From Creamer Media in Johannesburg, this is the Real Economy Report. Our top stories this week:
We discuss solar photovoltaic technology for Africa;
We look at the role of the South African Air Force in stimulating the country’s technology base;
and, a US company announces a world first for the South African mining industry.

Mariaan Webb:
Solar photovoltaic technology has not been included in the renewable energy feed-in tariff system, largely because of the high costs involved. Christy van der Merwe takes a closer look at the technology.

Christy van der Merwe:
Although not included in the current Refit, producers of PV panels, and potential project developers, say that it should be included under the tariff. This will boost demand, which will in turn lower production costs. Globally costs of solar PV panels came down by 30% in 2008 – largely because of the increased demand following regulatory changes.
Could South Africa establish itself as the African solar PV hub?

Camco SA, Director, Jonathan Curren

Christy van der Merwe:
It’s important to note, that with solar PV, many of the jobs are post production, and a manufacturing facility is not necessarily where all the emphasis should be.

Sharp Energy Solution Europe, Executive Vice-president, Peter Thiele

Christy van der Merwe:
Sharp manufactures three different kinds of solar photovoltaic panels, each with different benefits.

Peter Thiele

Mariaan Webb:
The South African Air Force is a high-technology force, and this benefits the country. Keith Campbell has the story.

Keith Campbell:
The South African Air Force is not only a user of high-technology, it also strengthens South Africa’s technology base. It produces highly skilled maintenance personnel, and stimulates local high-tech industries. The Chief of the South African Air Force, Lt-Gen Carlo Gagiano, explains…

Mariaan Webb:
US mining company Joy Mining Machinery has launched its first Smart Services Centre in South Africa. Jonathan Faurie reports.

Jonathan Faurie:
In an effort to become a company that provides products as well as services to the mining industry, Joy president Edward Doheny comments that the South African industry is a perfect launch pad for its Smart Services Centre.

Jonathan Faurie:
He adds that there are already discussions under way to establish similar centres around the world.

Mariaan Webb:
And now for a sneak preview of this week’s Engineering News magazine:

Read our cover story on unmanned air vehicles and how South Africa is in danger of losing ground to a host of competitors.
We report that Transnet’s rail and port volumes are likely to remain under pressure until 2011.
And, Uganda plans to tap 17 000 MW from the controversial Nile power programme.

And in Mining Weekly this week:

We report that South Africa needs a clear energy strategy to ensure future coal requirements.
The GFMS still expects the gold price to reach a fresh peak in the second half of this year.
And, a read about plans to develop a new business model for the State Diamond Trader.

Mariaan Webb:
That’s Creamer Media’s Real Economy Report. Join us again next week for more news and insight into South Africa’s real economy.