Integrating Academic Research into Energy Policy – Insights from the Sasol-NRF Research Programmes

The National Research Foundation (NRF), hosted a session titled, “Integrating Academic Research into Energy Policy – Insights from the Sasol-NRF Research Programmes” during the 2024 Science Forum South Africa. The session brought together a dynamic combination of representatives from diverse sectors, including industry leaders, academics as well as research professionals. In keeping with national energy sector imperatives and building skills capacity to support South Africa’s sustainable energy transition, Sasol Ltd. and the NRF have strategically partnered on several innovation and energy-related initiatives.

Ms Refilwe Mashigo (NRF) highlighted the significance of the collaboration between Sasol, NRF, and the DSTI as it is not only a key driver in achieving goals, but also serves as a necessary conduit for the implementation of national energy frameworks such as the Hydrogen Society Roadmap (HSRM), which is informed by the 2019 DSTI White Paper on Science and Technology and Innovation.

Dr Sepo Hachigonta, NRF Acting Executive Director: Business Advancement, moderated the session comprising key experts from Sasol, the DSTI, and the DSTI/NRF-Sasol Research Chairs. This included:

• Dr Modise Mokhadinyane, Senior Manager: Chemical Technologies, Sasol
• Dr Khavharendwe Rambau Acting Director: Transport Fuels and Renewable Energy, DSTI
• Prof Prathieka Naidoo,  DSTI/NRF-Sasol Research Chair in Green Hydrogen, Stellenbosch University
• Prof Sunetra Chowdhury, DSTI/NRF-Sasol Research Chair in Energy and Power Systems, University of Cape Town
• Dr Tanya Hughes, Manager: Capacity Development R&T Research & Technology, Sasol
• Koena Motloi, Director: Industry Engagements, NRF.

The discussions highlighted the need for more focused modalities of intertwining research and policy and thus the importance of establishing responsive programmes involving academia, policymakers and industry stakeholders in driving the hydrogen agenda in South Africa, and more broadly, contributing jointly towards a sustainable energy transition. Furthermore, the panel also emphasised the importance of creating a sustainable ecosystem to drive research and innovation focused on improving society.