June 2025, Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm.
Two local female electricians have graduated as certified Wind Turbine Service Technicians, as part of Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm’s inaugural programme to help increase the number of young people skilled in this field and support the expanding renewable energy industry. Developed and facilitated by the South African Renewable Energy Technology Centre (SARETEC), the programme prioritises female youth participation and aims to expand trainees’ access to employment opportunities within the green economy.
The graduation ceremony, which took place earlier this month, was a proud moment for the graduates, Kanyisa Goveni and Qaliswa Ndleleni, and for Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm — especially as they prepare to enter a field that has historically been male-dominated.
“While our aim is to address the skills gap within the industry, the fact that both of our graduates are women gives us immense pride. This is a traditionally male-dominated field, and both Kanyisa and Qaliswa have shown that they’re more than capable of helping to change that stereotype,” said Nonini Makhothe, Economic Development Specialist for Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm.
The training programme combined theoretical learning with intensive practical experience on site, facilitated by Siemens Gamesa. Each trainee was assigned a dedicated mentor for the two-month period and were required to log their day-to-day tasks for review by the Siemens Gamesa site manager. These task logs, once reviewed and signed off, formed a critical part of the assessment process and ultimately enabled the two trainees to graduate with the nationally accredited Occupational Certificate: Wind Turbine Service Technician, issued by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO).
“The most valuable part of the programme was the hands-on training, where I worked on actual turbines, troubleshooting issues and learning from experienced instructors. This experience has equipped me with the confidence and skills I need to participate constructively in the renewable energy industry,” said Kanyisa Goveni.
Historically, 80% of SARETEC graduates have secured jobs in the sector, which suggests that these two newly qualified technicians are well-positioned to attract strong interest from the industry.
Looking ahead, Qaliswa added, “I’m excited to start my career in the renewable energy industry. My plan is to secure a job with a reputable company, gain hands-on experience, and continuously learn and grow in the field. Long-term, I hope to advance into leadership or specialised roles, contributing to the growth of sustainable energy solutions and reducing South Africa’s carbon footprint.”
Applications for the programme’s second intake opened last month and received over 300 submissions, reflecting the growing interest among local youth. After a thorough interview process, four new trainees — Siyamthanda Ngculu (Humansdorp), Chuma Lugogwana (Jeffreys Bay), Simanyene Blouw (Humansdorp), and Lungelwa Magobiyana (Humansdorp) — have been selected for the 2025/2026 programme.
June 2025, Boshof Solar Power.
More than a decade after finishing high school, Boshof local Bernice Tshiamo Segopolo (30) is realising her dream of pursuing a career in law, having recently been awarded a community bursary by Boshof Solar Power. Her successful application was supported by a collaborative effort between the solar plant and the Tokologo Local Municipality, aimed at encouraging more local youth to apply.
Bernice has begun a three-year Bachelor of Commerce degree in Law through STADIO Higher Education, taking the first steps towards a career she hopes will not only create opportunities for herself but also inspire others in her community.
“Boshof is a small community, and there are not many people working in this field. I want to be the first to introduce something like this. I hope to one day start my own business and show others in the community that it’s possible. I want to empower my community,” said Bernice.
Passionate about the transformative impact of education, Bernice added, “I believe if you have an education, it is empowering. It teaches you to reach for the sky and shows you that there are no limits. Economic hardship is widespread in our community, but education gives you a platform for a better life. It makes it possible to breathe.”
In addition to funding bursaries, the wind farm partnered with the municipality to support community members in accessing higher education. This included assistance with applications and document preparation—Bernice being one of the beneficiaries. As a result, the highest number of bursary recipients to date was achieved, with four new awards granted.
“We’ve seen first-hand how motivated young people in Boshof are to continue their studies—especially when faced with limited employment opportunities,” said Noluthando Mazibuko, Economic Development Specialist at Boshof Solar Power. “With local business activity on the decline, many youth feel disheartened. Initiatives like this bursary programme provide a pathway forward, offering both direction and hope.”
High unemployment levels in the Free State underscore the urgent need for sustainable development and education initiatives like this one to empower youth and create long-term opportunities.
The Boshof Solar Power bursary programme adopts a holistic approach to student support—prioritising financial need, academic potential, gender, and geographic proximity—by focusing on beneficiaries living within a 50km radius of the solar plant. It exemplifies the solar plant’s commitment to local community development and the empowerment of youth through education.
