The renewable energy division of Lapp Southern Africa strives to be at the vanguard of its industry and reports that during the past 12 months this dedication has begun to deliver results. Lapp Southern Africa took a strategic decision eight years ago that if it wanted to market Olflex Solar Cable locally, it would better have to understand needs in the solar industry. Headed by Dieter Dilchert, a founding director of Lapp SA, the Lapp Southern Africa renewable energy division was born.
At the time, the industry was practically non-existent in South Africa and electricity supply was stable and cheap. But Lapp persevered and increased its knowledge and skill, going so far as to register two solar training courses in 2008. To date, over 500 South African engineers have been trained in these courses; the strategy being to grow the local industry through the sharing of knowledge. This effort is starting to pay dividends in the face of current market pressures and socio-economic issues.
By completing three ‘internal grid’ PV plants totalling 180 KW of capacity, the Lapp Group was one of the largest PV installers in South Africa during 2011. The two high-profile corporate clients intent on decreasing their impact on the environment have started a trend in the South African business world, the company says.
Locally the Lapp Group has also been involved in social responsibility projects. Most recently it was asked by ABB to participate in a social development programme in KZN to provide PV power, solar water pumping and a solar geyser for the Noah Project kitchen and classroom. The Noah Project is supported by ABB and the WWF (World Wildlife Fund). The aim is to feed 200 orphans from this kitchen, which now has electricity for refrigeration, cooking and lighting – all solar powered.
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