EVENT OVERVIEW
The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) sponsored a Reverse Trade Mission (RTM) for a delegation from South Africa's energy sector to visit the U.S. The aim of this RTM was to promote energy security across South Africa’s municipalities, share best practices in IPP procurement, and improve municipal management of the energy across generation, transmission, and storage. The RTM itinerary included a Business Briefing, Reception, and site visits in Raleigh, NC, Charlotte, NC, and Denver, CO.
EVENT SUMMARY
The Wester Group (TWG) worked with USTDA to organize the RTM. It took place from October 20 - 26, 2024, with stops in Raleigh and Charlotte, NC, and Denver, CO. The delegation included 13 representatives from South African municipalities and organizations. During the RTM, the delegation met with U.S. municipal energy sector stakeholders, U.S. manufacturers and suppliers of municipal energy technologies and services, and discussed opportunities for future activities.
The Raleigh, NC, portion included a Business Briefing and meetings with Innovation Force, Varidx, Smarttrak LLC, the North Carolina Public Staff of the Utilities Commission, and Quanta Technology. Stakeholders noted that this region of North Carolina was perfect for the Business Briefing given the hub of innovation with the Research Triangle. The Briefing outlined USTDA’s work and partnership with South Africa and the opportunities for U.S. companies to get involved. The Briefing provided a setting for each member of the delegation to present from their respective organization, showcasing future opportunities. Following the delegate presentations there was an engaging Q&A session. The Business Briefing concluded with a networking luncheon.
The Charlotte, NC, portion included meetings with Honeywell and Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI). The Denver, CO, portion included a reception and meetings with National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Dell, CSDCyber, Uplight, Western Area Power Administration, and Platte River Power Authority.
TWG SERVICES PROVIDED: A/V & Multimedia Services, Budget Management, Catering, Dining & Food & Beverage Management, Venue Sourcing, Contract Negotiation, Hotel Contract Negotiation & Room Block Management, Interpretation & Translation Services, Attendee Communication, Itinerary Development, Travel & Transportation Management, Logistics Management, Material Production, Registration & On-Site Coordination, Site Visits & Receptions, Website Development
