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To all our industry partners!

We are very excited to send you the save the dates for the Kitchen Specialist Association Gauteng Industry Showcase happening on the 15^th of May. 

We would love for you and your members to join us on the day at our new venue Riversands Farm Village.

Again, we will be hosting 5 CPD accredited talks for industry professionals delivered by our supplier members. Look out for the official invite in the coming weeks for exact point allocation, hosts, and topics.

Pre-register to attend and receive meal and drinks vouchers on the day free of charge. If you register on the day at the gate, a R250 fee will be charged (exact amount no change). Enjoy the day out in a beautiful setting, with music, food trucks, drinks, and meeting new industry partners and creating business opportunities.

Local industry leaders at the forefront of the South African packaging industry will gather at the Cape Town International Conference Centre (CTICC) at Propak Cape, taking place from 24-26 October. This highly respected innovative packaging solutions trade expo will showcase the latest industry trends across the packaging, food processing, plastics, printing, labelling and related industries.

The events’ daily programme of seminars will highlight the latest global trends and how the SA market can take advantage of these developments.

Some of the speakers at the Propak Cape free-to-attend seminars include:

Johan van Wyk, Sales and Marketing Director at Fang, will speak about the rapidly evolving landscape of the packaging industry, and how the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force in enhancing electronic security. This presentation delves into the intersection of AI and security in the packaging sector, spotlighting how AI-driven solutions are revolutionizing traditional security measures. From real-time threat detection to predictive analytics, attendees will explore how AI-powered sentry systems are not only bolstering the safeguarding of packaged goods but also optimizing operational efficiency. By unravelling the synergies between AI and electronic security, this presentation offers insights into intelligent systems, ensuring the integrity and safety of people, products and processes.

By attending the seminar presented by Volker Ditscher, Director Global Sales Track & Trace at WIPOTEC-OCS, you will discover how manufacturers and retailers will benefit from using GS1 2D codes. What is the status of the global development towards GS1 2D codes in retail? Where are the obstacles and difficulties? And how can I avoid running into unexpected challenges along the way? These questions, and many others, will be addressed during his presentation. As both producers and retailers put more and more focus on this migration, they are looking into practical approaches to solutions. The introduction of serialization in the healthcare industry is a reasonable case for comparison. Many mistakes have already been made there and experience gained from which we can learn today.

Don’t miss the seminar session with Masale Manoko, Sustainability Manager, Southern Africa at Tetra Pak, to hear more about Tetra Pak’s exciting vision for the circular economy in South Africa with a focus on recycling and how they can assist food manufacturers in reaching their sustainability objectives. The session will cover the role of Tetra Pak in the creation of the first voluntary EPR system in South Africa

and the opportunities it brings to the producers; Tetra Pak’s existing and upcoming investments in recycling; and inspirations on industry collaboration and how they can support you.

Looking at ways to enhance environmental and financial sustainability in the energy-intensive Packaging Industry, Adam Bekker, Managing Director at Capital Box Green Energy Finance/Broadreach Energy explores what sustainable solutions could be implemented in your business to reduce both your carbon footprint, and your electricity bill.

Also speaking are Melika Seiderer, General Sales Manager for Ishida South Africa with her topic ‘Automation from Farm to fork – the X-factor to your success in the Agrobusiness / Food Industry’, and Don MacFarlane, Packaging Senior at Woolworths South Africa who will talk about designing and developing

packaging differently from both a legislative as well as sustainability perspective, as well as other engaging speakers. The full seminar programme* is accessible on the Propak Cape website.

Leading industry suppliers and service providers

Ready to share their industry and technical knowledge, just under 200 exhibitors will be showcasing their latest machinery, equipment, products, and services at Propak Cape.

“Our exhibitors are leading industry suppliers and service providers who will be using this platform to showcase latest front-line technologies, innovative machinery, equipment and raw materials, and the most up to date processing techniques,” says Mark Anderson, Portfolio Director at Specialised Exhibitions, organisers of the show. “Visitors will also have the opportunity to see world-class machinery in action during the live demonstrations, discover solutions for improved efficiency and cost containment, whilst also benefiting from the free-to-attend seminars presented by industry experts.”

Propak Cape is supported by the Institute of Packaging SA (IPSA), Packaging SA, Plastics SA, Printing SA, and the Aerosol Manufacturers Association (AMA). IPSA will be running a one-day high-level Responsible Packaging conference alongside the show on the Wednesday, 25 October. Booking and cost details can be accessed on the Propak Cape website.  

