By:Engineeringnews

IBC SOLAR, a leading full-service provider of solar energy solutions, is expanding its presence and activities in the African market through the acquisition of SOLARWORLD Africa. This merger offers strategic advantages to both companies: In addition to expanding their market presence in the Residential and Commercial sectors, both companies can now more effectively serve customer groups in these segments due to the expanded network.

IBC SOLAR and SOLARWORLD Africa, both companies of solar energy solutions, have had a business relationship since 2022. Now, IBC SOLAR is undertaking a majority acquisition of SOLARWORLD Africa in the first step. After a two-year transition period, a complete acquisition is planned. Both companies bring over 40 years of industry experience each and strong market positions. Together, they are now strengthening Africa’s position in terms of independent energy supply through the expansion of photovoltaics (PV).

IBC SOLAR has been present with its own subsidiary in South Africa since 2017. To further expand market shares across the entire African continent, the acquisition of SOLARWORLD Africa is an important step. The focus is particularly on commercial projects, large storage systems, and the residential sector. Especially in light of the economic and energy crisis, the demand is high. Decentralised solar energy solutions help to overcome the challenges posed by the lack of nationwide power grid coverage.

“South Africa is struggling with rising energy prices of state energy supply, and fossil fuels are becoming increasingly expensive. The sunny region is ideally suited for decentralised energy solutions such as photovoltaic and storage. This allows households and businesses to supply themselves independently and autonomously with electricity. Therefore, we are looking forward to the cooperation with SOLARWORLD Africa,” says Patrik Danz, CSO of IBC SOLAR AG. “With our high-quality photovoltaic solutions, we can further advance the growth of renewables in the country,” he adds.

Gregor Kuepper, Managing Director of SOLARWORLD Africa, adds: “Now we can continue the success story of two experienced and successful partners working together. The future of photovoltaics lies in South Africa – here the energy transition can be co-determined. We are very excited about the new chapter that is just beginning for us and the African market.”