Energy

Rolls-Royce opens Johannesburg power HQ

Rolls-Royce investing Africa's long-term power future. (Image source: Rolls-Royce)

Rolls-Royce has officially opened a new headquarters and training facility in Johannesburg, South Africa, to support its Power Systems division

The new facility will support the growing fleet of Power Systems’ mtu mobile and stationary power solutions across critical sectors such as energy, technology, mining, transportation and oil and gas.

“As we approach our 25 year in South Africa, this new facility is a clear signal of our confidence in Africa’s growth and our commitment to being closer to our customers,” said Cobus Van Schalkwyk, director global mining and managing director, Rolls-Royce Solutions Africa.

Located in a specially adapted facility spanning approximately 6,000 sq m, the new site consolidates core functions into a central hub, including service coordination, spare parts storage, logistics and technical training.

It complements Rolls-Royce’s existing footprint in South Africa, with mtu engine rebuild capability, and finance and logistics functions located in Cape Town.

“By bringing support services, technical training and parts availability together under one roof, we’re building the capabilities that matter most to our partners across the continent,” said an Schalkwyk.

“This investment also supports our strategy to further localise operations, reduce lead times, and strengthen supply chain resilience — critical advantages for customers operating in remote or fast-paced environments.”

The new training centre is designed to support between 100 and 150 trainees annually with a wide range of training engines, including mtu 2000 and 4000 series, used for power generation, mining and rail applications.

Trainees will benefit from access to advanced tooling and use simulation equipment for electronic training.

The centre will deliver certified practical and theoretical training, equipping customers and partners from across Africa with the knowledge and hands-on experience required to support a wide range of applications and industries.

The new facility, operated by Rolls-Royce Solutions Africa, also features dedicated capacity for the engineering and assembly of repower modules, enabling the replacement of engines in mining haul trucks and excavators with more suitable mtu power solutions.

This will allow customers to select upgrade options tailored to specific operational needs, the company added in a statement.

“With a strong focus on system resilience, the regional subsidiary Rolls-Royce Solutions Africa is committed to delivering robust, fit-for-purpose solutions designed to perform in the demanding and often harsh operating environments across the continent,” the statement noted.

Africa's first rice straw MDF production facility powered by mtu gas gensets

Rolls-Royce and SMH give new life to retired Kenya Railways locomotives

Trinasolar unveils resilient solar solutions at Africa Energy Forum

Delivering up to 630W output and 23.3% efficiency, the module incorporates a low-voltage, high-string design, making it compatible with widely used inverters. (Image source: Trinasolar)

With more than 1 GW of solar technology delivered in South Africa over the past year, Trinasolar has reaffirmed its role as a key contributor to Africa’s clean energy movement by returning to the Africa Energy Forum (AEF)

At this year’s gathering in Cape Town, the company is showcasing its latest solar and battery storage solutions built to endure Africa’s environmental extremes and meet evolving grid challenges.

“As the energy crisis and climate volatility continue to impact South Africa and the broader African region, Trinasolar is focused on delivering real solutions that enable long-term energy security,” said Vincent Wu, global sales vice-president and MEA MU head at Trinasolar. “Our high-efficiency PV modules and advanced energy storage systems are engineered to meet the challenging realities on the ground. Through our presence at AEF, we’re reinforcing our commitment to supporting Africa’s transition to a greener, more stable energy future; one built on innovation, resilience, and strategic collaboration.”

The centrepiece of Trinasolar’s exhibition is the debut of the Vertex N 630W (NED19RC.20), an ultra-reliable solar module designed for Africa’s demanding conditions. Built with enhanced structural integrity, corrosion-resistant features, and dust protection, the module boasts an industry-leading 55 mm hail resistance rating, more than twice the standard. It is also certified for fire safety and engineered for performance in environments with high levels of salt, ammonia, and sand.

Delivering up to 630W output and 23.3% efficiency, the module incorporates a low-voltage, high-string design, making it compatible with widely used inverters. This configuration reduces system costs and simplifies installation—particularly valuable for commercial and utility-scale projects.

“We’re seeing strong momentum across the region, especially in the commercial, industrial, and utility-scale sectors where innovation and ease of installation matter,” said Zaheer Khan, regional director for South Africa, Trinasolar MEA. “Installers and partners are drawn to solutions like the Vertex N 630W, not just for its performance, but because it addresses real operational challenges in tough environments.

