ACTOM, South Africa's leading manufacturer of power transformers and electrical infrastructure, has acquired SGB-SMIT Power Matla (SSPM), a primary transformer manufacturing company. The acquisition will enable ACTOM to produce class 3 transformers up to 500 MVA 500 kV, increase production capacity, and support industrialisation across the African continent.

The move aligns with South Africa's Transmission Development Plan (TDP) and Integrated Transmission Plan (ITP), which forecast significant network expansion requiring new high-voltage substations and transmission corridors. The acquisition will also create employment opportunities, enhance local skills, and reduce reliance on imported transformers.

Mervyn Naidoo, CEO of The ACTOM Group, highlighted that the Pretoria and Cape Town SSPM plants will underpin this growth initiative. The Pretoria facility, damaged by fire in 2024, will be fully restored and upgraded to become the main base for class 3 transformer production, positioning ACTOM as Africa's largest transformer manufacturer.

The renewable energy sector is a key focus, as developers of CSP, wind, and PV solar projects increasingly require power generation and transmission infrastructure. ACTOM is strategically positioned to supply the heavy-duty transformers and equipment needed for grid connections.

Naidoo emphasised the company's "in Africa, for Africa, by Africa" vision, aiming to develop local manufacturing centres and support services to strengthen industrial growth, skills development, and energy infrastructure across the continent.

Holger Ketterer, CEO of SGB-SMIT Group, confirmed his support for a smooth transition, expressing confidence that ACTOM will expand SSPM's strengths in the South African market.

Source: eng-africa.co.za