Tutorial 1
Title:
Lithium-ion Battery System Safety – Mr. Reuben Mabeo, Senior Battery Energy Storage Testing Technologist; Dr. Xandri van Niekerk, Professor Ernst Ferg – Melson Mandela University.

Abstract:
This tutorial provides a comprehensive overview of battery system safety, covering battery architecture, hazard identification, thermal runaway mechanisms, Battery Management Systems (BMS), and engineering controls used to prevent and mitigate failures. Participants will also gain insight into international safety standards, testing, and validation methods.

8:30 – Session 1
10:45 – Break
11:00 – Session 2
12:30 – End

Tutorial 2
Title:
BESS and EV Fires – Hazards each first responder should consider – Jan Swart, Ph.D., CVFI, CFEI, JCS Failure Analysis PLLC.

Abstract:
This tutorial by Jan Swart, Ph.D., CFEI, CVFI, an expert in lithium-ion battery fires and investigations, prepares first responders for the distinct hazards of BESS and EV incidents. It addresses thermal runaway mechanisms, toxic off-gassing, explosion risks, stranded energy with potential reignition, and suppression challenges, while contrasting battery chemistries and emphasizing indicators of failure, proper PPE use, defensive tactics, and environmental concerns. Attendees gain practical guidance on scene assessments, pre-incident planning, and safe response strategies to enhance safety amid the rising prevalence of battery technologies.

13:00 – Session 1
14:45 – Break
15:00 – Session 2
16:45 – End

Session Chair: Ben Bladergroen
Policy, Incentives & Financing: Unlocking Investment in South Africa’s Battery Economy
8:30 – 10:45

Session Chair: Ernst Ferg
Lithium-ion Battery System Safety and Battery Standards and Standards Development
11:00 – 12:40

Session Chair: Renesh Thakoordeen
Electric Mobility, Lithium-Ion Battery Demand, Localisation, and Local Battery Supply Chain Development
13:40 – 14:45

15:10 – Break

Session Chair: Gerhard Swart
Grid-Scale Energy Storage, The Intelligent Grid and Accelerating Renewable Integration
15:10 – 16:20

Closing
17:00 – Raffle and Networking event – Wine tasting and platters

Session Chair: Jan Swart
South Africa’s Lithium-Ion Battery Value Chain: From Critical Minerals to Local Manufacturing
8:30 – 10:30

Session Chair: Xandri van Niekerk
Building a Circular Economy for Lithium-Ion in Africa, Second-Life Batteries and Recycling
10:55 – 11:20

Academia and Training
11:45 – 12:35

Session Chair: Ben Bladergroen
Next-Generation Lithium-Ion Technologies & Alternatives: Sodium-Ion, LFP, Solid-State and African Innovation
13:35 – 14:25

Closing
15:00 – Site visit