OpeN source Nexus modelling tools for Planning Sustainable Energy Transition in Africa (ONEPlanET)

To achieve this goal, the project will apply theoretical models and in particular, WEF Nexus models to simulate policy scenarios to support the design and planning of resilient energy systems and infrastructures.

The project, therefore, aims at empowering African policymakers, research & academia, investors and citizens with the necessary tools and know-how to increase clean energy generation and sustainable use of resources while reducing inequalities and cultural/socio-economic gaps. Specific objectives include:

1. Co-design and test an Open-Source (OS) System Dynamic Nexus model/Toolkit, built upon existing WEF Nexus models and methodologies, that allows simulating scenarios, and optimizing existing resources with the most appropriate policies considering social, climate, economic and biophysical constraints to support AU policy-makers and stakeholders
2. Development of a Knowledge Hub including a set of capacity-building materials and knowledge exchange activities
3. Undertake a participatory approach to building local communities in three African case studies through coordinated training and capacity building: Songwe (Malawi/Tanzania), Inkomati-Usuthu area (South Africa) and Niger (Nigeria) river basins
4. Deploy a sound strategy towards the exploitation and replication of project results

Expected Results

1. A web-based Open-Source (OS) System Dynamic Nexus model/Toolkit
2. Interactive online training videos (MOOCs), webinars involving African universities, and exchange/training program
3. Social media awareness campaigns, interactive videos, open access papers and infographics, conferences participations and AU Policy Briefs.

Partners and Funders

1. RINA Consulting SpA as the lead partner
2. Fundación CARTIF,
3. Universidad de Valladolid,
4. Three o’clock,
5. Stitching IHE Delft Institute for Water Education,
6. Strathmore University,
7. Ecowas Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency,
8. The University of KwaZulu-Natal,
9. African Technology Innovation Hubs and
10. Università degli Studi di Genova.

The project is funded by the European Commission.