The Council for Scientific Research (CSIR) shared insight on testing, validation and quality infrastructure for battery materials and intermediates, at a webinar organised by the International Trade Centre, on Thursday.
Themed, “Made by Africa: Workshop on Regional Value Chain Roadmaps – Battery Track” the session aimed to clarify market access and buyer requirements for midstream battery materials and processed products, including the relevance of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) frameworks for investment; review key ESG.
Discussions focused on traceability and regulatory developments shaping the battery value chain and identifying practical priority actions for pilot countries to strengthen readiness and competitiveness.
Dr Thabo Hlalele, Manager of the Energy Research Centre at the CSIR, highlighted the CSIR’s role and alignment with the broader roadmap.
He also spoke above work with the City of Tshwane in determining an ideal mix of solar, wind, battery storage, hydro, landfill, and biomass energies as part of a recent study.
“These renewables could supplement the existing power supply from Eskom to help the city lower electricity prices while meeting growing demand and emissions targets. The study also looked at how embedded generation can boost power security and create export revenues from excess power to the grid. Embedded generation refers to electricity produced close to where it is used and fed into the distribution network” he said.
He also urged other municipalities to adopt science-based energy planning and modelling to help reduce emissions.
Picture: Supplied