At the Energy Research Centre (www.erc.nul.ls), through the MSc in Sustainable Energy program, second-year students are transforming academic research into practical solutions that address pressing environmental and socio-economic challenges. Their research projects have secured funding from the Southern African Solar Thermal Training & Demonstration Initiative (SOLTRAIN+).
Innovating Clean Water Access for Remote Tourism
Rethabile Makebe‘s project focuses on enhancing Lesotho’s tourism sector by addressing the lack of clean drinking water in remote, scenic locations. Tourists often rely on bottled water, leading to increased costs and environmental degradation due to plastic waste. The proposed solution, a Solar Photovoltaic Thermal (PVT) drinking water purification system utilizes renewable solar energy to purify water on-site, eliminating the need for bottled water and supporting environmental conservation.
Beyond improving the tourist experience, this system extends access to safe drinking water to surrounding remote communities, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation). The PVT system integrates photovoltaic panels for electricity and thermal collectors for water heating, enabling decentralized water purification without reliance on grid infrastructure. This innovation enhances water security, hygiene, and reduces exposure to waterborne diseases for both tourists and local populations. (SOLTRAIN+ bursary: €2,000)
Advancing Sustainable Agriculture with Solar Hydroponics
Another student, Kabi Sebothoane, is tackling the challenges facing Lesotho’s agriculture sector, such as decreasing arable land, water scarcity, and environmental degradation from traditional farming methods. His project proposes a Solar Photovoltaic Thermal (PVT) hydroponic greenhouse system equipped with photonic effect control and Internet of Things (IoT) technology. This modern agricultural solution aims to enhance food production efficiency by significantly reducing water usage and energy consumption while increasing crop yields, especially in remote and off-grid regions.
The system leverages solar energy for both electricity and thermal needs, enabling year-round cultivation in controlled environments, independent of weather fluctuations or external power infrastructure. IoT integration allows for real-time monitoring and optimization of environmental conditions, improving resource management and operational sustainability. This project aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals 2 (Zero Hunger), 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), and 13 (Climate Action), promoting food security, climate resilience, and sustainable resource use in vulnerable communities. (SOLTRAIN+ bursary: €2,000)
Moeno Mokati’s project addresses the feasibility of using solar thermal energy for heating, cooling, and dehumidifying vegetable greenhouses in Lesotho. Given the country’s exposure to climate change and declining agricultural productivity, this research explores energy-efficient, solar-powered greenhouses that reduce reliance on the national grid and fossil fuels. By supporting all-year farming, the project aims to increase agricultural productivity and commercialization, contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goals 1 (No Poverty), 2 (Zero Hunger), and 3 (Good Health and Well-being). (SOLTRAIN+ bursary €2,100)
The ERC-SOLTRAIN+ Synergy: Building Capacity for a Sustainable Future
These student-led initiatives exemplify the transformative impact of the ERC’s MSc in Sustainable Energy program, which provides high-calibre training in sustainable energy systems and technologies. The collaboration with SOLTRAIN+ not only offers financial support but also fosters a platform for practical application of theoretical knowledge, enabling students to contribute meaningfully to national development goals and global sustainability targets.
