Home Blog Page 33

Special Economic Zones in South Africa propelled forward by partnerships

The anchor investor of the Namakwa SEZ in the Northern Cape is Vedanta Zinc International which is already running the Gamsberg Zinc Mine and intends to build a smelter. (Photo: Kevin Wright/Vedanta Zinc International)

The goal of industrialising the South African economy is a major objective of the Special Economic Zone programme. These zones (which include Industrial Parks) are intended as catalysts for economic growth in established sectors and in stimulating new industries.

Collaboration between national government (through the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, the dtic, which oversees the programme), provincial departments and municipalities, economic development agencies and private companies in key sectors is a vital component in making Special Economic Zones work.

Policy goals

As defined by the dtic, Special Economic Zones (SEZs) are geographically designated areas set aside for specifically-targeted economic activities, supported through special arrangements (laws, tax rebates) and systems that are often different from those that apply in the rest of the country.

South Africa’s Industrial Policy Action Plan (IPAP) identifies SEZs as growth engines towards government’s strategic objectives of industrialisation, regional development and employment creation.

The purpose of the SEZ programme is to: expand the industrialisation focus to cover diverse regional development needs; provide a clear, predictable and systemic planning framework for the development of a wider array of SEZs to support industrial policy objectives; clarify and strengthen governance arrangements, expand the range and quality of support measure beyond provision of infrastructure; and provide a framework for a predictable financing framework to enable long-term planning.

Partnerships

In some parts of the country, an anchor tenant is central to the concept of the approved or proposed SEZ.

In East London, the presence of Mercedes-Benz South Africa makes the clustering of automotive suppliers in the East London IDZ both logical and cost-effective. The Northern Cape’s proposed Namakwa SEZ is predicated on the huge operations of the existing Gamsberg Zinc Mine (pictured) and the proposed smelter to be built by international investor Vedanta Zinc International.

In eastern Limpopo, the Mining Supplier Park run by mining company Glencore is forming the core around which the Fetakgomo-Tubatse SEZ is being created. Local and district municipalities are investing in basic infrastructure, while the provincial government has allocated staff from its Department for Economic Development, Environment and Tourism to drive the process. The same provincial department has created a state-owned-company to run the Musina-Makhado SEZ in the northern part of the province.

The country’s biggest diamond miner, De Beers, is partnering with the local tertiary college, the Venda TVET College, by offering engineering graduates a chance to gain practical experience at its Musina operations. The decision by the college to locate its engineering facility within the SEZ is another example of collaboration.

Part of the value proposition of the Upington Industrial Park is based on the plans of Airports Company South Africa to develop the local airport as a base for storage of aircraft and for maintenance and repairs. The fact that major automotive manufacturers test their cars in the Northern Cape on a regular basis is something that the Northern Cape Economic Development Agency (NCEDA) is promoting as an opportunity for investors.

Mining is at the heart of another planned Northern Cape project, the Kathu IDZ. Big companies such as Sishen Iron Ore Company, Kumba, Assmang and South32 have expressed support and the project has been submitted by the NCEDA to Infrastructure South Africa to be registered as a catalytic project.

The OR Tambo International SEZ (Gauteng IDZ) leverages the advantages of being located at a major transport hub for access to African and international markets. The SEZ’s location within the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality means that there are also many opportunities for tie-ups with a huge variety of manufacturing enterprises – Ekurhuleni has the country’s densest concentration of manufacturing operations. An interesting example of inter-government partnership came about in December 2020 when the City of Cape Town transferred general industrial-zoned properties worth R56.5-million to the Atlantis Special Economic Zone Company (SOC) Ltd. In return, the City became a shareholder in the company.

An earlier cooperative agreement between the City of Cape Town and the Western Cape Provincial Government had set out the terms for the transaction once the Atlantis SEZ Company was registered.

The signing of this land agreement meant the ASEZ Company assumed responsibility for the usage, administration and control of the property. The total area of proclaimed land is 118 hectares, of which 25ha has already been developed by five investors. The difficulty was that the other 94ha of land belonged to the City of Cape Town and was subject to various conditions about the rate at which it could be rented out or sold. By incorporating the City of Cape Town as a shareholder, the land was unlocked and the SEZ was in a position to expand.

