HELPING YOUNG ENGINEERS TO BUILD CAREERS IN RENEWABLE ENERGY
Kimberley, Northern Cape – 28 September 2026
South Africa’s growing renewable energy sector needs more than infrastructure — it needs skilled people to run it. A technical internship programme is helping bridge that gap between academic study and industry, equipping young engineering graduates with the practical, on-site experience they need to build careers in utility-scale renewable energy.
One of the latest graduates to join the programme, funded by Droogfontein Solar Power, is 22-year-old electrical engineering graduate Naledi Mohloki, who has completed the first three months of her internship, as part of the team at the solar facility.
Having recently completed her BEng Tech in Electrical Engineering, Naledi developed a strong interest in power systems and renewable energy during her studies, where she worked on projects involving solar energy systems, electrical installations and control systems. Although this is her first formal industry role, she says previous exposure to a solar power plant through an independent training programme confirmed that renewable energy was the career path she wanted to pursue.
“My interest in renewable energy grew as I learned about the important role that technologies like solar power play in providing clean, sustainable electricity while creating opportunities for local communities. Being able to contribute to an industry that supports both economic development and environmental sustainability is incredibly rewarding,” she said.
Although still in the early stages of her internship, Naledi is already gaining valuable insight into the day-to-day operations of a utility-scale solar facility. Her time on site includes learning about plant operations, safety procedures, monitoring systems and maintenance activities, while becoming familiar with operational software.
“I expected the work to be mainly technical, but I’ve also realised how important teamwork, communication and continuous learning are to keeping a solar plant operating safely and efficiently,” she explains.
Working in an industry where women remain underrepresented has not discouraged her. Instead, she hopes her journey will inspire other young women to pursue careers in engineering and renewable energy.
“I believe engineering is a field where commitment, competence and a willingness to learn matter most. I hope more young women will see the opportunities available in renewable energy and feel encouraged to follow this career path.”
Noluthando Mazibuko, Economic Development Specialist at Droogfontein Solar Power, commented on the important role this programme plays in developing the skilled professionals needed to support the country’s fast growing renewable energy industry.
“Naledi is one of 6 graduates who have participated in our internship programme over the past 8 years. By providing graduates with practical workplace experience, we are helping them build the confidence, technical expertise and professional skills required to succeed in the renewable energy industry.”
