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.
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.
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 Automotive Business Council (naamsa) recently submitted its quarterly review of business conditions for the South African motor vehicle manufacturing industry, during the second quarter of 2025, to the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTCI).
Africa's automotive sector is experiencing a significant transformation, with Morocco emerging as a rising star while traditional leader, South Africa, faces mounting challenges.
Volvo Car South Africa expanded its electric line-up with the local introduction of the EX30 Cross Country, the Swedish brand’s first electric Cross Country variant.
Advertisement
Advertisement
You can't buy happiness but you can buy cars and that's kind of the same thing.
Unknown
The Automotive Business Council (naamsa) recently submitted its quarterly review of business conditions for the South African motor vehicle manufacturing industry, during the second quarter of 2025, to the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTCI).
Africa's automotive sector is experiencing a significant transformation, with Morocco emerging as a rising star while traditional leader, South Africa, faces mounting challenges.
After an absence if six years, Tata passenger vehicles are back with a bang in South Africa. The last model launched locally was the Bolt, which followed in the tracks of the more well-known Indica.
