On 16 May this year, TCI Africa welcomed the South African lighting industry with its official launch event at the symbolic Cradle of Humankind. This choice of location emphasised the company's commitment to connecting local heritage with innovative lighting solutions tailored for our unique market.

Operating in South Africa for over a year, TCI Africa has strategically focused on building reliable local stock and distribution channels to better serve the needs of local lighting manufacturers and suppliers. The launch event was an important opportunity for industry leaders, lighting professionals, and OEM partners to meet the TCI Africa team, as well as representatives from the Italian parent company, TCI Group.

The event offered practical presentations that outlined TCI Africa’s clear approach: to be a dedicated component supplier servicing OEM manufacturers rather than competing with lighting fixtures. This straightforward strategy ensures local companies can rely on quality European components while focusing on their own manufacturing strengths.

After more than ten years of operations in South Africa, Trinasolar has established itself as the market leader in solar panel technology. Sparks Electrical News met up with Zaheer Khan, South Africa regional director of Trinasolar, for an exclusive interview at the recent Solar & Storage Live Africa exhibition at Nasrec, Johannesburg. Khan shared insights about the company's journey, market positioning, and the future of solar energy in the region.

In an industry flooded with newcomers, Trinasolar's 28-year global presence gives it a significant edge, according to Khan. With solar panels typically carrying a 25-year warranty, Trinasolar's longevity in the market provides customers with confidence that the company will exist to honour these long-term commitments – something newer entrants cannot match.

“Trinasolar has been in business longer than our warranty, so that says something,” explained Khan.

The company's local commitment is demonstrated through offices in Johannesburg and Cape Town, alongside warehouse facilities in Durban that maintain 10-20 megawatts of stock for quick nationwide delivery.

Trevor van der Vyver, founder and owner of MaxLite, has been at the forefront of South Africa's solar energy sector since before most people even considered it viable. In a recent exclusive interview, he shared insights on the challenges facing the local industry today and where future opportunities may lie.

Van der Vyver's journey with solar energy began in 1974 when he started engaging with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) on solar water heating – decades before it became mainstream. He later founded MaxLite in 1989, initially focusing on DC lighting solutions, with Eskom as his first major customer.

His company has since evolved alongside the industry, installing solar systems in over 20,000 rural houses across South Africa, from the Western Province to the Northern Cape.

In 2000, his innovations earned him an ETA award from Eskom, leading to the development of a product line called etamax. This recognition highlights his long-standing commitment to the advancement of solar technology in the region. Read more about his work in our cover story this month.

Siemens has unveiled SINOVA, a new range of low-voltage electrical products specifically designed for South Africa and other emerging markets. The range focuses on simplicity, reliability and affordability to help expand electricity access in the region.

The SINOVA launch was held at the DaVinci Hotel in Johannesburg on 22 January and was well-attended by industry stakeholders. The day included various presentations from the Siemens team as they explained the intention behind their new range and related distribution strategies.

This new range marks a significant milestone in Siemens' strategy to expand its low-voltage electrical products beyond the mining and industrial sectors into the utilities sector as well. Traditionally known for more complex systems, the SINOVA range now allows Siemens products to be used in projects of all sizes – in new markets previously untapped as well.

Three-D Agencies, a local electrical distributor with a 40-year heritage, is embarking on an exciting new chapter following recent leadership changes. Last year, Derek Gilmore assumed the post of interim managing director, while Gabriel Pieterse joined as the new sales director.

Three-D Agencies was originally founded in 1977 and is particularly known for its cable accessories. With 68 employees across branches in Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town, it has established itself as a significant player in the electrical distribution sector over its four-decade history. Now, it’s setting its sights on expanding further, building on a solid foundation while prioritising customer service.

What does this mean for Three-D and its customers?