Carel Ballack, SESSA ombudsman

Ballack has extensive experience with a wide range of sustainable and efficient energy technologies. He takes over from Colin Bain, who previously handled the portfolio on a contract basis.

SESSA is dedicated to the use of renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies including solar-based energies, such as photovoltaics, thermal heating and cooling, wind, biomass and hydro.

Its inter-disciplinary nature attracts the membership of industry, scientists, researchers, developers and the general public - the only qualification is a keen interest in renewable energy and its utilisation to ensure a sustainable energy future.

With the appointment of a permanent ombudsman, SESSA has taken the high road in ensuring it delivers on consumer expectations while meeting stringent quality standards, said SESSA ambassador Irvan Damon.

"SESSA's formal and documented code of conduct is intended to regulate the interactions of the various industry players with their customers, particularly in terms of Clause 1 of 16. This states that members shall enhance the honour, integrity and dignity of the sustainable and efficient energy industry by maintaining high personal and business standards at all times," he said.

He added that Ballack would not only mediate and arbitrate for the successful resolution of customer complaints, his mandate includes - among others - assisting members interpret and understand their responsibilities in terms of SESSA's code of conduct

"I believe SESSA has a larger responsibility to the industry than just problem mediation. As ombudsman, I look forward to being a link in the chain that adds value to both SESSA members and the industry as a whole by focussing on regulation and training," added Ballack.

"Already a dynamic and forward-thinking sector, there is still plenty of room for growth in the sustainable energy environment, and SESSA's mandate is to become the pivot that supports the industry and provides direction to all parties concerned."

Ballack is a plumber by trade, but moved into the sustainable energy industry in 1999 when he and a partner started importing unfinished amorphous silicon panels in a bid to develop systems that would find a market in Southern Africa, such as solar powered traffic lights.

Over the years, the company experimented with larger systems, different technologies such as wind power, and the data required to design an efficient system. Ballack has spent the last three years in Johannesburg project managing large electrical infrastructure installations.