AISESA Research Webinar on Diversifying Energy Knowledge: Beyond Technology to Inclusive Solutions

The webinar underscored the urgent need for energy solutions that are specific to Africa’s unique context, highlighting that one-size-fits-all models imported from the Global North are not effective. Participants emphasized the importance of co-creating knowledge that draws on Africa’s expertise in adaptation, while also benefiting from Northern strategies in mitigation.

A central theme was the shift toward people-centric and holistic approaches. Energy planning should prioritize justice, community engagement, and systemic challenges, moving away from fragmented, project-based solutions. Integrating energy planning with considerations such as land use, water management, and resource limitations was seen as vital for creating a sustainable framework.

The discussion also called attention to the dominance of Northern perspectives in energy research, advocating for more equitable collaborations that center African voices and expertise. Strengthening the autonomy of African institutions is crucial for developing innovations tailored to local challenges.

It was agreed that solving Africa’s energy challenges requires breaking down disciplinary silos. Interdisciplinary collaboration, integrating technical, social, and political dimensions, is essential for finding effective solutions. Governments, institutions, and communities must work together to co-create locally relevant solutions.

Despite ambitious energy transition plans like South Africa’s Just Energy Transition Partnership, participants noted that poor execution and lack of systemic integration hinder success. Policymakers need to embrace innovation and patience, resisting oversimplified solutions or pre-set pathways. Energy was recognized as foundational to broader development, underscoring its strategic importance beyond a standalone sector. Limited funding and inadequate data were seen as significant barriers to progress, emphasizing the need for targeted investments in research and technology.

In conclusion, the session advocated a shift toward context-specific, interdisciplinary, and people-centred approaches. This will foster African innovation and address systemic challenges through collaborative efforts. Organisations like AISESA are seen as pivotal in driving inclusive research, aligning policies, and providing practical solutions tailored to Africa’s energy transition needs.