A few kilometres north of Atlantis, the Saldanha Bay Industrial Development Zone (SBIDZ) has to work hand-in-hand with the Saldanha Bay Municipality (SBM) and the Transnet National Port Authority (TNPA) as it defines its role and expands its offering. As an example of the level of cooperation envisaged for SEZ development, the R3.5-billion first phase of the expansion of the Port of Saldanha is described in an SBIDZ press release as being understood as “a long-term partnership between the government, its institutions and the private sector”.

The press release further explains how the process fits into the national context:

“This transaction model has proven the best way to fund long-term assets in a competitive environment. The SBIDZ has begun the formal process of submitting this project to the Investment and Infrastructure Office in the Office of the Presidency, supported by the National Treasury, for inclusion in the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium (SIDS).”

Geographical focus

SEZs are located in areas with particular resources and historical sectoral strengths. The relevant SEZ is geared to serve, support and encourage development of those resources and sectors. There are currently 15 Special Economic Zones in eight provinces. Some of the zones are in the process of being officially proclaimed as SEZs.

  • Province: Limpopo
    • Name: Musina-Makhado SEZ
    • SEZ status: Approved
    • Focus: Light industrial, agro-processing, metallurgical, mineral beneficiation, solar power
  • Province: Limpopo
    • Name: Fetakgomo-Tubatse SEZ
    • SEZ status: Pending
    • Focus: Green energy, hydrogen, mining inputs, mineral beneficiation
  • Province: Gauteng
    • Name: Vaal SEZ
    • SEZ status: Pending
    • Focus: Logistics, agriculture and agro-processing, tourism, alternate energy (solar, battery storage, hydrogen)
  • Province: Gauteng
    • Name: OR Tambo International Airport (Gauteng IDZ)
    • SEZ status: Approved
    • Focus: Beneficiation of precious metals and minerals sector, light, high-margin, export-oriented manufacturing
  • Province: Gauteng
    • Name: Tshwane Automotive SEZ
    • SEZ status: Approved
    • Focus: Automotive, automotive components, manufacturing, export manufacturing
  • Province: Mpumalanga
    • Name: Nkomazi SEZ
    • SEZ Status: Approved
    • Focus: Strategic location on Maputo Corridor is major selling point; logistics, agro-processing, manufacturing, nutraceuticals, fertiliser products
  • Province: Free State
    • Name: Maluti-A-Phofung SEZ
    • SEZ status: Approved
    • Focus: Located on N3 highway; logistics, manufacturing, agro-processing
  • Province: KwaZulu-Natal
    • Name: Richards Bay IDZ
    • SEZ status: Approved
    • Focus: Export-oriented manufacturing, storage and manufacture of minerals to boost beneficiation, techno-parks
  • Province: KwaZulu-Natal
    • Name: Dube TradePort
    • SEZ status: Approved
    • Focus: Industry, cargo-handling and logistics, agro-processing, telecommunications
  • Province: Eastern Cape
    • Name: East London IDZ
    • SEZ status: Approved
    • Focus: Automotive, agro-processing, aquaculture
  • Province: Eastern Cape
    • Name: Coega SEZ
    • SEZ status: Approved
    • Focus: Automotive, agro-processing, aquaculture, energy, metals, logistics and business process services (BPO)
  • Province: Western Cape
    • Name: Atlantis SEZ
    • SEZ status: Approved
    • Focus: Green Tech, including automotive components and components for wind turbines, solar panels and green building materials
  • Province: Western Cape
    • Name: Saldanha Bay IDZ
    • SEZ status: Approved
    • Focus: Oil, gas and marine repair, engineering and logistics services complex, fabrication
  • Province: Northern Cape
    • Name: Namakwa SEZ
    • SEZ status: Pending
    • Focus: Downstream activities from proposed zinc smelter, mineral beneficiation, construction, green energy, petrochemicals, transport
  • Province: Northern Cape
    • Name: Upington IDZ
    • SEZ status: Pending
    • Focus: Renewable energy, aviation, automotive, agro-processing
More information about SEZs in South Africa

Windaba Conference and Exhibition 2023

Africa’s premier wind energy conference and exhibition

The annual Windaba Conference and Exhibition is the flagship event of South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA), supported by the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC).