Visitors can register online for free access to the show at www.propakcape.co.za

Specialised Exhibitions is a division of Montgomery Group.

*NB. Seminar programme is subject to change: the Organiser reserves the right to change the programme. 

A week on from the successful Windaba Conference and Exhibition, the CEO of SAWEA, Mr Niveshen Govender reflects on the key learnings, exchange of ideas and what the future holds for the wind energy sector in South Africa.

Across the globe discussions focussing on the need for increased uptake of renewable energy are intensifying. And the same could be seen during the breakaway sessions held during the Windaba Conference in Cape Town.

The mood over the course of Windaba was decidedly optimistic and it was clear from the sessions that we have the potential for another decade of action, success, and transformation.

South Africa remains well-positioned to capitalize on the world’s accelerating adoption of renewable energy and with increasing commitments to sustainability, wind power emerges as a key driver of South Africa’s clean energy transition.

From the curtain-raiser Windaba Connect on the 3rd October through the two key days of the conference and exhibition on the 4th and 5th October, some key themes emerged under the umbrella of the Beyond the Turbines theme.

Dominating the agenda for the attendees who were a mix of professionals, policymakers, academics, government representatives and civil society, were policy certainty, investment, innovation, as well as the value of partnerships and collaborations.

Overcome uncertainty

Wind projects could contribute over 35 000 MW of installed capacity to the grid – if we have policy certainty and continuous procurement. Without either of these, there is the very real risk that South Africa’s vast wind potential will not be realised.

Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa’s outline of how government intends to leverage renewable energy during his keynote address on the last day of the conference and made it clear  that wind energy will be amongst other energy sources at the forefront of South Africa’s energy transformation.

The Minister in the Presidency for Electricity also shared the government’s plans to support investment in private generation as well as strengthening the transmission network, which was welcomed by operators in the wind sector.

Invest with confidence

Despite the continued uncertainty, it is clear that the private sector stands ready to tap into South Africa’s wind-energy potential. This is evident in the increasing development of wind projects for the private offtaker market, as a result of the removal of the distributed generation licence requirement.

The private offtaker market is proving an attractive investment, with investor confidence restored and more lenders are coming to the table. Reflecting the increased appetite for lending, attendees gained insights from representatives from key financial institutions that were designed to help them navigate the risks in raising project finance and the need for innovative funding structures to meet the needs of the ever-changing power sector.

Innovate and elevate

Alongside the breakaway sessions and plenaries on policy and finance, Windaba shone a light on the innovations and exciting impact of wind energy in South Africa. Year on year, the industry is investing in enhancing and elevating technologies to better harness wind, maximise efficiencies and ensure that renewables can go head to head with traditional energy sources.

As a sector, we also reinforced our commitment to best environmental practices with breakaway sessions giving attendees up-to-date insights into responsible management of turbines after usage, addressing the skills gaps and how to mitigate a projects impact on birds and bats.

Partner to grow

It has never been clearer that we need to collaborate if we are to fully maximise our wind potential.

Partnerships will enable us to prosper. One must just look at how together SAWEA, with the support of the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC), and the generous support of our sponsors, speakers and attendees, have been able to deliver Windaba.

And looking forward, we will leverage the work of The Global Wind Energy Council’s Africa WindPower and their inaugural Status of Wind in Africa report. This report will bolster some of the conversations that took place at Windaba and help us to further build and develop our wind sector.

Only by working together and being proactive can the immediate crisis of load-shedding be addressed, as well as developing a secure and sustainable energy grid for the future.

Windaba’s success was reflected in the participation and engagement from across the wind value chain – with both international and local participants keen to maximise the opportunity to come together and broker new deals and chart a way forward.

What’s next?

Windaba may be over for another year, but it is very clear that all in attendance left with a clear sense of positivity and motivation to deliver more.

We are poised and primed for another decade of success.

As the world rapidly accelerates the uptake of renewable energy, wind power stands as a crucial player in achieving sustainable development goals. South Africa’s commitment to policy certainty, fostering partnerships, strengthening the value chain, and aligning with global sustainability efforts will ensure that the wind sector thrives and continues to attract international attention and investment.

By harnessing the power of wind, South Africa can lead the way towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.

On the back of a record turnout at Securex South Africa 2023, held from 6 to 8 June, the organisers — Specialised Exhibitions (a division of Montgomery Group) — have increased the floorspace with an additional hall at Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, from 28 to 30 May 2024.