June 2025, Soutpan Solar Power.
Mohlatlego Leshaba (35), from Indermark village near Bochum, is an intern at Soutpan Solar Power, applying her N4–N6 electrical engineering qualifications and passion for science. Working at the solar plant near her home, she is gaining valuable hands-on experience in the renewable energy sector.
Drawn to the field of solar and renewable energy, she says her fascination comes from how it combines science, sustainability, and global relevance. “Solar energy transforms sunlight into electricity using technology that keeps improving in its efficacy and accessibility,” she explains. “It’s exciting to be part of something with such a wide-reaching impact.”
Since joining the Soutpan Solar Power team, her daily work involves reviewing job schedules, conducting system installations, and carrying out maintenance activities. She has gained experience in photovoltaic and tracker maintenance, DC upgrades, combiner box servicing, and thermal scanning to identify potential connection issues. She continues to deepen her skills in wiring, mounting panels, and inverter setups.
“What surprised me most is how much problem-solving is involved,” she shares. “Every installation requires careful planning—adjusting for structure angles, managing solar panel shading and overcoming wiring challenges. It keeps the work interesting and mentally engaging.”
As a woman in the renewable energy space, Mohlatlego recognises the importance of visibility and representation. “It means a lot to be part of a growing, impactful industry where women are still underrepresented,” she says. “I know my work contributes to a more sustainable future, but it’s also about helping to break stereotypes about who belongs in technical and field-based roles.”
Like her counterparts placed at other sites across the programme, she values the opportunity for hands-on training and being part of a team — an experience that has helped her develop her skills and take an important first step in her career.
“Stay curious, don’t hesitate to ask questions, follow safety protocols closely, and be proactive. The more hands-on you are, the more you’ll gain from the experience,” concluded Mohlatlego.
June 2025, Droogfontein Solar Power and De Aar Solar Power
South Africa’s renewable energy sector continues to create valuable opportunities for young professionals, providing real-world experience and developing the technical skills needed to strengthen the country’s energy workforce. The Globeleq South Africa Internship Programme is one such initiative, offering recent graduates the chance to work at utility-scale solar facilities such as Droogfontein Solar Power and De Aar Solar Power.
At Droogfontein, 23-year-old Thato Matsoso, who holds a Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Electrical Engineering from the Central University of Technology, has been gaining hands-on exposure to the day-to-day operations of the solar plant. “With my interest in electrical engineering, I was drawn to the solar industry, particularly because of the innovative technology used to generate electricity,” says Thato. “The ongoing developments in panel efficiency, energy storage, and smart grid technology make this a fast-moving industry that I’m excited to be part of.”
Meanwhile, at De Aar Solar Power, fellow intern Sipho Masinga is actively involved in site activities including junction box switching, fault finding on module strings, inverter resets, performance monitoring, and module replacement. One of the surprising insights he has gained is the efficiency of solar panels, even without direct sunlight—a testament to the innovation within the sector.
Reflecting on his experience, Thato offers advice to other young professionals: “If you want to break into the renewable energy industry, never hesitate to ask questions and keep engaging with your colleagues. That’s how you grow and build your knowledge.”
These internships form part of the solar plant’s broader commitment to nurturing local talent and contributing to the growth of the country’s renewable energy sector. By offering young engineers’ direct exposure to large-scale solar plant operations, the programme equips them with the practical skills and confidence needed to pursue long-term careers in the field.
“We believe that both Thato and Sipho’s experience as interns highlight the importance of practical training and the vital role internship programmes play in shaping the future of our renewable energy workforce,” concludes Sulana de Jager, Asset Manager at Droogfontein Solar Power and De Aar Solar Power.
June 2025, De Aar Solar Power.
As the renewable energy sector continues to grow, so too does the need for skilled professionals with practical, on-the-ground experience. Sipho Masinga (35), is one such individual currently advancing his career through the Globeleq South Africa Internship Programme at De Aar Solar Power – gaining hands-on experience in the daily operations of one of the country’s large-scale solar facilities.
With a National Diploma in Electrical Engineering (High Voltage) and N2–N6 National Certificates in Electrical Engineering (Low Voltage), Sipho joined the programme with both academic and technical training. His decision to pursue a path in solar energy is rooted in a clear vision of the future.
