Since 1984, SOLARWORLD Africa has seen the change and growth in the photovoltaic industry in Africa and has played a part in bringing world class partners and products to southern Africa. As it celebrates its 40th anniversary, the company is one of the longest-standing solar system suppliers in Africa and is excited to see how the industry evolves through the next 40 years.
A frontrunner in the solar energy sector in southern Africa, Solarworld Africa celebrates its 40th year this year.
In a thriving market crowded with newcomers, SOLARWORLD Africa continues to hold a leading position, offering its expertise in solar energy solutions and products of recognised quality.
Managing Director, Gregor Kuepper says: “We are thrilled to celebrate 40 years of innovation, growth and impact in the renewable energy sector. From the start, SOLARWORLD committed to ongoing innovation in the photovoltaic space, and we have partnered only with manufacturers that understand our market. Offering solutions that meet or exceed customers’ expectations, we focus on the long-term benefits and not just the short term.”
Throughout its four-decade journey, SOLARWORLD Africa has remained committed to harnessing southern Africa’s abundant solar resources to drive positive change and sustainable development. The company has played a role in advancing solar technology, delivering reliable and efficient solar products, and championing environmental responsibility.
As the world is embracing solar energy, SOLARWORLD Africa has witnessed its partners ramp up their offerings and introduce new technology. When the business started, a solar panel would offer 50 Wp of output power. Today, panels offer output power between 500 and 700 Wp.
“More recently we have seen the introduction of containerised battery energy storage systems (BESS), ideal for the African continent due to their modular technology which means they can be integrated easily into existing energy sources. We see sustainable energy options shaking things up as they offer flexibility for tailored solutions. In addition, containerised BESS offer quick deployment, providing a fast and reliable source of energy compared to grid infrastructure. As an additional element in hybrid energy systems, BESS help bridge the load shedding hours and stabilise supply.”
SOLARWORLD invests in staying several steps ahead of new and existing players in the industry, keeping a lookout for new developments and possible new partners.
“When introducing new technology to our clients, two key areas to be considered in decision making are cost effectiveness and reliability. We seek quality solutions that make sense financially and that offer savings traditional energy infrastructure cannot offer. But they need to be reliable, providing longevity and low maintenance, so they can be used in urban or remote areas,” Kuepper notes.
He adds: “Through its strategic partnerships and its dedication to excellence, SOLARWORLD Africa has empowered businesses to embrace clean energy solutions, reducing carbon footprints and fostering economic growth across the region.”
Jandre Engelbrecht, Managing Director of ASI, highlights the positive impact its collaboration with SOLARWORLD has had on his business. “Our partnership with SOLARWORLD Africa has allowed us to implement products that have consistently exceeded expectations, building strong and valued relationships. We have full confidence in SOLARWORLD’s product portfolio and appreciate their dedication to staying ahead of industry trends, allowing us to meet the requirements of our end-customers, particularly as the needs shift toward energy storage systems. Additionally, we have benefitted from the company’s after-sales support, which has been reliable for over a decade of installations, allowing my business in turn to provide ongoing assistance to clients."
Kuepper says in closing: "As we commemorate this milestone, we reaffirm our dedication to driving the transition towards a cleaner and greener future for generations to come."
For more information visit: www.solarworld.co.za/