“In just the past year, Trinasolar has delivered over a gigawatt of technology solar equipment in South Africa alone,” Khan added. “It’s a milestone that reflects our growing footprint, trusted relationships, and long-term commitment to the region. And we’re just getting started.”

Trinasolar’s African offering includes solar modules, energy storage, floating PV solutions, and smart tracking systems—developed to meet diverse energy requirements with an emphasis on quality, adaptability, and system integration. With offices in Johannesburg and Cape Town and a Durban-based warehouse maintaining 10–20MW of stock for fast delivery, the company is well-equipped to support project deployment across the region. It is also expanding its commercial presence in key markets including Kenya, Nigeria, Morocco, and others.

Over the last ten years, Trinasolar has helped shape South Africa’s solar sector by supporting large-scale utilities, driving C&I adoption, and contributing to decentralisation and renewable energy growth. As the continent’s transition gathers pace, the company remains committed to scaling integrated systems, building local capacity, and partnering with governments, utilities, and private stakeholders to ensure lasting energy resilience.

Scatec scaling up on Egyptian renewables

Scatec scaling up on renewables

Power developer Scatec ASA is scaling up its presence in Egypt’s fast-growing renewables sector, with news on two major projects

The company has just achieved financial close on its 1.1GW Obelisk hybrid solar and battery storage project and has separately signed a 25-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with the Egyptian Electricity Transmission Company (EETC) to build a new 900MW wind farm in Ras Shukkeir.

The landmark 1.1GW solar plus 100MW/200MWh Obelisk scheme will now be constructed in two phases, with first electricity anticipated early next year.

“Reaching financial close for this project marks a major milestone for Scatec,” said CEO Terje Pilskog. “It proves our ability to deliver large-scale hybrid projects.”

The first phase of 561MW solar, plus 100 MW/200 MWh battery storage, is targeted to reach commercial operational in the first half of 2026.

The second phase of 564MW solar will be operational in the latter half of 2026, with energy sold under a US dollar-denominated 25-year power purchase agreement also with EETC, backed by a sovereign guarantee.

Obelisk’s non-recourse project financing comprises US$479.1mn from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, African Development Bank and British International Investment.

This corresponds to approximately 80% of the total estimated capex of US$590mn.

Scatec has previously signed equity bridge loans of around US$120mn, postponing project equity injections to the end of the construction period.

The company is currently in advanced talks with potential equity partners, which are expected to conclude in the next few months.

Scatec will also deliver engineering, procurement and construction (EPC), asset management (AM), and operations and maintenance (O&M) services for the project.

The proposed wind farm in Ras Shukeir, to be developed through its project company Shadwan Wind Power SAE, is at an earlier stage.

The signing of the PPA will now be followed by wind measurements on the site, which boasts some of the worlds’ best wind resources for onshore wind power, to be finalised in the first half of 2026 ahead of financial close and construction.

“This project is a testament to Scatec’s position as one of the leading renewables companies in Egypt,” said Pilskog.

“We are now advancing four major renewables projects in the country, with a diversified technology base.”

Scatec reimagining solar potential in Africa

Egypt's largest solar plant now fully operational

Schneider Electric opens Africa’s first innovation hub in Johannesburg

Midrand-based facility showcases smart, sustainable solutions for Africa’s digital energy transition. (Image source: Schneider Electric)

Schneider Electric, a global frontrunner in energy management and automation, and a widely recognised sustainability champion, has inaugurated its inaugural innovation hub in Africa

This marks a key development in the company’s broader investment strategy across the continent. Situated within Schneider Electric’s new English-speaking headquarters in Midrand, Johannesburg, the facility is equipped with state-of-the-art features.

Now part of a global network of over 40 innovation hubs, the new Johannesburg site is designed to demonstrate the company’s commitment to sustainability and digital transformation to customers, partners, and stakeholders across Africa.

The innovation hub offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to engage with Schneider Electric’s integrated technologies spanning core sectors such as energy, buildings, industry, data centres, and, power infrastructure.

