[TechTrends Podcast] Thapelo Motlogeloa on Building Renewable Energy Solutions in South Africa

In the fifth episode of our podcast series featuring fellows from the Legatum Center for Development and Entrepreneurship at MIT, I speak with Thapelo Motlogeloa, Co-Founder of Pele Energy Group.

Thapelo’s entrepreneurial drive is rooted in his family’s entrepreneurial spirit and his experience in South Africa. Witnessing the lack of large-scale black-owned operational businesses fueled his desire to create change. He founded his company to address the pressing need for increased black economic participation, access to energy in Africa, and empowerment of local communities.

Thapelo’s venture is not just about building power plants; it’s about creating an ecosystem where innovation-driven enterprises can thrive. He envisions a future where Africa leverages its abundant resources to drive sustainable economic growth. 

Thapelo’s professional journey, marked by his remarkable success in building a substantial renewable energy portfolio, showcases his ability to navigate a complex and capital-intensive industry. His company, Pele Energy Group, known as ‘Pele’, is a testament to the potential of local entrepreneurship in a sector dominated by international players. Thapelo’s academic background, coupled with his hands-on experience, has equipped him with the knowledge and skills to tackle the challenges of the energy transition.

Thapelo says his ultimate goal is to contribute to a more integrated and coordinated African entrepreneurial ecosystem, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing to accelerate Africa’s sustainable development.

This episode is part of a 7-episode series we are doing with thee fellows in the programme from different African countries.