Labs Supporting JET Research
Discover the cutting-edge laboratories at the University of Pretoria driving innovation in the Just Energy Transition (JET).
Department of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering (EECE)
The Department of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering (EECE) at UP is a central hub for research and innovation in sustainable energy systems, digital technologies, and automation. Its facilities support research in smart grid technologies, power systems, energy efficiency, and the integration of renewable energy. The department collaborates with industry partners and government agencies to address national challenges such as load shedding, infrastructure reliability, and the transition to sustainable energy.
SANEDI Smart Grids Labs
In partnership with the South African National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI), the Smart Grids Labs at UP are dedicated to advancing the design, testing, and implementation of intelligent grid systems. These labs simulate complex grid environments, enabling the development of technologies that optimise energy distribution, enable demand response, and facilitate the integration of renewable energy into national power systems. Our lab also supports training and capacity building for utility personnel and postgraduate researchers.
Heavy Machines Labs
The Heavy Machines Labs focuses on the dynamics and control of large-scale electromechanical systems,such as transformers, motors, and generators. It is equipped with industrial-grade machines, the lab allows for experimentation and performance analysis under real-world operating conditions. Research outcomes from this lab contribute to improving equipment reliability, diagnostics, and energy efficiency in industrial applications and public utilities.
JET Lab (with Chemical Engineering)
The Just Energy Transition (JET) Lab, jointly managed by EECE and the Department of Chemical Engineering, is a multidisciplinary research facility addressing the shift to low-carbon and sustainable energy systems. The lab investigates technologies like green and turquoise hydrogen, fuel cells, and carbon capture, with an emphasis on their application in South Africa’s industrial and municipal sectors. It plays a key role in aligning technical innovation with policy, social equity, and environmental stewardship.
Power Electronics Lab
The Power Electronics Lab supports cutting-edge research in converters, power conditioning, inverters, and control systems used in renewable energy integration, electric vehicles, and industrial automation. Students and researchers develop new topologies and test control algorithms for efficient energy conversion. The lab is critical for developing resilient and efficient energy systems that can adapt to the increasing demands of modern infrastructure.
Lighting Lab
The Lighting Lab explores energy-efficient lighting solutions, photometric testing, and human-centric lighting design. The facility is used to evaluate the performance of LED and smart lighting technologies under various conditions. Research here supports standards development and guides municipalities and industries in deploying sustainable lighting systems that reduce energy consumption and improve safety and productivity.
Carl Emily Fuchs Institute for Microelectronics (CEFIM)
CEFIM has been active in the field of microelectronics research and specialist training since 1981. The research in energy innovation focuses on the design and application of sensors to the energy systems.
Mechanical Engineering Laboratories
The Mechanical Engineering laboratories at UP explore a wide range of energy-related research, from structural analysis of wind turbines to aerodynamics and heat transfer in renewable power generation.
Structural Mechanics Laboratory
This laboratory focuses on the mechanical behavior of structural components under different loading conditions. It supports energy research through the study of structural integrity in renewable energy systems, such as wind turbines and solar panel mounting structures.
Vibration and Controls Laboratory
The Vibration and Controls Lab specialises in dynamic systems, noise control, and precision engineering. Its applications in energy systems include monitoring and improving the operational stability of turbines, compressors and rotating machinery such as generators.
Wind Tunnels and Engine Test Facilities
These facilities provide crucial aerodynamic testing capabilities for energy systems like wind turbines and energy-efficient vehicles. Engine test benches support research into combustion efficiency and alternative fuels, contributing to the development of low-emission technologies.
Heat Transfer Laboratory
The Heat Transfer Lab focuses on thermal systems and energy conversion processes. Research here includes improving heat exchangers, solar thermal collectors, and thermal storage systems, making it a key contributor to sustainable energy innovation.
Solar Lab
The Solar Lab at the University of Pretoria is dedicated to investigating various applications of concentrating solar power (CSP). A centerpiece of the lab is the solar dish collector, designed to concentrate the sun’s rays to test technologies used across numerous industries, from energy generation to metallurgy. This lab has seen numerous projects like the Solar Turbo Combined Heat and Power Project, an international collaboration that demonstrated a micro-turbine-based, small-scale solar-dish Brayton cycle. The Solar Lab also hosts a Solar Radiometric Station under the Southern African Universities Radiometric Network (SAURAN), logging essential irradiance and climate data, which is publicly available for research.
Mining Engineering: Immersive Technology Lab
The Immersive Technology Lab in the Mining Engineering Department integrates Virtual Reality (VR) and augmented technologies to simulate real-world mining environments, enhancing student learning, safety training and energy-related mining research.
Immersive Technology Lab
Originating from VR adoption in 2013, the lab evolved into the Virtual Reality and Interaction (VRI) Lab by 2018. It supports energy-related mining research, such as optimized resource extraction and renewable integration in mining operations, providing a realistic training environment and advanced simulation capabilities.
Engineering 4.0 Complex
The Engineering 4.0 Complex is a flagship facility that combines infrastructure innovation with energy sustainability. It hosts multiple specialized laboratories including concrete, timber, and training labs, and is home to the SANRAL National Roads Materials Reference Laboratory. With an accelerated pavement testing track on the N4, the complex facilitates real-time data collection on traffic and materials. Its integrated approach to transportation engineering and energy-efficient design positions it as a national leader in smart mobility and infrastructure.
This facility hosts multiple research and innovation spaces.