Programme – C&I

Focus areas in 2024

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW

This comprehensive programme is designed to provide attendees with actionable insights and strategies for successfully navigating the complexities of solar and storage initiatives. The key areas of focus include defining and understanding the business case, finance options and considerations, energy procurement options, and technology selection and implementation; each integral to driving project success and ensuring long-term energy security and sustainability.

Business Case – Understanding the Value Proposition

In today’s volatile energy landscape, the business case for solar and storage is stronger than ever. This segment will delve into the economic rationale behind C&I solar and storage projects, highlighting benefits such as ancilliary services, peak shaving, arbitrage, cost saving, energy independence and sustainability goals. Attendees will gain insights into how to build a compelling business case that secures buy-in from key stakeholders, addressing challenges such as initial capital investment, return on investment (ROI), and long-term financial benefits. Learn how to effectively communicate the value proposition to your organisation and overcome common barriers to project approval.

Financing – Securing Funding and Investment

Financing is a critical component of any C&I solar and storage project. This session will cover the various financing models available, from traditional loans to innovative power purchase agreements (PPAs) and leasing options. Attendees will explore the pros and cons of each financing option, understanding how to align financial strategies with project goals. Expert speakers will provide guidance on navigating the financial landscape, identifying potential funding sources, and structuring deals that minimise risk while maximising financial returns. Learn how to secure the necessary funding to make your project a reality, even in challenging economic conditions.

Exploring Diverse Procurement Options for Energy

Understanding the business case is often dictated by the type of energy procurement you pursue. This part of the programme focuses on understanding the options: From own generation and on-site systems, to procuring energy from IPPs to utilising Energy-as-a-Service (EaaS) options. Attendees will learn how to align these options with expected outcomes, highlighting the pros and cons and providing context to the options in the South African C&I business space.

Technology – Leveraging Cutting-Edge Innovations

Technology is at the heart of the solar and storage industry, driving advancements that make projects more efficient and cost-effective. This session will explore the latest technological innovations in solar panels, battery storage, and energy management systems. Attendees will learn how to select and integrate the right technologies to meet their specific project needs. Discussions will include trends in solar efficiency, battery capacity, and smart grid integration, as well as the role of emerging technologies like AI and IoT in optimising energy usage.

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Day One: 19 November 2024

09:00-09:10 Opening remarks by chairperson / Welcome by conference organisers

Welcome by conference organisers

09:10 - 10:50 Keynote

09:10-09:20 Welcome:

Vusumuzi Dlamini, Director & Chairperson, EIUG

09:20-09:40 Keynote: Why South Africa needs to decarbonise industry
South Africa's industrial sector is a significant contributor to the country’s greenhouse gas emissions, driven largely by its reliance on coal and other fossil fuels. Decarbonising this sector is crucial for several reasons which will be discussed.

Speaker:
Mike Teke, Group CEO, Seriti Resources

09:40-10:50: Exploring Strategies to Accelerate the Adoption of C&I Solar and Storage Solutions in South Africa
During this insightful session we will delve into the current landscape of commercial and industrial solar and storage technologies. This session will also highlight effective strategies and innovative approaches to expedite their adoption, ensuring a sustainable and energy-efficient future for South Africa.

Moderator:

Ayanda Noah, Group Chairperson, CEF

Speakers

Murendeni Matshinyatsimbi, Renewable energy manager, Sibanye Stillwater
Precious Mpepele, Commercial Country Manager, Africa GreenCo
Rosalind Dos Santos, Group energy manager, Mpact
Rethabile Melamu, Chief Executive Officer, SAPVIA
Matthew le Cordeur, Research manager, Just energy transition, Krutham

10:50-11:00 Project brief #1

Copper 360

Jo Dean, Managing Director, Enerj Carbon Management

11:00-11:45 Refreshments

Project overview

Session Moderator:
Phemelo Mitchell, Sasol

11:45-12:05 Eastgate Rooftop Installation

This session will highlight the installation and operational outcomes of South Africa's largest rooftop solar PV system at the Eastgate Shopping Centre.

DeVilliers Botha, Chief Commercial Officer, Solareff

12:05-12:25 Ngwenya Solar PV Park

Philippe Flamand Director & Co-Founder, Candi Solar

12:25-12:45 Ford South Africa Solar PV Carport Grid-Tied System

The session will focus on the installation and operational outcomes of a 13.5MW solar PV carport grid-tied system at Ford South Africa's Silverton Factory.

Sakhile Ngcongwane, Business Development Manager, Solar Africa Energy Pty Ltd

12:45-13:00 Project Brief #2

HDF Energy

Deven King, HDF Energy

13:00-14:00 Lunch

14:00-14:20 Coega Rooftop solar project

In support of special economic zone (SEZ) operator Coega Development Corporation’s ambitious renewable-energy programme, the National Treasury has approved a limited recourse capital transaction – a first for the public sector. The transaction will finance the Coega solar rooftop programme, which forms part of a larger renewable-energy pipeline for the organisation.

Speaker:
Meike Wetsch,Unit Head: Capital & Funding Office, Coega

14:20-14:45 DRD Gold Ergo solar PV plant / Tshedtza project

As the mining industry seeks sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions, integrating solar battery storage systems offers immense potential. This session will explore the implementation and benefits of a solar battery storage project at a South African Gold Mine, highlighting its impact on energy efficiency, operational reliability, and environmental sustainability.

