Posted: October 25, 2024
South Africa is well placed to become the manufacturer of components and equipment hub, along the clean technology value chain, including battery technologies for energy storage, electric mobility, material handling, and a range of other applications. This is according to the Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mr Andrew Whitfield. Whitfield was speaking during the opening of the R150-million investment Balancell state-of-the-art Gigafactory in Cape Town.
Balancell is a future-focused, innovative technology business that develops smart batteries designed to manage and protect themselves, and report their use and condition remotely.
“The South African government is working closely with the industry to identify opportunities to deepen the battery technology value chain and to position South Africa as a manufacturing hub on the African continent. A recent benchmarking study supported by the World Bank Group, shows that South Africa is a competitive manufacturing destination and offers a compelling value proposition for companies in this sector, as demonstrated here today,” said Whitfield.
To support these ambitions, Whitfield said there was a number of policies and incentives in place that will enable the growth of this key sector. Additionally, he said cabinet has already approved the New Energy Vehicle White paper, setting out the objectives for this sector.
“Being able to witness an investment from home-grown companies in this sector is truly inspiring. Balancell’s investment of R150 million in this factory is not only directly in line with the strategic priorities of the Government of National Unity, but also a demonstration of the innovative and entrepreneurial spirit that define many South African businesses. We are motivated by the company’s prospects for growth and further job creation in the coming years. The 75 existing jobs created in this facility supporting more than 1 500 indirect jobs is a clear indication of the multiplier effect that can be achieved by strengthening and growing the manufacturing sector,” stated Whitfield.
He noted the importance of building a strong base of skilled South Africans.
“Expanding industry’s partnership with leading universities and research institutions to enhance local research, development and the testing of components is critical to the industry. I am therefore encouraged that you are already working with Nelson Mandela and Stellenbosch Universities as well as the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research,” added Whitfield.
He described the opening of the facility as an affirmation of the importance of building industrial capacity and working together to achieve the shared vision of South Africa being a global player in the battery value chain. He further said the investment was an example of South African resilience, innovation and entrepreneurship.
Caption: The Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mr Andrew Whitfied speaking at the opening of the R150-million investment Balancell state-of-the-art Gigafactory in Cape Town.
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