The zero-emission, green-energy-powered Energy Observer (EO) has docked in Cape Town for a visit of just more than a week. The vessel, which acts as an on-the-water laboratory able to test various forms of environmentally friendly energy, is covered in 202 m2 of solar panels. 
African manufacturers have a significant role to play in helping to remedy the continent’s energy crises by developing innovative solutions for energy storage and access. By creating products tailored to the needs of the African context, manufacturers can help reduce energy poverty, increase energy efficiency and spur economic growth. However, this depends on whether the right environment is created to help manufacturers expand operations and pursue cross-border investment opportunities, electromechanical equipment manufacturer Actom Group CEO and Manufacturing Circle chairperson Mervyn Naidoo says.