“Solar energy is the future—not only globally, but especially here in South Africa,” says Sipho. “As we work towards cleaner energy solutions, solar offers one of the most reliable and environmentally friendly options available to us. It’s exciting to be part of that progress.”
During his time at De Aar Solar Power, Sipho has become actively involved in a wide range of site activities. These include weekly plant presentations, annual junction box inspections, e-housing and yard maintenance, vegetation control, and both corrective and preventive work orders.
“I’m learning from experienced mentors and being trusted with real responsibilities,” he explains. “Each task helps deepen my understanding of how a solar power facility operates, from system performance to safety and maintenance.”
One of the surprising insights Sipho has gained is the efficiency of solar panels, even without direct sunlight—a testament to the innovation within the sector.
Looking ahead, he encourages other young professionals to consider similar opportunities.
“My advice to future interns is to build a strong technical foundation, be curious, ask questions, and learn from the people around you. The experience you gain in this environment is invaluable.”
Sipho’s internship forms part of De Aar Solar Power’s broader commitment to developing local talent and strengthening South Africa’s renewable energy workforce through real-world learning and exposure to utility-scale clean energy operations.
“We believe that Sipho’s experience as an intern demonstrates the value of practical training and the vital role that internship programmes can play in shaping South Africa’s renewable energy workforce,” concluded Sulana de Jager, Asset Manager at De Aar Solar Power.
June 2025, Klipheuwel Wind Farm.
Benefiting from a sector-specific skills development programme aimed at growing the country’s pool of young wind turbine technicians, Bonga Kosani (33), from Riviersonderend, has graduated as one of this year’s successful trainees. Having completed his training at Klipheuwel Wind Farm in Caledon, following the 2-month workplace experiential component of the programme, he is now a certified Wind Turbine Service Technician—well-positioned to pursue a career in the rapidly growing wind energy sector, which faces a strong demand for skilled technical professionals.
“We embrace our responsibility to contribute to stronger, more resilient communities. Alongside our various economic development projects, we are pleased to be able to help provide skills training opportunities, enabling access to the renewable energy workforce as well,” said Nonini Makhothe, Economic Development Specialist for Klipheuwel Wind Farm.
With a background in electrical work and hands-on experience as an assistant wind turbine technician, Bonga joined the programme with a clear career vision – to advance his skills, earn formal recognition and certification, and position himself to pursue new opportunities within the growing renewable energy sector.
“Bonga entered the programme with practical knowledge and left with a formal qualification that now enables him to confidently compete for advanced roles within the industry,” added Makhothe.
The comprehensive curriculum combined six months of theoretical and practical training with two months of workplace-based experience, which Bonga completed on-site at Klipheuwel Wind Farm.
“It’s been a challenging and rewarding journey, and I feel well-prepared to start contributing to the renewable energy industry. I’m looking forward to getting out in the field, continuing to learn, and being part of something that makes a real difference,” said Bonga Kosani.
Having supported this programme for the last 2 years running, the 2025/6 intake has confirmed three new trainees from the nearby communities, namely: Nomabathu Siyasanga and Neoentle Maqetela, both from Caledon, and Nozuko Mjeje from Grabouw.
Reflecting on his time on site at Klipheuwel Wind Farm, Bonga added, “I enjoyed my time at Klipheuwel Wind Farm. The technicians were amazing to work with – they were always ready to show me the wind turbine operations and answer all my questions. It was inspiring to learn from such experienced technicians.”
Klipheuwel Wind Farm’s investment in technical training forms part of its broader commitment to local economic development. The programme specifically targets youth from surrounding communities, including Botrivier, Caledon, Grabouw, Genadendal, Tesselaarsdal, Riviersonderend, and Villiersdorp.
May 2025, Klipheuwel Wind Farm.
A development initiative in the Western Cape’s Theewaterskloof Municipality is gaining momentum thanks to increased support from Klipheuwel Wind Farm, which has committed additional funding to expand skills development for young entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Now in its tenth year, the Biggest Deal Plus programme equips unemployed youth with vital business skills through six weeks of training in areas such as business planning, financial management, and marketing. In 2024/2025, Klipheuwel Wind Farm joined the initiative for the first time as a funding partner, working alongside the Theewaterskloof Municipality, the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA), and Standard Bank.
