Norbert Claussen, CEO of Powertech, explained: "EnerSys has been a long-time partner with Battery Technologies supplying advanced telecommunications batteries and this transaction will strengthen the technology, and products for growth in sub-Saharan Africa. The EnerSys-Powertech joint venture will operate from its production centre in Port Elizabeth and from its premises in Elandsfontein, Johannesburg, including a brand new state-of-the-art warehouse facility, plus extensive branch facilities in South Africa, and planned distribution points for East and West Africa. The PE plant will continue to increase its production, complemented by a wider range of EnerSys-made solutions from it's more than 25 plants worldwide."
Ray Kubis, president, EnerSys Europe, Middle East and Africa, addressed the growth opportunities. "Sub-Saharan Africa, with its unique power needs, rich mineral resources and expanding consumer spending, presents many requirements for leading energy-storage solutions for renewable power, telecom hybrid applications, UPS applications for businesses and hospitals, and high-energy batteries for the mines and above-ground material-handling trucks. We continue to invest for best-in-class solutions from advanced, lead-, nickel- and lithium-based batteries for our customers, and now we can extend this reach across Africa."
The new joint venture will continue to benefit from the black-empowerment credentials of Kagiso Trust, which will retain its 25.1% ownership of the realigned divisions of Battery Technologies, Rentech and Willard Industrial Batteries.
Norbert Claussen, CEO of Powertech, said: "The joint venture between EnerSys and Powertech provides us with a win-win situation for both partners. EnerSys is committing resources to expanding its African markets, where Battech will be able to consolidate its already strong position with the technical backing by EnerSys. Through this joint venture we will be able to provide our customers with access to leading global technologies and, thus, enhance our offering substantially."
