The State of Energy Research in South Africa

Abstract

The report comprises the following: •A synopsis of the current energy research landscape in South Africa with an analysis of the relevant national plans and acts, culminating in an account of expenditure into energy and energy-related research. •The results of a desktop study, aided by a national questionnaire, into the research activities and funding, as well as collaboration networks, related to existing energy research in South Africa. The types of energy forms investigated include: renewable energy, bio-energy, nuclear energy, fossil fuel energy and finally energy efficiency. •A bibliometric investigation into documented output by South African experts and how this compares to global statistics. A close look is provided into which energy forms are being re-searched. • An analysis of the post-graduate output connected to energy and energy-related research. •An analysis of the intellectual property produced by South Africa in fields related to energy, and how this compares to the rest of the world.

Given the importance of energy in promoting economic development and contributing towards an improved quality of life, this study on the state of energy research in South Africa was both timely and significant for energy planning in South Africa. The report can be regarded as an important baseline assessment that can inform future energy research investment in South Africa.