Energy Conversations Podcast

Эпизоды

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  Listening to Lead: How Loyiso Tyabashe Rebuilt South Africa's Nuclear Energy Firm, Necsa 14.07.2026 22мин

  Loyiso Tyabashe, Group CEO of Nexa (the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation), traces his path from a village outside Mthatha to leading one of South Africa's key energy institutions. He talks through the chance detour from automotive engineering into nuclear at Koeberg, the "nuclearisation" training that reshaped how he makes decisions, and the toughest transition of his life — not a professional setback, but adjusting to city life and a new language as a first-year engineering student. He also shares how listening to staff, not top-down strategy, turned Nexa's finances and governance around after 2021, and closes with advice for young people starting their own energy careers: stay disciplined, and don't be afraid to ask for help.What questions do you want answered this season? Share them in the comments. Energy Conversations is powered by Kani Development Solutions in partnership with the African Energy Leadership Centre at the Wits Business School. Where to find us: LinkedIn: energyconvosInstagram: energyconvosTikTok: energyconvos#EnergyConversations #Necsa #NuclearEnergy #SouthAfrica #Koeberg #EnergySector #CareerJourney #EnergyLeadership #NuclearPower #STEM #EngineeringCareers #WomenInEnergy #AfricaEnergy #EskomEskom #EasternCape #PowerSector #CleanEnergy #EnergyLeaders #CareerAdvice
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  The Skills South Africa Actually Needs for Nuclear, with Necsa's CEO 23.06.2026 54мин

  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 PBMR was taken out of care and maintenance, and what its move from Eskom to Necsa meansWhat a Small Modular Reactor is, and how it differs from KoebergThe skills South Africa has, and the ones it needs to rebuild or bring homeWhat success looks like for the programme over the next decadeEnergy Conversations is powered by Kani Development Solutions and the African Energy Leadership Centre at Wits Business School. Also on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.#NECSA #NuclearSA #SkillsDevelopment #EnergyConversations
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  How to Think About Your Career in SA's New Energy Economy 19.05.2026 56мин

  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 skills gap is real and closing it is the difference between South Africans participating in this shift or being left behind.As one of South Africa's 21 SETAs, EWSETA (the Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority) funds learnerships, bursaries, apprenticeships, and skills programmes designed to prepare South Africans for the jobs the energy transition is creating right now.In this conversation we cover:The fastest-growing energy careers in South Africa in 2026Why solar PV, wind, and green hydrogen are creating thousands of new rolesHow EWSETA's learnerships and bursaries work — and who qualifiesWhat young job seekers should be studying or training in todayThe Just Energy Transition and what it really means for SA's workforceHow TVET colleges, employers, and EWSETA are working together to close the skills gapWhether you're a student, an unemployed youth, a career changer, or just trying to understand where South Africa's energy economy is headed, this episode is for you.🔗 Learn more about EWSETA: https://ewseta.org.za 🔗 EWSETA Careers Portal: https://ewsetacareers.org.zaSubscribe for new conversations shaping South Africa's energy transition.
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  SA's Power Market Is Changing. Here's What to Know | Full Episode 21.04.2026 1ч 4мин

  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 like, what roles it creates, and what skills are needed to fill them. In this episode, Keith speaks about: what a competitive electricity market means in practice the role of the energy trader: a position that barely existed in South Africa before the transferable skills the sector needs: financial risk management, engineering, data and forecasting, and IT infrastructure how professionals in banking, data science, engineering, and tech can transition into energy what the market reform means for large power users and regular consumers where households and businesses fit in the new market structure what still needs to happen before competition reaches your meter This is Season 3 of Energy Conversations, where we move from policy to participation, breaking down South Africa's energy transition into clear, practical language for workers, graduates, entrepreneurs, communities, and anyone who wants to understand South African energy. Energy Conversations is powered by Kani Development Solutions in partnership with the African Energy Leadership Centre at the Wits Business School. 
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  Power Prices, Load Reduction and Participation with Minister Ramokgopa | Full Episode 24.03.2026 58мин

  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 plans, procurement programmes, grid expansion, and new technologies translate into real benefits for households, communities, workers, entrepreneurs, and local industry.  In this episode, the Minister speaks about: the plan to end load reduction why electricity affordability is now a major priority the rollout of microgrids, solar and battery solutions in villages and underserved communities how to make sure energy projects are built with communities, not around them how government wants to create more room for local participation, skills development, and entrepreneurship the 3 outcomes South Africans should hold government accountable for over the next year How do ordinary South Africans participate in the energy transition? Season 3 of Energy Conversations will continue unpacking that question by breaking down the energy sector into clear, practical language that you can understand, question, and engage with. Listen, subscribe, and join the conversation. What questions do you want answered this season? Share them in the comments. Energy Conversations is powered by Kani Development Solutions in partnership with the African Energy Leadership Centre at the Wits Business School. Where to find us:  LinkedIn: energyconvos Instagram:  energyconvosTikTok:  ​energyconvos#EnergyConversations #SouthAfricaGrid #KgosientshoRamokgopa #LoadReduction 
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  Entering the Energy Sector Without a Formal Degree (Part 2) 07.10.2025 24мин

  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 with Zukisani George from De Aar, Northern Cape: ⁠https://youtu.be/tiGtbMG4Cn4?si=_8gZmzbW6xH9--a9⁠No one should be left behind in the Just Energy Transition.#YouthInEnergy #EnergyConversations #RenewableEnergy #CareerPathways #EnergyTransition #SkillsDevelopment
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  Energy Careers: Monde Bala 01.10.2025 11мин