The 12th Annual Windaba Conference and Exhibition will offer several opportunities to engage with customers, stakeholders, and peers to ensure a strengthened African wind industry. Windaba is an interactive platform that enables public and private sector to share expertise, unpack challenges, identify gaps in the market and to drive a united transformation agenda of the wind energy sector in Africa.

Stepping away from the traditional focus on turbines and megawatts, Windaba will take a holistic view of wind – showcasing the impact, innovations and influence that wind energy is having in Africa and beyond.

Find out more, go to www.windaba.co.za

Windaba Conference and Exhibition is hosted by the South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA). SAWEA was registered as a Non Profit Organisation in 2004 with the Department of Social Development (Registration Number 034-566-NPO).

SACA all set for “Post Life… What Remains” conference in partnership with SALGA, AVBOB and Calgro Memorial Parks

The South African Cemeteries Association (SACA) is all systems go for its highly anticipated biennial conference, set to take place from September 13th to 15th, 2023.

This remarkable event is organised in collaboration with esteemed partners SALGA (South African Local Government Association), AVBOB, and Calgro Memorial Parks.

Under the captivating theme “Post Life… What Remains”, the conference promises to be a hub of profound discussions, knowledge sharing, and invaluable collaborations. With an expected attendance of 100 to 130 participants, including distinguished academic researchers, respected professionals, and government and industry representatives, this conference will delve into the intricate dimensions of the afterlife and its profound influence on both the environment and society.

The purpose of this conference is to unravel the far-reaching impact our departed loved ones have on both the environment and society. Furthermore, we seek to delve into the philosophical dimensions of post-life and existence, contemplating profound questions and examining their implications. By assembling a diverse audience of academic researchers, professionals, and government and industry representatives, our conference aims to foster stimulating discussions, facilitate knowledge sharing, and promote collaborations that contribute to the betterment of our communities.

Some of the Speaker’s expected to deliver research, findings and innovate ideas are:
  • Kgosi Thabo Milton Seatlholo: Chairperson of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, passionate advocate for rural community development.
  • Nada Laurie: Master’s in Sociology, specializes in researching place attachment and factors influencing decisions related to body disposal options after death.
  • Wayne Van As: Area Manager for the Southern African region at FamilySearch International.
  • Vusi Skosana: Director in the unit of Integrated Environmental Authorisations at the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment.
  • Prof. Timothy A Fasheun: Esteemed environmental scientist and consultant.
  • Dr. Julie Rugg: Reader in Social Policy at the University of York, UK, specializing in housing policy analysis and the history of disposing the dead.

See Speaker Profiles here

Delegates can look forward to:
  • An array of presentations: Participants will have the opportunity to showcase their research findings, innovative ideas, and practical experiences related to the afterlife, contributing to a deeper understanding of this fascinating subject.
  • Panel Discussions: Engage in constructive dialogues and exchange diverse perspectives with a panel of experts and fellow attendees. Explore the philosophical aspects surrounding post-life and existence, fostering enlightening conversations.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded professionals during dedicated networking breaks and social events. Forge new alliances, share knowledge, and learn best practices from individuals passionate about improving our communities.

We invite you to be a part of this extraordinary event. Register now to secure your place at “Post Life… What Remains” and contribute to the collective understanding of post-life’s impact and philosophy.

For more information and to register, Email: admin@sa-cca.org.za, Website: https://sa-cca.org.za/. We eagerly await your participation in this intellectually invigorating conference.

South African Cemeteries Association Conference 2023

The South African Cemeteries Association (SACA) is delighted to announce its upcoming biennial conference, in collaboration with SALGA (South African Local Government Association), AVBOB, and Memorial Parks by Calgro. This highly anticipated event will take place from the 13th to the 15th of September 2023 in the captivating city of Cape Town under the theme “Post Life… What Remains”.

