JSE-listed cable manufacturer, South Ocean Electric Wire (SOEW), has completed a solar installation which it says marks a global first with a seamless switch from grid to backup power in zero seconds.
The SOEW factory in Alrode.
Developed in partnership with GreenSun, a renewable energy supplier, the system enhances SOEW’s operational resilience in South Africa’s challenging environment of power disruptions and random power outages. The installation, completed at SOEW’s Alrode, Johannesburg facility, leverages advanced AI-driven inverter technology and a custom-designed battery storage system to provide uninterrupted power for critical manufacturing processes. It optimises energy use based on time-of-use tariffs, weather patterns and kVA demand changes,” says Tertius Ness, Chief Operating Officer of SOEW.
“The benefits of this installation are transformative. The zero-second switch eliminates downtime, which was previously costing SOEW an estimated R2 million annually due to load-shedding interruptions. By maintaining continuous power to production lines, the system safeguards product quality and delivery schedules, critical for SOEW and its clients in construction and infrastructure.
“Furthermore, the installation reduces energy costs by 30%, leveraging solar power from the roof-top installation during peak sunlight hours and storing excess energy for nighttime use. This translates to annual savings of about R1.5 million. Environmentally, the shift cuts CO2 emissions by 600 tonnes annually, supporting SOEW’s aim to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030,” Ness added.
He noted that the system’s technical strength is in its hybrid inverter, which synchronises grid and battery power, enabling an instantaneous transition without the typical 10 to 20 second delay seen in conventional setups.
“GreenSun’s engineers customised the configuration to handle SOEW’s peak load of 450 kW, ensuring scalability for future expansion. The installation also includes real-time monitoring, allowing SOEW to optimise energy usage and respond proactively to grid instability. This data-driven approach has already improved energy efficiency by 15% since it was commissioned in June this year.
“We believe the achievement positions SOEW as a pioneer in sustainable industrial energy solutions, setting a new benchmark for the global manufacturing sector. The decision to partner with GreenSun stemmed from the supplier’s proven expertise in delivering tailored, high-efficiency solar solutions and its strong track record in the South African market,” said Ness.
“GreenSun’s solution integrates cutting-edge technology with SOEW’s specific energy needs, supporting a 500 kW solar array and 1 MWh battery storage. Its innovative approach and deep understanding of our operational demands were key factors in this collaboration. The solution meets our immediate energy challenges and aligns with our long-term sustainability goals,” he said.
Ness added that the implementation underscores SOEW’s leadership in the cable manufacturing industry, where reliable power is paramount. “SOEW, known for producing high-quality electrical cables for local and export markets, has now set a precedent for industrial energy resilience.
“This is a testament to our team’s innovation and GreenSun’s expertise. It secures our operations and offers a replicable model for other manufacturers facing similar challenges.”
For more information visit: www.soew.co.za