INNOVATION KNOWS NO BOUNDS: Windaba 2023 tests the limits of wind power and exhibits latest innovations

Mitigating climate change and solving South Africa’s energy crisis requires urgent action and innovation. That’s the message from organisers of the forthcoming Windaba Conference and Exhibition.

Organised by the South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA) and supported by the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC), the Windaba exhibition floor will be packed with local and international energy innovators who will showcase cutting-edge technologies and products from across the wind value chain.

Windaba’s exhibitors are drawn from across the wind industry and represent the full spectrum and diversity of this dynamic industry. There will be representatives from experienced SMMEs and big corporates as well as women-owned and youth-owned exhibitors.

Taking place from the 3rd of October to 5th of October at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), the impressive exhibitor list of energy pioneers promises attendees unparalleled access to valuable business prospects and networking opportunities.

“Energy innovations are revolutionising the way we address climate change. Innovations in technology are already helping to make clean energy more affordable and accessible. As industry tackles the energy crisis, it is crucial that South Africa actively participates in pioneering wind technologies that are both innovative and adaptable to our growing energy requirements,” says Niveshen Govender, SAWEA CEO.

“Over the course of Windaba, attendees will have unrivalled access to an exhibition floor packed with trailblazers, innovators and agitators who are driving forward our dynamic wind sector. We hope to see deals struck, ideas developed, and collaborations crystallised over the course of Windaba.”

Alongside showcasing the innovative technologies that are propelling the industry forward, Windaba will give attendees the opportunity to be fully immersed in the latest research at the vanguard of the wind industry. Topics will include energy storage and artificial intelligence – with discussions on how to maximise these new technologies for maximum impact.

More efficient wind turbines are making renewables more competitive with fossil fuels and innovations in energy storage technologies. These have made it possible to store renewable energy for use when the wind isn’t blowing, which has increased the reliability and versatility of clean energy.

“Attendees will also be able to explore the opportunities available in the wind sector as South Africa takes steps towards developing green hydrogen projects, as well as tapping into South Africa’s offshore wind potential.

“We embrace the synergy between opportunity and innovation at Windaba and are eagerly anticipating the challenge of surpassing the limits of what we thought possible,” concludes Govender.

Windaba is a key date for the diary for anyone interested in Africa’s energy transition. Set to bring together key players from both the public and private sector, there will be a packed schedule of engaging talks, informative panel discussions and excellent networking opportunities.

Year-on-year, the conference brings together more than 600 delegates and industry exhibitors. The conference will continue to provide the most relevant and current wind sector information to aid and influence strategic decision making.