SANEDI Appoints Prof Prathaban Moodley as Acting Chief Executive Officer
The South African National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI) is pleased to announce the appointment of Prof Prathaban Moodley as Acting Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 April to 30 September 2026. This appointment marks a significant step in ensuring leadership continuity as SANEDI advances its mission of driving innovation and shaping South Africa’s sustainable energy future.
Prof Moodley succeeds Dr Titus Mathe, whose tenure concludes on 31 March 2026. SANEDI extends its sincere appreciation to Dr Mathe for his visionary leadership, strategic direction, and invaluable contribution to strengthening the organisation’s role in South Africa’s energy transition.
A highly accomplished and internationally recognised expert in the energy sector, Prof Moodley currently serves as an Executive at SANEDI and leads the Applied Energy Research, Development and Innovation Division as General Manager. The division undertakes cutting-edge research across the full energy spectrum, including electricity, gas, and liquid fuels, with a strong focus on Renewable Energy, Cleaner Fossil Fuels, Cleaner Mobility, Smart Grids, Digitalisation, and energy end-use.
With over two decades of experience in the energy and power sector, Prof Moodley has held various senior leadership roles and has built a distinguished reputation both locally and globally. He is actively involved in key industry and academic platforms, including the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), and serves on several university advisory boards. He also contributes to academia as a seasonal lecturer at the Wits Business School, where he teaches Technical Fundamentals of Electricity Power Systems.
Prof Moodley is a registered professional engineer with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) and holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical), Master of Engineering (Electrical), and a PhD in Electrical Engineering from the University of the Witwatersrand.
Commenting on the appointment, SANEDI Board Chairperson Mr Sicelo Xulu stated:
“Prof Moodley brings a wealth of institutional knowledge, deep technical expertise, and a clear understanding of SANEDI’s strategic priorities. His leadership has consistently demonstrated innovation and excellence, and the Board has full confidence in his ability to guide SANEDI with purpose and distinction during this transitional period.”
The Board further confirmed that the process to appoint a permanent Chief Executive Officer is progressing well and is being conducted in full compliance with all governance and legislative requirements. SANEDI remains committed to a transparent, rigorous, and timely process to secure the best possible leadership for the organisation’s future.
Prof Moodley’s appointment comes at a critical juncture as SANEDI continues to play a leading role in supporting South Africa’s just energy transition. His stewardship is expected to ensure stability, sustain momentum, and further strengthen the institute’s impact in advancing innovative and sustainable energy solutions.
