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Trinasolar wins EcoVadis 2025 silver medal for outstanding sustainability performance
Infinite Electronics and RS Group to deliver L-com connectivity L-com, an Infinite Electronics brand and a supplier of wired and wireless connectivity
companies worldwide, this recognition underscores our continued dedication to lasting value for our customers,” said Zhang Hongzhi, head of the EHS department at Trinasolar. Trinasolar integrates its “SOLAR” sustainability management concept into global practice, advancing sustainable manufacturing and enhancing energy efficiency. In 2024, the company implemented 47 energy-saving projects across 32 production bases, achieving a total electricity consumption reduction of 55,496 MWh and generating 223,794 MWh of on-site renewable electricity. In addition, the company earned the AA rating for PV supply chain traceability from TÜV Rheinland, covering all stages from polysilicon to modules, the highest possible rating, underscoring the transparency and reliability of its supply chain.
products, has expanded its strategic cooperation agreement with RS Group to begin distributing L-com products across the EMEA and APAC markets via the RS website. This partnership significantly broadens L-com’s geographic reach beyond the United States and supports Infinite Electronics’ growth as a worldwide connectivity solutions provider. “Expanding our partnership with RS Group is an important milestone for L-com and Infinite Electronics,” says Eric Smith, vice president of global channel sales at Infinite Electronics. “By bringing our connectivity portfolio to customers across EMEA and APAC, we’re not only extending our global reach, but also empowering industrial customers with reliable solutions that support their innovation and growth.” An initial selection including antennas, RF and data connectors, and cable assemblies from L-com’s portfolio is available now, with plans to expand the assortment in 2026. RS Group leverages its robust logistics infrastructure to ensure fast, reliable delivery and complete order visibility for customers from checkout to arrival. For EMEA customers, this partnership means easier access to the products they need with the reliable delivery and technical expertise that both L-com and RS Group are known for. “We’re proud to deepen our partnership with L-com, a trusted name in connectivity,” says A s we enter 2026, compliance in South Africa’s electrical sector remains paramount, driven by evolving standards that prioritise safety, sustainability, and innovation. With the industry’s growth fuelled by renewable energy adoption and infrastructure demands, adhering to regulations like SANS 10142 is essential to mitigate risks, ensure reliability, and avoid penalties. Non-compliance can lead to hazards, legal liabilities, and financial losses, underscoring the need for proactive adaptation amid global and local pressures. SANS 10142, the Wiring of Premises standard, forms the backbone of electrical installations in South Africa. Edition 3.2, released in August 2024, introduces updates aligning with international norms, including enhanced requirements for renewable systems like solar PV and battery storage. By March 2026, full adoption of the IEC 60364 series is anticipated, completing a phased integration that began earlier. This overhaul addresses modern challenges, such as smart technologies and embedded generation, ensuring installations are safe and efficient. Key changes include clearer guidelines for PV-to-grid synchronisation, surge protection, and energy storage systems, reflecting the surge in rooftop solar amid load-shedding concerns. Compliance extends beyond SANS to bodies like the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS), which combats uncertified imports flooding the market. These substandard products undermine safety and sector integrity, prompting calls for stricter enforcement. For homeowners and businesses, obtaining a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) is mandatory for property transfers, insurance validity, and regulatory adherence. In 2026, with regulatory reforms in infrastructure and energy, international
Trinasolar, a global leader in smart solar and energy storage solutions, has been awarded the Silver Medal in EcoVadis 2025 Sustainability Rating for its excellent performance in environment, labour and human rights, ethics, and sustainable procurement. With an overall score of 72/100, Trinasolar ranks among the top 12% of over 150,000 companies assessed worldwide. The company excelled particularly in environment (79 points) and sustainable procurement (76 points), underscoring its ongoing leadership in sustainable development and supply chain management. “For eleven consecutive years, Trinasolar has participated in the EcoVadis sustainability rating, demonstrating our enduring commitment to sustainability and transparency. As the silver medal this year honours only the top 15% of
Erick Wessels, sales director of RS South Africa.
Jaycee Thompson, category director for cables and connectors at RS Group. “Bringing L-com’s high-quality portfolio to our customers is a strategic addition to our range that reflects our ongoing commitment to innovation, quality, and customer choice.” “Partnering with L-com to bring their trusted connectivity solutions to our customers across EMEA and APAC is a strategic move that aligns with RS South Africa’s commitment to delivering innovation, reliability, and choice. This collaboration enhances our ability to support industrial customers with the high-performance products they need to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market,” says Erick Wessels, sales director at RS South Africa. L-com’s products are available now on the RS South Africa website.
Enquiries: www.trinasolar.com
As the silver medal this year honours only the top 15% of companies worldwide, this recognition underscores our continued dedication to lasting value for our customers. - Zhang Hongzhi, Trinasolar
Enquiries: https://za.rs-online.com
MCE Electric explores the critical role of compliance in the South African electrical industry for 2026
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contractors must navigate these standards to capitalise on opportunities. The benefits are multifaceted: enhanced safety reduces accidents, while efficient designs lower energy costs and support net-zero goals. For professionals, staying updated bolsters reputation and competitiveness. Amid challenges like compliance inspections by the Department of Employment and Labour, tools like agreements between bodies such as the Electrical Contractors Association of SA and the Institute of Plumbing SA promote best practices. In essence, 2026 demands vigilance in South Africa’s electrical landscape. Embracing SANS updates and broader compliance fosters a resilient, innovative industry, safeguarding lives and driving sustainable progress. “MCE Electric is proud to be at the forefront of providing SANS- and NRCS-compliant electrical supplies in the industry. Conforming to these regulations and educating those within the industry, as well as the domestic sectors, is a top priority for MCE Electric, and we will strive to combat the influx of illegal importers and suppliers within the industry,” - MCE.
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SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS
JANUARY 2026
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