Business France to Showcase French Expertise at ENLIT Africa

Business France, the national agency supporting the international development of the French economy, is set to participate in the upcoming ENLIT Africa trade show in Cape Town from the 21st to the 23rd of May 2024. This event marks a significant opportunity for Business France to showcase France’s innovative solutions and technologies in the energy sector.

Business France’s stand will be located at D176 in Hall 4, where it will share the space with five distinguished companies: Air Liquide, Energy Pool, Klubb, Réseau Jade and Sediver. Air Liquide, world leader in gases, technologies & services for industry, is Business France’s partner on this event. In South Africa, the company operates the world’s largest oxygen production unit.

Energy Pool, an energy management company, specialises in demand-side management solutions for electricity end-user and utilities.

Klubb, a specialist in vehicle-mounted aerial platforms, designs and manufactures platforms for various sectors.

Réseau Jade specializes in work at height and in confined spaces across various industries, including energy and electricity (nuclear, wind and solar), construction and agri-food.

Sediver is a global manufacturer of glass insulator technology for medium or high voltage overhead lines.

Their participation in the trade show underscores France’s commitment to promoting its expertise internationally.

Challenges & opportunities in the energy sector across Southern & Eastern Africa:

Coal is the primary source of energy in the region, accounting for over 60% of the electricity mix. However, as countries experience economic and population growth, many have initiated plans for the development and decarbonization of their electricity production. Key areas of development include:

• Development of renewable energies
• Rural electrification
• Deployment of smart meters
• Renovation and extension of the electricity network
• Regional electricity network interconnection projects
• Energy efficiency

In terms of water and sanitation access, the situation mirrors that of electricity. In South Africa, water quality has been on the decline for several years, indicative of the country’s deteriorating public infrastructure. Over half of the country’s wastewater treatment plants are in a dysfunctional or critical state.

Despite these challenges, numerous opportunities exist in these developing countries, spanning both the public and private sectors. The status of the energy sector presents potential avenues for growth and improvement in the region’s infrastructure and quality of life.

ENLIT Africa 2024

The ENLIT Africa trade show is a premier event for energy professionals across the continent. It provides a platform for industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to engage in meaningful discussions, share insights, and showcase the latest technologies and solutions in the energy sector.

The regional dimension of ENLIT Africa will allow participants to discover opportunities in the energy sector covering Southern and Eastern African countries. Representatives of national and municipal authorities from Southern Africa, including South Africa, Angola, Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, will be present at the trade show. This interaction will foster a mutual understanding of the challenges and opportunities in these regions, paving the way for potential collaborations.

In addition to the trade show, Business France is offering prospecting missions in neighbouring countries, providing an excellent opportunity for businesses to explore potential markets and establish connections with local partners.

Business France’s participation in this event is a clear indication of France’s commitment to strengthening ties with African nations and contributing to the continent’s energy sector’s growth and development. It also offers an excellent opportunity for the participating French companies to establish new partnerships, explore potential markets, and gain valuable insights into Africa’s energy landscape.