FROM PILLAR TO POST
In South Africa , the national energy provider Eskom announced the deployment of around 343 MW in BESS projects as part of an overall 500 MW BESS initiative aimed at addressing the country ’ s electricity crisis .
Liquid SA has invested heavily in EC since then across a raft of initiatives aimed at fostering innovation and empowering citizens with digital skills , even in the farthest part of the province . It has invested over R400 million into extending its operations in the region , connecting more than 1,300 government buildings , and creating over 600 permanent and temporary jobs .
Micro grids and sustainability
One of the most significant shifts in solar technology revolves around the integration of battery energy storage systems , BESS , especially for behind-the-meter solar , also known as onsite solar . Traditionally , batteries were seen primarily as backup storage when paired with a solar system , ensuring a steady power supply during cloudy days , nighttime or when the grid is unavailable .
However , in 2024 , the focus is vastly shifting towards load management , where batteries play a dynamic role in optimising energy consumption .
As the trend for the deployment of batteries across the continent grows , innovative management systems will become a key part of solar installations with an integrated battery component . These systems use advanced algorithms to predict energy demand patterns . This allows for the strategic use of battery storage – discharging it during expensive peak times and charging it using solar energy or the grid during off-peak – to reduce the costly demand charges that come with variable tariff structures . and battery storage solutions has recently ventured into the South African market . This move aims to provide commercial solar panels and energy storage solutions with capacities ranging from 200kW to 10MW for commercial and industrial projects , not only in South Africa but worldwide .
The entry comes at a critical time as businesses face heightened energy access issues due to load shedding and driven by soaring electricity and fossil fuel costs , along with the persistent challenge of numerous off-grid areas in Africa lacking energy access .
The focus industries include manufacturing , warehousing , shopping malls , commercial offices , mining and industrial facilities , and pharmaceuticals . The South African market , hit hard by electricity shortages leading to business losses exceeding US $ 13 billion in 2022 , presents a significant opportunity for Neosun to make a positive impact .
Opportunities in logistics
Nearly 62 % of global logistics professionals say their companies are planning additional or first-time investments in Africa , according to a closely watched yearly industry survey . The survey of 830 logistics executives is part of the 15th annual Agility Emerging Markets Logistics Index , a snapshot of industry sentiment and ranking of the world ’ s 50 leading emerging markets .
In South Africa , the national energy provider Eskom announced the deployment of around 343 MW in BESS projects as part of an overall 500 MW BESS initiative aimed at addressing the country ’ s long-running electricity crisis . The systems will be in remote areas , with limited access to Eskom ’ s network but still close to renewable energy plants built by independent power producers , IPPs .
This collaboration between the public and private sectors supports more widespread deployment of utility-scale power and the adoption of renewable energy projects . By adding battery storage components to the national grid , businesses and consumers can gain quicker access to reliable electricity while the power utility can address peak energy demands more easily .
Neosun Energy , a global solar energy company focused on construction of solar power stations
In Africa , Egypt , Morocco , South Africa , and Kenya , were the top performers , followed by Ghana , Nigeria , Tunisia , Tanzania , Algeria , Uganda , Ethiopia , Mozambique , Angola and Libya .
South Africa , was top in Africa for international logistics ; Egypt has Africa ’ s highest-ranked domestic logistics opportunities ; Morocco has Africa ’ s best business fundamentals ; Kenya is Africa ’ s most digitally ready , and the continent ’ s highest-ranked country in any category .
More than 63 % of survey respondents say their companies continue overhauling supply chains by spreading production to multiple locations or relocating it to home markets and nearby countries . China , the world ’ s leading producer , stands to be most affected : 37 % of industry professionals say they plan move production , sourcing out of China or reduce investment there . �
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