Energy needs across the globe are rising while fossil fuels are being depleted. Since fossil fuels result in various detrimental emissions, new and renewable energy sources can alleviate the drain on our natural resources and help in the mitigation of the harmful emissions.

Viewed in isolation, neither of these energy sources may solve the problem. However, an integrated energy approach might be the solution, and the Faculty of Engineering at the North-West University (NWU) is leading the national efforts to ensure a better energy future for all.

Universities nationwide are looking into how an integrated energy approach can best serve the country’s energy needs and each of these institutions have specific areas of expertise. In this regard the NWU ticks more boxes than most. In fact, the NWU produces more postgraduate qualifications in this field than any other higher education institution in South Africa.

The Faculty of Engineering has significant strengths in the areas of renewable energy (hydrogen, solar, bio), fossil-based energy, a combination of fossil and renewable bio-energy, energy efficiency, nuclear energy and energy storage.

“It goes without saying that energy is of cardinal importance to human development, especially in the modern world and even more so in developed countries,” says Prof Frikkie van Niekerk who spearheads the Faculty of Engineering’s integrated energy approach. “History shows us that man, his development and access to energy are tightly interwoven. It is one of our life-giving sources and to have sustainable, clean energy will pave the way to development and prosperity.”

“An integrated energy approach in our current context is more important than ever. There are numerous potential energy sources available, depending on the country’s available recourses. For example, we have fossil fuels, nuclear energy and renewable energy sources at our disposal, but we need to develop the right energy mixture for our needs. We can’t rely on just one of these sources and we also have to look at how we store energy. There are peak and quiet times, but energy has to be available at all times. To maintain a balance, you will need integration,” says Prof Van Niekerk.      

“To manage energy we have to look at everything: from the time and tempo of energy use to geo-political factors, including the availability of energy sources. We have to look at energy safety as we can’t simply use the cheapest form of energy and we have to look at the best way to store this energy. Again, effective integration of all of these factors and more is of the utmost importance.”

The faculty’s expertise in this field is widely recognised. “The NWU is the energy leader among BRICS universities and we will continue to ensure that we remain at the forefront in this important field.”