UKZN Unveils Smart Grid Research Centre

Deputy Minister Public Enterprises Mr Bulelani
Magwanishe unveils the commemorative plaque at
the Smart Grid Research Centre on the Westville
campus. From left: Professor Nelson Ijumba, Deputy
Minister of Public Enterprises Bulelani Magwanishe,
Deputy Mayor of eThekwini Nomvuso Tshabalala
and the CEO of Eskom, Mr Brian Dames.

The Smart Grid Research Centre was officially launched at UKZN’s Westville campus by Deputy Minister of Public Enterprises Bulelani Magwanishe; Professor Nelson Ijumba Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and the CEO of Eskom Mr Brian Dames.

The Research Centre will assist in developing the Smart Grid System for South Africa and is the only simulator of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.

In his address Professor Nelson Ijumba said: ‘Eskom’s student support and investment in research infrastructure at UKZN gives a new context to corporate social responsibility. It has empowered individuals, capacitated the Institution and benefited the community at large.’

The Smart Grid Research Centre along with the High Voltage Direct Current Centre and the Vibration Research and Testing Centre forms part of the Science and Technology Innovation Park (STIP).

STIP was established as a partnership between UKZN and Eskom to foster research for product advancement and innovation through knowledge partnerships. The Eskom-sponsored Park is located at the University’s Westville campus and is a significant development that offers post-graduate students world-class research facilities.

The occasion also marked Eskom’s 90^th anniversary.