High Voltage & Short Circuit Testing Laboratories in Economic Growth of African Region: A Prospect for Prosperity

- Several countries promote national innovation alongside indigenous manufacturing through institutional structures, ultimately supporting their economic growth. Changes in the international economic environment warrant using contemporary technologies to facilitate local manufacturers. The contributions of labs to indigenous technological capacities have different impacts on economic sectors. In the overall economic scenario, the energy sector is the backbone of the country's growth and is fed through high-power equipment. For an uninterrupted power supply, the reliability and innovation of high-voltage (HV) equipment are essential, accomplished by electrical testing laboratories (labs). Presently, the available labs in the African region do not sufficiently meet international standards and the commitment of local manufacturers. These labs are crucial for economic growth and raising living standards. We have studied the existing labs in the African region and are acquainted with various tests as per IEC requirements. A strategic assessment is considered using SWOT analysis, wherein opportunities are compared with threats and strengths with weaknesses. The financial analysis presents the revenue level for a given investment, which indicates the addition of multiple testing portfolios for the lab and demands government involvement for collaboration and sustainability in the initial development period.