Energy

Focus Area

Research Area

Research Area

Research Area

Research Area

Energy is the foundation of economic growth and sustainable development. Our research focuses on energy policy, renewable energy transitions, energy access, and efficiency. We analyze strategies to enhance energy security, accelerate clean energy adoption, and optimize regulatory frameworks for a just and sustainable energy future.

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    research doc

    February 13, 2025•Prof. Helen Onyeaka

    A review of recent advances in engineering bacteria for enhanced CO2 capture and utilization

    Anthropogenic CO2 emissions drive global warming and climate change. Conventional CO2 capture technologies often prove ineffective and environmentally harmful. Biological CO2 conversion, particularly using bacteria, offers a promising alternative due to its selectivity and adaptability. This review examines recent advances in engineering bacteria to utilize CO2 and other one-carbon compounds. It covers microbial CO2 fixation pathways, engineered bacteria, genetic and metabolic engineering approaches, and the production of value-added products (biofuels, pharmaceuticals, bioplastics) from CO2. While cultivation costs pose an economic challenge, genetic engineering offers potential for increased production yields. This review contributes to the development of sustainable, industrial-scale CO2 mitigation technologies using bacteria-based capture and utilization.

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    policy brief

    November 30, 2024•Dr. Phemelo Tamasiga

    Challenges and Opportunities for Just Energy Transition Partnerships in Africa

    This policy brief examines Just Energy Transition Partnerships (JETPs) between Africa and the International Partners Group, focusing on social equity in decarbonization. While JETPs aim to modernize grids and advance renewable energy, the social dimension lags behind technical and economic aspects. A South Africa case study highlights progress but reveals challenges like weak governance, insufficient funding, rising debt, and limited clean energy access for low-income communities. To ensure a just transition, JETPs must prioritize inclusivity, minimize impacts on vulnerable groups, and deliver equitable outcomes.

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    research doc

    October 15, 2024•Dr. Phemelo Tamasiga

    Empowering communities beyond wires: Renewable energy microgrids and the impacts on energy poverty and socio-economic outcomes

    This systematic review explores how renewable energy microgrids alleviate energy poverty and improve socio-economic outcomes in underserved communities. It highlights their role in enhancing livelihoods, economic growth, food security, health, and education while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Despite benefits, challenges like high initial costs, operational complexities, and regulatory barriers persist. The study emphasizes the need for innovative financing, supportive policies, and community engagement to maximize microgrid potential. Aligning with SDGs, microgrids offer a sustainable pathway to broader development goals.

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    research doc

    June 8, 2024•Dr. Phemelo Tamasiga

    Pricing the future: unveiling the effects of carbon pricing on socio-economic outcomes and energy poverty

    This systematic review, following PRISMA guidelines, explores the impact of carbon pricing mechanisms on energy poverty and socio-economic outcomes. Analyzing articles from 1984–2023, it identifies nine themes, including renewable energy transition and governance challenges. Findings highlight carbon pricing’s role in energy security and socio-economic development, aligning with SDGs 1, 2, 4, 7, and 11. Key recommendations include strategic revenue allocation for social programs, renewable energy investments, and rural electrification to alleviate energy poverty. The study emphasizes the interconnectedness of environmental policies and development goals, offering insights for policymakers.

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    research doc

    October 25, 2021•Prof. Helen Onyeaka

    Minimizing carbon footprint via microalgae as a biological capture

    This review explores microalgae as a sustainable solution for carbon capture and utilization, addressing climate change and pollution. Microalgae can recycle CO2 from power plants, vehicles, and natural sources into biomass, producing biofuels and value-added products without impacting food supply chains. The study highlights molecular tools, methodologies, and microalgae species used for CO2 capture, emphasizing their potential to replace petroleum-based fuels and reduce carbon footprints. This approach offers an eco-friendly alternative to costly carbon capture and storage methods.

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    research doc

    March 2, 2021•Prof. Helen Onyeaka

    Microbial fuel cells, a renewable energy technology for bio-electricity generation: A mini-review

    This study explores microbial fuel cells (MFCs) as an eco-friendly solution for electricity generation and wastewater treatment, achieving up to 50% chemical oxygen demand removal and power densities of 420–460 mW/m2. The review covers MFC types, substrates, microbes, applications, performance, and design, offering a comprehensive resource. Key findings highlight that higher power density and efficiency depend on microbe selection, materials, and MFC configuration. Despite challenges like high costs and low wastewater buffering capacity, MFCs show promise, though industrial application remains unrealized. The study provides insights for future research and scale-up efforts.

Energy

CV pdf

Energy

Publication pdf

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Energy

Member Publications

  • Energy