The SARChI NRF Chair in Power Systems Simulation, based in the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Stellenbosch University, focuses on advancing evidence-based simulation of modern and future electrical power systems. This is accomplished by enhancing the simulation data, methodologies, scenarios, and visualizations used to guide electricity decision-making in South Africa. Additionally, the research chair aims to support and strengthen the South African energy modeling ecosystem through training, collaboration and the broader dissemination of knowledge.

The SA Research Chair in Green Hydrogen Integration and Transition, led by Prof. Prathieka Naidoo from the Department of Chemical Engineering at Stellenbosch University (SU), focuses on the integration of green/clean hydrogen into South Africa’s energy mix. The chair is funded by Sasol, the National Research Foundation (NRF), and the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), with the aim to support South Africa’s transition toward a more sustainable, low-carbon energy future. The research will assist in developing a roadmap for harnessing renewable energy resources through hydrogen generation, conversion, storage, and use.

The SARChI Chair in Green Hydrogen Integration and Transition focuses on the use of clean hydrogen in the energy mix. Hydrogen is one of several platform chemicals and is a key constituent of syngas and ammonia. These are highly valuable chemicals for the industrial, agriculture and transportation sectors. For a quick energy transition to meet decarbonisation targets of net zero by 2050, the use of hydrogen is a promising chemical since this is a clean burning fuel source. The research studies focus on identifying cost reduction measures in producing clean hydrogen, via scalable technologies, while addressing the use of sustainable water and sustainable carbon sources for power-to-x fuels, and a just transition. This means that while hydrogen investment and production promises to deliver greater energy independence, this must also aim to achieve the SDGs and Paris Agreement targets, in transformational and inclusive partnerships with developmental opportunities.

The chair also partners with local and international institutions to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing, all in alignment with global sustainability goals such as the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the COP26 target to limit global temperature increases.

The Scatec Chair in Renewable Energy Systems is at the forefront of groundbreaking research in the design, optimization, and integration of renewable energy technologies into sustainable energy systems. Its work includes the development of innovative solutions for scaling solar, wind, and hydroelectric power generation to meet growing energy demands while minimizing environmental impacts. The Chair actively advances modelling and simulation of hybrid energy systems, seamlessly combining renewable energy with energy storage and smart grid technologies to enhance reliability and efficiency.

It also leads impactful studies on energy policy frameworks, financing mechanisms, and the socio-economic implications of transitioning to renewable energy, aligning with global efforts to achieve net-zero emissions. Through strong collaborations with industry and government stakeholders, the Chair delivers practical solutions for renewable energy deployment, addressing challenges such as grid integration, off-grid electrification, and resource variability across diverse geographies.