Globally, there is drive to upgrade and expand power utilities and infrastructure networks as demand for electricity grows. It is estimated that the world will spend some US$16.5-trillion on this expansion over the next 25 years. Africa's portion of this spend is estimated at 7% of this total a sum of US$1.15-billion dollars, or R7-trillion. South Africa is at present upgrading and expanding its infrastructure, with investment from government, Eskom and the municipal authorities. Eskom alone has a 5 year plan in terms of which it will spend over R460-billion on electricity infrastructure. Through its various subsidiaries, Powertech offers a wide range of products and services for the Power Infrastructure industry.

South Africa's mining industry is a cornerstone of the country's thriving economy. With large deposits of precious metals and stones, base minerals and coal, South Africa is home to a diverse mining market with many power needs. Historically a major supplier of power products and services to this industry, Powertech continues to enjoy strong relationships with the major mining houses, positioning the company well for further expansion through the wide range of products and services offered through its subsidiaries.

The availability of high-quality and low-cost telecommunications services is considered a cornerstone for the development of nations. However, Africa is lagging the world in terms of teledensity. With 13% of the global population, the continent has just 3.7% of all fixed and mobile subscribers, making it the least wired of any region. With telecommunications considered a strategic cornerstone for the empowerment of the African people, and the growing interest in telecommunications is apparent. With its great distances, low population densities and lack of logistics, lends itself to investment in mobile technology.

The building and construction industry in South Africa has experienced enormous growth in the past ten years. This buoyancy is expected to continue on the back of a strong economy and low interest rates. Government has also pledged R42-billion to help low-income borrowers to secure a home of their own by 2008. Through its various divisions, Powertech offers a full range of engineered products and services whcich cover the entire construction industry. From residential to commercial buildings, and from township reticulation projects to golf estates, Powertech delivers the necessary electrical and electronic equipment.

The South African government is investing billions of Rands to upgrade road, rail and ports infrastructure to improve logistics capabilities to compete within a global market, Transport utility Spoornet is set to invest some R50-million in 5 years as it upgrades and expands infrastructure and invests in new rolling stock. The National Treasury has set aside some R3-billion for public transport and infrastructure improvements ahead of the 2010 World Cup Soccer tournament. Additional opportunities in this sector are presented by the Gautrain project, which is expected to spend some R10-R20-billion in the next 5 years. Powertech is ideally equipped to meet specific needs of this industry through its subsidiary companies.