As demand for sustainable energy solutions intensifies, independent power producer SolarAfrica is set to unveil its suite of virtual power solutions at the upcoming Electra Mining Africa exhibition.

SolarAfrica commercial head BrandonHorn says the launch promises to redefine energy management for factories, mines, and industrial facilities across South Africa.

“Our virtual power solutions will introduce several options, starting with wheeling, which will allow businesses to purchase electricity directly from SolarAfrica at tariffs up to 50% lower than Eskom tariffs,” Horn explains.

The power will be generated by several solar farms, including SolarAfrica’s flagship 1 GW SunCentral in the Northern Cape – giving businesses access to more green power than ever before.

The company plans to expand its virtual power solution offering in the short to medium term, with further enhancements in energy trading and options to optimise meter billing for maximum cost savings set to be introduced.

“This new virtual power ecosystem offers contract, resource, price and location flexibility for businesses looking to optimise their energy efficiency, monthly cost savings and long-term carbon reduction,” says Horn.

The virtual power solutions launch comes at a time when the commercial, industrial and mining sectors are grappling with soaring electricity tariffs and mounting pressures to reduce their carbon footprint. Over the past two years, electricity tariffs have surged by about 33.8% and since 2008, prices have skyrocketed 450%.

In addition to promoting cost savings, the solutions on offer are fully virtual and require zero physical installation or on-site construction, making them ideal for operations with limited space or facing risks such as dust or localised crime.

For factories and operations preferring on-site solutions, SolarAfrica offers solar and battery options, available as financed or cash purchases. The virtual power solutions seamlessly integrate with their on-site counterparts, significantly boosting a business’ progress along its green energy journey.

“For SolarAfrica, it has always been about giving business owners the power to choose where they get their power from – and how they can gain the most benefit from it. With the addition of virtual power solutions to their current on-site offering, the company now brings even more choice and control to businesses as they navigate South Africa’s uncertain energy and economic landscape,” says Horn.

Visitors to Electra Mining can engage with SolarAfrica energy experts in Hall 5, Stand A01. Horn will also deliver a keynote address on the opening day of the expo, discussing how businesses can foster sustainability through virtual power solutions.

Hall 5 Stand A01