EMR Group of Companies – 60 years in business
Maurizio followed in the footsteps of his grandfather and
father, adding new dimensions to the business:
• In 2005, he developed his own range of distribution transformers for the
agricultural and mining sectors.
• By 2006, EMR began manufacturing industrial standby generator systems.
• In 2008, they launched Sea Land, importing high-quality water pumps and related products from Italy.
• 2014 saw the introduction of Girasole Energy (Italian for sunflower), a solar energy division focused on renewable solutions.
EMR: A legacy of family, excellence and innovation
For six decades, Electrical Motor Rewiring (EMR) has been a trusted name in the repair and manufacturing of electric motors, transformers and industrial power solutions.
Now under the leadership of third-generation CEO Maurizio Mazzaro, EMR continues to grow while proudly honouring its rich heritage.Founded in 1965 by Italian-born Mario Mazzaro and his wife, Stephania, EMR began in a modest rented workshop in Market Street, Polokwane.
In 1971, Mario and his son Vinicio, took a major step forward by building their own premises on Church Street. By 1986, the company had relocated to its now well-known location in Agaat Street. From its earliest days, EMR has been a family affair.
Vinicio was just 16 years of age when the company began, balancing his studies at Tom Naudé Technical High School with helping in the business. He officially took the reins in 1988, allowing Mario to semi-retire and enjoy time on his farm.
Maurizio, born in 1973, practically grew up within EMR’s walls. “Being introduced to the business after having completed my matric exams and the compulsory 12-month military service was the best university I could have asked for,” he says. In 2018, he officially became CEO, taking over from his father and continuing a legacy built on grit, innovation, and family
values. Over the years, EMR has continuously evolved.
Speaking four languages – Italian, Friulano, English, and Afrikaans –
Maurizio brings an international perspective to this proudly South African company with Italian roots. He leads EMR with a philosophy instilled by his father: “If you love your job, you will never work a day in your life.”
The loyalty and growth of EMR’s team is another reflection of its strong foundation. Manfred Stehnken, an employee of over 25 years, credits the company for empowering him with lifelong skills, and now works alongside his two sons at EMR.
“We are all trained, qualified, and grateful. This place is more than a company, it’s a family,” he said.
With an established reputation for quality and innovation, EMR continues to serve the electric motor, transformer, and power systems market with integrity and expertise. As manager Nic Kkoutas puts it, “Our legacy is not only in the products we offer, but in the values we live by every day.”
Girasole energy: Powering the future, one sunbeam at a time
Anne Mametja
Launched in 2014 under the trusted banner of Electrical Motor Rewiring (EMR), Girasole Energy (Pty) Ltd is lighting the way to a smarter, more sustainable future through innovative solar energy solutions.
The brainchild of Maurizio Mazzaro, the third-generation leader of EMR, Girasole was born out of a vision to extend the company’s legacy into the renewable energy space, with the same commitment to quality and service that EMR has upheld since 1965.
The name ‘Girasole’, meaning ‘sunflower’ in Italian, is a powerful symbol of the sun’s energy, warmth, and positive transformation – all values that
are central to the Girasole brand.
“Our mission is simple. We aim to power the future – homes, farms and businesses – through solar and hybrid systems that are not just reliable, but
intelligently designed to meet real needs,” Maurizio said.
From its base in Limpopo, Girasole Energy has rapidly expanded its footprint, offering full-service solar solutions, including custom design, installation, maintenance, upgrades and full compliance.Whether it’s a 1,000kW hybrid system for a commercial farm, a 40kW rooftop setup for a factory, or a bespoke residential installation, Girasole handles it all with professional precision.
What sets Girasole apart is its in-house expertise and premium product selection.
Every system is designed by qualified professionals using world-class brands such as:
• Canadian Solar and JA Solar panels.
• Huawei, SolarEdge, Sigenergy, and Freedom Won Encore inverters.
• Freedom Won and Sigenergy battery storage systems.
To make solar more accessible, Girasole has also partnered with leading banks and is listed as an approved vendor, giving customers the ability to access trusted financing solutions with peace of mind. “We’re currently finalising a partnership with a top-tier rent-to-own provider,” Maurizio added. “This model is perfect for businesses or homeowners who want the benefits of solar without upfront capital costs.” Girasole prides itself on its people-first approach. Each client journey starts with a detailed consultation to assess energy requirements and design a system that maximises performance and cost savings. The team ensures that every installation complies with local regulations, and manages all necessary registrations, so clients stay safe, legal and covered.
“We believe renewable energy should be easy, reliable, and within reach for everyone,” Maurizio concluded.
“At Girasole Energy, we’re constantly exploring smarter designs, better technology, and new ways to support our clients – so they can enjoy the power of the sun, with confidence.”
