As South Africa’s energy crisis continues to disrupt industries, manufacturers are being urged to take decisive action to secure their energy future. Insights from the recent Africa Energy Indaba have made it clear: waiting for policy certainty is no longer an option. For manufacturers, inaction comes at a high price — from rising energy costs to supply chain disruptions and exposure to global carbon taxes.

In his recent address at the Africa Energy Indaba, South African Electricity and Energy Minister Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa emphasized that public finance alone will never be sufficient to meet the colossal investment requirements of the climate transition. This message carries critical implications for manufacturers, who are at the heart of Africa’s industrial growth and global trade ambitions.

Energy Resilience: A Competitive Advantage for Manufacturers

Forward-thinking manufacturers are already taking bold steps to mitigate energy risks and enhance operational resilience. Strategies such as onsite energy generation, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and sustainability-linked financing are emerging as essential tools to navigate the current energy landscape. These decentralized energy solutions not only help ensure consistent power supply but also offer a pathway to reducing carbon footprints — a key factor as international markets tighten regulations around emissions.

“The manufacturing sector cannot afford to wait,” says Liz Hart, Managing Director at the Manufacturing Indaba. “Energy security is no longer just a sustainability goal — it’s a business imperative. Companies that invest in their energy resilience today will gain a decisive competitive edge in tomorrow’s market.”

From Energy Challenge to Industrial Opportunity

The ongoing energy crisis presents an unexpected catalyst for innovation in Africa’s manufacturing sector. By embracing clean energy solutions, manufacturers have the opportunity to reduce costs, increase productivity, and align with global climate commitments. Moreover, adopting sustainable practices can unlock access to green financing, improve export competitiveness, and future-proof operations against rising carbon taxes.

The 2025 Manufacturing Indaba will dive deep into these critical issues, providing a platform for manufacturers to explore actionable solutions, from integrating renewable energy into production processes to leveraging smart technologies for energy efficiency.

A Call to Action for African Manufacturers

As the continent pushes toward industrialisation, the choices manufacturers make today will shape Africa’s economic trajectory for decades to come. The Manufacturing Indaba will convene policymakers, industry leaders, and innovators to drive the conversations and partnerships needed to build a more resilient manufacturing sector — one powered by sustainable energy solutions.