We enable social movements to engage all tiers of government towards community-owned, socially just renewable energy — because no one should be left behind.
Communities shaping and owning their energy future — not just receiving it.
From coal to clean energy — with communities leading, not following.
"Mobilising Social Movements for Energy Democracy and Sovereignty in South Africa" — a bold initiative advancing community-led, socially owned renewable energy. Together, we're building local energy alternatives that centre justice, inclusion, and participation.
Grassroots organising meets the vision of a just energy future — communities don't just receive, they own.
Solar demo units, workshops, dialogues and learning materials empower communities with knowledge and skills.
Paving the way for policy changes that enable community-owned renewable energy at scale across South Africa.
These aren't just buzzwords — they're principles guiding how we build a more just and inclusive energy future.
Renewable energy systems owned and managed by communities — keeping benefits like affordable electricity, income and local jobs within the community.
Everyone — especially historically excluded communities — should have a say in how energy is produced, distributed, and priced. Climate action meets social justice.
A shift from fossil fuels that doesn't leave anyone behind — with communities who bore the brunt of pollution given support and a say in shaping the future.
Connecting climate change with social and economic inequality — the people least responsible are often most affected. Solutions must be inclusive and rights-based.
Growing community power through education, solidarity, and collective action — workshops, dialogues, and cross-community visits to amplify local voices.
Small-scale solar installations that help communities visualise and test renewable solutions. More than technical pilots — tools for learning, inspiration, and advocacy.
Assessments exploring what energy systems are practical in specific areas — considering cost, grid access, local needs, and challenging one-size-fits-all approaches.
Working with local government to create real change — dialogues around policy, tariffs, and how communities can co-create sustainable, scalable energy solutions.
Strategic planning, community research, feasibility study, installation of solar demonstration units, and the first series of community workshops across three pilot sites.
Deep feasibility studies on social ownership models, ongoing workshops and dialogues, story-telling sessions, renewable energy skills development and community engagement across eMalahleni, Durban and Mpumalanga.
Financial profiling of pilot sites, engagement with governance actors, drafting feasibility studies for three upscaled projects, securing funding, and planning for full-scale community energy deployment.
Urban Movement Incubator is proud to work alongside these dedicated organisations.
A non-profit environmental justice organisation working in Southern Africa on Climate & Energy Justice, Coal, Environmental Health, and Waste.
Visit groundWorkA registered NPO established in 2016, addressing environmental issues within the Mpumalanga Highveld and engaging communities and stakeholders.
Visit VEMA socialist shack dwellers' movement with 115,000+ members campaigning for land, housing, dignity, and democratising society from below.
Visit AbMAn environmental justice organisation made up of 19 affiliate organisations, active since 1995 — lobbying, reporting, and researching industrial incidents in South Durban.
Visit SDCEAPromotes equitable, low-carbon, clean energy development in urban South Africa and Africa through research, capacity building, policy engagement, and information sharing.
Visit SEAAn ongoing struggle for land rights and dignity as communities resist forced displacement in KwaDukuza.
Read more →Partners join forces to tackle pollution and health impacts in one of South Africa's most affected regions.
Read more →A landmark engagement with government ministers advancing community energy policy at the national level.
Read more →Civil society demands transparency on tangible benefits of green hydrogen development for communities.
Read more →The project is about putting power — literally and figuratively — into the hands of communities. We advance community-led, socially owned renewable energy by bringing together grassroots organising with the vision of a just energy future.
Our three pilot sites are in eMalahleni (Mpumalanga), Durban (KwaZulu-Natal), and the eNkangala district. Each community is at a different stage of energy transition with unique challenges and opportunities.
Communities can engage through our partner organisations, attend workshops and dialogues, participate in demonstration unit visits, and through training resources on our learning portal. Contact us directly to find out how to connect.
Our resources archive includes leaflets, booklets, infographics, and posters on topics including Just Transition, Energy Access, Energy Democracy, and Social Ownership. Visit our Learning Resources section to access all materials.
Our feasibility studies explore various models — from communal hubs to purchasing electricity directly from Independent Power Producers. Off-grid systems can serve as interim solutions while permanent electrification is awaited. The goal is affordable, community-owned energy for all.
Have questions about the project, partnerships, or learning resources? Reach out to our team.