WSU LEADS THE WAY IN RENEWABLE ENERGY

Walter Sisulu University (WSU) continues to make waves in higher education, earning well-deserved recognition for its forward-thinking approach to sustainability.

Last Thursday, the University of Zululand visited WSU to gain insights into its groundbreaking 188kW Hybrid Solar Installation at the Potsdam Engineering Building. This project is reshaping how universities integrate renewable energy into their infrastructure.

It is a result of the funding from the DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training) under the Infrastructure and Efficiency Grant (IEG) for university infrastructure.

The session began at the Phyllis Ntantala Library, where WSU’s Project Office took the delegation through a step-by-step breakdown of how the university successfully executed this ambitious initiative.

From conceptualisation to implementation, the team unpacked the project’s key milestones, challenges, and long-term benefits.

Following the in-depth presentation, the delegation moved to the Potsdam campus for a firsthand view of the solar installation, witnessing how WSU is leading the charge in reducing energy costs, improving efficiency, and minimising its carbon footprint.

WSU Technical Support Deputy Director James Rodze, expressed his appreciation for the visit from the University of Zululand and how WSU was able to assist them.

“We are impressed that other universities are recognising our efforts to improve WSU in terms of construction, infrastructure, and sustainability,” he said.

As more institutions explore sustainable energy solutions, WSU is positioning itself as a trailblazer in green innovation, proving that investing in renewable energy is not just a necessity but a game-changer for the future of higher education.

University of Zululand’s Executive Director for Infrastructure, Dr Ncedo Cameron Xhala, expressed gratitude for the warm welcome extended by WSU.

“This is our second visit to WSU, and the information we have received this time is even more extensive. The visit has truly answered many of the questions we had about implementing this type of project,” he said.

He further noted that after visiting multiple universities, WSU’s model stood out as the most suitable for their institution.

“Implementing such projects will not only help during loadshedding but also serve as a sustainable solution across the higher education sector,” he added.

This initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7, which advocates for affordable and clean energy. By investing in renewable energy solutions like solar power, WSU is contributing to a future of sustainable and accessible energy, reducing reliance on non-renewable resources, and fostering energy efficiency within the higher education sector.

By: Yolanda Palezweni