Power solutions with solar innovation for the global market

By OEM Update Editorial June 5, 2024 6:44 pm IST

Manohar Suvarna, Vice President of International Business and Product Management at Connectwell, ponders upon their offerings for the solar and power industry to embody sustainability. 

What are the key offerings of Connectwell?

Our industry focuses on power, and we use both conventional and renewable sources. Connectwell products are widespread in power generation, transmission, and distribution. You will find our products wherever there is power—whether through wires and cables requiring terminal blocks or in sectors like rail transportation, industrial automation, process automation, and broader infrastructure. 

Please brief us about Connectwell’s global presence. 

Connectwell has three wholly owned subsidiaries – Brazil, San Paolo; Shanghai, China; and Croatia, Zagreb. We have sales offices in Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia. We have over 300 channel partners as points of contact with customers. Our global reach extends to over 85 countries across all continents.

What quality standards and testing procedures does Connectwell employ?

Connectwell possesses ISO certifications for ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001, along with IEC, UL, VDE, and Lean Six Sigma principles. This covers core systems, environmental practices, and occupational health and safety. These certifications pertain to our product line and perspectives. Connectwell products undergo testing and validation based on IEC and UL standards, with over 15 foreign product approvals. The terminal blocks undergo more than 40 rigorous tests facilitated by an in-house UL-approved laboratory. We have an in-house laboratory that is UL-approved. Quality is a way of life that promotes connection.

How do you deploy automation for your manufacturing processes? 

Fully automated manufacturing processes reflect excellence. We utilise integrated manufacturing automation solutions to operate injection moulding plants and metal forming machines sourced from German and Japanese manufacturers. Additionally, we have a fully automated warehouse to ease end-to-end operations per customers’ demands. 

What sustainable initiatives is Connectwell implementing to reduce carbon footprints across its manufacturing locations?

Connectwell is transitioning to green energy by utilising solar power in all new and existing manufacturing locations. The company has set forth ambitious growth objectives and sustainability targets. We strive to diminish carbon footprints and advocate for sustainable practices. Even our supply chain is focused on minimising carbon footprint. Connectwell is implementing Total Plant Maintenance (TPM) to ensure business and process excellence while promoting sustainability in a broader context.

Around 40 percent of the company’s energy is generated by solar. To create a greener environment, we are planning to add new manufacturing locations from Day Zero. The new facilities will feature 100 LEDs and solar water recycling across the building. 

The global shortage of skilled workforce is affecting the international community. How is Connectwell addressing these challenges? 

Connectwell prioritises its human capital, investing in technology and workforce development. Our audit team ensures that each individual has a well-formed HR plan, focusing on KRAs and KPIs. HR at Connectwell tailors training programs to each employee, ensuring their skills align with customer needs.

Our team collaborates with various colleges and institutes at master’s levels. We also have customised programs across all levels. The significance of training is highlighted from the junior to the management level, with multiple interventions to ensure career and competency development across levels.

What are your plans for expansions and acquisitions? 

We have long-term planning processes that seep into our revenue roadmap. We focus on organic growth, customer acquisitions, and geographic expansion. We are an Indian company with a strong position in the Indian market, and now our exports and international business are also experiencing significant growth in the global scenario. We are currently seeking potential acquisitions.