At the Solar Power Africa Conference in March 2025, held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, industry experts, government officials and key stakeholders came together to discuss energy crises across the continent, and to put forward innovative energy solutions to contribute towards strengthening South Africa’s energy security.

SUNGROW, the global leader in PV inverters and energy storage systems (ESS), participated in the panel discussion at Solar Power Africa titled “Solar and Storage: The Future of Battery Storage Technologies and Unlocking the Future of Solar Energy.” The session highlighted the critical role of solar power and energy storage in enhancing energy security and supporting Africa’s energy transition toward sustainability.

Driving Innovation in Energy Storage

Prinaven Naidoo, Senior Account Manager of Utility PV & BESS at Sungrow Southern Africa, emphasised the importance of technological advancements in driving the energy sector forward. "Our latest upgrades, including moving from a 280Ah to a 314Ah battery model and transitioning from air-cooled to liquid-cooled containers, have significantly improved both the efficiency and affordability of energy storage systems. This innovation allows us to integrate a 5MWh battery into a 20-foot container, substantially reducing costs for the end user," Naidoo explained.

The impact of energy storage on grid stability continues to be a focal point as the demand for reliable energy sources grows. As part of its commitment to addressing these challenges, SUNGROW has developed advanced grid-forming technologies in its Power Conversion System (PCS), enabling the stabilisation of weaker grids. "Our technology enhances grid resilience by supporting both high- and low-voltage ride-through, thereby contributing to more reliable energy distribution," Naidoo noted.

Emerging market trends

The South African solar and energy storage market is evolving, with many projects wanting to integrate energy storage systems to leverage excess solar generation. SUNGROW is uniquely positioned to capitalise on this trend by providing tailored solutions for residential, commercial industrial (C&I), and utility-scale applications. The company’s state-of-the-art liquid-cooled energy storage solutions are specifically designed for regions with high ambient temperatures, ensuring optimal performance and the prolonged lifespan of lithium cells in challenging environments.

Future collaborations and local engagement

Following the Solar Power Africa Conference, SUNGROW is enthusiastic about expanding its partnerships with distributors such as Herholdt’s group and ARB for its commercial and residential products. Its nationwide roadshows reflect the company’s dedication to engaging with local markets. There is also a need for collaboration with EPC or IPP to provide the solutions in Africa.

In summary, SUNGROW remains committed to leading the transformation towards a sustainable energy future for South Africa and the broader African continent. By unveiling its innovative solar and energy storage technologies and deepening collaborations, SUNGROW seeks to solidify its position as a key player in the ongoing energy transition.

About Sungrow

Sungrow, a global leader in renewable energy technology, has pioneered sustainable power solutions for over 28 years. As of December 2024, Sungrow has installed 740 GW of power electronic converters worldwide. The Company is recognized as the world's No. 1 on PV inverter shipments (S&P Global Commodity Insights) and the world's most bankable energy storage company (BloombergNEF). Its innovations power clean energy projects in over 180 countries, supported by a network of 520 service outlets guaranteeing excellent customer experience. At Sungrow, we're committed to bridging to a sustainable future through cutting-edge technology and unparalleled service. For more information about SUNGROW’s innovations and initiatives, visit https://sa.sungrowpower.com/