Thulisile Majova

Pioneered solar crowdfunding platforms to democratize access to clean energy in Africa

Thulisile Majova is a South African entrepreneur and founder of Sun Exchange, a groundbreaking solar crowdfunding platform that has revolutionized renewable energy access across Africa. Born in Durban, South Africa, Majova's passion for sustainable solutions began during her studies in information systems engineering. She recognized the dual challenges of energy poverty and high solar potential in sub-Saharan Africa, leading to the 2014 launch of Sun Exchange.

The platform allows global investors to purchase solar panels (called 'solar cells') installed on commercial rooftops. These installations provide affordable clean energy to schools, hospitals, and businesses while giving investors returns through energy savings. By 2019, Sun Exchange had crowdfunded over 500 solar projects across 12 African countries, generating 12 MW of clean energy capacity.

Majova's innovations directly impacted over 200,000 people through projects like the Lwandle Township Solar Project and partnerships with organizations like the African Development Bank. Her work was featured in Forbes and recognized by the Clinton Global Initiative. Majova advocates for decentralized energy solutions through her TEDx talk "How crowdfunding is lighting up Africa with solar power".

Her vision extends beyond energy access - Sun Exchange's blockchain-based solar contracts ensure transparent transactions, creating a replicable model for community-driven renewable projects. Majova's work has positioned her as a key figure in Africa's clean energy transition, proving that innovative financing can bridge the energy gap while empowering local communities.