The Durban University of Technology was recently recognised by Value SA, a renewable energy company, for its efforts in decreasing its carbon footprint.

As a company that specialises in implementing green initiatives, Value SA acknowledges and appreciates DUT’s work on renewable energy, said the company CEO Derek Naidoo.

The company is looking at a possible partnership with DUT to advance green objectives as part of the University’s plans to be the first carbon-neutral institution in South Africa.

Naidoo mentioned that a possible partnership may include Eskom as well as Value Addition (FZC); Value SA’s mother company which is based in Dubai.

The three companies recently met with the University at the Steve Biko Campus for the first discussion in which the University made presentations on its renewable energy strategy and projects. Some of the key goals in DUT’s plans are promoting research, engaging in education and training at all levels and establishing a testing hub for solar thermal heaters.

The institution has conducted a number of projects in impoverished areas in KwaZulu Natal. One of its successful projects was at Myeka High School, Inanda, where the institution installed solar energy panels. Installing solar water heaters in the University residences is another project that is underway.

Value Addition delegate Vinod Anthraper said it is disappointing that South Africa, a country with a good energy source (natural sunlight), has done minimal work on renewable energy. He is hopeful however that this can be altered.

Dubai is well advanced in terms of renewable energy and thus bringing Value Addition (FZC) on board will be fruitful for the country, explained Naidoo.

The best way to save the environment is through empowering the younger generation, Anthraper said. He said he was pleased to learn that education and training is also part of the University’s goals.

It is important that students are targeted as they are the future leaders of this world. They need to have an understanding of why conserving energy is essential and the importance of conducting research aimed at improving renewable energy initiatives. In this way, the environment can be saved.

Delegates from the eThekwini Municipality and the United States of America also attended the presentation.

–Naledi Hlefane