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Est. 2020
Our Story
Our focus on sustainability led us to the realm of solar energy, igniting a mission to make it accessible to all. With a vision of simplicity, we crafted plug-and-play solutions that resonated with sleek aesthetics. Today, our products stand as a testament to the boundless power of innovation and the realisation that even the boldest dreams can materialise.
The Beginning
Our journey began with the ambitious goal of offering products that exceeded customer expectations and were easily accessible. Inspired by my partner's visionary idea, we pioneered the concept of selling kits, redefining convenience by providing everything needed for assembly. From carports to security kits, we aimed to simplify installation with user-friendly instructions.
While sustainability intrigued us, the solar industry truly captured our imagination due to its untapped potential in our country. Crafting solar kits became our mission, making solar energy accessible to all. We aimed to simplify setup with plug-and-play solutions, and the aesthetics were influenced by a sleek vape design that resonated with us.
We sourced materials during a heatwave, invested in components, and I put my fabrication skills to use, shaping the prototypes through creative experimentation. Our journey embodies transformation – starting with an idea, leveraging resources, and pushing boundaries. Today, our products stand as a testament to this journey, fuelled by creativity, innovation, and the belief that ambitious ideas can become reality.
Constant No's
So, I had a basic plan in mind, but making it real was a challenge. I needed experts to help, so I looked for professionals who could make my project even better. Since my tools weren't the best, I came up with a two-step plan: engineers would do the basic work, and I'd handle the tricky parts.
I started looking for partners at different shops – the ones that make things or metal stuff. But, there weren't many options that fit. So, I made a bold choice: I'd do it myself. I had to get creative. Even though money was tight and problems came up, I got the right tools step by step. I also asked people I know for advice and help. Slowly, I collected all the things I needed to make my vision happen. As I set up my workshop, I felt really proud. It wasn't just tools; it was a place where my dream was coming true. With my workshop ready, I was about to make my idea real.
The next part was all about trying new things, working with others, and making things just right. I had the tools, the spirit, and I was ready to go.
Oom Jan
This part of the journey was truly special, a fortunate turn of events. Out of nowhere, my uncle, a former fabrication worker, called me up. Despite a life-altering accident in his youth, he offered his help. I explained my project, and he invited me over to his place, surprising me with his offer to assist.
We teamed up, leveraging his experience and my determination. Together, we crafted a unit – an inverter with batteries – and another box filled with batteries, given the constraints of my budget. Back then, lithium technology wasn't widespread, and the solar industry was less booming than now. Parts were hard to come by.
With his help I was able to create the first frame. Though the process wasn't seamless, we persisted. We ended up with surplus plates for the battery bank. With those, I took meticulous measurements and ventured to get them laser-cut. A three-day wait later, I collected the plates, my uncle providing moral support. I assembled everything in my garage with his watchful eye. This marked the birth of the first units, a significant accomplishment. Our collaboration made my vision a reality, with a touch of family involvement that meant the world to me.
Sustainability: Sustainability is not just a concept for us; it's a way of life. We are dedicated to eco-friendliness and work tirelessly to integrate green initiatives into every facet of our business.
Rikie Sold Her Bakkie
Let's rewind a bit. I had this contraption, a hefty load attached to my bakkie, weighing around 140 kilos. Rain or shine, I hit the streets every morning to make sales, door-to-door and on Facebook. Surprisingly, I secured a sale on day one, only to have the buyer disappear. Weeks passed with no sales, and my profit margins were dwindling. Selling a product that wasn't built yet was tough.
Meanwhile, I was in the garage assembling units while Rikie, my partner, pitched in. One night, she answered the phone, then confronted me about the venture's viability. I reassured her. But the bombshell was her decision to sell her bakkie to fund the operation. We used the funds to buy more stock and invest in marketing. Later, I repaid her by buying her a new Ford Ranger Wildtrak – a fair trade, right?
