The bustling halls of the Gallagher Conference Centre in Midrand, Johannesburg, set the stage for an electrifying event – the Solar & Storage Live and The Future Energy Show Africa 2024, held from March 18th to 20th. As representatives of LTV Tech, we had the privilege of immersing ourselves in the latest advancements and innovations within the renewable energy sector. Here, we share our insights and experiences from this remarkable exhibition.
First and foremost, let’s commend the organizers on selecting the perfect venue for this event. The Gallagher Conference Centre provided ample space for exhibitors and attendees alike to navigate comfortably. Crowd control measures ensured a smooth flow of foot traffic, guiding visitors through the various halls in a one-way direction. However, I found it somewhat challenging to go outside, requiring a circuitous route to re-enter the exhibition halls. While I understand the rationale behind this approach, it did prove to be a minor inconvenience.
Despite this minor hiccup, the overall planning and execution of the event were commendable, earning a solid rating of 9 out of 10 in our books.
Attendance figures for the exhibition remain a point of curiosity, particularly as the venue never felt overcrowded. In fact, there were moments of tranquility, especially towards the back of each hall. This observation raises questions about the effectiveness of exhibitors’ engagement strategies and highlights the need for innovative approaches to attract and retain visitor interest.
From a product standpoint, the exhibition showcased a remarkable evolution in technology and offerings within the South African market. Switchgear, safety, and risk solutions are our specialty at LTV Tech, and while we were pleased to see a notable presence of Rapid Shutdown switches and other companies exhibiting their DC Switchgear compared to the previous year, it’s essential to acknowledge that inverters, solar panels, and lithium batteries took center stage at the exhibition. Despite the prominence of these larger components, it was disheartening to observe a lack of attention towards smaller components such as switches, breakers, and fuses, despite their critical role in safeguarding solar energy systems and property. This observation was made based on interactions with attendees who may not have explored the full breadth of quality products and the technology behind them.
Rapid Shutdown devices emerged as a focal point of discussion, with several exhibitors showcasing their solutions. Yet, there appeared to be a hesitancy among attendees to inquire about these vital safety components. This reluctance underscores the importance of raising awareness and education around such technologies, especially in a market like South Africa, where safety concerns are paramount.
As a provider of safety solutions, LTV Tech remains committed to promoting early detection, protection, and prevention measures in PV systems. Our flagship product, PVStop, offers a simple yet effective solution for safely de-energizing solar panels, mitigating risks associated with voltage and current exposure. While our focus on safety resonated with attendees, we also recognize the need for continued advocacy and education within the industry.
In addition to our observations, it’s worth highlighting the significance of our relationships with suppliers and manufacturers, which played a pivotal role in their presence at this remarkable event. One such example is our collaboration with YRO Electric, a trusted supplier and manufacturer, who showcased their Rapid Shutdown Devices, including both the String and modular types.
Recognizing the importance of these safety solutions in the South African market, I took the initiative to engage with visitors and encourage discussions about the technology. Despite not being mandatory in South Africa, these devices offer a crucial solution to potential hazards, as demonstrated by real-life scenarios where de-energizing solar panels could have prevented property damage and protected lives.
Our close partnerships with manufacturers like YRO Electric underscore the value of collaboration in advancing safety and innovation within the renewable energy sector. Their presence at the exhibition reflects a shared commitment to addressing critical needs and promoting responsible practices within the industry.
In addition to our physical presence at the exhibition, we leveraged social media platforms such as TikTok to engage with a broader audience. Our live sessions provided followers with exclusive insights into the latest products and technologies, facilitating direct interaction with exhibitors and addressing specific inquiries. See some interview videos below
In conclusion, we extend our gratitude to the organizers, sponsors, exhibitors, and attendees who contributed to the success of Solar & Storage Live and The Future Energy Show Africa 2024. The exhibition served as a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration within the renewable energy sector. As we reflect on our experiences, we remain optimistic about the future of solar energy in Africa and look forward to continued innovation and progress in the years to come.