“We were thrilled at the turnout at Securex South Africa, which hit the 6 401 visitor mark. In addition, the total number of visitors to Securex and the co-located A-OSH EXPO, Facilities Management Expo, and Firexpo, also reached a record high — with 11 465 people visiting the expos over the three days,” says Mark Anderson, Portfolio Director at Specialised Exhibitions.

There has been increased awareness of the necessity for adequate and applicable security solutions. However, with the multitude of products and services available on the market — not all of which are of the appropriate quality or functionality — consumers are often hard pressed to know if what they are selecting will serve its purpose, or last for a satisfactory period.

“This is why trade shows like Securex South Africa are so popular with businesses. Securex South Africa takes the hassle factor out of finding the right security technology or services, and it allows visitors to not only see products before committing to a purchase, but also provides them with an opportunity to ‘test drive’ the products. It could be compared to purchasing a motor vehicle — you want to see for yourself if it’s a good match for your needs and desires. It’s better to ‘experience’ your purchase, instead of buying it ‘blindly’,” says Anderson.

It is often not feasible to stay up to date with security trends, and the subtle shifts in the industry can easily go unnoticed unless you are constantly and consistently perusing security reports. “This is where Securex South Africa comes to the fore. As technology emphasis changes — for instance wireless connections are currently becoming more popular, and there is an increase in integration into PSIM or other management consoles — the exhibitors at Securex South Africa are right there with solutions for the market, ensuring that they convey information on best practice solutions to visitors,” says Anderson.

“A stand at Securex South Africa is your ticket to meeting a huge portion of your target market all under one roof over a concentrated and highly-interactive three-day period. There is simply no other marketing tool that is quite as effective in its ability to reach so many of the people on your ‘hit list’ as a stand at Securex South Africa. The feedback we receive from previous exhibitors and visitors alike is testament to the expo’s ability to matchmake needs with solutions,” says Anderson.

“We had a phenomenal day on the first day of Securex, with hundreds of people visiting our stand. We picked up so many leads and we met exactly the type of potential customer we were looking for. It seems that the aim of the visitors this year was to gather strategic partners, so they definitely came to the right place!” Pieter Naudé — Kaleidscope Technology.

“We have 12 Securex/Firexpo exhibitions under our belts. We met with visitors from the DRC, Zimbabwe, Malawi and Tanzania who are proactively sourcing solutions for their future needs. A huge shout out to Specialised Exhibitions for the effort put into marketing and organising the expo — the success was apparent in the large number of high-quality visitors.” Frikkie Stroh — Safequip.

Added to the thousands of products and services available at Securex South Africa, are the visitor features such as the Outstanding Security Performance Awards (OSPAS), the long-standing SAIDSA Techman competition, the New Products Display, the SAIDSA and ESDA breakfast function, the K9 Law Enforcement Demonstration, and the Drone Demonstration Zone (introduced in 2023). 

“Finally, the Securex Seminar Theatre continues to be a huge drawcard for visitors hungry to hear about the latest technology and industry regulations. Populated by thought-provoking topics presented by knowledgeable industry speakers, the seminar theatre covers a vast variety of topics, geared around providing solutions to common industry challenges,” says Anderson.

Organisations wishing to exhibit at Securex South Africa 2024 can contact the Securex South Africa team on team on zelda.jordaan@montgomerygroup.com or kyle.burgess@montgomerygroup.com to book a space or capitalise on a sponsorship opportunity.

Engage with Securex South Africa 2024 on social media using the show hashtag #Securex2024.

See some of the Securex South Africa 2023 highlights https://youtu.be/vQT3ULRl4I4

If we want to end power shortages through sustainable energy sources then we must as a matter of urgency address the biggest stumbling block to bringing renewable energy onstream – grid capacity.

That is the call from the South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA), as they prepare for Windaba – Africa’s premier wind energy conference and exhibition.

The conference, which takes place from the 3^rd of October to 5^th of October 2023 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), will shine a spotlight on the importance of investing and developing a stable grid that can receive the large amounts of wind, and other renewable, energy available.

This will be welcome news to stakeholders from across the wind energy value chain who were frustrated by the disappointment of none of the 23 wind projects submitted during round six of REIPPPP being announced as preferred bidders due to lack of grid capacity to accommodate them.

“SAWEA, together with our members, have taken a proactive and positive approach towards building resilience, enhancing grid integration and future-proofing the energy sector,” says Niveshen Govender, SAWEA Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

It is vital for industry to continue to work closely with government, investors and project developers to create the right conditions that will enable the energy sector to flourish.

