The South African National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI) celebrated outstanding contributions to the nation’s energy transition at its third Annual Energy Conference, held from 24 to 26 February 2026 at the Radisson Blu OR Tambo in Ekurhuleni.
A highlight of the event was the recognition of Dr Emmanuel Kweinor Tetteh, an academic in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) and Lead Researcher of the Green Engineering Research Group (GERG). Dr Tetteh received two of SANEDI’s highest honours: the Top Researcher in Energy Research and Development Award and the Best Researcher in Science and Technology Award.
The SANEDI Energy Awards annually celebrate individuals, organisations, and partnerships advancing South Africa’s transition toward a more sustainable, inclusive, and energy-secure future. Selection criteria emphasise measurable impact, innovation, research excellence, technology development, skills advancement, and alignment with national priorities for a just energy transition.
“This recognition reinforces DUT’s growing reputation as a driving force in sustainable energy research. The achievements of GERG, supported by SANEDI and HySA Infrastructure, continue to build a strong foundation for future national hydrogen initiatives, including expanded research programmes, advanced training, and multi-institutional collaborations. With this milestone, DUT strengthens its position as a leading hub for green hydrogen innovation in KwaZulu-Natal and across South Africa,” Dr Tetteh said.
Dr Tetteh’s recognition reflects his leadership as Principal Investigator of the DUT–SANEDI Green Hydrogen Partnership Initiative, a flagship project that has strengthened DUT’s capacity in green hydrogen science and technology. SANEDI committed R2 million in seed funding to support postgraduate research, enhance laboratory infrastructure, and acquire specialised hydrogen production systems. The partnership has also deepened collaboration with HySA Infrastructure at North-West University and the CSIR, providing DUT postgraduate researchers with exposure to world-class hydrogen innovation developed over the past 15 years in production technologies, material science, and storage systems.
During his acceptance, Dr Tetteh dedicated the awards to the “hard-working and courageous GERG team,” particularly recognising postgraduate students driving hydrogen research: doctoral researcher Ms Ngobile Mkhize and master’s candidates Ms Nonhlanhla Ntombela, Ms Sanelisiwe Diestsela, and Mr Thashrik Pirthiraj, who also attended the conference and showcased their contributions to South Africa’s green hydrogen agenda.
Dr Tetteh also thanked key SANEDI and DUT partners for their support, including Ms Azwihangwisi Nemadandila, SANEDI Project Officer, co-researcher Sampson Mamphweli, Head of the DSTI Energy Secretariat, and Professor Sudesh Rathilal, whose collaboration has been central to strengthening research capacity within the faculty.
Reflecting on the honour, Dr Tetteh noted that the awards symbolise not only his personal journey but also the collective dedication of collaborators, postgraduate students, and national partners committed to the transformative potential of green hydrogen for South Africa.
SANEDI’s acknowledgement of Dr Tetteh celebrates his accomplishments while highlighting DUT’s commitment to ENVISION 2030 and advancing research excellence and innovation for a greener, more resilient energy future.
Pictured: Dr Emmanuel Kweinor Tetteh
Story: Supplied