Conference Details

With an expected attendance of 100 to 130 participants, including distinguished academic researchers, esteemed professionals, and government and industry representatives, this conference promises to be a hub of stimulating discussions, knowledge sharing, and fruitful collaborations. Together, we will delve into the intricate dimensions of the afterlife and its profound influence on the environment and society.

Key Themes:
  • Keynote Address: Prepare to be inspired as our distinguished keynote speaker delivers unique insights into the conference theme, shedding light on the enigmatic realm of post-life.
  • Presentations: Participants will have the opportunity to showcase their research findings, innovative ideas, and practical experiences related to the afterlife. Share your expertise and contribute to a deeper understanding of this fascinating subject.
  • Panel Discussions: Engage in constructive dialogues and exchange diverse perspectives with our panel of experts and fellow attendees. Together, we will explore the philosophical aspects surrounding post-life and existence, fostering enlightening conversations.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded professionals during dedicated networking breaks and social events. Forge new alliances, share knowledge, and learn best practices from individuals who are passionate about improving our communities.

See Speaker Profiles here

Purpose and Objectives:

The purpose of this conference is to unravel the far-reaching impact our departed loved ones have on both the environment and society. Furthermore, we seek to delve into the philosophical dimensions of post-life and existence, contemplating profound questions and examining their implications.

By assembling a diverse audience of academic researchers, professionals, and government and industry representatives, our conference aims to foster stimulating discussions, facilitate knowledge sharing, and promote collaborations that contribute to the betterment of our communities.

We invite you to be a part of this extraordinary event. Register now to secure your place at “Post Life… What Remains” and contribute to the collective understanding of post-life’s impact and philosophy.

For more information and to register, Email: admin@sa-cca.org.za, Website: https://sa-cca.org.za/. We eagerly await your participation in this intellectually invigorating conference.

Turning the wheel towards leadership succession in Government and SOE’s

Minister Namafrench Mbombo – Western Cape Provincial Ministery of Health & Wellness at the 2022 event.

Over the two days the conference seeks to address pertinent topics geared towards women occupying more leadership roles within government and state-owned enterprises. On why this platform is important, Sudhira Sewsunker, Co-owner, Pinpoint Stewards, says: “There are many women across all spheres of government and SOEs doing a stellar job. The problem is that there seems to be a gap in grooming the next generation of women leaders. At the heart of this conference we aim to bring women together from junior to senior level to engage and open channels for communication thereby turning the wheel towards leadership succession.”

Women who will take the stage to develop, unite and empower others include: Bridget Masango, Shadow Minister, Dept Of Social Development RSA; Honorable Bernice Swarts, Deputy Minister, Dept Of Public Works & Infrastructure RSA; Lt Gen Khosi Senthumule, Divisional Commissioner Detective and Forensic Services (DDG) SAPS; Helen Coetzee, Deputy Executive Mayor Overberg District Municipality Provincial SWC Chair Matshidiso Jansen-Mwase, Chief Director: Corporate Services North West Provincial Treasury; Wendy Kaizer-Philander, Chief Whip, Western Cape Provincial Parliament; Christelle Faul Marais, Group Chief Risk Officer & Exco Member, SA Forestry Company Soc Ltd (SAFCOL); Zuziwe Mjongile-Dumile, Technical Manager, Transnet Port Terminal – Cape Town; and UN recognized and GBV activist, Grizelda Grootboom.

Key talking points to be addressed:
  • Becoming an effective government leader
  • Making relationship-building your key competency
  • What is mentorship and what it’s not?
  • Uplifting more women into top leadership roles
  • Finding your feet in chaos and disruption
  • Succeeding in male-dominated environments
  • Acknowledging the massive contribution of women in all sectors
  • Taking charge of your career development – from colleague to leader
  • Economic transformation and inclusion for women
  • Understanding sexual exploitation to protect women

The conference will also afford delegates and speakers time to network and engage during the conference with much needed networking activities at the end of each day in a relaxed environment.

