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By Danny Pudjianto

No single country can solve the complex challenges of climate change alone. Global cooperation is crucial for speeding up technology development and deployment worldwide. This was demonstrated in the development and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines, and the same spirit should be adopted to deal with the urgent climate crisis.

Launched in 2019 by the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Research and Development 20 for Clean Energy Technologies (RD20) aims to intensify international collaboration among leading research institutes from G20 countries, specifically focusing on pioneering technologies for achieving carbon neutrality. Understanding this importance and reflecting the Centre’s strategic global engagement in tackling energy-related challenges, UKERC has been the key supporter of the RD20 initiative.

Four UKERC delegates (Dr Danny Pudjianto, Weize Wu, Yingying, and Abayomi) were sent to the RD20 Summer School in Jakarta, Indonesia, from 7 to 13 July 2024. The focal point was “Diversity of Knowledge on Decarbonisation in Just Energy Transition Mechanism.”  The theme acknowledged the vast areas of approaches and technologies and the need to deliver equal access and opportunities in decarbonising energy.

Over seventy researchers from G20 countries and other well-known institutions, including NREL, AIST, CSIRO, ENEA, and BRIN, participated in the event. This collaborative platform serves as a critically important forum for sharing insights and expertise in pursuing sustainable energy solutions.

A broad range of topics, from low-carbon technologies, waste management, battery energy storage, to the energy planning development of Ibu Kota Nusantara (the future capital of Indonesia), were presented and discussed. Danny gave a lecture on energy system optimisation, while Weize Wu, Yingying, and Yumi presented their posters on net zero foot cold chain, critical determinants for the market success of electric vehicles, and bio resource utilisation of sawdust-activated carbon, respectively. Another UKERC member, Dr Colin Nolden, presented his research on “Innovative Finance for Energy Transition” remotely. I would like to congratulate the discussion group led by Abayomi and Yingying, who won the overall best presentation in “Bioresources and Circular Economy”.

The summer school program was a demanding experience, featuring long days stretching from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. However, it remained engaging through lectures, group discussions with young researchers, and visits to national laboratories focusing on cutting-edge technologies like smart grids, EV charging, low-temperature waste-fueled power generation, green hydrogen production, and nuclear research. Witnessing the practical development of these low-carbon technologies has proven to be deeply inspiring and motivating.

At the school program, all the participants had the fantastic opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant Indonesian culture. They were entertained by captivating traditional dance performances showcasing Indonesian artistry’s beauty and grace. Additionally, they had the unique experience of learning to play angklung, a set of unique musical instruments that produce melodious and harmonious tunes.

Furthermore, the participants were delighted to sample the diverse and flavorful Indonesian cuisine, savouring delicious food and delicacies that reflected the country’s culinary richness. This immersion into Indonesian culture provided an enriching and memorable experience for all involved.

My main lesson from this summer school is that sharing knowledge and fostering collaboration can enhance research progress and accelerate the deployment of low-carbon and sustainable technologies worldwide. Since countries vary in their levels of experience, research capabilities, technology development, and policies, promoting international collaboration can facilitate the learning process and reduce associated costs. Events like this encourage positive interactions among young and senior researchers as we unite, learn, and collectively address the challenges of climate change.

Staying in touch with our new friends has been wonderful, and we’re really looking forward to meeting up with them again next year!