“As a priority, industry requires a favourable regulatory environment for the rollout of renewable energy. Windaba will provide stakeholders from across the energy sector the opportunity to come together and coalesce around a coordinated approach that will strengthen or expand the grid infrastructure build as quickly and efficiently as possible.”

Organised by SAWEA and supported by the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC), Windaba will feature a roster of local specialists and international experts who will explore and recommend the best path to delivering a sustainable energy supply to the nation.

Day 1 of the conference will feature three (3) informative and engaging sessions that will help attendees understand the current constraints and potential mitigation routes as well as how to ensure grid code compliance. There will also be an in-depth presentation from Eskom representatives outlining how they will implement their elaborate Transmission Development Plan (TDP) and address insufficient transmission infrastructure.

“There are enough renewable energy projects to resolve South Africa’s energy crisis before 2030. However, these shovel ready projects require allocation on the grid, which is currently unable to accommodate all the available projects,” adds Govender.

Attendees at Windaba will also explore international best practice, looking to other countries that have experienced similar grid capacity issues. Options to be discussed will include the implementation of battery storage projects as well as the co-location of wind and solar PV projects at the same grid connection points.

“We cannot afford any further delays in the deployment of new generation capacity. However, we must not just think of short-term fixes. Together with government we need a long-term strategy that will enable us to meet current and future energy needs in a sustainable manner,” concludes Govender.

Windaba is a key date for the diary for anyone interested in Africa’s energy transition. Set to bring together key players from both the public and private sector, there will be a packed schedule of engaging talks, informative panel discussions and excellent networking opportunities.

Year-on-year, the conference brings together more than 600 delegates and industry exhibitors. The conference will continue to provide the most relevant and current wind sector information to aid and influence strategic decision making.

Come and be part of the WoodEX for Africa 2024 trade show, held at Gallagher in Johannesburg from 4 – 6 June 2024! Following the resounding success of WoodEX for Africa 2023, where we hosted a sold-out event and received overwhelmingly positive feedback from exhibitors, along with record-breaking visitor numbers.
 
WoodEX for Africa remains the ultimate destination for industry leaders, manufacturers, dealers, and buyers to connect, network, and collaborate—all in one place. With attendees coming from over 30 countries, WoodEX for Africa has firmly established itself as the gateway to Southern African business opportunities.
 
To secure the best exhibition space, we strongly encourage you to book your stand early, as many exhibitors have already reserved their spots or expressed their interest. If you missed the show this year, don’t miss out on this once-a-year opportunity to showcase your business to a global woodworking audience.

The tenth edition of Big 5 Construct Southern Africa concluded recently with co-located events including the Big 5 Southern Africa Construction Impact Awards and African Smart Cities Summit.

“The construction industry is an engine for economic growth and prosperity and it’s through working together that we can ensure a more resilient future,” said Tracy-Lee Behr, Portfolio Director: Built Environment at dmg events. 

Big 5 Construct Southern Africa contributes significantly to the economic recovery, growth and transformation of Southern Africa’s construction industry, placing a special focus on accelerating business through face-to-face engagement.  The event united over 200 exhibitors, 80 speakers, and stakeholders from over 45 countries,” Behr said.

Attendees enjoyed access to 6000+ products and technologies and 30 CPD accredited workshops, covering an array of themes from transformation to professional development, smart construction to architecture, real estate and more, offering a great selection of insights, particularly at the Stakeholders Engagement Forum.

“This is a sunrise industry, not a sunset industry. Brick by brick, let us build a better construction sector together,” were the words of the Minister of South Africa’s National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, Mr Sihle Zikalala as he expressed government’s commitment to lead the sector to recovery, reflecting on the triumphs and challenges, including R1 billion in blended finance to accelerate growth and focusing on creating a thriving and more inclusive industry. He added that improving on learning opportunities to enter the industry, technical know-how and particularly, supporting women-owned construction firms are among the key deliverables to see the sector improve, along with promoting resilient infrastructure methods.

Among important projects like the Just Energy Transition, The Build Programme is now operational to promote large scale industry movement extending to skills- and enterprise development. Mr. Bongani Dladla, CEO of South Africa’s Construction Industry Development Board said that while we don’t have all the money to close the funding gap in the construction sector, we must still do all we can to move projects to ‘shovel ready’ status while paving the way for an industry that adequately reflects the demographics of the country.

