Value chain analysis for identification of opportunities in solar PV and battery storage in South Africa
Speaking at the workshop, CSIR Energy Research Centre Manager, Dr Thabo Hlalele, emphasised the critical role of the partnership between the CSIR and AFD in supporting South Africa’s energy transition.
“As a signatory to the Paris Agreement, South Africa has committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions. This commitment will lead to an expanded deployment of renewable energy technologies, creating opportunities for South African enterprises to participate in the renewable energy industry and supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy. This collaboration between the CSIR and AFD represents a significant step towards understanding the challenges and opportunities South African enterprises face in the rapidly growing renewable energy industry,” says Dr Hlalele.
On Wednesday, 12 March 2025, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) hosted a dissemination workshop to share the findings of the study titled “Value chain analysis for identification of opportunities for enterprise development”. This collaboration included a study examining the localisation potential and enterprise development opportunities for solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery storage value chains. The study highlights the need to create an enabling environment for local businesses, address policy gaps and foster coordination across government departments.
The dissemination workshop was held as part of the agreement between the CSIR and AFD under the Just Energy Transition Programme, aimed at supporting the advancement of South Africa's just energy transition goals.
Speaking at the workshop, CSIR Energy Research Centre Manager, Dr Thabo Hlalele, emphasised the critical role of the partnership between the CSIR and AFD in supporting South Africa’s energy transition.
“As a signatory to the Paris Agreement, South Africa has committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions. This commitment will lead to an expanded deployment of renewable energy technologies, creating opportunities for South African enterprises to participate in the renewable energy industry and supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy. This collaboration between the CSIR and AFD represents a significant step towards understanding the challenges and opportunities South African enterprises face in the rapidly growing renewable energy industry,” says Dr Hlalele.
CSIR senior researcher, Tshwanelo Rakaibe, highlighted the critical role small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) play in the economy, contributing to nearly 60% of employment across various sectors. Inclusion increasing global focus on sustainable energy solutions, the inclusion of SMMEs in this transition is not only vital for job creation and economic growth but also for fostering innovation and inclusivity within the energy industry.
“Given that SMMEs contribute almost 60% of economy-wide employment, the insights shared during this workshop are vital for informing strategies to support SMMEs' participation in the renewable energy sector,” added Rakaibe.
“The CSIR and AFD are committed to fostering partnerships that drive sustainable development in South Africa. This study has provided insights to enable evidence-based policy design, especially in supporting SMMEs that are participating or aspiring to participate in these global value chains. The findings from this workshop will serve as a foundation for future initiatives to support local enterprises in the renewable energy sector,” said Nicolas Willemin, AFD Deputy Country Director.
Caption: Delegates at the CSIR ICC where the findings of the “value chain analysis for identification of opportunities for enterprise development" study were presented.
Issued by CSIR Strategic Communication
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About AFD Group
AFD Group finances and drives the transition to a fairer, safer and more resilient world, working with its partners to support communities all over the world. Drawing on the complementary strengths of its entities – Agence Française de Développement for public financing, Proparco for responsible private investment, and Expertise France for technical expertise – the Group is ideally positioned to meet all sustainable development challenges.
Working in over 160 countries, including France’s Overseas Territories and Departments, the Group adapts its operations to the realities on the ground, actively supporting local initiatives. With over 4,000 projects, whose objectives are aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), AFD Group works on behalf of the French people, together with all stakeholders committed to economic development and the preservation of common goods: climate, biodiversity, peace, gender equality and global health. Working by your side, toward a world in common