  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, and the Just Energy Transition. Mr Bala also offers a perspective on regulatory changes, private sector participation, and how communities and businesses can adapt to a transforming energy system.
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  Building the Backbone: How NTCSA is Leading South Africa’s Energy Future 23.09.2025 44мин

  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 Bala also shares insights on regulatory shifts, private sector participation, and how communities and businesses can position themselves in a changing energy system.
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  Market Readiness 101: A Playbook for Market Access in Energy 16.09.2025 57мин

  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 visibility, trust, and delivery, this episode offers a practical, honest look at what it takes to move from "in business" to in demand. Essential listening for energy entrepreneurs looking to build client-ready, contract-winning businesses in a competitive market. #EnergyConversations #MarketAccess #EntrepreneursInEnergy #SupplierReadiness
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  Youth in Energy Conversations Podcast – Season 2, Episode 3: AI and Tech 09.09.2025 40мин

  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 infrastructure and policy.🎙 What you’ll learn in this episode:What AI and digital tools mean in practical energy termsHow technology is revolutionizing O&M in renewable energyWhy O&M is critical to system performance and energy transitionThe future of technology in the renewable energy sectorThis is a must-listen conversation for anyone passionate about technology, entrepreneurship, and South Africa’s energy transition. Whether you’re in the energy industry, exploring clean tech solutions, or curious about the role of digital innovation in a sustainable future, this episode offers valuable insights.
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  Energy Careers: Marike Wilson & Shaun Slabber 03.09.2025 27мин

  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🔹 Key skills and milestones that shaped their journeys🔹 Lessons on navigating the emerging carbon markets🔹 What the future holds for careers in the carbon economyWhether you're a student, early-career professional, or industry veteran, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on building a meaningful career in energy and climate.Powered by the African Energy Leadership Centre at Wits Business School.Available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.
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  Carbon Markets & South Africa’s Role in the Global Carbon Economy 26.08.2025 41мин

  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 workOpportunities and risks for South Africa in the global carbon marketThe role of policy, investment, and accountabilityWhat businesses should know before entering the carbon space?This episode is powered by the African Energy Leadership Centre at Wits Business School.Available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.
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  #SheIsPower – A Conversation with Samantha Graham-Maré, Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy 19.08.2025 1ч 6мин

  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 the energy sector.* The South African Renewable Energy Masterplan (SAREM).* The future of green hydrogen.* The critical question of access: ensuring young people and women benefit from the transition.It’s a conversation about vision, resilience, and the legacy women are shaping in South Africa’s energy future. Catch the full episode now on Energy Conversations @Energyconvos on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube.#EnergyConversations #SheIsPower #WomensMonth2025 #EnergyTransition #RenewableEnergy #GreenHydrogen #YouthInEnergy #Leadership #WomenInEnergy #JustTransition
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  Navigating the Energy Sector as a Young Professional 12.08.2025 1ч 17мин

  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, Cecilia Bassog; and Social Specialist at AMEA Power, Bianca Michaeline Jordan share how they built skills, navigated challenges, and stepped into leadership roles across nuclear, electric mobility, and renewable energy.They unpack the realities of professional development, mentorship, and representation, offering guidance for those aiming to lead in the energy space.Subscribe now to learn how young women are driving change in energy—and how you can lead the way.Ask ChatGPT
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  Energy Careers: Dom Wills & Nombulelo Shabangu 06.08.2025 34мин

  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 GroupDom began his journey as a solar entrepreneur when South Africa’s decentralised energy market was still in its infancy. Today, he leads one of the country’s most respected solar companies. Learn how he built technical credibility, navigated regulation, scaled a business, and stayed ahead in a rapidly evolving sector.🔹 Nombulelo Shabangu – CEO, Likhanye Consulting & Lead on the Eastern Cape Microgrid ProgrammeNombulelo carved a niche at the intersection of engineering, policy, and community development. From consultancy to leading large-scale microgrid deployments, her path reveals how women are shaping inclusive, locally grounded energy solutions. She shares how she developed the expertise, networks, and vision to lead in a male-dominated field.• How to enter and grow in the decentralised energy sector• The real skills needed — from project development to stakeholder engagement• Navigating challenges: policy uncertainty, community trust, funding gaps• The role of entrepreneurship, leadership, and mission in shaping energy careers• Why microgrids offer more than power — they offer careers with purposeIdeal for:Graduates, technicians, consultants, community organisers, policy professionals, and anyone asking: "Where do I fit in South Africa’s energy transition?"🎓 Two real journeys. One shared mission: energy access for all.🎙 Featuring:💼 What You’ll Learn:
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  S2 Episode 6: Decentralizing Energy Solution – The Rise of Microgrids in South Africa. 29.07.2025 54мин

  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 programmeTogether, we unpack:• What microgrids are — and why they matter now• How decentralised systems can improve access, resilience, and local ownership• The real-world barriers and breakthroughs in delivering these projects• What a just, inclusive energy future could look likeEssential listening for anyone interested in practical energy solutions, local innovation, and South Africa’s energy transition.
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  Investor Ready? Access to Energy Finance in SA 15.07.2025 1ч 4мин

  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 access to finance.#EnergyConversations #InvestmentReady #EntrepreneursInEnergy
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  Energy Careers - S2 EP5: Tebogo Mohlahlana and Janus van As. 09.07.2025 37мин

  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 Big Data in South Africa’s energy sector.
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  Smart Energy SA: AI, Big Data & Power 01.07.2025 56мин

  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.
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  Youth in Energy: Episode 2 - Getting into Energy without a Degree 24.06.2025 13мин

  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 the green job opportunities for youth?Topics include:• Skills-based paths into renewable energy• Solar training and rural empowerment• Youth roles in the just energy transition