UK-South Africa Smart Energy Global Innovation Network

The UK-South Africa Smart Energy Global Innovation Network is a new initiative led by the Innovate UK Global Alliance Africa Project team based in South Africa. The network will bring together innovators, entrepreneurs, industry, policymakers and investors from the UK and South Africa to support the development and adoption of digital, smart and AI energy technologies across energy generation, transmission and distribution, and usage.

About the network

The goal of the network is to assist the transition of our energy system from a reactive and isolated system reliant on predictable, centralised generation sources, to a dynamic, interconnected ecosystem optimised by real-time data and driven by renewable energies. This community will provide a platform for members to share knowledge, collaborate on projects, and access funding and support opportunities. There will also be a focus on matching organisations with aligned interests.

Below are some key activities to engage stakeholders to foster innovation in the smart energy sector, and a video about the network and its background.

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Knowledge Exchange Building Workshops and Events

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Mission Tour to the UK

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Impact Reports and Findings

Watch the recording of our March 2024 launch event

See highlights of our launch, and a full recording of the panel discussion

Watch now

Focus Areas

The UK-South Africa Smart Energy Global Innovation Network will consider the role of innovation in three key areas. These focus areas will enhance UK-South Africa collaboration and partnerships, providing mutual benefits to both the UK and South Africa. For the UK stakeholders, the network offers an opportunity to test and refine smart energy technologies in diverse environments and share best practices, while South Africa can leverage these technologies to address its energy challenges and co-develop context-specific solutions based on these bilateral learnings. Both regions stand to gain from shared knowledge, technological advancements, and economic growth opportunities in the energy sector. provide mutual benefits to both the UK and South Africa.
Integrating renewable energy

Integrating renewable energy

The network aims to facilitate the seamless integration of renewable energy sources like solar and wind into existing power grids. We will explore innovative solutions for energy storage, distribution, and efficient utilisation.

Building smarter grids

Building smarter grids

Our focus will include the development and deployment of smart grid technologies. These grids will be equipped with sensors, IoT devices, and communication technologies to improve grid reliability.

Applying AI in energy

Applying AI in energy

AI and machine learning will play a pivotal role in predictive maintenance, demand forecasting, and optimisation of energy distribution. The network will work on developing AI algorithms.


Join the network

Express your interest in joining the UK-South Africa Smart Energy Global Innovation Network.

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Global Alliance Africa

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