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Solar, storage and the new realities shaping commercial & industrial energy decisions

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Solar

These themes are explored in Solar & Storage Industry Insights Volume, published by ESI Africa, part of VUKA Group, bringing together analysis, industry perspectives and practical insights for businesses operating within the evolving energy transition

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, October 1, 2026/APO Group/ –The conversation around commercial and industrial energy has moved well beyond whether businesses should invest in renewable power.

Across Africa, energy users are increasingly weighing questions around cost, security of supply, carbon compliance, financing, energy efficiency and the commercial value of storage. At the same time, project developers and investors are under pressure to demonstrate stronger business cases, credible energy claims and clearer pathways from ambition to implementation.

 




 
 

These themes are explored in Solar & Storage Industry Insights Volume, published by ESI Africa (https://apo-opa.co/4rKRXZA), part of VUKA Group, bringing together analysis, industry perspectives and practical insights for businesses operating within the evolving energy transition.

Explore the Solar & Storage Industry Insights Volume (https://apo-opa.co/4jxxDbQ)

From renewable ambition to better energy decisions

For commercial and industrial energy users, the challenge is multidimensional. Solar remains an important part of the solution, but organisations must also understand how projects are financed, how energy efficiency can reduce demand before new generation is built, where storage creates measurable commercial value and how sustainability commitments translate into credible reporting and compliance.

Webinar series

ESI Africa is extending these conversations through a series of webinars focused on some of the practical issues facing C&I customers and project teams.

Carbon compliance and credible energy claims: What C&I customers must get right examines the importance of credible carbon and renewable energy claims for organisations facing increased scrutiny of their decarbonisation strategies. Watch the webinar on demand (https://apo-opa.co/4xSZ0AE)

Solar funding for dummies: Approaches and speedy options, looks at the financing routes available to organisations considering solar projects, and the decisions that can influence how quickly projects move forward. Watch the webinar on-demand (https://apo-opa.co/4xZyohA)

Case studies in C&I energy efficiency: This discussion shifts the focus to reducing consumption, examining practical examples of how businesses can improve efficiency, and manage energy costs and strengthen operational performance. Watch the webinar on-demand (https://apo-opa.co/4rGs4K5)

Moving projects from discussion to delivery

The same questions are shaping face-to-face industry discussions. At the C&I Energy + Storage Summit Johannesburg (https://apo-opa.co/4rIytEM), taking place on 28 and 29 October 2026 at The Maslow Hotel in Sandton, energy users, project developers, financiers and solution providers will examine the strategies businesses are using to improve power security and manage rising energy costs.

The programme moves from energy efficiency and demand management through to onsite generation, diversified energy sourcing and energy storage. It also examines the commercial value of storage beyond backup power, including peak shaving, demand charge management, resilience, renewable firming and hybrid solar-plus-BESS models.

Explore the C&I Energy + Storage Summit Johannesburg (https://apo-opa.co/4rIytEM)

The conversation extends to Zimbabwe on 17 November 2026, where the C&I Energy + Storage Summit Zimbabwe will be co-located with Zimbabwe Mining Week at Rainbow Towers in Harare.

With reliable energy capacity central to mining development and industrial growth, the one-day summit will connect mining companies, energy users, project developers, investors and solution providers around renewable energy, storage, project finance, operational cost containment and secure power supply.

Request more information about C&I Energy + Storage Summit Zimbabwe (https://apo-opa.co/4xZ64vE)

Bringing capital and projects into the same conversation

Technology alone will not determine the pace of Africa’s energy transition. Projects must also attract capital, demonstrate bankability and connect with the organisations able to help deliver them.

The Project & Investment Network, in partnership with the African Infrastructure Elites annual magazine, creates a platform for project owners, investors, financiers and solution providers to connect around power, energy and infrastructure opportunities, with a focus on moving viable projects closer to investment and implementation.

Explore the Project & Investment Network (https://apo-opa.co/4rFWCvD)

Recognising the projects already changing African infrastructure

While new projects move through development and financing pipelines, ESI Africa is also looking for the projects and people already demonstrating what successful infrastructure delivery can look like.

