Power-One Inc., a Camarillo manufacturer of solar power components, is continuing its expansion into the South African market with the completion of a 35-kilowatt project. The roof-top project was commissioned by a process automation company in Gauteng, South Africa, and was installed by Romano Group, a Cape Town engineering firm that specializes in photovoltaic projects. Power-One makes inverters that convert solar power from direct current to alternating current usable by customers. “Romano has built a reputation for PV energy in South Africa based on its extensive know-how in this area,” said Leonard Botti, director of business development at Power-One, in a statement. “We are already looking forward to our next joint project.” Power-One is set to be acquired later this year by Swiss engineering firm ABB Ltd., which last week also announced a plan to expand inverter production in South Africa. The company said it plans to add a new inverter production line at its existing manufacturing plant in Johannesburg. “The region’s energy needs are set to grow with economic expansion and with South Africa looking to benefit from its abundance of sunshine we will be in an even better position to serve our local customers,” said Ulrich Spiesshofer, head of ABB’s Discrete Automation and Motion division, in a statement. Shares of Power-One closed down 1 cent to $6.33 on the Nasdaq.
