Schneider Electric on Africa’s renewable future

Schneider Electric, a global leader in digital transformation, is at the forefront of Africa's energy transition. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Gary Lawrence, President of Power & Grid Segment, discussed the company's role in supporting the continent through its evolving energy landscape. Lawrence highlighted the importance of technology in enabling energy access for all Africans, emphasizing the need for smart grid solutions to address challenges such as line losses and extreme weather events. Schneider Electric's focus is on digitizing existing infrastructure while supporting the growth of new sustainable energy sources like solar and wind. One of Schneider Electric's key projects in Africa is in Egypt, where they are modernizing the grid with advanced distribution management systems to enhance flexibility and resilience. In South Africa, the company is deploying software applications like Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems to support the integration of solar, wind, and hydro power. Lawrence noted the shift towards electricity operators also becoming data operators, underscoring the importance of data-driven decision-making in the energy sector. As African governments seek greater support for their energy transitions, Lawrence discussed the evolving policy and regulatory frameworks in countries like South Africa. He highlighted the potential for solar PV adoption and the need for a conducive framework to accelerate its integration into the grid. Drawing parallels with countries like the US and Thailand, Lawrence emphasized the importance of collaboration between governments, communities, and businesses to drive progress in the energy sector. When asked about the varying stages of the energy transition across different African countries, Lawrence stressed the importance of taking a stepwise approach and not being afraid to start the journey towards cleaner energy. While each country may be at a different stage, the overarching goal of a holistic energy transition remains consistent. In conclusion, Lawrence's insights shed light on Schneider Electric's commitment to advancing Africa's energy transition through technology, collaboration, and sustainable solutions. With a focus on smart grid solutions and digital transformation, the company is playing a pivotal role in shaping the continent's energy future.