The Energy Research Centre (ERC) at the National University of Lesotho begins the year by highlighting a student achievement that reflects both academic excellence and the evolving nature of energy research at the Centre.

Two students enrolled in the MSc in Sustainable Energy programme were awarded the Liechtenstein REED MSc Research Award, recognizing strong academic performance. Each recipient received USD 1,000, supporting postgraduate research aligned with SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy for All.

The award was granted to Kabelo Tenane, whose dissertation focuses on the design, development and holistic analysis of an AI-enhanced hybrid renewable energy and energy storage system, using Lesotho as a case study. This research reflects an emerging area of energy systems analysis that integrates digital tools with renewable technologies.

Reabetsoe Sehobai received the award for her dissertation on optimizing renewable energy supply and transmission infrastructure for Lesotho using PyPSA, applying advanced modelling approaches increasingly used in international energy planning.

These projects highlight ERC’s role in supporting students to engage with innovative and forward-looking research areas. By encouraging the use of advanced tools and interdisciplinary approaches, ERC continues to contribute to building a new generation of energy professionals equipped to address complex national and global challenges.