Early bird registration close on 2 October. To register, email info@pinpointstewards.co.za

Women Leadership in Government and SOE’s

Every year women across Government and SOE’s come together at this non-political platform with one goal in mind: Leadership for women. The it’s DUE conference is vested in Developing, Uniting and Empowering leadership across National, Provincial and Local Government, equipping women to lead and engage with other decision makers.

Pinpoint Stewards together with their media partners will be profiling these elected women while ensuring equal reporting of women making a positive impact within Government and SOE’s. 

    • Name of event: Women Leadership in Government and SOE’s 
    • Location: Lord Charles Hotel, Somerset West, Cape Town
    • Dates and opening time: 1 & 2 November from 7:30am till 5pm
    • Venue: Lord Charles Hotel, Somerset West, Cape Town 
    • Website: www.pinpointstewards.co.za
    • Email: info@pinpointstewards.co.za
Organisations speaking at the conference include leaders within:

Department of Public Works and Infrastructure RSA, Department of Social Development RSA, North West Provincial Treasury, Western Cape Provincial Parliament, South African Forestry Company SOC Ltd (SAFCOL), Transnet Port Terminal – Cape Town, Overberg District Municipality Provincial SWC Chair, SAPS, Survivor Exit Foundation NPC. 

To participate as speaker/empowerment partner or sponsor, contact organisers Pinpoint Stewards: info@pinpointstewards.co.za  

For more information, visit: https://pinpointstewards.co.za/

Who are we?  

Pinpoint Stewards was born out of impossibilities (during Covid) to lead as entrepreneurs rather than follow. We started our own 100% women owned, Level 2 B-BBEE training and conferencing company. With over 20 years’ experience in research, management and arranging onsite and online training and networking platforms.

Statistics South Africa Western Cape’s environmental crusade: Clean-up of Sea Point’s beaches

Written by Evashnie Govender

In a heart-warming display of unity and shared commitment to environmental stewardship, Statistics South Africa Western Cape teamed up with local businesses and non-profit organizations to conduct a beach clean-up campaign along parts of the picturesque Atlantic seaboard. On Saturday 2nd of September 2023, despite the challenges posed by rainy weather, this collaboration brought together a diverse group of volunteers all driven by a common purpose – making a tangible difference in their community.

Initiated by the dedicated team from the Cape Metro 1 district office this campaign was more than just a clean-up operation. While the primary goal was to contribute to a cleaner and more welcoming beach environment for all it was also an opportunity to express gratitude to the respondents from across the Atlantic Seaboard who participate in Statistics South Africa’s data collection efforts.

Cape Metro 1 faces unique challenges in gathering data mainly due to the prevalence of high-walled and gated communities in their sample. Campaigns like these not only bridge the gap between communities but also foster positive engagement while raising awareness about the importance of data collection in these areas.

CPUT students collecting data whilst on a mission to save the environment through their plastic recycling project, which aims at showing that plastic bags can have a second life beyond just packing our belongings.

District Manager Evashnie Govender believes that by intensifying marketing and publicity efforts within high-walled and gated communities, Metro 1 can significantly improve response rates. In this endeavour, social media will be a key tool to engage with a wider audience and emphasize the significance of data collection for evidence based decision-making.

Staff sharing information on StatsSA and the current surveys on field. A fact sheet on the Atlantic Seaboard and City of Cape Town where provided to the community.

The Sea Point beach clean-up campaign witnessed the convergence of various stakeholders, each contributing their unique strengths to the cause. Blok, a prominent Cape Town-based property developer has a vested interest in preserving the natural beauty of the iconic coastal beaches. Pristine Earth Collective, a NPO dedicated to addressing ocean plastic pollution played a pivotal role in ensuring that the collected litter was managed responsibly. Sealand, a lifestyle brand known for its eco-conscious approach provided essential collection bins, making the clean-up operation efficient and environmentally responsible and as a token of appreciation for the volunteer’s dedication, Bootlegger Coffee Company generously gifted a free coffee voucher to each participant.

