Castrol unveils first solar-powered auto service in South Africa

Castrol has inaugurated its pioneering solar-powered auto service in Northcliff, a wealthy residential suburb of Johannesburg, South Africa, marking a significant milestone in the company’s journey towards sustainable business operations. This initiative, realised in collaboration with a local workshop owner, is the first of many solar installations Castrol plans to introduce across South Africa.

The move to solar power is a strategic response to the country’s ongoing power outages and load shedding. Melanie Van Straaten, sales director at Castrol, emphasised the company’s commitment to ensuring that Castrol Auto Service workshops operate uninterruptedly, leveraging solar power to enhance business continuity.

In the wake of a notable increase in small-scale solar installations in South Africa in 2022, Castrol is positioning itself at the forefront of this transition. The company is equipping workshop owners with the necessary tools and expertise to seamlessly adapt to solar power, ensuring operational sustainability.

Peter Evgeniou, the owner of the Northcliff Castrol Auto Service, praised the solar installation for its role in ensuring smooth business operations during power outages and reducing utility bills. He highlighted the dual benefit of environmental conservation and cost reduction as a significant advantage of transitioning to solar power.

Castrol’s Auto Service program aims to build a network of trusted, branded workshops by partnering with established independent workshop owners. The initiative offers a comprehensive support package, including engine warranty, branding, and training, to enhance the value proposition for customers seeking reliable, high-quality services.