Energy Conversations Podcast

Necsa Group CEO Loyiso Tyabashe says a nuclear plant's biggest workforce need isn't just physicists, it's artisans. In this episode, host Thokozile Zambane sits down with Tyabashe to unpack South Africa's nuclear roadmap: the revival of the PBMR, the IRP's 5,200MW target, and what it actually takes in skills, training and investment to get there. Covered in this episode: Why PB...

In this episode, we sit down with EWSETA to unpack the new energy careers emerging in South Africa  and how South Africans can get in early. From solar PV technicians and wind turbine operators to battery storage specialists and green hydrogen roles to entrepreneurs in law, finance and more, the Just Energy Transition is opening up career paths that didn't exist a decade ago. The catch? The sk...

South Africa's electricity market is restructuring. The Electricity Regulation Amendment Act came into effect in January 2025, opening the door for competitive electricity trading for the first time. But what does that mean and who gets to participate? In this episode of Energy Conversations, Keith Bowen, Market Operator at NTCSA, breaks down what the new wholesale electricity market looks lik...

In this opening episode of Season 3 of Energy Conversations, Minister of Electricity and Energy Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa joins us for a wide-ranging conversation on the issues ordinary South Africans care about most: load reduction, electricity prices, access, jobs, and community participation.  This season is about one big shift: moving from policy to participation. We're asking how energy pl...

What does it take to build a career in energy without a degree? Hosts Nolukhanyo Mpisane and Wandile Ntshingila speak with Kedibone, an administrator turned aspiring energy professional, proving that passion and persistence can open doors. She shares how short courses, curiosity, and continuous learning shaped her path and how she’s helping others enter the renewable energy space. Watch Part 1 wit...

Energy Careers brings you a focused conversation with Monde Bala, CEO of the National Transmission Company of South Africa. He shares his career journey from his studies through his early professional roles to leading the country’s new transmission entity. The discussion explores Eskom’s restructuring, the mandate of the NTCSA, and what transmission reform means for reliability, grid investment, a...

This episode of Energy Conversations features Monde Bala, CEO of the National Transmission Company of South Africa. He discusses the restructuring of Eskom, the role of the new transmission company, and its implications for South Africa’s electricity future. The conversation unpacks how transmission reforms affect reliability, investment in the grid, and the country’s Just Energy Transition. Mr Ba...

How do you become a supplier of choice in South Africa’s energy ecosystem? In this episode, Thokozile Zambane is joined by Oliver Johnston (Solink), Rita Chen (Agripower), and Mandisa Ngcobo (Nobantu Consulting) to unpack the realities of market access — beyond compliance and beyond capital. From what clients actually look for in suppliers, to how entrepreneurs can position themselves for visibili...

In this episode of the Youth in Energy Conversations Podcast, we dive into how artificial intelligence (AI) and digital tools are transforming operations and maintenance (O&M) in the renewable energy sector. Our guest, Joshua, a young and innovative entrepreneur, shares how tech-driven solutions are making energy systems more reliable, unlocking new business models, and shaping the future of i...

In this episode of Energy Careers , hosts Nolukhanyo Mpisane and Wandile Ntshingila dive into the dynamic career paths of two professionals shaping South Africa’s carbon economy, Marike Wilson , CFO of Fibon Group, and Shaun Slabber , CEO of Crunch Carbon. Through personal stories and professional insights, the episode unpacks: 🔹 How each guest entered and evolved in the energy and carbon space...

In this episode, host Thokozile Zambane explores the future of carbon markets and South Africa’s role in the global carbon economy. She is joined by Marike Wilson, CFO of Fibon Group, and Shaun Slabber, CEO of Crunch Carbon. The discussion covers: How carbon credits and trading work Opportunities and risks for South Africa in the global carbon market The role of policy, investment, and accountabil...

Welcome back to Energy Conversations, where we break down South Africa’s energy sector into insights that matter. In this episode, host Thokozile Zambane sits down with Deputy Minister Samantha Graham-Maré to go beyond policies and into the personal story behind her leadership. Together, they explore:* The life experiences that shaped her journey.* What power looks like when wielded by women in th...