Dr Msizi Myeza, CEO of the Council for the Built Environment, South Africa agreed that we can improve on the good work being done towards achieving a transformed industry. This includes encouraging the youth to consider a career in construction and creating real opportunities for growth.

Mr Khulekani Mathe, Deputy CEO of Business Unity South Africa reiterated how crucial it is to improve the status quo on unemployment in the country, where the construction industry could provide many jobs and contribute to GDP growth.

Mrs Petra Devereux, Sub-Saharan Africa Regional Hub Manager for the Chartered Institute of Building said the built environment’s contribution to the economy cannot be disputed. But beyond the rand value, buildings keep us safe, healthy, and serve many other practical purposes. It’s important to set the industry to global standards, prioritising and maintaining ethical, top-quality work with health and safety, and other relevant, modern methods measuring up globally, enabling Africa to keep up with trends and to deliver reliable work that will stand the test of time.  

Among other speakers at the events were Dr. Nicol Chang, Technical Director at Keller on reducing carbon in geotechnical construction and Ryan Woodward, Operations Manager of CAD4ALL Institute of Applied Architecture on upskilling architecture professionals, equipping them for working in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Increasing professionalism within the industry was a definite call to action, along with fighting corruption and improving tender and job completion processes.

The Real Estate Talks were new to the programme this year, hosted by Broll Property Group, covering green innovation, technology and a range of property considerations given the current market.  The winners at the Big 5 Southern Africa Construction Impact Awards celebrated while the African Smart Cities Summit delegates delved into how these innovative urban spaces can enhance quality of life. A clear message was that you can’t build a smart city without a smart grid, so priorities need to match up accordingly and all industries must work together to make smart cities a reality on the continent.

The shortage of reliable, affordable energy is among the biggest challenges with a lot of work to be done to see improvements. Integrating sustainable solutions into industry best practice is the way forward and these events served as a platform for exchanging knowledge, fostering collaboration, and promoting inclusivity and sustainability across construction and infrastructure.

“It will take time and ongoing commitment to see further positive progress but as the saying goes; if you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together,” Behr concludes.

As load-shedding continues to blight the country and Government looks at strategies to unlock scarce grid capacity, Windaba 2023 is set to challenge the status quo and explore the power of wind, looking beyond the turbine and focusing on wind energy’s contribution to reducing the impact of energy cuts. 

“As South Africa explores ways to mitigate the impact of load-shedding and deliver energy security to all citizens, it is vital that we think innovatively and fully realise the potential of our wind resources as a major contributor to the energy mix and a significant part of the solution to address the energy crises,” says Niveshen Govender, SAWEA CEO.

Windaba is set to be bigger and bolder than ever before, leveraging its status as the must-attend conference and exhibition in the energy sector to attract international experts and local industry leaders. Delegates will deep dive into the theme of ‘Beyond the Turbines’, with the ambition to maximise wind energy to mitigate the energy, climate and societal crises that are facing South Africa today. 

Amplifying the traditional focus on turbines and megawatts, the wind conference and exhibition, now in its 12th year, is set to take a holistic view of this dynamic sector – showcasing the impact, innovations and influence that wind energy is having in South Africa and beyond. 

“The past 12 months have shown that there are many challenges to be overcome if we are to fully harness wind resources and deliver them to the grid. However, it is also clear that wind projects are delivering more value than just MW to the grid and there is no better time to explore our industry beyond the turbines.

The 3 day conference will focus on topics which will not only highlight the innovations and advances that are taking place in the sector but also inspire attendees to maximise the impact of renewable energy on our economy as well in creating a more sustainable society for us all. Windaba will see stakeholders come together and collaborate on how best wind energy can support Government’s objective to end load shedding and achieve energy security. 

Taking place from 3rd October to 5th October at Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), Windaba is hosted by the South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA) supported by the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC).

Windaba is a key date for the diary for anyone interested in Africa’s energy transition. Set to bring together key players from both the public and private sector, there will be a packed schedule of engaging talks, informative panel discussions and excellent networking opportunities. 

“Together we need to think creatively about how we unlock grid capacity and maximise new renewable power generation. A key focus area would be to ensure wind projects are not stymied by insufficient grid capacity and grid optimisation solutions are investigated and employed. Only by working together and being proactive can we address the immediate crisis of loadshedding and develop a secure and sustainable energy grid for the future,”

Year-on-year, the conference brings together more than 600 conference delegates and industry exhibitors. The conference will continue to provide the most relevant and current wind sector information to aid in strategic decision making.

