Solar Flex Repairs & Maintenance is a youth-led technical service provider professionalizing solar infrastructure upkeep while empowering young women in the Free State through specialized artisanal entrepreneurship training.
Lebohang Melato — Founder & Director
28-year-old mechanical & electrical technician · Parys, Free StateTwo urgent issues demand action. One company tackles both head-on.
The Ngwathe/Tumahole region faces severe youth unemployment, especially among young women who lack access to technical training and entrepreneurial opportunities. This limits economic growth and perpetuates cycles of poverty.
Despite significant investment in solar installations by households, SMMEs, and municipalities over the past five years, a critical maintenance gap exists:
A fully equipped, solar-powered technical unit that is more than just repairs — it's a mobile training laboratory serving communities across the Free State.
On-site solar diagnostics with advanced tools, inverter testing systems and battery health assessment devices.
Rapid response emergency repair capabilities with digital workflow tracking for maximum efficiency.
Structured preventative maintenance plans and system optimisation audits to extend asset lifespan.
We come to you — mobile units deployed across the Free State, from urban centres to rural communities.
Each unit functions as a mobile training hub, where selected young women receive comprehensive artisanal training:
Hands-on technical skills in solar panel maintenance and repair.
Industry-recognised safety standards and certification pathways.
Entrepreneurship skills to launch and grow independent businesses.
Guidance to form and register artisanal cooperatives.
Solar Flex directly contributes to youth employment creation, women empowerment in male-dominated trades, green economy skills development, energy resilience, and enterprise incubation for artisanal cooperatives.
The Free State offers a rapidly expanding solar adoption market with limited local service providers — a prime opportunity for Solar Flex to lead.
Recognised at the IBT Summit 2026 for innovative approach and significant potential impact in the renewable energy sector.
Strategic partnership with South African Women in Plumbing (SAWIPT) — Dr. Kelikile Mteto, National President, as strategic support.
Highlighted in local media (Mzansi Mail) as a trusted, innovative youth-led brand making real impact in the community.
Driving Community
Transformation
Youth Employment
Creating sustainable technical jobs for young people in the Free State.
Women Empowerment
Breaking barriers in male-dominated technical trades across the region.
Green Economy
Building future-ready skills aligned with South Africa's renewable energy transition.
Energy Resilience
Strengthening reliable clean energy access in underserved communities.
Enterprise Incubation
Supporting the formation of artisanal cooperatives and micro-enterprises.