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?

In 1984, a small electrical distributor, Trans Electron, began its journey in South Africa. Fast forward 40 years, and that company – now known as ACDC Dynamics – has grown into a powerhouse of innovation and excellence in the electrical and automation industries.

To celebrate this milestone anniversary, ACDC has launched its 2025/26 Catalogue, an industry-defining resource showcasing its extensive range of products and solutions.

Spanning over 1,100 pages, the catalogue features 70,000 products across 27 categories, with 7,000 new additions. From automation and lighting to circuit protection and renewable energy solutions, the new catalogue serves as a comprehensive resource for professionals in diverse industries.

It’s time to win some prizes! Make sure you enter our Happy Holidays promotion. As 2024 comes to its end, Sparks Electrical News offers our readers the opportunity to start the new year on a positive note. We have teamed up with South Africa’s leading electrical companies who have donated great prizes.