Arion Power is rapidly establishing itself as one of South Africa’s most innovative renewable energy enterprises, turning a technology challenge into a source of jobs, skills, and community impact.
Founded in 2020 by University of Cape Town postgraduate students Brian Gadisi and Alan Gie, and later joined by Thembalethu Hadebe, the company evolved from a classroom project into a full-scale manufacturer of lithium and phosphate energy storage systems for homes, businesses, and industrial operations.
“For us, it started as a school project,” Gadisi said.
“We were supposed to produce a report and move on, but we realised the idea could create jobs and skills while helping communities stay powered.”
One of Arion Power’s flagship products is the Wibox, a compact Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) system designed to keep essential devices running during power outages.
Gadisi explained that the product stores energy in a lithium battery and automatically supplies power to low-voltage equipment such as Wi-Fi routers, LED lights, and mobile devices when the main electricity supply fails. Its simple plug-and-play design allows households, students, and small businesses to stay connected, charge devices, and maintain basic operations during loadshedding or blackouts. He said by providing a reliable, portable, and energy-efficient solution, the Wibox has become an essential tool for communities facing frequent power interruptions.
Beyond technology, Arion Power focuses on skills development and local employment. Its Cape Town facility provides hands-on training in battery assembly, energy system management, and quality control, equipping young technicians with marketable skills in a growing sector.
“The business isn’t just about products,” Gadisi explained.
“It’s about giving young people experience, technical knowledge, and the chance to earn a living while contributing to a sector that’s vital for the country.”
Today, Arion Power employs three executives and 17 full-time staff, many of whom have learned critical skills on the job. The company also strengthens communities by supplying reliable, clean energy solutions that improve productivity and daily life.
Arion Power plans to expand production, grow its workforce, and scale its training programmes, ensuring more young people gain technical expertise in renewable energy.
Through its innovative model, Arion Power is proving that green technology can create jobs, transfer skills, and empower communities, all while addressing South Africa’s pressing energy challenges.
Description: From a university classroom project to a leading renewable energy manufacturer, Arion Power is building more than lithium and phosphate batteries. The Cape Town-based company creates jobs, trains young technicians, and provides communities with reliable energy solutions. Through its innovative approach, Arion Power demonstrates how green technology can generate employment and empower youth while addressing South Africa’s energy challenges.
Editor’s Note:
Arion Power’s story highlights the transformative power of entrepreneurship that combines innovation, skills transfer, and community development. By training young people in high-tech manufacturing and energy systems, the company is creating pathways to sustainable livelihoods while providing cutting-edge renewable energy solutions. This story will resonate with readers interested in youth empowerment, job creation, and green enterprise in South Africa.
Editor: Thato Mahlangu
Project Manager: Do4SA
