Vestas, the global leader in sustainable energy solutions, announces the appointment of Johan Helberg as Managing Director for Vestas Southern & Eastern Africa, effective February 2026.

Johan brings more than 30 years of leadership experience across the energy and industrial sectors, having held senior roles with companies including Siemens, ABB and Aggreko across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. He has a strong background in power generation and infrastructure and a long-standing commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions in emerging markets.

“I have spent my entire career working across the power sector, and I believe deeply in the role that renewable energy and wind, in particular, must play in shaping a resilient, sustainable, and secure future for Africa. Vestas is not just a technology provider; it is a purpose‑driven organization committed to energy security, decarbonisation, and long‑term value creation. I am honoured to join the team at such a pivotal moment for the region.” – says Johan Helberg.

As Managing Director, Johan will focus on strengthening Vestas’ position as a leading renewable energy partner across South Africa and Southern & Eastern Africa. His priorities include accelerating the adoption of wind energy, deepening customer and stakeholder partnerships, delivering strong project execution and lifetime service, and supporting the development of a resilient regional supply chain.

The appointment reinforces Vestas’ long-term commitment to South Africa and the wider region. Vestas has been a proud partner in South Africa’s energy journey since 2012, when the company built its first wind farm in the country. As of 2026, Vestas has built more than 2 GW of installed capacity and projects under construction in South Africa, supporting energy security while contributing to economic growth, industrial development and skills creation.

Vestas’ presence in South Africa is anchored by a strong local organisation with more than 150 employees based across Johannesburg, Port Elizabeth and Cape Town. The company has recently expanded its facilities to support growing operations and continues to invest in developing local capabilities. Beyond building wind turbines, Vestas is committed to creating lasting value for communities by hiring and developing local talent and working closely with customers, suppliers and stakeholders.

“Southern and Eastern Africa hold extraordinary wind resources, human talent, and the ambition to lead the continent into a cleaner energy future,” Johan says. “My goal is to ensure that Vestas plays an active, trusted, and long-term role in unlocking this potential while contributing to economic growth, skills development, and energy resilience.”

Beyond South Africa, Vestas’ footprint extends across the African continent, with operations in Morocco, Egypt, Kenya, Senegal, Cape Verde, Mauritius and Madagascar. This brings Vestas’ total installed capacity in Africa to 3.2 GW, underscoring the company’s long-term dedication to accelerating the energy transition across the region.

Vestas is a member of SAWEA.