Unwavering determination to solve the challenges of transitioning to electric transport has driven Dominic Mangles to create Solapave, an innovative solution that combines energy generation, storage, and distribution into a single, modular product. Unlike conventional renewable energy technologies, Solapave is designed to thrive in urban environments, generating energy precisely where it is needed most. Its solar panels, recognised as the world’s toughest, are not only durable but also carbon-negative due to their use of waste plastics and rubbers in construction. With the capability to power entire national infrastructures and eliminate the need for plug-in electric vehicles, Solapave has been seven years in the making, with two years of rigorous testing and a year of scaling since its inception in 2013. To date, 63 countries have expressed interest in manufacturing partnerships, making Solapave the road to a brighter and greener future.
What Sparked the Vision and Overcoming Initial Hurdles
The impetus for the company was born out of two pressing issues: the encroachment of renewable energy infrastructure into natural habitats and the imminent electric vehicle revolution. Dominic was resolute in finding a solution that allowed urban environments to generate green energy, preserving nature’s sanctuaries. Recognising the need for an infrastructure to support electric vehicles, which was absent at the time, he embarked on a journey to find technical solutions for these complex challenges.
Championing a CEO’s Daily Journey
A typical day in Dominic’s life starts with an early dive into emails, recognising that different time zones require constant attention. Following this, he dedicates time to physical fitness, engaging in a gym session. The core of his day involves addressing high-priority tasks, before engaging in thoughtful reflection and conducting meetings over lunch. Afternoons are dedicated to team updates, closing loose ends, and engaging with stakeholders and engineers through phone calls.
Driving Success Through Principles and Strategies
Dominic’s leadership success is driven by principles of openness to diverse ideas, leading by example, and managing setbacks with optimism and belief in the team. His philosophy aligns with the idea that mistakes do not necessarily lead to losses; it is the response to those mistakes and the subsequent nurturing of belief within the team that shapes a company’s survival.
Visualising the Path Ahead
Dominic envisions a world transitioning from fossil fuels to green and decarbonised energy sources, allowing nature to flourish without human intervention. The emphasis is on collaborating across technology sectors to create a sustainable and bright future that meets the energy demands of a growing global population.
A Company’s Evolution on the Horizon
Solapave’s trajectory includes global expansion across continents, uniting diverse cultures through technology. The goal is to offer a seamless, accountable, and connected energy experience to users, whether at home making tea or on vacation driving a rental car.
Balancing Responsibilities and Cultivating Innovation
Balancing responsibilities to stakeholders, employees, customers, and the community is simplified by a shared goal of a cleaner and greener future. The product’s potential for positive impact aligns stakeholders with a common purpose.
Fostering a Culture of Innovation and Talent Development
Ethical business practices are at the core of Solapave’s approach, encompassing fair wages and continuous improvement. The company encourages feedback and suggestions from employees at all levels and supplies on-the-job training, ensuring skill development and growth.
Dominic Mangles’ journey with Solapave embodies a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the power of collaborative solutions to drive a greener and brighter future for all.
