29 January 2025,
Schneider Electric, the global leader in energy management and automation, and recognised sustainability leader and Enactus, an international NGO committed to inspiring students to make a difference through entrepreneurial action, proudly announce the culmination of the 2024 Energy Transition Battery Innovation Challenge.
Conceived by a South African Schneider Electric engineer and funded by the Schneider Electric Foundation, this initiative empowers youth to develop innovative battery solutions addressing local energy challenges while fostering community impact and sustainability.
Furthermore, the programme forms part of the Schneider Electric Foundation’s New Skills for the Future and Innovation initiative, engaging Enactus teams from Zimbabwe, South Africa, Kenya and Nigeria.
Launched in February 2024, the challenge aimed to cultivate socially responsible leaders and change agents among youth. Teams received training from industry experts, participated in workshops, and engaged youth in communities to develop innovative solutions that combine technical ingenuity with environmental and social sustainability.
Winners from participating countries
Nigeria
Winning team: Federal University of Technology, Owerri
Project: MAX Battery
This innovative solution regulates battery temperature and integrates IoT-enabled remote monitoring to enhance battery lifespan and reliability. It targets renewable energy providers, electric vehicle manufacturers, and areas with unstable power supplies.
The MAX Battery project aims to reduce battery waste, supports critical energy storage, and lowers costs for businesses and consumers, driving significant environmental and economic benefits.
Kenya
Winning team: Strathmore University
Project: AfterLife
Addressing the rising challenge of lithium-ion battery waste, the team introduced second-life applications for energy storage and battery refurbishment. They also proposed recycling battery components using hydrometallurgical methods.
The project aims to create job opportunities, reduces electronic waste, and promotes sustainable practices through public awareness and B2B partnerships.
South Africa
Winning team: Central University of Technology
Project: Kratos Batteries
The team developed a battery that uses recyclable materials, such as polyethylene and polycarbonate, for its separator and casing. A standout feature of the project is its AI-powered battery management system, which employs machine learning (ML) models to optimise charging cycles, extend battery lifespan, and monitor the state of charge and health in real time.
Zimbabwe
Winning team: University of Zimbabwe
Project: 7EN Battery
The project is an innovative, smart self-regulating battery system designed to enhance energy
storage solutions. It features automatic thermal regulation, an Intelligent Battery Management System (IBMS), a State-of-Charge indicator, and the ability to charge multiple battery types, optimising efficiency and extending battery life.
Carina van Zyl, Corporate Citizenship Leader for Anglophone Africa at Schneider Electric, remarks: “The Energy Transition Battery Innovation Challenge underscores the Schneider Electric Foundation’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders who will drive sustainable solutions in the energy field. By combining innovation with impact, these students are truly making a real difference in their communities and beyond.”
Says Letitia de Wet, CEO & Country Director of Enactus South Africa: “This challenge undoubtedly exemplified the power of collaboration between students, academic professionals, and business leaders.
“Together, they have created truly remarkable battery solutions. In addition, the partnership created a unique opportunity for our students to connect with experienced business leaders who were committed to helping them unlock their potential, develop critical leadership skills, and gain valuable insights into the world of business and sustainability.”
ends
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