Research methods and solution strategies for climate change mitigation, adaptation and low carbon development were addressed at the workshop that was jointly held by the Mandela Institute and the Konrad-Adenauer-Foundation South Africa. The discourse highlighted challenges due to global climate change and urged for greater responsibility in addressing the consequences thereof. The research approach introduced by the Mandela Institute seeks to contribute knowledge on how renewable energies could contribute to sustainable development, as well as to the needs of local communities.