As part of ABB’s strategic plans to strengthen local manufacturing, the company has invested over R10 million to complete additional technology transfer that brings the manufacture of UniGear ZS1 medium-voltage switchgear to South Africa. Previously, the product was fully imported from the Czech Republic, or other countries, when needed. Due to the investment, 60 to 70% of the technology will be locally manufactured and assembled. As a result, the company’s customers will benefit from a higher design flexibility, faster accessibility, and decreased costs due to reduced import costs and delivery time.
In addition to the transfer of UniGear ZS1 production, the company has started the process of increasing the localisation of its Compact Secondary Substations (CSS), due to be completed in October 2023.
Egon Worthmann, MV primary AIS switchgear manager for ABB Electrification’s Distribution Solutions division, says: “Utilities are increasingly looking to implement smart solutions to solve complex energy challenges. ABB is well placed to continue to deliver world-class solutions to customers now through local manufacturing right here in South Africa. The creation of job opportunities for local engineers and contractors demonstrates our commitment to the long-term development of the country.”
Built in 2009, ABB South Africa’s headquarters demonstrates the company’s early adoption of more sustainable manufacturing approaches, with the site boasting a 760 kWp array of rooftop solar panels that generate enough solar energy to cover around 30% of the site’s annual energy consumption of 2400 MWh.
Yunus Hoosen, head of InvestSA, an agency of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition says: “The South African switchgear market is projected to grow substantially. The increasing number of investments in sustainable power generation, coupled with the growing population, is expected to drive this growth. This illustrates the importance of the domestic sector to multinationals and the strategic location of South Africa for a rapidly growing African consumer market. The ABB investment signifies that South Africa remains an attractive investment destination across all sectors, including the advanced manufacturing sector.”
Read more...Siemens andDucati extend partnership to advance innovation in MotoGP
News
Siemens Digital Industries Software has renewed its technical partnership agreement with Ducati, and detailed how the Siemens Xcelerator platform has been instrumental in helping the company to create increasingly powerful, safe and sustainable motorcycles.
Read more...Your chance to make a difference by supporting UKZN’s SMART Lab research
News
UKZN’s SMART Lab is at the forefront of tackling international challenges through innovative, multidisciplinary solutions, and focuses on research that makes a tangible difference to society. Companies affiliated with the SAIMC now have an opportunity to make a meaningful impact through sponsorships.
Read more...South African project to tackle e-waste
News
Every year millions of electrical and electronic devices and appliances are thrown away. This e-waste can become a threat to both health and the environment if they are not disposed of and recycled properly. Limpopo recently launched its E-Waste for Youth Employment in Limpopo Province project in order to change this narrative.
Read more...Hans Beckhoff receives German Mechanical Engineering Award Beckhoff Automation
News
Hans Beckhoff has received the 2025 German Mechanical Engineering Award. This prestigious award honours entrepreneurs who have set standards in machine and system engineering, driven innovation, and taken on social responsibility.
Read more...Safe solar light for 150 000 people across Africa RS South Africa
News
RS Group has announced a partnership with international development charity, SolarAid to deliver clean, safe solar lights to 150 000 people living in rural communities across Africa without access to electricity.
Read more...Regalvanising is a cornerstone of the circular economy
News
Steel can be regalvanised three to four times, effectively doubling the lifespan of key infrastructure for 30% of the replacement cost. That is why the Hot Dip Galvanisers Association of South Africa sees regalvanising as a cornerstone of the circular economy.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version