover all unsafe street boxes,” explains Nhlanhla Zondo, Director at PPS. The shroud later developed into a fully fitted meter and distribution I-Kiosk.
Evolving with industry needs
From its origins in fibreglass enclosures to the development of advanced steel and composite solutions, PPS has continuously evolved in response 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 Nhlanhla.
A major inflection point for the business came with the rise of electricity theft and infrastructure vandalism, which escalated dramatically over the past 15 years. “This culture has not only had crippling effects on revenue collection and protection, but it has also driven vandalism and theft of infrastructure and bred an environment of corruption and collusion within some municipal structures,” notes Nhlanhla.
These challenges presented not just a threat, but an opportunity to lead. In response, 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 co-ordinated information integration, allowing for the environment and access control of the I-Kiosk and surrounds to be managed and monitored and staff to be audited,” explains Nhlanhla.
“This innovation has transformed how utilities safeguard their assets,” highlights Nhlanhla. It is one of the highlights of the OEM over its distinguished 30-year history, a brand that 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, are redefining infrastructure safety standards. “We are proud to offer tangible value in the form of better operational efficiencies for grid operators,” says Nhlanhla.
As a local OEM, all its manufacturing input materials are sourced locally. “Being at the forefront of innovative technology manufacturing means that PPS is playing a key role in enhancing key technical skills development and capacity building,” adds Nhlanhla.
In addition, its almost 200 direct employees and over 300 indirect employees are playing a meaningful role in addressing the challenges of unemployment and socioeconomic inequalities in our country. “We see ourselves not just 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 actively exploring diversification and product expansion in line with the shifting energy landscape. The company is keeping a close eye on developments in renewables, decentralised energy generation, and advanced metering infrastructure.
“The electricity distribution industry is undergoing profound change,” notes Nhlanhla. “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 meaningful role in driving economic development and improving people’s livelihoods. Our products play a vital role in ensuring that safe electricity is delivered to end users, and in return Eskom and municipalities can enhance their revenue protection mechanisms,” says Nhlanhla. “We have been around for over 30 years, and we fully intend to be here for the next 30.”