Recognising a need to strengthen post-programme support, Klipheuwel Wind Farm has provided additional funding to ensure the top five participants from the 2024 programme receive accredited business development training. This training—delivered through Elgin Community College—began in April 2025 and is currently underway.
“We believe that investing in skills enhances productivity and business resilience,” said Nonini Makhothe, Economic Development Specialist at Klipheuwel Wind Farm. “Our support aims to help local businesses grow, create jobs, and meet the needs of their communities—without forcing people to seek opportunity elsewhere.”
All beneficiaries identified a need for deeper training in business fundamentals such as financial management, sales, and marketing. These gaps have been key barriers to business sustainability and profitability. The specialised training aims to close those gaps and foster long-term success.
Stalin Govender, Senior Development Officer: LED at Theewaterskloof Municipality, acknowledged the critical role played by local businesses, “The Biggest Deal Plus programme is an essential platform for youth and small business development in our region. Support from partners like Klipheuwel Wind Farm strengthens the initiative’s reach and impact, helping us build a more resilient local economy.”
The programme invited applications in two categories—New Businesses and Existing Businesses—and the winners, announced in mid-2024, now stand to benefit from both the core six-week training and Klipheuwel Wind Farm’s extended support.
By forming constructive partnerships, the wind farm has effectively enhanced the impact of its economic development funding and met its own development goals in a way that is locally relevant and impactful. Furthermore, having identified a specific gap in the programme, the need for accredited business training has since been addressed through targeted funding, reinforcing support for local enterprise and sustainable growth.
May 2025, Soutpan Solar Power.
Barnen Village, Limpopo – Evelyn Setati, a 35-year-old agripreneur and owner of MBK SBL Projects, is cultivating change in her community with the support of Soutpan Solar Power’s Youth Entrepreneurship Development Programme. Her chilli farming business, based in Barnen Village near Bochum, is one of 17 youth-led agricultural enterprises receiving structured development support aimed at promoting local employment, sustainability, and food security, while also creating opportunities to supply well-known national household brands.
This small farming enterprise currently supplies the Polokwane and Tshwane Fresh Produce markets, with aspirations to secure formal supply agreements with national buyers such as Nando’s and Robertson’s. The business operates on 1 hectare of a 500-hectare plot and aims to expand production to 5 hectares in the coming year.
Access to reliable water has been one of the main barriers to scaling production. To address this, Soutpan Solar Power began supporting the business in April 2024 with critical infrastructure upgrades, including irrigation and fencing. Plans are also in place to install a solar-powered borehole to ensure year-round water access and reduce vulnerability to drought and power outages.
“The support from Soutpan Solar Power is crucial. With adequate water, I can now expand and actualise my dream of increasing my chilli production. This is also a stepping stone for future growth into potatoes and chilli value addition,” said Evelyn Setati, owner of MBK SBL Projects.
The enterprise currently employs two permanent staff and fifteen seasonal workers. With the planned expansion and the introduction of value-added processing such as chilli sauces and pastes, employment is projected to grow significantly. The business aims to double its permanent staff, expand its seasonal workforce to 30, and create an additional nine positions through agro-processing and future potato farming.
This project supports sustainable farming practices through the use of solar energy and water-efficient drip irrigation, reducing the farm’s carbon footprint and ensuring continued operations during power outages. In addition, Evelyn is mentoring a local female farmer and hopes to expand this support as her enterprise grows, contributing to knowledge sharing and broader economic upliftment in the community.
“This small business stood out due to the entrepreneur’s dedication and resilience—Evelyn made progress without waiting for help. Our intervention has already turned underutilised land into productive farmland. Furthermore, the long-term value will come from crop diversification, job creation, and mentorship, benefiting the broader community,” said Noluthando Mazibuko, Economic Development Specialist at Soutpan Solar Power.
This initiative forms part of the solar farm’s broader youth development efforts, which provide local entrepreneurs with access to infrastructure, training, mentorship, and compliance support. The programme aims to unlock long-term, inclusive growth in the Capricorn District by supporting businesses that drive both economic and social impact.
April 2025, Konkoonsies Solar Power.
