Research Projects

UNDP Just Energy Transition (JET) Platform 

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in South Africa hosted a side-event at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2022 titled “A Just Transition to Deliver Climate Actions in Africa”. This high-level event brought to the fore the key focus to deliver a Just Transition in South Africa. Informed by these insights, UNDP in partnership with the Presidential Climate Commission (PCC), convened a Just Energy Transition (JET) Platform to deep dive into these critical areas. The JET Platform provides a space for cross sectoral, transdisciplinary, and diversified discussion to unlock and build thought leadership around the just energy transition implementation processes. The JET Platform’s main purpose is to bring together minds to bridge the gap between the stated national vision of the just transition in South Africa, and its institutionalised manifestation on the ground. 

By supporting policy-oriented research, sparking critical conversations among experts and stakeholders, and fostering diverse narratives on South Africa's just energy transition, the JET Platform plays a vital role in defining the just transition implementation. It also serves as a great learning exchange forum for leaders, and it contributes by giving strategic policy ideas for possible adoption.

The Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) is a key stakeholder in the United Nations Development Programme's (UNDP) initiative, actively participating in the Just Energy Transition (JET) Platform to collaboratively address and advance the critical aspects of achieving a just transition in South Africa.

Energy Poverty EMS Transdisciplinary project 2023/24

The Energy Economics Unit has been awarded the 2023/2024 EMS Interdisciplinary Research Funding to conduct research on energy poverty-related topics. This project addresses the multifaceted issue of energy poverty, emphasising that it extends beyond access to electricity grids. Energy poverty, affecting millions globally, profoundly impacts health, employment opportunities, and overall development. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated progress toward universal energy access, revealing the complex interplay of factors involved. This project recognises that energy poverty is not limited to developing economies; recent events in Europe, such as natural gas embargoes, highlight the need for a holistic approach to energy poverty that considers energy services; affordability, safety, and cleanliness. The project aims to develop effective policy interventions to alleviate energy poverty by considering regional disparities, climate change impacts, and the specific challenges various population groups face, particularly in rural communities dependent on unsustainable fuelw0