The African Infrastructure Elites: Projects and People magazine recognises leadership and project excellence across Africa’s infrastructure sectors, documenting the initiatives, partnerships and individuals helping turn complex energy, water and transport challenges into tangible outcomes.

Nominations provide organisations and industry professionals with an opportunity to put forward deserving projects and leaders for recognition and to contribute to a wider record of African infrastructure achievements.

Explore the African Infrastructure Elites and submit a nomination (https://apo-opa.co/3Tu9Sac)

What comes next for energy storage?

Storage is rapidly becoming a bigger part of the commercial energy conversation as businesses assess where batteries can provide resilience, tariff optimisation, renewable integration and new commercial value.

ESI Africa’s forthcoming Energy & Storage Industry Insights Volume 2026 will take a deeper look at the technologies, projects, investment considerations and market developments shaping the next phase of the sector.

Join the Energy & Storage Industry Insights Volume 2026 waiting list (https://apo-opa.co/3U1smyT)

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.

 

 




 

Energy

South African National Petroleum Company (SANPC) Confirmed as South Sudan Oil & Power (SSOP) 2026 Platinum Sponsor as Upstream Footprint Expands

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Etu Energias

The South African National Petroleum Company is participating in the seventh edition of South Sudan Oil & Power as a platinum sponsor

JUBA, South Sudan, November 11, 2026/APO Group/ –The South African National Petroleum Company (SANPC) has been confirmed as a Platinum Sponsor of the upcoming South Sudan Oil & Power (SSOP) 2026 conference, taking place November 24–25 in Juba.

 




 
 

SANPC’s sponsorship underscores the event’s position as the country’s official platform for dealmaking and project development, connecting domestic opportunities with regional and international partners.

Returning for its seventh edition, SSOP 2026 will feature high-level panel discussions, project showcases and exclusive networking sessions aimed at aligning technical and financial capabilities with South Sudan’s energy renaissance. SANPC CEO Godfrey Moagi will lead the company’s delegation, participating in key discussions and outlining the company’s expanding exploration and investment footprint in the country.

Moagi will participate in the Regional National Oil Companies (NOC) panel, titled Resource Renaissance: Energy-Fueled Growth for a New Generation. The session will focus on cross-border cooperation to reinforce regional energy security and unlock the economic potential of South Sudan’s estimated 3.5 billion barrels of proven crude oil reserves.

The dialogue comes as South Sudan targets an output expansion from approximately 174,000 barrels per day (bpd) to 230,000 bpd in the near term, with a long-term goal of 450,000 bpd. With roughly 90% of South Sudan’s reserves undeveloped, SANPC is positioning itself as a strategic, long-term technical and commercial partner to accelerate greenfield monetization and asset optimization.

With only 30% of South Sudan’s territory systematically explored, SANPC’s technical investments are delivering critical basin knowledge to underpin future exploration rounds. These technical contributions are anchored by ongoing work in Block B2, situated in Greater Jonglei State. In 2024, SANPC completed an extensive aerial geophysical survey covering approximately 47,000 km² – one of the largest airborne mapping initiatives executed in the country. The company has since progressed toward field-level preparations, advancing terrain reconnaissance to support a planned 2D seismic campaign aimed at defining drillable prospects in partnership with Nilepet.

As South Sudan pursues new partners to advance exploration, SSOP 2026 offers a platform for SANPC to provide strategic updates on its local operations, connect with local players and explore joint ventures with regional NOCs and international service providers.

To register for South Sudan Oil & Power 2026 in Juba on November 24–25, visit: https://SouthSudanOilPower.com/.

 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

 




 

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RS South Africa Appoints Khuphukile Ndebele as Finance Director

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Experienced financial executive brings extensive expertise in financial management, business strategy and operational transformation to the role

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, November 11, 2026/APO Group/ –RS South Africa (www.Africa.RSDelivers.com) has appointed Khuphukile Ndebele as its new Finance Director, effective 26 October 2026. Ndebele brings extensive experience in financial leadership, strategic planning and operational management across multiple industries, including electrical wholesale, telecommunications, construction and manufacturing.

