How energy storage is changing the future of solar in Africa
Battery energy storage systems, more commonly known as BESS, are increasingly becoming a vital part of commercial and industrial energy solutions. In solar, BESS refers to the use of advanced battery technologies that allow excess renewable energy to be stored for later use.
These systems are gaining traction because they improve grid stability, provide reliable backup power, and increase the efficiency and dependability of solar projects. As energy demand grows across Africa, battery solar storage is playing an ever more strategic role in ensuring continuity, resilience, and cost savings for organisations.
Energy management and optimisation
One of the greatest advantages of battery solar storage is its ability to smooth out the peaks and troughs of renewable energy production. Commercial and industrial sites often generate more solar power during daylight hours than they can use in real time. Instead of allowing that surplus to go to waste, BESS enables it to be stored and drawn upon later, whether at night or during periods of high demand. This reduces reliance on the grid and can lower electricity costs significantly. For organisations facing increasing energy prices, effective energy management is not only financially prudent but also strengthens long-term sustainability.
See the solar systems we have developed here.
Grid stability and peak shaving
Beyond the site level, battery solar storage provides services that support the wider grid. By storing energy when demand is low and releasing it when the system is under pressure, battery solar storage helps balance supply and demand across the network. This is particularly relevant in Africa, where energy grids can experience strain and instability.
Peak shaving is another key application: drawing from the battery during periods of peak consumption prevents unnecessary costs associated with high tariffs (where applicable in certain countries), while at the same time reducing pressure on national infrastructure. The result is a more reliable and predictable supply of power for businesses and industries that cannot afford interruptions.
Read more about our approach to solar PV systems here.
Backup power and resilience
In many parts of Africa, grid reliability remains a challenge. For businesses, downtime caused by outages can result in lost productivity, reduced revenue, and in some cases the interruption of critical services. Battery solar storage provides a safeguard against these risks. When the grid goes down, facilities equipped with BESS can automatically switch to stored energy, ensuring that essential loads continue to operate without disruption. This reliability strengthens operational resilience and offers peace of mind for industries where continuity is non-negotiable. The ability to bridge outages seamlessly is one of the clearest demonstrations of how storage adds value to solar investments.
Read more about our solar finance solutions here.
Microgrid integration
Battery solar storage also plays a central role in enabling microgrids. These systems allow businesses or industrial parks to operate independently of the national grid when required, while still having the option to connect back when conditions are favourable. By acting as the central hub of a microgrid, BESS ensures that renewable energy can be stored and dispatched in a way that supports stability and reliability.
For organisations operating in remote or rural areas, microgrids provide a sustainable alternative to reliance on costly or polluting diesel generation. With Africa’s vast geography and diverse energy needs, the ability to integrate battery storage into microgrids is opening up new opportunities for decentralised and resilient energy infrastructure.
Why invest in battery solar storage
At New Southern Energy, we bring extensive experience in designing and implementing battery storage systems tailored to the specific needs of commercial and industrial clients. Each site has unique requirements, from energy demand profiles to budget considerations and space availability. Our solutions are developed in close collaboration with clients to ensure that they align with operational goals while delivering measurable value.
We prioritise quality and reliability by sourcing batteries from leading global manufacturers and integrating them with proven engineering expertise. Every installation is carried out to the highest safety standards, ensuring that systems perform efficiently and consistently. Once operational, our clients benefit from comprehensive support and maintenance, including monitoring, inspections, and system optimisation to extend battery life and performance.
Battery solar storage also contributes to broader sustainability objectives. By maximising the use of renewable energy, reducing dependency on fossil fuels, and lowering carbon emissions, these systems support the transition towards a greener energy future. For companies with environmental, social, and governance targets, investing in BESS demonstrates a tangible commitment to climate responsibility while enhancing long-term competitiveness.
New Southern Energy has offices in South Africa and Kenya, with several commercial and industrial solar systems built across both the Southern and East African regions. Contact us to discuss your solar needs today.
