Rooftop solar panel installation in a South African township community
Mobilising Communities for Energy Democracy

Communities leading the energy transition

Empowering communities to shape, own, and benefit from a clean, affordable and just energy future.

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About the project

Who we are, and why it matters

Who we are

The Energy Democracy Project supports communities across South Africa to take control of their energy future through renewable energy, education, and collective action. "Mobilising Social Movements for Energy Democracy and Sovereignty in South Africa" brings together the strength of grassroots organising with the vision of a just energy future.

Why it matters

Millions of people still face energy poverty. By putting communities at the centre of decision-making, we build solutions that are local, sustainable and fair — creating a model where communities don't just receive energy solutions, they shape and own them.

Meet the changemakers
A community member installing solar panels on a rooftop
Our impact

Change happening on the ground

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Our work

Step inside the project and see how it's making change happen

From educational workshops and dialogue sessions to solar demonstration units and local government engagement — this is renewable energy that works with and for people.

Community Engagement

Building trust and working with communities to identify local energy priorities.

Renewable Energy Solutions

Supporting community-led renewable energy projects and innovations.

Capacity Building

Equipping communities with the skills and knowledge to lead their own energy solutions.

Advocacy & Policy

Advocating for policies that promote energy democracy and a just transition.

Success stories

Where the change is happening

From eMalahleni's coalfields to eThekwini's industrial south — real communities, real organising, real results.

Community members and organisers at an energy democracy workshop

eMalahleni

Vukani Environmental Movement works to address the health and environmental toll of coal — while building the case for renewable alternatives.

SDCEA community dialogue session

eThekwini

South Durban Community Environmental Alliance has worked since 1995 to confront the air pollution and injustice faced by communities beside refineries.

Community members registering at an energy workshop

Community Workshops

Storytelling, myth-busting, and hands-on demonstrations — building the knowledge communities need to lead their own energy future.

Explore the knowledge

Take our courses and level up on the project's key themes

6+ free, self-paced modules — with real videos and short quizzes — covering everything from where electricity comes from to community-owned renewable energy.

Start learning
Resources

Reports, toolkits and guides worth your time

Towards Energy Democracy and Energy Sovereignty

Report

Community Solar Financial Feasibility Study

Feasibility study

The Three E's

Leaflet
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News & events

What's happening right now

View all news & events
Get involved

There's a place for you in this movement

Partner with us

Collaborate on community energy initiatives.

Attend events

Join our workshops, webinars and community events.

Subscribe

Stay updated with news and opportunities.

Contact the team

We'd love to hear from you.

Working together with
groundWork Vukani Environmental Movement Abahlali baseMjondolo SDCEA Sustainable Energy Africa

Ready to power your community?

Join workshops, access free courses, and connect with a growing movement for a just energy future.

Contact us