Electrochemical energy technologies
We advance battery and fuel cell technologies using locally sourced minerals and materials. Our goal is to reduce costs, increase the performance of local energy storage and conversion solutions and support the domestic battery manufacturing industry.
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Highlights
Homegrown UPS to make back-up power affordable
The CSIR and the University of the Western Cape have developed a first-of-its-kind 12 volt uninterruptible power supply (UPS) unit for households and small businesses. The unit features a CSIR-patented lithium manganese oxide cathode and can be fully assembled locally, offering the potential to be more cost-effective than imported alternatives. It is designed specifically for low-power applications such as home routers, closed-circuit television systems and alarm backups during power outages.
President Cyril Ramaphosa visits the CSIR
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa toured several key CSIR facilities earlier in 2025, where he explored our work on electrochemical technologies. During the visit, we demonstrated the CSIR’s battery materials value chain – from raw materials to battery prototypes – and demonstrated our role in advancing energy storage technologies to enable South Africa's energy security.
Our research
Our goal is to advance local research, development and innovation in battery chemistry, storage technologies and prototype development to deliver solutions tailored to South Africa’s needs.
We focus on developing materials derived from local resources for battery and fuel cell technologies. By assessing parameters like performance, cost, lifespan and end-of-life disposal, our team is able to recommend the most suitable energy storage and conversion technologies for specific applications.
Key research projects, aligned with national minerals beneficiation priorities, include the development of manganese- and nickel-rich cathode materials, as well as graphite, titanium- and silicon-based anode materials, to support affordable yet high-performing energy storage systems. We are also investigating materials beyond conventional lithium-ion batteries, including platinum group metals (PGM) and non-PGM-based electrocatalysts for fuel cells and electrolysers.
Current contract research and development projects include supporting a local manufacturer in transitioning its reserve battery system to a new chemistry, as well as conducting feasibility studies for a potential battery manufacturing plant.
Our work contributes to the localisation of energy storage and conversion technologies as a foundation for energy security. Beyond laboratory innovation, we integrate local resources, develop skills, build public-private partnerships and develop globally competitive research and manufacturing capabilities.
Our facilities
Battery technology laboratories
We synthesise electrocatalyst and membrane materials and fabricate membrane electrode assemblies. We also test fuel cells and electrolyser performance using specialised equipment for electrochemistry, spectroscopy and precise physical and chemical characterisation.
Hydrogen and fuel cell technology laboratories
We synthesise electrocatalyst and membrane materials and fabricate membrane electrode assemblies. We also test fuel cells and electrolyser performance using specialised equipment for electrochemistry, spectroscopy and precise physical and chemical characterisation.
Work with us
We invite national and regional authorities, as well as public and private enterprises, to collaborate with our team of energy storage and conversion experts in building South Africa’s local battery manufacturing industry. Please contact our research group leader or email @email.