From 14–16 April 2026 in Graz, Austria, the International Sustainable Energy Conference 2026 convened global researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers to advance dialogue on sustainable energy systems.

Under the theme of achieving energy sovereignty in a climate-constrained world, the conference focused on renewable heating and cooling, sector coupling, and the transition away from fossil fuels, with particular relevance for developing economies.

Within this context, the Energy Research Centre (ERC) at the National University of Lesotho (NUL) was represented by Prof. Enock Jonathan and Reabetsoe Sehobai.

Prof. Enock Jonathan’s poster presentation, “Greenhouse Renewable Energy Heating, Cooling and Dehumidification – A Case Study for Lesotho,” explored the feasibility of solar-powered systems to meet the thermal demands of greenhouse farming. Using simulations across Mokhotlong and Leribe, the study demonstrated how integrated solar solutions can support more sustainable and energy-independent agricultural systems.

Reabetsoe Sehobai’s presentation, “Energy Consumption in Lodges and Guesthouses in Lesotho – Insights from Energy Audits and Solar Water Heating Modelling,” examined energy use patterns in the hospitality sector and highlighted the role of solar water heating in reducing electricity demand. In a constrained energy system, this provides practical insights for demand-side management and policy development.

Both contributions reflect ongoing work at NUL-ERC focused on developing sector-specific solutions that respond to real energy system conditions.

Participation in this conference was supported by the Southern African Solar Thermal Training and Demonstration Initiative, under its capacity-building and demonstration initiatives in solar thermal technologies.

In parallel, the Centre continues to advance national initiatives, including MaZero, which explores the role of e-mobility within Lesotho’s evolving energy landscape.

👉 Access the first edition of the MaZero Newsletter here: https://erc.nul.ls/mazero/#newsletters-mazero