Energy industry
We quantify, model and analyse the economic and socioeconomic impacts of transitioning to low-carbon technologies. Our focus includes new job opportunities, required skills, technology localisation and planning for a just transition. We also help small businesses respond to these new demands.
Contact information:
Highlights
Higher education responds to green hydrogen skills demand
CSIR researchers have identified the key skills required to support South Africa’s emerging green hydrogen economy across value chains such as the chemical, mining and transport industries. Their findings were compiled in a Labour Market Intelligence research report, prompting the launch of a Green Hydrogen Centre of Specialisation in September 2024 by the Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority, Mining Qualifications Authority and Transport Education and Training Authority.
CSIR recognised for small business development in energy sector
The Water Sector Education Training Authority recognised the CSIR Energy Industry team, led by Tshwanelo Rakaibe, for its outstanding support to small businesses through the Energy Industry Support Programme. This five-year initiative supports small, medium and micro enterprises, which play a crucial role in driving innovation, job creation and economic growth as the country transitions to cleaner energy sources.
Our research
Our research supports South Africa’s energy transition from a coal-based economy to a sustainable, low-carbon energy future, while supporting the development of small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in regions most affected by the shift. This work aligns with the CSIR's strategic objective of helping industry re-industrialise and improve competitiveness.
To ensure a fair and inclusive transition to cleaner energy, our team of economists, social scientists and engineers provides data-driven insights and practical advice to address key questions such as:
What are the socioeconomic impacts of the evolving energy landscape on labour, communities, businesses and policymakers?
How will employment be affected and what targeted interventions are needed to support workers and communities during the transition?
What new opportunities exist for industrial growth in the clean energy sector, particularly for SMME participation?
How can we measure and monitor the social and economic progress of the transition over time?
Our offerings
Job creation analysis in the power and energy sector using the International Jobs and Economic Development Impacts modelling tool
Mapping the political, social and economic impacts of South Africa’s energy transition
Energy sector value chain analysis, including localisation opportunities
SMME support
Socioeconomic impact assessments
Cost-benefits analyses
Economic baseline profiling
Reskilling frameworks for the energy transition
Development of roadmaps for coal phase-out regions
Work with us
We invite national and regional authorities, as well as public and private enterprises, to partner with our socioeconomic experts in realising a just transition to low-carbon technologies. Please contact our research group leader or email @email.