One of the standout aspects of the clean-up campaign was the enthusiastic participation of Statistics South Africa employees. Their dedication was evident as they braved the icy cold and rainy weather conditions to make a meaningful impact. Cape Metro 2 district office employees exhibited their support by joining hands in unity with the combined Metro effort for a greater cause. They also donned their IES field gear, underlining the crucial significance of this survey as it approaches its conclusion.

This remarkable collaboration between Statistics South Africa, local businesses, and non-profit organizations exemplifies the power of unity in the pursuit of a cleaner, more sustainable future.

The staff’s dedication was remarkable; even in the face of ongoing budget cuts, they willingly sacrificed their weekend to work for a greater cause, showing their unwavering commitment.

Together, these organizations and volunteers collected a total of 58 bags of litter, grouping them as Uncategorised (32 bags), Plastic (24 bags), Glass (1 bag), and Metal (1 bag). This impressive commitment to responsible waste management and beach cleanliness serves as an inspiration to us all.

Stats SA and Blok staff who braved the cold and wet weather to participate in the clean-up campaign.
Pristine Earth station litter was sorted and managed responsibly, minimising the impact on the environment.
Staff and other stakeholders in solidarity, laughing in the rain while doing their bit for the environment and sorting the collected litter.

This remarkable collaboration between Statistics South Africa, local businesses, and non-profit organizations exemplifies the power of unity in the pursuit of a cleaner, more sustainable future. It serves as a heartening reminder that when communities and organizations come together, they can create a positive impact on their environment and inspire change.

This beach clean-up campaign was not just about cleaning up the shores; it was a testament to the collective spirit of Cape Town and its commitment to safeguarding its natural treasures, one beach clean-up at a time.

Air Products focused on providing industry with skilled welders

Back L – R: Silence Mashaba, Sean Young (Air Products), Zodwa Tomile (Air Products), Pierre van Nieuwenhuizen, Rozanne Heroin and Rossouw van der Merwe (Cosmo Group). Front L – R: Kingsley Nyatlo, Lesego Mahlanya, Tshiamo Mmutle, Gertrude Khubeka and Lerato Malepe.

As an industrial gas manufacturer, Air Products is reliant on the skills and knowledge of engineers and technicians, but most importantly that of artisans throughout their operations. Within the business, there is a strong focus on skills development, especially with regards to the growth of technical skills such as welding.

In an effort to contribute to the upliftment of welding skills in the country, Air Products committed to provide funding for internationally accredited welding courses. The Cosmo Training Academy was selected as the training facility. The initial group consisted of 20 students, and after various assessments and practical tests, six apprentices were selected.

According to Sean Young, Welding Specialist at Air Products, and the facilitator of this project, all six of the students recently completed the course and have all shown tremendous potential. He further mentions that the second group of students are scheduled to start their assessments.

“We have selected the Cosmo Training Academy as our training partner. The Cosmo Group forms an important part of our distributor network and more importantly, we have confidence in their course and the academy. To top it all, the Welding Facilitator/Trainer, Rozanne Heroin, was recently named the winner of the #JouYster competition by Solidarity. This award is given to the top artisan in the Solidarity network.”

Pierre van Nieuwenhuizen from the Cosmo Group mentions that they appreciate Air Products’ drive to improve welding skills in the industry.

“The Cosmo Training Academy aims to provide world-class accredited welding training as we are aware of the need for skilled welders in the industry, and in South Africa. As an accredited Air Products distributor, we have received support from them from the onset and we are excited about the future of these apprentices.”

For more information on Air Products, visit www.airproducts.co.za

Overcoming manufacturing downtime with the use of rooftop solar

Credit: VoltaroEnergy from Pixabay

In response to South Africa’s national power utility Eskom’s challenge to meet the nation’s energy demand, alternative energy sources are being thoroughly explored and it appears that an answer to South Africa’s short, medium and long-term energy supplies lies in renewables. South Africa is recognised for having abundant natural energy sources, including a sunny climate with the capacity to produce an ample supply of solar energy.

