Digital transformation and data management are shifting the energy-information-industry interface at every level. In this December 2022 edition of Electricity + Control, as we close out another fast-paced year, we see this influence, driven by Industry 4.0 and the IIoT, enabling greater energy efficiency in industry processes, changing the way measurement data is obtained and used, and opening up new possibilities for managing the electricity grid with more insight – in real-time. And we see how the ever-increasing volumes of data generated through Industry 4.0 are changing the ways in which data is stored and managed.
Data management is in focus in the feature on Industry 4.0 + IIoT where Andrew Cruise of South African cloud services provider Routed notes how business’s view on cloud is maturing with a growing understanding of hybrid cloud and the options available to suit different business needs. Nick Wonfor of Data Management Professionals SA emphasises the importance of effective data management to ensure availability, security and compliance, particularly in the supply chain and logistics.
In Energy management + the industrial environment, systems integrator and solutions provider Iritron says organisations in South Africa need to embrace digital technology at a faster pace, to enable greater efficiencies and energy and cost savings. And looking at the bigger picture, Wärtsilä highlights key findings from its recently released report which presents the power system modelling done by the company for three African countries: Nigeria, South Africa and Mozambique. The report indicates that a shift to renewable energy, combined with flexible engines and energy storage, is the most effective way to reduce energy costs, increase energy access and improve reliability.
We also note new projects which point to the growing number of companies in South Africa switching to renewables and IPPs to support more stable and cost-efficient energy supply for their operations.
In Measurement + instrumentation, Frenk Withoos of ABB Measurement & Analytics outlines how digital measurement instruments can contribute to high quality products, especially in complex production processes as apply in the case of lithium-ion batteries – a fast-growing industry sector globally.
Transformers, substations + cables are all critical elements in the power transmission system. Here we report on Eskom’s updated Transmission Development Plan 2022 – looking to grid maintenance, strengthening and extension over the next 10 years, with a focus on accelerated implementation in the first five years.
From the team at Electricity + Control, we wish all our readers, advertisers and colleagues a peaceful holiday season and a productive and prosperous 2023.