Eight young people from the Northern Cape town of Pella are taking part in a specialised millwright training programme designed to improve their employment prospects in local industries. The three-year programme combines classroom-based learning with hands-on experience and is aligned with the needs of sectors such as mining and renewable energy, which are active in the region.
Funded by Konkoonsies Solar Power, the initiative forms part of a broader effort to tackle youth unemployment and increase access to industry-relevant skills within the community. The programme, which started in mid-2024, includes practical training in partnership with local mining houses and supports long-term workforce development within the Khai-Ma Local Municipality.
One of the eight participants is a young woman, reflecting efforts to encourage broader inclusion in trades traditionally dominated by men. The training is delivered by Afrika Skills Training College South Africa, based in Pofadder.
Millwrighting involves the installation, maintenance, and repair of stationary industrial machinery, with applications across sectors including mining, manufacturing, and state-owned enterprises. As industrial operations increasingly rely on electro-mechanical equipment and electronic controllers, the need for qualified artisans continues to grow.
Harrisinah Theka, Economic Development Manager at Konkoonsies Solar Power, explained the rationale for the programme: “With several mining operations in the area, there’s a clear need for local skills development. This programme aims to close that gap and ensure that community members are better positioned to access employment opportunities close to home.”
The programme is expected to benefit the broader community by increasing the number of skilled local youth, making it easier for nearby employers to hire locally.
Participant Charlton Basson encouraged others from this area to take initiative, saying, “I would encourage young people in my community to actively seek out growth opportunities. Don’t be afraid to try something new or step outside your comfort zone.”
Participants were selected through a collaboration between Konkoonsies Solar Power, Lima Rural Development Foundation, and local mining houses operating within the Khai-Ma Local Municipality. Selection was coordinated via the incubation office in Pella.
Upon completion of the current three-year cycle, a second group of eight trainees will be selected, with plans to expand the programme to other communities, including Onseepkans and Pofadder.
April 2025, Boshof Solar Power.
Active community engagement and a growing public-private partnership between Tokologo Local Municipality and Boshof Solar Power are helping to expand access to tertiary education in the region. More learners from Boshof and Hertzogville are now applying for and receiving bursaries to further their studies.
This progress follows several years of low uptake due to a shortage of qualifying applicants. In response, Boshof Solar Power implemented targeted support measures, including a year-end initiative to assist learners with university applications. These efforts were strongly supported by the Municipality, particularly through its Local Economic Development (LED) office.
“Public-private partnerships like this are vital,” said Winky Nkokoana, LED Co-ordinator at Tokologo Local Municipality. “As local government, we don’t always have the reach or resources to meet all community needs. Through collaboration, we can support small enterprises, invest in early childhood development, and now—create access to tertiary education.”
Amid limited job prospects in the area, many young people are actively seeking study opportunities.
“In addition to our support initiatives, we find that learners are genuinely eager to pursue further studies—particularly when unemployment is the alternative,” said Noluthando Mazibuko, Economic Development Specialist at Boshof Solar Power. “The decline in local business activity has left many young people discouraged. Programmes like this one offer direction and hope.”
Nkokoana also highlighted the importance of promoting both tertiary education and vocational training. “Tertiary studies build skills needed to navigate life and work, such as critical thinking and communication. We also need to encourage young people to consider TVET colleges, which offer technical skills in high demand and pathways to self-employment.”
In 2025, the bursary programme will support its highest number of recipients since launching in 2021, with four new bursaries awarded. The programme provides financial support for tuition, accommodation, books, and a stipend, along with mentoring and academic guidance.
The 2025 bursary recipients are pursuing a diverse range of studies at leading institutions across the country. They are Bernice Tshiamo Segopolo – Bachelor of Commerce in Law (STADIO); Ntando Vuyo Kalitshana – BSc Medical Laboratory Science (Central University of Technology); Nonhlanhla Lucia Geweldt – BA International Relations (UNISA); and Elrio Hendriks – Tourism Management (Vaal University of Technology).
The high levels of unemployment in the Free State highlight the urgent need for sustainable development and education initiatives, such as the Boshof Solar Power bursary programme, to empower youth and support long-term opportunity. Between 2022 and 2025, the province lost over 140,000 jobs, with the unemployment rate rising to 38% by early 2024—the third highest in the country.
