VW Environmental Engineer runner-up in energy competition

Volkswagen Group Africa’s Reabetsoe Kgoedi was named runner-up in this year’s Energy Professional of the Year Awards hosted by the Southern African Energy Efficiency Confederation (SAEEC) in Johannesburg.

24 V Wengineer1

The award is presented annually to an individual who has made outstanding contributions to the energy profession and to the candidate’s community in various areas of society.

Reabetsoe, an Environmental Sustainability Technical Specialist at Volkswagen Group Africa, was recognised for her contribution to energy-efficiency measures at the Kariega plant where the Volkswagen Polo and Vivo are built. The company has reduced energy consumption by 54% since 2010. In her portfolio, she plays a key role in finding solutions to further reduce consumption.

She explains that energy-saving projects such as process optimisation, detecting and fixing leaks in compressed air systems and energy efficiency projects such as installing energy efficient lighting and equipment are instrumental in achieving efficiency. “We are consistently monitoring processes and influencing mindsets towards energy consumption, such as air conditioner usage,” says Reabetsoe.

Reabetsoe Kgoedi.

Volkswagen’s global Go to Zero strategy further promotes the reduction in energy with the goal of achieving a zero-carbon emissions factory by 2030.

“Being recognised as the Energy Professional of the Year runner-up is an incredible honour that reflects not only on my dedication to the energy sector over the past decade, but also the collaborative efforts of those around me.

“This award symbolises the impact I’ve made in driving energy management initiatives across various sectors over the years, including consulting, government, property and now the automotive industry. It reinforces my commitment to advancing energy efficiency and sustainability in our communities.

“I am particularly grateful for the unwavering support I received from Volkswagen Group Africa after hearing of my nomination, as it highlights the importance of teamwork in achieving our shared goals. This recognition inspires me to continue pushing the boundaries of what's possible in energy management and to contribute meaningfully to the fight against climate change,” she says.

  • The Energy Professional of the Year title went to Mark Vorster from SEM Solutions, an energy engineering company.

More Industry News stories

Ford’s rich history of local engine manufacturing

Ford’s rich history of local engine manufacturing

Ford’s Struandale Engine Plant in Nelson Mandela Bay has played an instrumental role in the success of the locally assembled Ford Ranger – both in South Africa and in the more than 100 markets it is exported to around the world.

  • 16 January 2025
SA’s child seat restraint rules need to be updated

SA’s child seat restraint rules need to be updated

China updated its national standard on child safety restraints in vehicles, including laws regarding car seats. Both in China and globally, car crashes are a leading cause of death for those between five and 29 years of age. Safety restraints can reduce deaths among infants by up to 71%.

  • 15 January 2025