As the South Africa Investment Conference 2026 moves from pledges to implementation, renewable energy company Mulilo has announced a nearly R15 billion investment expected to translate into significant employment opportunities for South Africans.
The investment, unveiled on Tuesday, will fund the development of three large-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) projects and a battery energy storage system (BESS), adding 716 megawatts of new capacity to the national grid.
While the projects are aimed at strengthening energy security, they are also expected to create jobs across multiple phases, from construction to long-term operations.
From infrastructure to employment
Large-scale renewable energy projects are labour-intensive during construction, requiring engineers, technicians, project managers and local labour. Once operational, they continue to support jobs in maintenance, security and plant management.
Mulilo’s pipeline, which targets the rollout of up to one gigawatt of renewable energy annually, is expected to sustain ongoing job creation as new projects are developed.
This reflects a broader trend highlighted at SAIC: that infrastructure investment plays a critical role in absorbing labour while building productive capacity in the economy.
Economic opportunities beyond the grid
Beyond direct employment, energy investments have a ripple effect across the economy. Reliable electricity supply enables businesses to operate efficiently, supports industrial growth and helps small enterprises expand all of which contribute to job creation.
For many communities, particularly in rural and underdeveloped areas where renewable projects are often located, such investments can unlock local economic activity through supplier opportunities and community partnerships.
Private sector driving inclusive growth
Mulilo’s Chief Commercial Officer, Seithati Bolipombo, said this commitment reflects its conviction that South Africa is on a positive trajectory towards a just energy transition supported by private sector investment in renewable energy.
“We are not only investing capital, we are investing in long-term partnerships that unlock infrastructure, create jobs, and deliver tangible impact where it is needed most," she said.
She emphasised that with the right collaboration across government, regulators and industry, South Africa can move faster, build at scale, and fully realise the opportunity of its energy transition.
The announcement reinforces the central message emerging from SAIC: that investment commitments must translate into real benefits for citizens.
As South Africa advances its energy transition, projects such as Mulilo’s are expected to play a dual role addressing the country’s electricity constraints while creating sustainable livelihoods.
With implementation now in focus, the success of these investments will ultimately be measured not only in megawatts added to the grid, but in the number of South Africans who gain access to jobs and economic opportunities. – SAnews.gov.za
