Research institution the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and French public agency Agence Française de Développement (AFD) on March 12 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 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,” he said.

CSIR senior researcher Tshwanelo Rakaibe highlighted the critical role that small, medium-sized and microenterprises (SMMEs) play in the economy, contributing nearly 60% of employment across various sectors.

The inclusion of SMMEs in this transition was highlighted as pivotal for job creation and economic growth, and 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,” Rakaibe said.

“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 AFD deputy country director Nicolas Willemin.