China Southern Power Grid Enhances Energy Cooperation with Africa through Global South Initiative

On November 13, 2025, the Global South Media and Think Tank Forum's China-Africa Partnership Conference commenced in Johannesburg, South Africa, focusing on the essential collaboration between China and Africa in the energy sector. A core highlight of the event was a presentation from a representative of China Southern Power Grid Co., Ltd. (CSG), who shared insights on the company’s endeavors to foster energy cooperation across various nations in the Global South.

Creating Sustainable Energy Solutions

Sun Shengjun, the Project General Manager at the Africa and Europe Regional Development Department of CSG, was at the forefront of discussions regarding CSG's work in Africa. With a specific focus on Cairo, Egypt, Sun detailed how his team tackled persistent issues within the local power grid, such as high energy losses and inefficient operational performance. The journey began in 2023 when Sun and his team arrived in Cairo to implement solutions that would aid in reducing distribution network losses and improving overall operational efficacy.

CSG introduced its set of operational measures, popularly hailed as “CSG Solutions.” These solutions are not only scalable but also designed to be adaptable and replicable across different contexts, indicating CSG’s commitment to provide tailored interventions that meet local demands.

Developing Local Talent

One crucial aspect of CSG's approach is the emphasis on building local expertise and skills. Recognizing that sustainable energy solutions cannot rely solely on external support, Sun highlighted the importance of developing a skilled local workforce. CSG has initiated targeted training programs coupled with knowledge-sharing sessions. This ensures that local technicians and engineers are well-equipped to manage and maintain the energy systems effectively, thus fostering self-sufficiency in energy management.

By connecting advanced technological practices with local operating realities, CSG aims to create a synergy that aligns its mature technical systems with the nuanced needs of the local utilities. This comprehensive approach not only prepares the local landscape for better energy management but also helps in laying a solid foundation for long-term partnerships and continuous engagement in the energy sector.

A Partnership Built on Mutual Benefit

Sun emphasized that CSG’s vision of energy cooperation is not a unilateral endeavor. Instead, it is a dynamic partnership rooted in mutual benefits and shared growth. The underlying philosophy that drives CSG’s operations in Africa embraces the idea that cooperation between China and African nations should transcend mere transactional relations; it aims to cultivate a collaborative spirit conducive to sharing insights, strategies, and technological advancements.

Moving forward, CSG is poised to reinforce its commitment to leveraging its technological prowess and management expertise. The company’s ongoing efforts are focused on deepening China-Africa energy collaborations and extending its initiatives across the broader Global South framework. By aligning development goals with the energy sector's needs, CSG seeks to contribute to a more sustainable, equitable energy future for all parties involved.

Looking Ahead

As CSG sets its sights on future expansions in the energy sector within Africa and other Global South nations, the emphasis will remain on fostering partnerships that are enshrined in equity and mutual accomplishments. The commitment to training, cultural sensitivity, and accessibility will remain paramount as the company aspires to stand as a pillar of support for energy advancements across various developing regions.

In conclusion, the collaboration at the Global South Forum marks a significant step towards establishing a robust framework for cooperation that benefits both China and African nations. The ongoing dialogues and partnerships formed at this conference are sure to yield positive outcomes as both sides navigate the critical challenges facing the energy sector today.