Joint media statement
Pretoria, 21 October 2026 – The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), an entity of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), successfully kicked off the first RD20 Conference on African soil.
Hosted by the CSIR, the 8th RD20 Conference on Clean Energy Technologies commenced on 19 October and runs until 23 October 2026 at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Pretoria, South Africa, under the theme "Accelerating Clean Energy Innovation: From Africa to the World. The five-day conference kicked off with a workshop titled "Artificial Intelligence for Energy", featuring contributions from leading global experts in research and development (R&D).
The conference brings together leading research institutions, policymakers, industry leaders, scientists and innovators from across the G20 member countries to strengthen collaboration in clean energy R&D. Launched in 2019, RD20 is a premier international platform that brings together R&D organisations from G20 countries to exchange knowledge, share best practices and showcase emerging clean energy technologies. The conference is focused on strengthening international collaboration and accelerating innovation to support carbon neutrality and sustainable energy transitions.
Hosted by the CSIR, the 8th RD20 Conference on Clean Energy Technologies commenced on 19 October and runs until 23 October 2026 at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Pretoria, South Africa, under the theme "Accelerating Clean Energy Innovation: From Africa to the World. The five-day conference kicked off with a workshop titled "Artificial Intelligence for Energy", featuring contributions from leading global experts in research and development (R&D).
As the first RD20 Conference to be hosted in Africa, the 2026 gathering provides a unique opportunity to highlight Africa's growing role in the global clean energy landscape while fostering partnerships that support energy security, economic growth and sustainable development. Delegates will participate in technical sessions on energy access, synthetic fuels and critical minerals for the energy sector. Workshops will also explore topics such as clean hydrogen and its derivatives, as well as other technologies that can support the transition to a low-carbon future.
Participants have the opportunity to exchange knowledge, identify collaborative research priorities and showcase technologies that can support the global energy transition. In addition to the conference programme, delegates are invited to participate in tours of CSIR facilities and site visits to key stakeholders, providing first-hand insight into South Africa's research, innovation and industrial capabilities in the energy sector. The programme also includes networking opportunities designed to foster international partnerships and promote knowledge exchange.
“The conference underscores the critical role of research, development and innovation in advancing clean energy technologies and enabling a carbon-neutral future. By bringing together global expertise and fostering international collaboration, RD20 aims to support the development of practical solutions that can be scaled across regions and contribute to a more sustainable world,” said Dr Thabo Hlalele, Research Centre Manager
Highlighting the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation’s (DSTI) mandate, Director for Hydrogen and Energy, Ms Mandy Mlilo said that the work of the department is informed by the 2019 White Paper on Science, Technology and Innovation, which provides the policy foundation for advancing science, technology and innovation in South Africa.
“We are looking at how science, technology and innovation can contribute to the future of skills and education, while mobilising resources and strengthening partnerships to advance energy innovation. Through these efforts, we aim to ensure that science and innovation respond to the country’s development needs and support a sustainable, inclusive and climate-resilient future.”said Ms Mlilo
The DSTI work is further guided by the Science, Technology and Innovation Decadal Plan (2022–2032), which provides a long-term framework for using research, innovation and technological development to address South Africa’s national priorities.
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About the CSIR
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), an entity of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, is one of Africa's leading scientific and technology research, development and innovation organisations. Established in 1945, the CSIR undertakes multidisciplinary research and technological innovation to improve the quality of life of South Africans and contribute to industrial development and economic growth.
For more information, visit: https://www.csir.co.za/events/conferences-and-events/the-8th-rd20-conference
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About RD20
RD20 (Research and Development 20 for Clean Energy Technologies) is an international R&D initiative launched in 2019 to strengthen collaboration among leading research institutes from G20 countries and regions, focusing on clean energy technologies to achieve carbon neutrality.
Published 21 October 2026