Chinese Presence at Solar & Storage Live Africa 2026 Highlights Renewable Energy Growth
The Gallagher Convention Center in Johannesburg, South Africa buzzed with activity as Solar & Storage Live Africa 2026 unfolded, showcasing a vibrant array of electric vehicles (EVs), photovoltaic panels, and battery storage systems, all attracting thousands of visitors.
This three-day event, which took place from March 25 to March 27, drew over 650 exhibitors from around the globe and welcomed approximately 20,000 attendees from more than 30 countries and territories. The impressive turnout underscores the accelerating shift towards greener and more intelligent energy solutions across Africa.
Xander Hooley, a sales representative at ARB Electrical Wholesalers, a key player in Southern Africa’s power landscape, remarked on the significant opportunities for Chinese new energy firms in South Africa. He noted that his company is currently experiencing swift growth through partnerships with Chinese businesses, emphasizing the potential for mutual benefit.
Throughout the venue, the influence of Chinese companies was evident, with a wide array of solar modules, storage batteries, and smart energy solutions on display. Major players such as Huawei, Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Ltd., TCL Solar, and Midea Energy showcased their innovative products alongside numerous small and medium-sized enterprises, reflecting China’s commitment to supporting Africa’s renewable energy market.
Mr. Xiaohan Ye, Africa Regional General Manager of LONGi Green Energy Technology Co., Ltd., expressed strong optimism about the African market’s unique characteristics and potential. He attributed Africa’s rich solar resources, along with surging power demand driven by industrialization and mining activities, as pivotal factors propelling the region’s solar energy push.
In addition to solar technology, the exhibition featured a range of EVs from Chinese brands such as BYD and AION, attracting significant interest. Michael Tiernan, a businessman in South Africa’s power generation and automation sector, noted the growing presence of Chinese companies and their products as a positive forward step, fostering new opportunities in the local market.
Staff member Tumelo Tuloan from Ates Power Technology Co., Ltd., a global supplier of solar energy storage and EV charging solutions based in Shenzhen, echoed this sentiment. He emphasized that the influx of Chinese solar energy storage systems into Africa represents a promising shift for the continent’s energy landscape. “China is offering us Africans a lot of opportunities, a lot of investment,” Tuloan stated, highlighting the job prospects created by this growing collaboration.
