RENEWABLE ENERGY SOLUTION FOR HILLVIEW SECONDARY SCHOOL
SPECIAL FEATURE
From left to right . Engen Transformation & Stakeholder Engagement Manager : Simlindela Manqina , Learner : Miguel Green ; Learner : Jordan Lee Figg ; Hillview Secondary Principal : Mr Charles Green ; Engen Business & Energy Solutions : Neil Govender ; Learner : Muneeb Ajelasi ; CSI Manager : Ms Olwethu Mdabula ; Educator : Ms M . Frankson ; Educator : Ms O . Naicker ; Stakeholder Synergies Specialist : Ms Tina Griffiths
RENEWABLE ENERGY SOLUTION FOR HILLVIEW SECONDARY SCHOOL
Engen Helps Power Hillview Secondary School with a Sustainable Future Engen is proud to announce the successful launch of a cutting-edge solar power system at its Engen Maths and Science School ( EMSS ) at Hillview Secondary School in South Durban . This initiative represents a significant milestone in Engen ’ s commitment to sustainability and STEM ( Science , Technology , Engineering , and Mathematics ) education , combining environmental stewardship with empowering South Africa ’ s future leaders .
The innovative installation of 15kW portable solar containers and UPS units underscores Engen ’ s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint . Beyond powering the school , this initiative offers students hands-on exposure to clean energy technologies , fostering awareness and interest in environmental sustainability .
Driving Sustainable Impact The project was first launched at Ganges Secondary School on 26 November 2024 . Building on its success , the second installation was unveiled at Hillview High School during an official launch event on 6 February 2025 .
Designed to deliver clean , renewable energy , the system ensures a reliable power supply for the school while reducing reliance on conventional energy sources . This will help lower the school ’ s electricity costs and cut carbon emissions , enabling the reinvestment of savings into future sustainability projects .
As part of its broader vision , Engen plans to extend this solar power system to all ten
EMSS centres nationwide .
A Powerful Collaboration “ This project is a remarkable blend of sustainability and STEM education ,” explains Olwethu Mdabula , Engen ’ s CSI Manager . “ It not only reduces our environmental footprint but also serves as an invaluable teaching resource . By integrating renewable energy into the curriculum , we aim to inspire students to become the next generation of engineers , scientists , and environmental leaders .”
The solar installation was spearheaded by Engen Business & Energy Solutions ( EBES ), whose expertise in renewable energy systems ensured seamless implementation .
Kevin Singh , Head of EBES , highlighted the scalability of the solution : “ These 15kW portable solar containers and UPS units provide uninterrupted energy and are compact , efficient , and ideal for schools . They also support STEM-based initiatives like robotics and coding , which are essential for preparing learners for a technologydriven future .” Mdabula added : “ This solar installation marks the beginning of Engen ’ s efforts to integrate sustainability into every facet of campus life . By rolling out these systems across all EMSS centres , we aim to promote energy efficiency and bolster educational programmes focused on environmental science and technology .”
Commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals ( SDGs ) Engen ’ s solar rollout aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals ( SDGs ), particularly SDG 4 : Quality Education .
“ Equipping our schools with renewable energy solutions empowers learners and encourages innovation in South Africa ’ s education system ,” says Mdabula . “ By ensuring reliable power , we enable students to access advanced tools and prepare for a world driven by technology .”
Empowering Education Through EMSS Since its establishment in 1987 , the Engen Maths and Science School programme has provided free supplementary tuition in mathematics , science , and English to over 1,500 learners annually . Classes are held every Saturday at ten centres across South Africa .
The EMSS centres are located in :
• KwaZulu-Natal : Fairvale High School , Ganges Secondary School , Hillview Secondary School , and Umlazi Commercial High School
• Eastern Cape : East London , Cala , and Gqeberha
• Western Cape : CPUT and Manzomthombo Secondary School
• Gauteng : Zakariyya Park Combined School
As Engen continues the nationwide rollout of solar power systems across its EMSS centres , the company remains steadfast in its mission to address skills shortages , drive economic progress , and create opportunities for future generations .
Through initiatives like these , Engen not only powers communities but also fuels dreams , innovation , and a sustainable future for South Africa . www . abrbuzz . co . za 21 JANUARY • FEBRUARY • MARCH 2025