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.
Sharing his congratulatory remarks was Executive Dean (Acting) of the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment: Professor Molusiwa Stephan Ramabodu.
He indicated that the recognition of Dr Emmanuel Kweinor Tetteh’s receipt of two prestigious awards from the South African National Energy Development Institute is a remarkable achievement that reflects both individual excellence and the growing strength of research within the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment. “Being honoured with the Top Researcher in Energy Research and Development Award and the Best Researcher in Science and Technology Award demonstrates the significant impact of his work in advancing sustainable energy solutions, particularly in the field of green hydrogen,” he highlighted.
Further on, Prof Ramabodu emphasised that these awards highlight Dr Tetteh’s leadership in driving innovative research through the Green Engineering Research Group and his role as Principal Investigator of the DUT–SANEDI Green Hydrogen Partnership Initiative.
“His recognition also reflects the collaborative efforts of postgraduate students, co-researchers, and institutional partners who advance energy research. Overall, this achievement reinforces Durban University of Technology’s reputation as an institution committed to research excellence and meaningful contributions to South Africa’s sustainable energy transition,” added Prof Ramabodu.
Overall, Prof Ramabodu expressed that Dr Tetteh’s awards not only celebrate personal academic excellence but also strengthen the faculty’s research profile, innovation capacity, and contribution to national development priorities.
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