Durban, KwaZulu-Natal – July 4, 2023 – The Manufacturing Indaba KZN, an annual gathering of industry leaders, policymakers and manufacturers, is set to return to the City of eThekwini, post COVID-19.  The event will provide a platform for growth and development for manufacturers in the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) region. With its focus on driving innovation, collaboration, and investment, the event aims to accelerate the growth of the manufacturing sector in the Province.

Scheduled to take place on July 11-12, 2023, at the Durban International Convention Centre, the Manufacturing Indaba KZN will bring together key stakeholders from the public and private sectors. The event will feature ‘free-to-attend’ workshops, exhibitions and networking opportunities, providing a conducive environment for knowledge-sharing and business interactions.

The manufacturing sector plays a crucial role in the economic development of KZN, contributing significantly to job creation and exports. The Manufacturing Indaba KZN aims to leverage this potential by promoting sustainable growth, fostering innovation and enhancing competitiveness. By facilitating dialogue between industry players, government officials, and other stakeholders, the event seeks to address the challenges faced by manufacturers and identify opportunities for collaboration.

The highlight of the event will be the exhibition, where manufacturers and service providers can showcase their products, technologies, and services. This platform will allow businesses to connect with potential customers, suppliers, and investors, enabling them to expand their networks and forge strategic partnerships.

“We are excited about the upcoming Manufacturing Indaba KZN and the prospects it holds for our local manufacturers,” said Liz Hart, Managing Director of the Manufacturing Indaba. “This event provides a unique opportunity for industry players to collaborate, learn from each other, and explore avenues for growth. By harnessing the power of innovation and embracing sustainable practices, we can unlock the full potential of our manufacturing sector.”

The Manufacturing Indaba KZN is expected to attract a diverse range of participants, including manufacturers, industry associations, government representatives, investors, researchers, and technology providers. Together, they will work towards building a vibrant and resilient manufacturing ecosystem that drives economic development and creates sustainable jobs.

For more information about the Manufacturing Indaba KZN and to register for the event, please visit the official website at https://manufacturingindaba.co.za/mi-kzn/

Windaba to showcase wind energy’s contribution to delivering a sustainable energy supply to South Africa

An unprecedented energy crisis requires expedited and unprecedented action. That’s the warning from organisers of the forthcoming Windaba 2023.

Organised by the South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA) and supported by the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC), Windaba is designed to refocus minds and shine a spotlight on the potential impact that wind has to mitigate the debilitating impacts of load-shedding.

“The energy crisis we find ourselves in has been 15 years in the making, but we do not have 15 years to resolve the energy issues facing the country, to combat load-shedding and meet our climate obligations,” says Niveshen Govender, SAWEA Chief Executive Officer.

“We need to redouble our efforts to bring renewable energy projects on stream, both through private and public sector procurement. But procurement alone is not the answer, and over the course of the conference we will explore ways to optimise the existing transmission infrastructure capacity and overcome the blockages that have been hampering new renewable power generation being connected to the grid.”

In January 2023 Eskom released a statement detailing that it was only able to supply 56.6% of the power needed nationally in the 2022/23 financial year. This has been further compounded by a failed public procurement bid window which resulted in the loss of investment, market confidence and ultimately additional capacity to the grid.

Taking place from 3rd October to 5th October at Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), Windaba will feature a roster of local specialists and international experts who will explore and recommend the best path to delivering a sustainable energy supply to the nation.

SAWEA recently published the results of the Renewable Energy Grid Survey which revealed a pipeline of almost 30GW of new wind projects being developed, which if realised has the potential to contribute significantly to the current energy crisis and help reaffirm South Africa’s status as an investment destination for renewable energy.

“Our ambition is for South Africa’s wind power industry to thrive as we pursue a common goal of harnessing the natural resource in a bid to deliver secure energy for South Africa. This will only be achieved through innovative thinking, a spirit of collaboration – across the renewables industry, government and private sector.

“Loadshedding is debilitating – for the nation as a whole and each of us as individuals. Together through the Windaba Conference, attendees will gain first-hand access to experts and industry leaders who will share their thoughts on how wind will play a central role in delivering energy security to South Africa.”

Windaba is a key date for the diary for anyone interested in Africa’s energy transition. Set to bring together key players from both the public and private sector, there will be a packed schedule of engaging talks, informative panel discussions and excellent networking opportunities.

Year-on-year, the conference brings together more than 600 delegates and industry exhibitors. The conference will continue to provide the most relevant and current wind sector information to aid and influence strategic decision making.