Affordable Clean Energy
Powering a Sustainable and Knowledge-Based Future
Introduction
Botswana’s National Development Plan 12 (NDP 12) places energy at the heart of sustainable growth, targeting a 50% renewable energy contribution to the national energy mix by 2030. This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 7, which aims to “ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all.” As the nation accelerates toward a low-carbon future, BIUST stands as a strategic partner in advancing clean energy research, innovation, and policy support.
BIUST's Strategic Alignment
Guided by its Transformative Strategic Plan (2023–2028), BIUST’s mission is to drive cutting-edge research and innovation in science, engineering and technology to propel industry growth and the advancement of a diversified knowledge-based economy. SDG 7 directly supports this mission by fostering energy sustainability across the university’s operations, research agenda, and community partnerships.
Through its Adaptive Research and Development Impact, Operational & Financial Efficacy, and Entrepreneurial Drive and Business Growth strategic themes Page 12 of the Transformative Strategic Plan (2023–2028),BIUST contributes to national and global clean energy transitions. The university’s initiatives strengthen Botswana’s capacity to achieve renewable energy integration, energy efficiency, and innovation-driven industrial development.
Our Commitment in Action
- Energy-Efficient Infrastructure: All new and renovated facilities at BIUST incorporate solar water heating, LED lighting, natural ventilation, and motion-sensor systems, creating an operational model for sustainability in higher education.
- Renewable Energy Development: The Solar PV Power Generation Plant and Energy Efficiency Framework 2025 are central to BIUST’s goal of reducing its carbon footprint and promoting renewable energy use.
- Research, Innovation & Partnerships: BIUST’s Innovation Hub drives low-carbon and green-technology projects, while collaborations with the Ministry of Minerals & Energy and local industry inform national energy policies and sustainable practices.
- Community Outreach: In partnership with Palapye Council and public institutions, BIUST extends its clean energy advocacy through awareness campaigns and training programs that promote responsible energy consumption.
Looking Forward
By integrating clean energy into teaching, research, operations, and community engagement, BIUST demonstrates institutional leadership in achieving SDG 7. The university’s focus on innovation, collaboration, and sustainability not only aligns with Botswana’s NDP 12 and Vision 2036 but also strengthens BIUST’s contribution to Agenda 2063 Goal 7 — building environmentally sustainable and climate-resilient economies and communities.
Through these actions, BIUST continues to power a future where science and technology drive equitable access to clean energy, sustainable growth, and national transformation.