PROGRAMMES

Key development systems

The EDP works to achieve a better quality of life for all through sustainable development. Our team enhances the capabilities of civil society and government to engage in collaborative and adaptive governance within specific key development systems. These key systems -reflected in the EDP’s programmes - abound in opportunities to partner and have a high payoff of collaboration.

Energy & Climate

Partnering for energy security, sustainability and equity

Water Resilience

Building water resilience to strengthen water security

Built Environment

Collaboration for inclusive infrastructure delivery

Local Economic Development

Partnering for inclusive economic growth and employment

Wellbeing & Safety

Enhancing safety boosts economic growth and promotes community well-being.

EDP PROGRAMMES

Energy and Climate Change

South Africa’s energy challenges require a systems approach that considers issues of inclusivity, safety, economy, and environment, among others. Collaboration across and between spheres of government, civil society and the private sector is crucial for a diversified and decentralised electricity generation system. The EDP brings adaptive partnering solutions for a rapidly changing regulatory environment that strengthen the renewable energy ecosystem and support the ‘just energy transition’.

Examples of our work:
Local Just Transition in South Africa

This project convenes municipal leaders and stakeholders through a network, dialogues, and a Community of Practice to drive inclusive, local Just Transitions. It aligns local innovation with national Just Transition goals, in partnership with SALGA, New Economy Hub, and the Africa Climate Foundation.

Pursuing net-zero economy transition in South Africa using green hydrogen projects for community development in South Africa

This pilot uses action learning to test and refine a practical toolkit for inclusive community development in green hydrogen projects. Through workshops and reviews, it engages stakeholders to influence policy and strengthen industry practice. Partners include GIZ, toolkit authors, and renewable energy specialists.

Climate-informed economic pathways for South Africa

Using multi-sector dialogues and PCC climate scenarios, this project explores pathways to a socially just, net-zero economy. It translates complex climate scenarios into accessible tools, building consensus among government, business, labour and civil society. Partners include PCC, Isandla Institute, National Business Initiative, and Climate Justice Coalition.

Athlone Power Station core team members including CoCT technical project lead Shane Prins. Credit: EDP.  

An SMME representative in Capricorn is running a flexible business model for waste pickers to sort recyclables on site and be paid according to what they collect. Here their sorted materials are being weighed. Credit: Ashraf Hendricks.  

Stakeholders engage at a Climate Change Coalition workshop at the EDP offices. Credit: EDP. 

Insights from this programme