The ongoing load shedding presents unrivalled opportunities for rooftop solar entities. It is crucial that manufacturers are educated on the extensive benefits that solar holds in store for their businesses and the annual Manufacturing Indaba serves as the perfect platform for solar solution companies to enlighten them and ultimately expand their customer base.

First and foremost, large manufacturing facilities represent the ideal space for solar system installations as their sizeable, flat roofs enable a substantial surface area for installing not only more solar panels, but lengthier strings that catch more sunlight, thereby generating even more electricity. Furthermore, manufacturing plants are typically located in industrial parks and other outlying areas, isolated from overshadowing skyscrapers in city centres that conceal solar panels from the sunlight. Therefore, manufacturing factories can reap greater benefits from solar PV installation for extended periods of uninterrupted sunlight translating into greater energy generation, and thereby increasing the return on investment.

Manufacturers can also take advantage of installing solar panels on the vast expanse of rooftops of their parking lots and carports, which undoubtedly service a multitude of vehicles belonging to its workers. This presents versatile utilisation of space that would have otherwise been wasted.

The ongoing load shedding presents unrivalled opportunities for rooftop solar entities.

Rooftop solar systems generate electricity during the daylight, coinciding with the peak hours of most factory operations. Hence, while the sun is out, manufacturing facilities have the option to either limit their dependence on the national grid or abandon it completely. This reliable power backup ensures manufacturing productivity during peak hours, thereby translating into greater profits.

Further, going solar reduces, and may eventually eliminate, a manufacturer’s reliance on diesel backup for generators to ensure uninterrupted power. Solar requires minimal maintenance, having no moving parts and is silent thus doesn’t contribute to an already loud factory environment. Additionally, rooftop solar PV systems can be tailored specifically to meet a factory’s unique space, energy and budget requirements.

Energy Security Rooftop Solar PV plants have capacity to support designated loads or all connected loads if load shedding occurs during the day. What’s more, solar PV plants can provide battery storage solutions, thereby supporting factories at night.

It consequently remains evident that the manufacturing sector can profit considerably from solar power solutions. Industrial factories utilise a significant amount of electricity during the production process and this energy constitutes a major expense for the utility, as well as contributing to a significant amount of pollution to power the plant. Increased energy consumption coupled with the expected increase in retail electricity prices in the commercial sector purports that manufacturers will inevitably be confronted with higher expenses, ultimately eating into a significant portion of their bottom-line. Large-scale commercial solar panel installations provide tremendous cost-cutting benefits for manufacturers and there is no better time than now for industrialists to capitalise on solar technologies.

The upcoming Manufacturing Indaba, taking place 24-26 October 2023 at the Sandton Convention Centre, is set to provide current and prospective solar solution companies from across Sub-Saharan Africa with an exciting and collaborative stage from which they can develop indispensable networks with key manufacturing industry players.

The exhibition invites all ambitious solar companies to seize this unique opportunity in the manufacturing market and showcase your capabilities to potential manufacturing clients.

Having proven invaluable in fostering significant business relationships, forging gateways for attendees into new markets and exploring challenges and opportunities to promote innovation in manufacturing operations, this event serves as the ideal environment to exhibit the benefits of your solar solutions to attending manufacturers, who have the potential to take your solar business to the next level.

Find out more, visit https://manufacturingindaba.co.za/

The Eastern Cape gets ready to share its unique value proposition

The Eastern Cape represents a compelling value proposition for potential investors. Its dynamic manufacturing sector positions the Eastern Cape as an attractive location and international asset.

The Eastern Cape Annual Investment Conference, scheduled to take place on the 29th of September 2023 at the East London International Convention Centre, is an event aimed at positioning the Eastern Cape as a preferred African Investment Destination, by attracting and facilitating quality foreign and domestic investment into the province

Find out more / RSVP here

To find out more about opportunities in the region, visit the Eastern Cape Development Corporation.

The Eastern Cape represents a compelling value proposition for potential investors. Its dynamic manufacturing sector positions the Eastern Cape as an attractive location and international asset. The province has two Industrial Development Zones (IDZs), confirming the potential offered by the region.

1...323334...77Page 33 of 77
Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter
© 2023 | Website powered by TurboWP |