Jo Dean, Managing Director, EnerJ

14:50-15:00 Project Brief #3

TSHIMOLLO PV1

Modutwe Monale, Co-founder, Tuwin Group

17:10- 17:30 Closing Address: Aligning for security of supply and sustainability

In this closing session, Dan Marokane, the Group Chief Executive of Eskom, will discuss the crucial alignment strategies necessary for ensuring both security of supply and sustainability in the energy sector. The session will cover Eskom's approach to balancing the immediate need for reliable energy supply with long-term sustainability goals. Topics will include the integration of renewable energy sources, advancements in grid infrastructure, and the role of policy and regulatory frameworks in achieving these objectives. Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of how Eskom is navigating the challenges and opportunities in the evolving energy landscape of South Africa.

Dan Marokane, GCE, Eskom

15:00-15:45 Refreshment Break

15:45-17:10 Finance Workshop

Financing and mitigating risk for commercial and industrial solar and storage projects

This session will address the critical financial considerations for businesses evaluating commercial and industrial (C&I) solar and storage projects within the South African context.

Moderator:
• Maudene van Rooyen, Specialist: Natural Resources – Power and Sustainable Solutions, Standard Bank

Panellists:
Simphiwe Jantjies, Head: East, Central and West Africa, Acting Head: Energy, ICT and Environment, DBSA
Mamoekeng Matlaila, Infrastructure and Project Finance, Sanlam Specialised Finance
Guy Rice, Managing Director , Candi Solar

17:10- 17:30 Closing Address: Aligning for security of supply and sustainability

In this closing session, a senior representative from Eskom will discuss the crucial alignment strategies necessary for ensuring both security of supply and sustainability in the energy sector. The session will cover Eskom's approach to balancing the immediate need for reliable energy supply with long-term sustainability goals. Topics will include the integration of renewable energy sources, advancements in grid infrastructure, and the role of policy and regulatory frameworks in achieving these objectives. Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of how Eskom is navigating the challenges and opportunities in the evolving energy landscape of South Africa.

Monde Bala, Group Executive Distribution, Eskom

18:30 EIUG Anniversary Dinner – TICKETED GUESTS ONLY

Day Two: 20 November 2024

09:00 - 09:10 Recap of Day 1

Leslie Marbury, Southern Africa Mission Director, USAID

09:10-09:30 Keynote : Long term perspective of South Africa’s energy sector

Silas Zimu, Special Adviser to the Minister of Electricity and Energy

09:30-10:30 Power Procurement Options

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Energy Procument Options
This session focuses on the various energy procurement strategies available to the Commercial and Industrial (C&I) sector, specifically for those looking to procure or secure their own electricity generation. Industry experts will delve into multiple options, including Energy as a Service (EaaS), in front of the meter (IFM) and behind the meter (BTM) solutions, Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and the integration of renewable energy sources.

Session Moderator:
Antjie Klauss-Vorreiter, Green Solar Academy and SAPVIA GOVCO member

Speakers:
• John Taylor, Head of C&I and M&A, Yellow Door Energy
• Claude Peters, Ren Energy and SAPVIA GOVCO member
• Oliver Johnston, Founder and CEO, SAPVIA/Solink

10:30-11:00 Refreshment Break

Boardroom Masterclass Discussions “Speed Dating”

Open to hosted buyers and sponsors only or by invitation

11:00 - 12:00 Table 1: Technology & implementation: Solar

This session will delve into key focus areas for RE generation options.

Optimising system design for C&I needs and cutting-edge technologies in C&I solar.

Table hosts:
• Mamusa Mabodi Project manager: new markets and technology, Central Energy Fund
• Felipe Thomaz Coelho Devalier, WEG
• De Wet Taljaard, SAPVIA

11:00- 12:00 Table 1: Understanding the business case

This session will dive deep into the business case for the implementation of solar + storage.

Explore the economic benefits and considerations for companies looking to leverage various opportunities to advance the business case.

Understanding the business case for solar+storage
• Chris Brosz, Head of Engineering, Candi Solar

Understanding the business case for energy trading
• Tim Shamrock, Business Development Executive PowerX
• Khaya Mbatha, IPP Operations Manager, PowerX

11:00- 12:00 Table 1: Technology & implementation: Storage

We will explore the role of energy storage solutions in the C&I sector.

Discussions will highlight the benefits, challenges, and strategies for integrating storage systems to enhance energy efficiency, reliability, and
cost savings.

Table hosts:
• Senior representative, Nidec

12:00 - 13:00 Table 2: Technology & implementation: Solar

12:00- 13:00 Table 2 : Understanding the business case

12:00- 13:00 Table 2: Technology & implementation: Storage

13:00-14:00 lunch

Solar and Storage 101

14:00-15:30 Workshop: Your strategic plan: what you need to know before proposing a project to your Board

1. Starting with the end in mind
• So why do you want to install solar?

2. Understanding your business case
• Energy efficiency, services
• Wheeling – timelines and other considerations

3. Regulations – that will trip you up
• Regulation
• Environmental impact assessments – do you need one?

4. How wheeling changes the project landscape

5. Financing that makes sense
• What are your options
• Different types of finance options
• Allocating risk
• Return on investment
• What to consider when calculating your ROI

Workshop host:
Liana Braxton, Managing Director, Sosimple Energ

15:30-16:00 Refreshment Break

16:00-17:30 Workshop: Technical considerations for project development

1. Are all batteries created alike?

2. Speccing for the future

3. Health and safety and installations
• It’s about more than OHSA

3. You can’t just install and walk away – operations and maintenance

4. Supplier selection

Workshop host:
Annika di Bona, Project Development Engineer, Candi Solar