Isando
The Isando phase was a wild ride. Sales were decent, but I aimed for a proper workshop. Yet, high prices and a sales slump hit me. Rikie suggested a smaller spot in Kempton Park, just 120 sq meters, a fraction of my dream. Reluctantly, I checked it out and felt the spark. Despite financial struggles, we moved in. Months of financial juggling followed, but I held onto the belief that pushing through would pay off. In a half-empty shop, I spun tales about 'contractors,' though I had none. Interviews brought potential hires, and I scrambled to make the place presentable. Juggling training and selling, I turned things around, breathing life into Isando. It was a struggle, but damn, it was worth it.
My Hair Commitment
As Sable Energy found its footing, opportunities started to emerge. With a bit of capital, I could invest in essentials like laser-cut frames and assemble the units myself. When a customer placed a deposit, I'd swiftly gather the components and put everything together in about 3 hours.
Enter McDonald, my reliable right-hand man. He'd work in the garden on slower days, and he was there when we landed a game-changing order – three units at once. Those were memorable times, working on those units side by side. I remember sharing a vision with McDonald – I predicted a workshop with a minimum of five team members and a delivery vehicle by year-end. He seemed intrigued but skeptical.
Now, I'm particular about my hair, getting a weekly trim. I made a bold bet with McDonald: I'd cut my hair only when we had a manufacturing workshop and a separate sales spot. He chuckled, and I insisted I was dead serious.
March rolled around, not quite December, but my ambition was unwavering. I decided to snip my hair. Sure, I missed the December deadline for the third shop, but come February the next year, those doors swung open. A couple of months behind schedule, but I kept my promise – a little reminder that timing may shift, but determination prevails.
Selby
In the sunlit chapters, the Isando shop thrived with sales warriors and growth. The team expanded, crammed into a bustling one-car garage. Daily unit creation evolved into a symphony of progress. Space constraints pressed, leading us to Selby, a space of possibilities near Johannesburg CBD. In 600 square meters, we partitioned offices and manufacturing, finding equilibrium. More hands joined, and a small Bakkie with a driver marked our leap into efficient deliveries. Days and nights blended as we worked, midnight becoming our usual hours. Yet, Selby had its character, echoing with rallies and tales of crime. The air held secrets, but our faith remained unwavering. Resilience marked our journey, creating a tale etched in determination. The next chapter beckons beyond these street-lit narratives.
Pergolas
We wanted to make a statement, I embarked on creating an exceptional pergola, a standout addition to our product range. Designing this unique structure became an adventure, from sketching plans to refining details, ensuring perfection in every aspect.
Despite challenges, like a close call when the pergola almost fell, we persevered. The team's unity saved the day, and as a gesture of determination, we even painted the factory wall. When completed, the pergola stood tall, illuminated by carefully chosen lights. It symbolized our potential and served as a constant reminder of what we could achieve.
Though we didn't immediately start selling the pergolas, they became a guiding light, reflecting our capabilities and reminding us of the heights we could reach. The exhilaration I felt when the first unit's lights turned on is still mirrored in the images of that remarkable pergola.
Self-Sufficient Housing
In early 2023, my fiancé Rikie and I embraced a visionary idea – a project that defied limits. We decided to purchase a burned-down house up for auction, not to live in or vacation at, but to build anew. Tired of relying on unreliable infrastructure, we aimed to create a house that mirrored our values and desires.
Our resolve was firm. The plan was to construct a modern, off-grid house powered by rooftop solar panels and a borehole system for constant water supply. We envisioned luxurious comfort integrated with self-sufficiency. This house would set a new housing standard – an embodiment of excellence.
Our goal was clear: this house would go beyond mere living space; it would be a lifestyle, an experience. Potential customers could stay, immerse themselves in the comfort, luxury, and reliability, and grasp a new way of life. Our intent was to redefine norms – making electricity and water fundamental necessities, not sporadic luxuries.
The project wasn't about inventing, but about assembling existing innovations into an exceptional package. We aimed to sell more than a house; it was a lifestyle, a feeling of control, pride, and security. The house would exude elegance, built with recycled materials without compromising aesthetics. It was a vision transcending bricks and mortar – a movement aimed at shifting paradigms.