 




 
 

A qualified chartered accountant and Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (FCCA), Ndebele has built a career spanning more than two decades, combining financial expertise with a strong understanding of business operations, governance, operational efficiency, organisational resilience and sustainable growth.

Most recently, he held senior financial leadership responsibilities at Bidvest Electrical and Voltex, where his role encompassed financial planning and reporting, budgeting, forecasting, treasury, risk management and corporate governance. He also contributed to business strategy, mergers and acquisitions, operational restructuring ,  stakeholder engagement and the implementation of technology-driven initiatives to improve efficiency and customer experience.

His previous experience includes senior finance roles at SEACOM, where he supported financial strategy, business planning, acquisitions and the implementation of enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems and business intelligence reporting tools. Earlier in his career, he held financial management positions in the construction and engineering sectors, including at Stefanutti Stocks, as well as international experience in the British Virgin Islands.

Khuphukile’s appointment represents an important step in strengthening RS South Africa’s financial leadership and supporting the business’s long-term objectives

Ndebele holds a Bachelor of Accounting Sciences from the University of South Africa and is a Fellow of ACCA. He also completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Management Practice through Henley Business School in 2025, further strengthening his capabilities in systems thinking, innovation and value creation.

In his new role, Ndebele will serve as a strategic partner to the Managing Director and a member of the Executive Management Team, contributing to the development and execution of the company’s strategic plans. His responsibilities will include overseeing financial performance across profit and loss, the balance sheet and cash flow, as well as leading budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting and working capital optimisation to support sustainable, profitable growth.

He will also oversee governance, risk management and regulatory compliance, while providing strategic leadership to Corporate Services and alignment with the IT function. This will include strengthening internal controls, enhancing business intelligence and data-driven decision-making, and supporting the digital transformation of finance and reporting processes.

Through these responsibilities, he will work with local, regional and global stakeholders to improve operational efficiency, support informed business decisions and maintain strong financial governance.

“Khuphukile’s appointment represents an important step in strengthening RS South Africa’s financial leadership and supporting the business’s long-term objectives. His combination of financial expertise, strategic insight and operational experience will be valuable as we continue to focus on business performance, sound financial management and sustainable growth,” comments Brian Andrew, Managing Director, RS South Africa.

Ndebele’s appointment comes at a time when effective financial management, informed decision-making and operational agility remain important to business resilience and competitiveness. His experience across complex, multi-entity organisations positions him to support RS South Africa’s financial management processes while working with the wider leadership team to advance the company’s strategic priorities.

Beyond his technical expertise, Ndebele places importance on transformational leadership, mentorship and developing people. His approach reflects a belief that effective leadership extends beyond financial performance to include building capable teams, strengthening collaboration and creating lasting value.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of RS South Africa.

 

 




 

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Emirates SkyCargo introduces new freighter service connecting Milan with New York

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Emirates

The service provides direct trade connectivity for exporters from Italy, particularly the Lombardy region, to the United States, one of the country’s most important trading partners

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, November 10, 2026/APO Group/ —

  • Carrier supports 13% year-on-year growth in exports from Milan, 23% from Greater New York region between FY24/25 and FY25/26
  • Freighter to support exports of pharmaceuticals, luxury goods, industrial components from Milan to the US
  • Service to enhance connectivity for cargo to Middle East and Asia from New York via Dubai for pharmaceuticals, perishables, e-commerce and machinery

 




 
 

Emirates SkyCargo has announced the launch of a new weekly freighter service connecting Milan (MXP) with New York (JFK) from 5th December 2026.

 

The service provides direct trade connectivity for exporters from Italy, particularly the Lombardy region, to the United States, one of the country’s most important trading partners. Additionally, on the return leg, the freighter also provides businesses in the US, particularly in the greater New York region more export connectivity to markets in the Middle East and Asia via Dubai.

Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President, Emirates SkyCargo, said: “Milan is a key air cargo gateway for Italy and Europe where Emirates SkyCargo currently offers over 500 tonnes of weekly export capacity to global markets, including over 100 tonnes weekly bellyhold capacity on our passenger flights to New York. The new freighter service adds important maindeck capacity on a vital trade corridor offering exporters greater access, flexibility and reliability when serving customers in the United States.

 

“Exports from the Greater New York region have seen strong growth, reflecting robust demand for reliable access to international markets. By combining enhanced freighter capacity with our extensive network of freighter and passenger services through Dubai, we are enhancing connectivity for pharmaceuticals, e-commerce, perishables and machinery from the US, while creating faster links to destinations across the Middle East, Asia and beyond.”

 

Powering exports from Italy to the US

 

The new freighter flight, operated by Emirates SkyCargo’s Boeing 777-F aircraft and offering around 100 tonnes of capacity per flight, has been launched to serve the growing demand for export capacity from Northern Italy and the Lombardy region to partner markets. Exports from Milan carried by Emirates SkyCargo grew 13% in FY 2025/26 compared to the previous year. By providing direct freighter connectivity from Milan to New York, the largest air cargo export destination for Italian goods, Emirates SkyCargo is creating faster and more efficient pathways for Italian exporters to reach customers across North America.

Exports from the Greater New York region have seen strong growth, reflecting robust demand for reliable access to international markets

Emirates SkyCargo also operates a once weekly freighter flight between Milan and Dubai (DWC). Key export commodities that move by air from Milan include pharmaceuticals, vaccines and clinical trial medication, luxury goods and fashion items, industrial equipment and machine parts, high-end automotives, fresh produce and specialty food products. Major export markets include the Middle East, United States, Australia and South Africa.

 

Emirates SkyCargo has facilitated increasing volumes of export between Italy and its trading partners with exports from the country growing at over 12% between FY 2024/25 and FY 2025/26. Every week, Emirates SkyCargo offers over 1,000 tonnes of export cargo capacity from its four Italian gateways– Bologna, Milan, Rome and Venice. The carrier also operates a strong road feeder service, connecting Italian businesses located beyond online gateways to Emirates SkyCargo’s network. The new freighter service demonstrates Emirates SkyCargo’s commitment to the whole Italian market and is a testament to potential opportunities across Italy.

 

Stronger footprint and increased exports in North America

 

From New York, the freighter service will provide more options for connecting cargo for businesses in Greater New York and Northeast USA. Emirates SkyCargo has been supporting a significant increase in exports from the region, with an increase of 23% in the volume of exports from JFK and EWR airports between FY 2024/25 and FY 2025/ 26. The freighter service unlocks seamless connections to high-growth markets across the Middle East, Asia and Oceania.

 

Key export commodities moving from New York include pharmaceuticals and healthcare products, perishables, e-commerce shipments, machinery and industrial components. By combining dedicated freighter capacity with Emirates SkyCargo’s extensive freighter and passenger network, the service offers customers greater flexibility, faster transit times and access to one of the world’s most extensive cargo networks.

 

In addition to the new freighter service to New York (JFK), Emirates SkyCargo has also launched freighter flights in 2026 to Los Angeles (LAX) and Dallas (DFW) while increasing frequencies to Miami (MIA), enhancing the overall connectivity between North America and its global network.

 

Emirates SkyCargo has embarked on an ambitious year of growth for its freighter fleet and network. The cargo carrier took delivery of eight new freighter aircraft, including seven Boeing 777-F production freighters and one Boeing 777-300ER special freighter. This expansion helped power the growth of Emirates SkyCargo’s freighter network from over 40 destinations in March 2026 to over 60 destinations by July 2026. In addition to dedicated freighter flights, the carrier also offers high frequency bellyhold cargo capacity on Emirates’ fleet of passenger aircraft operating to destinations across six continents.

 

Interested customers can contact their local Emirates SkyCargo office or visit www.SkyCargo.com for more information on flights and services available to them.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Emirates Group.

 




 

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