Navigating the Energy Sector as a Young Professional highlights the journey of training, growth, and leadership in South Africa’s energy industry, with a focus on young women forging their paths. Originally a webinar, this episode now reaches podcast listeners. Engineer in Training at Koeberg, Shela Sekhasembe; Senior Nuclear Safety Analyst, Linina Bedhesi; EV/HEV Training Centre Administrator, Ce...

In this episode, we chart the career journeys of two pioneering leaders driving microgrid innovation in South Africa. This is more than a conversation — it's a masterclass in how to build a purpose-driven career in energy . 🔹 Dom Wills – Founder & Executive Director, Sola Group Dom began his journey as a solar entrepreneur when South Africa’s decentralised energy market was still in its i...

In this episode, we explore how microgrids are changing the way South Africa generates, delivers, and governs electricity, particularly in underserved areas. We’re joined by: 🔹 Dom Wills, Founder & Executive Director of Sola Group, a national leader in decentralised solar solutions 🔹 Nombulelo Gwarube, Founder & CEO of Likhanye Consulting and lead implementer of the Eastern Cape microgrid progra...

What does it really mean to be investment ready in South Africa’s energy sector? In this episode, Thokozile Zambane speaks with Nunu Ngoasheng (JPMU) and Vincent Maposa(Wetility) about what funders actually look for, how to align the right capital to your business model, and what it takes to move from fundable deck to fundable business. Essential listening for energy entrepreneurs navigating acces...

Energy Careers: From Studies to Systems Change. In this episode, we follow the career journeys of Tebogo Mohlahlana, founder of Reama AI, and Janus van As, a systems change advisor. From university studies in computer science and education to breakthrough roles in energy innovation, they share how curiosity, skill-building, and seizing the right opportunities led them to the forefront of AI and Bi...

In this episode, we explore how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Big Data are transforming South Africa’s energy landscape, from how we forecast and manage electricity to how we create smarter, more inclusive energy systems. These technologies are no longer the future, they’re shaping the decisions we make right now.

Zukisani George from De Aar, Northern Cape, shares how he entered the renewable energy sector without a university degree. Introduced to solar through DLO Energy, he speaks on the power of skills development, youth training, and rural access to green jobs. Perfect for young South Africans asking:How can I work in energy without a degree? What solar training is available in South Africa? Where are...

Explore the inspiring career journeys of industry trailblazers Lisa Reynolds (Green Building Council SA) and Songo Didiza (Green Building Design Group). Discover the paths they took, the skills they mastered, and how they rose to lead in sustainable building and design

Unlock the Billion-Rand Green Building Secret! On EnergyConversations Ep 4, join Green Building Council CEO Lisa Reynolds & GreenBuilding Design Group Co-Founder Songo Didiza. Discover expert insights intosustainable construction, cutting-edge green design, and the lucrative futureof eco-development. Essential listening for industry pros!

In this episode of Entrepreneurs in Energy Conversations , we take you on the journey of securing a contract in the energy sector – from CIPC registration to that game-changing Purchase Order . Join host Thokozile Zambane as she sits down with Barutile Unity Makofane , a powerhouse in supply chain and contract management, and the driving force behind Mmasikhirikhiri Trading Enterprise.

🎧 Our latest Energy Careers episode of the Energy Conversations Podcast is now LIVE! Join us as we chat with two leaders in South Africa’s energy sector:🔹 Matthew le Cordeur – Just Energy Transition Research Manager at Krutham 🔹 Michael Welile Mkhize – Head of Department at NERSAWe delve into their career journeys, key moments, and insights into leading in the evolving energy landscape.💡 This...

In this episode, we explore a major turning point in our South Africa’s electricity sector: the transition from a centralized model to a more open, competitive market for the wholesale electricity market Joining us are two respected voices who’ve been closely following this evolution: Welile Mkhize and Matthew le Cordeur.

Ignite your energy career! 🔥 Join Youth in Energy Conversations hosts Wandile and Nolukhanyo as they sit down with Thokozile Zambane to explore her inspiring journey in South Africa’s energy sector. Gain real-world advice, career insights, and inspiration for the next generation of energy professionals. 🎧 Watch and listen now on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts — and subscribe for more youth...