Join us for a webinar on Friday, 29th May 2026 at 15h00.

Our speaker will be Udhir Debising who will address us on the topic

Electrons + Molecules: The Future Grid Needs Flexibility

Why peakers matter for the electrical grid and how they evolve in a net zero carbon pathway.

Abstract:

As South Africa expands renewable energy, grid flexibility remains essential to reliability, affordability, and security of supply.

The Medium-Term System Adequacy Outlook published by Eskom shows that higher unplanned outages as well as the country’s net zero carbon ambition still translate into higher unserved energy risk, even as overall system performance improves.

This presentation examines peaking power as a critical flexibility resource, highlighting how Open Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs) support peak demand, system resilience, and renewable integration.

It also explores pathways to lower-carbon molecules (renewable gases, hydrogen, and carbon-circular fuels), as a practical means of preserving fast-response capability while reducing lifecycle emissions.

Short Bio of the Speaker Udhir Debising

Udhir Debising is a seasoned energy professional with over a decade of experience spanning digital innovation and operational excellence in South Africa's power generation sector. He holds a BScEng in Chemical Engineering from the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

 Udhir began his career at the intersection of engineering and technology, developing digital twin platforms for thermal power plants. He currently serves as Commercial & Performance Engineer at ENGIE Peakers Operations, where he is responsible for the commercial optimisation and technical performance of the Avon and Dedisa peaking power stations — a combined installed capacity of 1 GW. His expertise lies in driving plant efficiency, supporting grid stability, and navigating the complexities of South Africa's energy transition.

The KwaZulu-Natal Branch Committee of the South African Institution of Chemical Engineers (SAIChE) held its annual year-end function on 7 December 2025 at Jack’s Grill, Manor House, in Durban. The event brought together committee members for a constructive reflection on the year’s activities, strategic planning for the future, and a celebration of the Branch’s continued contribution to the chemical engineering profession in the province.

The session opened with a review of the Branch’s operational and governance matters. Committee members discussed and agreed on the forthcoming change of signatories to strengthen administrative efficiency and ensure alignment with the SAIChE’s national governance standards. This transition is intended to streamline financial processes and enhance accountability as the Branch prepares for an active year ahead.

A key focus of the engagement was the development of the 2026 calendar of events, including annual general meetings, technical seminars, professional development workshops, student outreach initiatives, and industry engagement sessions. The committee emphasised the importance of delivering a structured and high-impact programme that supports continuous professional development (CPD) and strengthens the visibility of chemical engineers across the KwaZulu-Natal province. A critical focus area for the committee would be to ensure the skilling and readiness of the chemical engineering students for the work-place through consultative discussions with industry and the university.

To improve communication and operational effectiveness, the Branch resolved to establish dedicated email accounts for committee members. The objective is to centralise correspondence, enhance response times, and create a clear communication interface for members, partners, students, and stakeholders. Additionally, the Branch discussed plans for a dedicated website, which will serve as a central platform for event announcements, technical resources, committee updates, and enhanced engagement with the broader chemical engineering community.

The event concluded with a reflection on the Branch’s achievements in 2025 and an expression of appreciation to committee members, industry partners, and volunteers for their sustained commitment to advancing chemical engineering in KZN. The Branch looks forward to 2026 as a year of renewed growth, increased activity, and strengthened collaboration.

MUT Main Campus - Student centre - Seminar

05 March 2026: 10:00 - 14:00