Six Research Areas
Problem-oriented research across energy systems and environmental sustainability, from transitions and storage to climate, health, and resource management.
Energy Transitions
The global shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy is one of the defining challenges of our time. Energy transitions require more than technology; they demand deep understanding of economic impacts, social implications, and policy frameworks that work in real contexts.
We research how societies can successfully transition to clean, sustainable energy sources while ensuring equitable outcomes for all. Our work directly informs policy decisions that shape Africa's energy future.
Explore area →Energy Storage
Renewable energy has a critical weakness: it's intermittent. Solar and wind power only work when the sun shines and wind blows. Without effective storage solutions, renewable energy cannot reliably power modern economies.
We tackle the storage challenge by researching innovative materials and systems that store energy efficiently, affordably, and sustainably. We also explore how energy storage powers the future of mobility and addresses the end-of-life management of storage devices.
Explore area →Energy, Society and Environment
Energy drives human development. But energy use also shapes our environment and affects our communities. Understanding these connections is essential for building an energy system that supports both prosperity and sustainability.
Our research examines how energy decisions ripple through society, from economic impacts to community resilience. We study energy access, consumption behaviours, and the complex links between energy, water, food, and human wellbeing.
Explore area →Environment and Health
The environment is under pressure from many sources. Pollution, waste, hazardous materials, and the byproducts of energy systems all threaten environmental health. A degraded environment becomes a public health crisis.
We investigate environmental stressors, their health impacts, and practical solutions for pollution control and waste management. By understanding these links, we help communities protect both their environment and their health.
Explore area →Environmental Management
Humans depend on healthy environments, yet our activities often degrade them. Effective environmental management requires understanding natural systems, our relationship to them, and how to sustain them for future generations.
We research practical solutions across waste management, water treatment, resource recovery, and land reclamation. Our work generates evidence that shapes environmental policy and management practices.
Explore area →Environment and Climate
Climate change is reshaping our world. Extreme weather, sea level rise, and shifting rainfall patterns already affect millions of people. Addressing climate change requires both understanding its local impacts and developing context-specific solutions.
We research emissions reduction, climate adaptation, and mitigation strategies tailored to African contexts. Our work helps communities prepare for climate impacts and governments set evidence-based climate policy.
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