South African businessman Mario Maio’s ACDC Dynamics acquires battery firm

South African businessman Mario Maio, through his company ACDC Dynamics (Pty) Ltd, has acquired Blue Nova Energy (Pty) Ltd from JSE-listed Reunert Limited. The deal, cleared by competition authorities with conditions, gives ACDC a stronger foothold in the lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO₄) battery storage market.

Blue Nova joins ACDC Dynamics

Blue Nova, previously jointly owned by Reunert and Solguard (Pty) Ltd, produces battery packs, inverters, low-voltage switchgear, and other components for energy storage systems. The company was already a supplier to ACDC and other distributors before the acquisition, making the transition a natural step for both businesses.

Reunert, which saw strong battery demand at the height of load-shedding, said sales had slowed as power cuts became less severe across South Africa. Demand for residential and small commercial systems remained modest, while competition in large-scale storage increased. “These factors led the board to decide on selling Blue Nova, as it no longer fits the group’s strategic and financial plans,” Reunert said in its interim financial statement.

The company reported a 5 percent drop in revenue to R6.2 billion ($350.95 million) and a 16 percent fall in operating profit to R585 million ($33.11 million). Free cash flow declined to R211 million ($11.94 million), though Reunert still declared an interim dividend of 90 cents per share. 

ACDC expands in lithium-ion market

For Maio and ACDC Dynamics—one of South Africa’s leading manufacturers, importers, and distributors of electrical and electronic products—the deal secures direct access to Blue Nova’s manufacturing base. It also strengthens ACDC’s retail and distribution reach in the fast-growing lithium-ion battery segment.

The acquisition comes as South Africa enjoys a brief pause from rolling blackouts, with Eskom restoring more than 1,175MW of generating capacity and another 1,850MW expected back on the grid soon. While this has eased pressure on households and businesses, it has also softened demand for small-scale backup solutions.

Family-owned ACDC invests in power future

Founded and still controlled by the Maio family, ACDC Dynamics is steering toward vertical integration by moving beyond distribution into battery manufacturing. Alongside this shift, the group is investing in retail expansion, warehousing, and e-commerce platforms. These efforts aim to reduce dependence on outside suppliers, improve margins, and create stronger direct links with installers and end-users.

By drawing on Blue Nova’s technology, ACDC hopes to serve the growing need for reliable energy storage in both residential and commercial markets. The acquisition positions the company to benefit from South Africa’s gradual move toward renewable power while preparing for future growth once demand for battery storage picks up again.