Dr. Sandile Koko is a researcher and senior lecturer in the Department of Electrical, Electronic, and Computer Engineering. 

The Elsevier Journal has recognised Dr Sandile Koko, a researcher and senior lecturer in the Department of Electrical, Electronic, and Computer Engineering, for the profound relevance of his research to the United Nations (UN) sustainable development goals. This acknowledgement underscores the tangible and global impact of his work, emphasizing its importance in addressing pressing societal issues.

Dr Sandile Koko's research, "Optimal battery sizing for a grid-tied solar photovoltaic system supplying a residential load: A case study under South African solar irradiance," published in the esteemed Journal of Energy Reports, has been lauded for its exceptional insights. This research, with its practical applications in the fields of energy storage and renewable energy, not only demonstrates its relevance but also its potential to make a real difference in the world. 

The study aligns with several United Nations sustainable development objectives, including "Affordable and Clean Energy" (Goal 7). This is demonstrated by the way energy storage has been optimised to increase the availability of inexpensive, dependable, and sustainable energy; Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (Goal 9) is demonstrated by the creation of an ideal power flow control model; Sustainable Cities and Communities (Goal 11) is achieved by installing grid-tied solar PV systems, which promotes the growth of sustainable urban areas and communities by reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources; Climate Action (Goal 13) is achieved by promoting the use of renewable energy sources and improving the efficiency of energy storage, to reduce the effects of climate change. 

The research paper receives a substantial number of citations due to its direct contribution to improving renewable energy usage and alignment with the sustainable development goals. Its connection to the UN Sustainable Development Goals emphasises its importance for tackling important societal issues. It facilitates the shift to a more ecologically friendly and sustainable energy landscape. 

Dr Sandile Koko expressed his happiness at being granted this esteemed honour, demonstrating how his work actively promotes global goals and sustainability initiatives. He underlined how crucial it is to carry out research targeted at resolving concrete, everyday problems. "A key component of our university's Vision 2030 (CUT) is incorporating research supporting sustainable development goals. This demonstrates our commitment to environmental sustainability and social responsibility," Dr. Sandile Koko stated.

"From an engineering standpoint, researchers may offer significant insights and answers by concentrating on problems like clean energy, sustainable cities, responsible energy use, clean water and sanitation, climate change, etc. These engineering research projects can support responsible energy use, clean water and sanitation, climate change, etc. They can also support organisations, governments, and local communities in making informed decisions, thereby establishing the foundation for a more sustainable and equitable future,” he added. 

In support of the UN sustainable development goals, Elsevier has produced a special edition to tackle the most important global issues. Sustainable development goals are the subject of free-access journal articles and book chapters on this issue. It draws attention to several outstanding studies being carried out to further the sustainable development goals set forth by the UN. “In the face of these challenges, all developed and developing nations must now unite their efforts to achieve these goals through global cooperation. It is recognized that eliminating poverty and other types of deprivation requires concerted efforts to improve healthcare and education, reduce inequality, promote economic growth, combat climate change, and protect our forests and oceans. Therefore, open access papers are not just beneficial, they are essential for spreading knowledge and providing more access,” he concluded, emphasizing the crucial role of global cooperation in achieving these goals.