“We are building an ecosystem that thrives on collaboration, innovation, and relevance to the African context; one that values local talent, fosters local partnerships, and drives local solutions. The innovation hub enables us to create a truly dynamic experience that embodies Schneider Electric’s purpose: enabling all to maximise energy and resources while bridging progress and sustainability," commented Canninah Dladla, cluster president for Anglophone Africa at Schneider Electric.

"Indeed, Africa holds immense potential, and this hub is designed to help our customers and partners unlock it through digitalisation, innovation, and collaboration."

Interactive and sector-specific experiences

The hub provides a guided and bespoke experience for each visitor, beginning with Schneider Electric’s story, told through an interactive touchscreen, and transitioning into a deeper look at the company’s end-to-end offerings.

Visitors explore multiple customised zones, such as:

The Software Portfolio, with AVEVA Operations Control, eTAP, and EcoStruxure software.
Industrial Automation, featuring real conveyor systems and EcoStruxure Plant and Machine tables with smart devices and sensors.
Building Management, showcasing building control options for lighting, HVAC, access, and room automation.
Power and Grid, with low/medium voltage equipment, SF₆-free AirSet switchgear, protection relays, and microgrid systems.
Secure Power, including a live data centre room with UPS systems.

The space is modular and dynamic to align with Schneider Electric’s innovation hub standards, ensuring that the most recent technologies and solutions are always on display.

Partners, consultants, and system integrators can also pre-book the venue to tailor the set-up to specific client needs or industry verticals. It is supported by dedicated innovation hub managers and an operations specialist, with plans to expand visitor engagement through the company’s global innovation hub Ambassador Programme.

A model for sustainable operations

Located within Schneider Electric’s newly built headquarters, the innovation hub also reflects the company’s commitment to eco-friendly building practices.

Compared to its previous facility, the new site offers significant sustainability improvements:

20% smaller physical footprint
37% monthly reduction in energy usage
34% decrease in water consumption
32 tonnes of CO₂ emissions saved each month

Further enhancing its environmental footprint, the facility incorporates a 200 kWp rooftop solar array, reducing carbon emissions by 15 tonnes monthly. Plans are underway to integrate a full microgrid with battery energy storage (BESS), further reinforcing Schneider Electric’s sustainability ethos.

Weza Power to accelerate Burundi electrification

Weza Power is driving electrification in Burundi

Weza Power has secured additional funding from the African Development Bank (AfDB) to advance its Burundi electrification plans

The company is the first national-level electricity distribution firm of its kind operating across Burundi.

Privately owned and operated by Nairobi-based Anzana Electricity, with support from British International Investment and Gridworks, it also represents the first privately operated national electricity distribution company in sub-Saharan Africa in over a decade.

Weza Power hopes to connect nine million people across Burundi, with plans to step up its efforts after landing a further US$600,000 grant from the AfDB.

“Weza Power represents a bold new model for accelerating access to electricity for all Burundians,” said Burundi’s Minister of Hydraulics, Energy and Mines, Ibrahim Uwizeye.

“We are proud to partner with the private sector to bring innovative solutions to our energy challenges and expand electricity access to millions of our citizens.”

Weza Power has also received support from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the World Bank.

“Our goal is to unlock the opportunity that power enables for every Burundian. This support… will help accelerate project development and deliver on Burundi’s energy ambitions,” said Brian Kelly, CEO of Anzana Electric Group.

“This grant represents another major step forward for our team and the many communities across Burundi who will benefit from reliable, affordable power.”

The AfDB is also keen to explore similar working models across sub-Saharan Africa, to enable private sector participation in developing and financing transmission lines and grid expansion projects, with the goal of increasing renewable energy integration.

“This support to Weza Power aligns with our commitment to scale innovative business models that can help us reach universal access,” said Daniel Schroth, AfDB’s director of renewable energy and energy efficiency.

The announcement comes as Burundi unveiled its National Energy Compact at a M300 (Mission 300) private sector consultation, hosted by the World Bank and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA).

This outlines key reforms and investment priorities to reach universal energy access and serves as a cornerstone of the Mission 300 initiative — a joint effort by the World Bank and the AfDB to connect 300 million people in Africa by 2030.

Read more:

East Africa: a region on the rise

New electricity utility to connect the people of Burundi

Gridworks and Uganda government work on private investment in electricity transmission sector