Centre for Renewable and Sustainable Energy Studies (CRSES)

31/07/2026

The Centre for Renewable and Sustainable Energy Studies (CRSES) was honoured to host a delegation from the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), our primary funding partner, for a strategic engagement at Stellenbosch University.

The visit brought together representatives from DSTI, the Stellenbosch University - Faculty of Engineering of Engineering, and CRSES leadership to showcase the impact of collaborative investment in renewable energy research, innovation and skills development. The delegation included Dr Kenny Tenza (Acting Deputy Director General: Department of Science, Technology and Innovation of Science Technology Innovation, DSTI), Prof Sampson Mamphweli, Head of DSTI's Energy Secretariat at SANEDI, and Ms Humna Malik, Deputy Director: Alternative Energy at DSTI.

Hosted by Prof Wikus Van Niekerk, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, alongside CRSES Director Prof. Cristina Trois, the programme highlighted cutting-edge research and infrastructure across the Faculty of Engineering, including renewable energy laboratories, the Renewable Energy Hub and Spokes Programme, and innovation initiatives at the Stellenbosch University LaunchLab and Innovus Technology Transfer Office at Stellenbosch University.

As a centre hosted within the Faculty of Engineering and supported by DSTI, CRSES values these engagements, which strengthen partnerships, showcase the impact of public investment in research, and help shape South Africa's renewable energy future.

We thank the DSTI delegation, our Faculty leadership, researchers, colleagues, and partners for a productive and insightful visit.

22/06/2026

We are excited to introduce the distinguished speakers joining us for the SASEC 2026 Conference.

These experts bring valuable insight and experience that will contribute to meaningful discussions on sustainable energy, innovation, and collaboration across the sector.

-SASEC Pre-Conference: 23 June 2026

-Main Conference: 24-26 June 2026

To learn more about our speakers and their work, visit:

https://sasec.org.za/

We look forward to welcoming you to what promises to be an engaging and impactful programme.

18/06/2026

The countdown to the Southern African Sustainable Energy Conference (SASEC) 2026 has begun!

Find out more here: https://sasec.org.za/

12/06/2026

Join us for the Pre-SASEC Workshop on 23 June 2026 at Skukuza, Kruger National Park. Explore insightful discussions, connect with experts, and kick-start your SASEC experience ahead of the main conference. For more info, please click the link below.

sasec.org.za

11/06/2026

We are pleased to share the 2025 CRSES Annual Report, showcasing a year of impactful research, innovation, collaboration, and capacity building in support of South Africa's sustainable energy transition.

The report highlights our key achievements, strategic partnerships, research initiatives, training programmes, and contributions to advancing renewable and sustainable energy solutions.

We extend our sincere appreciation to our researchers, staff, students, partners, and stakeholders whose continued support and dedication make this work possible.

Read the full Annual Report here: https://www.crses.sun.ac.za/annual-reports-strategy/

26/05/2026

Energy Storage Systems – Short Course

Energy storage is rapidly becoming central to modern energy systems. This short course equips professionals to make confident, technically sound, and financially viable energy storage decisions.

Dates: 08, 09, 22, 25 & 26 June 2026
Format: Hybrid (online + optional in-person at Stellenbosch Engineering Faculty)

Presenters: Prof Ben Bladergroen, Prof Bernard Bekker & others
Accreditation: 4 CPD points

Ideal for engineers, energy consultants, municipal and infrastructure planners, and renewable energy professionals.

Registration closes 29 May 2026 | Limited to 30 seats.

Register here: https://lnkd.in/dSq9NpGe

19/05/2026

Postdoctoral Fellowship Opportunity at Stellenbosch University | CRSES/ARUA CoE in ENERGY

The Centre for Renewable and Sustainable Energy Studies (CRSES) at Stellenbosch University is inviting you to apply for a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship focused on Techno-Economic Modelling and Scenario Evaluation within the WWEF Nexus.

This is an opportunity to contribute to impactful research in renewable energy, waste-to-energy systems, and the circular bioeconomy within a multidisciplinary and internationally collaborative environment.

Click here for full details and application requirements: https://www.crses.sun.ac.za/jobs/

14/05/2026

Stellenbosch University Hosts Ministerial Engagement on South Africa’s Energy Transition and Skills Development

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/stellenbosch-university-hosts-ministerial-engagement-centre--teduf

The Centre for Renewable and Sustainable Energy Studies (CRSES) at Stellenbosch University hosted the Ministerial Engagement and Lecture on Wednesday, 13 May 2026, focused on the theme: “Skills for Achieving South Africa’s Energy Mix Ambitions.” Although the Minister of Electricity and Energy ...

23/04/2026

The Centre for Renewable and Sustainable Energy Studies (CRSES) hosted the final workshop of the Living Heritage, Climate Change and Sustainability in South African Agriculture project at the Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study in Stellenbosch (STIAS)

The programme featured a series of presentations and roundtable discussions, bringing together international research partners, industry stakeholders, and policymakers to reflect on key findings and future pathways for the sector. Discussions highlighted a critical awareness gap around the 2027 organics-to-landfill ban, alongside the importance of biodiversity conservation within the Cape Floral Kingdom.

A key focus of the workshop was the valorisation of agricultural waste, with research demonstrating how vineyard residues can be converted into bioenergy products such as biomethane and bioethanol, positioning the wine industry as a contributor to South Africa’s low-carbon transition.

The Centre for Renewable and Sustainable Energy Studies (CRSES) hosted the final workshop of the Living Heritage, Climate Change and Sustainability in South African Agriculture project at the Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study in Stellenbosch (STIAS) The programme featured a series of present...

23/04/2026

JOIN US at SASEC 2026 from 24 – 26 June 2026, at Skukuza Conference Centre, Kruger National Park, and Earn CPD Points!

Take your professional development to the next level in one of the world’s most iconic destinations. SASEC 2026 brings together leading researchers, industry experts, and innovators to explore the future of sustainable energy, while you earn accredited CPD points.

Following the success of SASEC 2024, this year promises even more impactful conversations, cutting-edge innovation, and meaningful networking opportunities. Imagine stepping out of a technical session and into the wild, connecting with experts as elephants and giraffes roam nearby, and ending your day with a Kruger sunset after engaging in discussions on renewable and sustainable energy.

Register now and become part of an unforgettable conference experience.

https://sasec.org.za/

EAPASA validation code: C-0001-EAP26 | ECSA validation code: SASEC2026