Christiaan Hattingh, Author at AWPower

Managing Director, AWPower

Christiaan Hattingh

Energy Systems Engineer | Solar Thought Leader | Industry Advocate

Professional Background

Christiaan Hattingh is the Managing Director of AWPower, a specialist solar and water engineering firm based in Cape Town. With over a decade of hands-on experience in solar PV systems, energy infrastructure design, and embedded generation regulations, Christiaan is regarded as one of South Africa’s foremost experts on renewable energy integration.

Leadership and Project Highlights

Under his leadership, AWPower has completed more than 500 solar installations across South Africa, including pioneering projects in solar-powered wastewater systems, multi-unit developments, and grid-export-enabled PV systems. Christiaan’s engineering expertise and passion for energy efficiency have positioned AWPower at the forefront of innovative clean energy projects – where reliability, compliance, and cost savings intersect.

Industry Engagement and Standards

When he’s not overseeing projects or speaking to the media, Christiaan champions industry collaboration and has helped shape solar best practices in line with insurance, regulatory, and engineering standards.

Media Contributions and Thought Leadership

A frequent contributor to media outlets like MyBroadband and BusinessTech, Christiaan is known for his ability to translate technical energy challenges into practical, sustainable solutions for businesses, residential estates, and municipalities. His insights regularly inform national conversations around solar policy, compliance, and the financial viability of going off-grid.

Media Mentions

Follow His Work

Follow Christiaan’s articles for practical, experience-backed advice on navigating South Africa’s evolving energy landscape – from smart solar investments and export-ready systems to solar audits and EV-ready infrastructure.

Christiaan Hattingh

battery and fire maintenance - awpower

Battery Fire and Maintenance

Lithium battery fires are among the most dangerous types of fire. Nearly all lithium batteries connected to solar systems in South Africa are lithium-iron phosphate (LiFePO4), and this type of battery is considered the most stable of lithium batteries. While they are unlikely to experience thermal runaway under normal operating conditions, and for the sake of safety, it is important to understand the risks.

Battery Fire and Maintenance Read More »

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