The South African National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI) is set to host its second annual Energy Conference on Wednesday, 23 and Thursday, 24 October 2024 at the Eskom Academy of Learning.
The conference, themed “A Balanced Energy Transition: For Energy Security, Affordability and Inclusiveness,” aims to bring together industry leaders, policymakers and key stakeholders to discuss the critical challenges and opportunities in South Africa’s transition to sustainable energy. 
During a low-carbon transition, developing nations face a number of challenges in terms of energy, affordability and justice. The conference provides a crucial opportunity for dialogue, partnership and collaboration in order to maximise the opportunities. “With this influential engagement, we hope to foster a comprehensive understanding of the Just Energy Transition in the context of a transformative crossroads and to explore effective and efficient new and old technologies to foster a broad and impactful consensus,” says Ms Faith Mkhacwa, SANEDI General Manager: Energy Efficiency and Demand side management. The conference will feature a range of discussions, including panel sessions, keynote speeches and workshops, covering topics such as renewable energy integration, energy efficiency and just transition. Attendees will have the opportunity to network with industry experts and learn about the latest developments in the energy sector.
A Stellar Lineup of Speakers
The conference will feature keynote addresses from distinguished government departments, including the Electricity Ministry and the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation.
Mrs. Samantha Jane Graham-Maré, Deputy Minister of Energy and Electricity.
Ms Nomalungelo Gcina, Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation,
The opening day will set the stage for a series of thought-provoking panel discussions. Renowned academics, leaders from institutions like SANEDI, private sector executives, government officials and international partners will share their insights and expertise on critical energy issues. Ms Mkhacwa added: “The technical and academic aspects of the energy transition are equally crucial. Innovation, research, and collaboration between academia, government, and industry are essential for developing sustainable and efficient energy solutions.” Day one of the conference will delve into critical aspects of the Just Energy Transition (JET), exploring strategies to mitigate its potential negative impacts. Attendees will also discuss key initiatives shaping the future of energy, including universal energy access, affordable energy solutions, and the role of next-generation nuclear and clean coal technologies. The conference will feature in-depth discussions on energy efficiency, demand-side management, waste-to-energy solutions, electric mobility, grid planning for new loads, energy policy, and innovative energy storage solutions. Day two of the conference will kick off with an exclusive “Women in Hydrogen Breakfast,” featuring keynote addresses from prominent female leaders in the energy sector. Deputy Minister Nomalungela Gina (Department of Science & Innovation), Deputy Minister Samantha Jane Graham (Electricity & Energy), and Ms. Lungile Mtiya (SANEDI Board’s Deputy Chairperson) will share their insights and experiences. Dr Rebecca Maserumule, Chief Director for Hydrogen & Energy at the Department of Science & Innovation, will moderate the discussion, facilitating thought-provoking conversations with leading academics, development organisations, and research bodies. Funanani Netshitomboni, Communications Specialist at SANEDI, emphasised the importance of the conference: “South Africa’s journey towards a sustainable energy future requires a delicate balance between energy security, affordability, and inclusiveness. This conference is a vital opportunity for stakeholders to come together and explore strategies that address all three dimensions.” Day two of the conference will focus on the pivotal role of renewable energy in South Africa’s green hydrogen economy and explore the potential of carbon capture and utilisation technologies. Attendees will also discuss the importance of science, technology, and innovation (STI) in supporting the Just Energy Transition Investment Plan (JETP) and the South African Renewable Energy Masterplan. International partnerships and collaboration in the field of STI will be explored, along with the critical need for skills development in new energy technologies and the growing importance of e-mobility. SANEDI’s 2nd Annual Energy Conference is a significant event for South Africa’s Just Energy Transition and its future energy mix. Through fostering dialogue, collaboration, and innovation, the conference will contribute to a more equitable, secure and low-carbon energy landscape for all. More information: Visit us at www.sanedi.org.za or follow us on Instagram @sanediorg, Facebook @sanedi.org, X (Twitter) @sanedi_org, LinkedIn @sanedi.org and YouTube @sanedi9400.
