The South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA) held its Annual General Meeting last week, on 3 July 2025, in Johannesburg, where it reaffirmed the industry's commitment to delivering an energy-secure future for everyone in the country.
The commissioners newly elected or re-elected to SAPVIA’s Governing Committee.
The meeting took place against the background of the launch of the SAREM (South African Renewable Energy Masterplan), ongoing debates on a considered approach in protecting and developing the industrial value chain, the finalisation of the IRP, as well as the development of the grid network and better access to it.
“As the voice for the solar PV industry our gathering was significant for the future of solar. It was an important platform for everyone who works in solar to join us and take part in discussions around topics that affect our members and, by implication, the nation’s energy plans,” says Dr Rethabile Melamu, CEO of SAPVIA.
For all present at the AGM, SAPVIA reflected on its performance for the financial year ending 31 March 2025 and shared input from its Working Groups on industry challenges and opportunities. Presenting the industry’s strategic priorities for 2025/26 SAPVIA reaffirmed the industry’s role in driving localisation, grid access, and energy resilience.
The annual election of members to serve on the Governing Committee (GovCo) saw the following members elected as commissioners:
- Jonathan Frick (returning)
- DeVilliers Botha (returning)
- Khotso Selokoma (returning)
- Mike Mangnall (newly elected)
These individuals will play an important role in guiding SAPVIA’s strategic vision and advancing the interests of the solar PV industry in South Africa.
The association also acknowledged and extended its sincere gratitude to outgoing Chairperson Norman Moyo for his dedicated leadership and valuable contributions during his term. His guidance has been significant in strengthening SAPVIA’s position as the leading voice for solar PV in South Africa.
SAPVIA’s inaugural Industry Awards
A highlight of the AGM was the introduction of SAPVIA’s first Industry Awards, celebrating excellence, innovation, and impact across the solar PV sector. The awards recognise individuals and organisations that are helping to shape a dynamic and inclusive energy future for South Africa.
Award winners
- Solar Excellence Award: SOLA Group
- Collaboration and Partnership Award: African Women in Energy & Power NPC / Runner-up: Divaine Growth Solutions
- Solar PV Research & Development Award: Wetility / Runner-up: PVInsight (Pty) Ltd
- C&I Solar PV Excellence Award: SolarAfrica Energy / Runner-up: Terra Firma Solutions
- Excellence in Local Manufacturing & Supply Chain: Onvlee Engineering / Runner-up: Lumex Energy
- Socio-economic Development Award: GreenCape’s ASDU (alternative service delivery unit) / Runner-up: City Power’s Electrification of Informal Settlements Programme
- Empowerment through Skills Development Award: GREEN Solar Academy
- SSEG Installer of the Year Award: SEM Solutions
SAPVIA congratulates all the winners and finalists for their exceptional contributions to the growth and transformation of the solar PV industry.
Melamu notes, "The solar PV industry is at a pivotal moment, both globally and here at home. While the immense potential of solar energy to alleviate our energy crisis and drive economic growth is undeniable, we must carefully navigate policies that could inadvertently hinder this progress. SAPVIA is committed to leading these crucial discussions to ensure a thriving and sustainable future for solar PV in South Africa."
For more information visit: www.sapvia.co.za