Schneider Electric has officially launched its first Innovation Hub on the African continent, coinciding with the opening of its new regional headquarters in Midrand, South Africa. The event marked a key milestone for the company’s long-term regional strategy and was led by Canninah Dlala, the newly appointed cluster president for Anglophone Africa. Dlala, who previously held senior roles within Schneider Electric from 2008 to 2013, has returned with a clear vision: to deepen the company’s impact in the region through innovation, collaboration and sustainability. She brings to her new leadership role her extensive experience in the energy sector and a strong passion for Africa’s development.
Speaking to SA Instrumentation & Control at the launch, Dlala outlined Schneider Electric’s evolving role in Africa’s energy transformation − not just as a technology leader, but as a long-term development partner. The new building is evidence of this commitment, built to the company’s own sustainability and energy efficiency standards. Featuring smart lighting, intelligent energy monitoring and fully integrated building management systems, the headquarters is designed to be both a demonstration site and a working example of Schneider’s sustainable technologies.
A hub for co-creation
Central to the Midrand facility is the newly launched Innovation Hub which forms part of Schneider Electric’s global network of more than 40 similar hubs. Unlike traditional showrooms, this is an interactive, hands-on environment where stakeholders − engineers, system integrators, consultants, OEMs and entrepreneurs − can work directly with Schneider Electric’s technologies and teams.
The hub has a number of functions. It’s a testing ground, a collaborative lab and a platform for knowledge exchange. Here, partners and clients can develop, adapt and verify solutions based on local requirements. Technologies on display span the company’s core focus areas: electrical distribution, industrial automation, smart buildings, data centres, digital energy management and critical grid infrastructure, all connected through Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure architecture. This digital backbone makes it possible to track, control and improve operations in real time, whether in factories or smart cities.
“This is more than a showroom,” Dlala said. “The hub allows people to walk in and not only see our solutions, but touch and feel them. It’s where system integrators can co-create with our engineers and develop proof of concept. It’s where innovation happens − not in theory, but in practice.”
One project gaining attention at the hub is Schneider’s microgrid and the emerging concept of Energy-as-a-Service. Dlala believes that this has the potential to answer some of Africa’s most pressing energy infrastructure questions.
A team reflecting the future
The Innovation Hub is not only about technologies, it also reflects a shift in organisational culture. Dlala highlighted the generational diversity of the team that brought the project to life. Over 60% of those involved were under the age of 35, reflecting the company’s evolving workforce and its focus on empowering young professionals in engineering and technology.
She sees this as fundamental to the company’s future in Africa. Schneider Electric is investing heavily in training and education, particularly for youth and women in technical fields. Walking through the Midrand facility, the presence of young African engineers, both men and women, actively working on real-time, real-world solutions is a visible example of this commitment.
Strategic roots across the continent
While the Midrand hub is the flagship, it is also part of a broader African strategy. Schneider Electric has established operations in countries including Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana and Mozambique. The new headquarters will act as a regional centre for Anglophone Africa, enabling cross-border coordination and deeper engagement with public and private partners.
The focus, Dlala explained, is not limited to energy. The company is also exploring opportunities in water management, digital infrastructure and skills development. The flexibility of Schneider Electric’s global model allows regions to tailor their strategies to local realities. In Dlala’s words: “What I love about Schneider is that it lets you work within your region to drive strategy, based on what you’re seeing and experiencing locally.”
A purpose-driven mission
The Innovation Hub’s launch is, in essence, a declaration of purpose. Schneider Electric’s slogan – Life Is On – is more than a catchphrase. It reflects a commitment to providing sustainable energy access, enhancing efficiency and supporting inclusive economic growth. For Dlala, this is where technology meets mission.
“We always hear about Africa’s problems,” she said. “It’s time we start delivering Africa’s solutions.” Her message was clear: the continent’s challenges require collaboration between governments, the private sector and local communities; and companies like Schneider Electric − companies that stay, invest and deliver − have a critical role to play.
From innovation and automation to education and empowerment, the Innovation Hub is both a symbol and a platform for co-creating Africa’s energy future. It reflects not only Schneider Electric’s capabilities, but its long-term vision for a more connected, sustainable and inclusive continent.
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