John Thompson, a division of ACTOM and South Africa’s leading provider of industrial energy solutions, has announced a strategic partnership with Berkeley Energy Corporate Solutions (BECS). BECS specializes in developing and supplying biomass energy projects. Together, they aim to accelerate the deployment of reliable, renewable steam solutions for industrial customers across South Africa and Africa.
This collaboration combines John Thompson’s extensive engineering expertise and manufacturing capacity with BECS’ innovative approach to sourcing sustainable biomass fuel. The partnership is designed to help industries decarbonize their operations, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and meet the rising demand for affordable, renewable energy solutions.
While the partnership is non-exclusive—allowing BECS to pursue other projects independently—John Thompson will work with BECS on suitable opportunities. These involve funding, development support, or scalable energy-as-a-service models. This approach offers clients a comprehensive, end-to-end solution that simplifies transitioning to biomass-based energy.
Industries such as food and beverage, pulp and paper, chemicals, textiles, and mining are under increasing pressure to switch to cleaner fuels. The partnership provides a low-carbon steam solution based on sustainably sourced biomass feedstock. Under long-term heat offtake agreements, the system is designed, financed, built, and operated on behalf of clients. They only pay for the steam they consume. This addresses two main barriers to biomass adoption: high upfront costs and technical complexity.
What makes this partnership unique is BECS’ strategic approach to sourcing biomass. The company works directly with agricultural and forestry producers to secure long-term, sustainable, and traceable feedstock contracts. This ensures a reliable, cost-effective fuel supply. Their focus on renewable biomass sets them apart from other energy providers.
Initial projects are underway in South Africa, with plans to expand into Zambia, Kenya, Mozambique, and Ghana. These solutions are designed to be scalable and tailored to industrial needs.
