Dr. Jackson Justo drives AI-powered energy innovations for sustainable future
By Jackson Isdory, CMU
As the world pivots toward green energy solutions to combat climate change, Dr. Jackson Justo of the University of Dar es Salaam is pushing the frontiers of this global knowledge transition as he works on integrating artificial intelligence (AI) with traditional and renewable energy systems.
The work of Dr. Justo, a senior lecturer in electrical engineering at UDSM College of Engineering and Technology (CoET), currently engaged in a prestigious year-long research fellowship at ITMO University in St. Petersburg, Russia, aims to develop smarter, more sustainable power infrastructure to meet the energy needs of Tanzania and beyond.
UDSM Deputy Vice Chancellor-Academic, Prof. Bonaventure Rutinwa, said Dr. Justo’s involvement in such an endeavour highlighted UDSM’s commitment to fostering global research collaboration while ensuring practical solutions for local challenges in Tanzania.
“This partnership aligns with UDSM’s strategy to position itself as a global research leader. Dr. Justo’s work in renewable energy and AI embodies our commitment to developing solutions that address real-world challenges and contributes to sustainable development”, said Prof. Rutinwa.
He said that the University was committed to building strong international networks, and that the fellowship would enhance collaboration between UDSM and ITMO, opening doors for new research centres and academic programmes that will benefit both institutions.
Advancing global knowledge in sustainable energy solutions
Dr. Justo expressed his gratitude to ITM for offering him such a global opportunity. “TMO’s resources allow me to explore new frontiers in AI for energy systems, which will not only benefit Tanzania but also advance global knowledge in sustainable energy solutions”.
The ITMO University Fellowship Programme draws top researchers from around the world, providing access to advanced laboratories and research facilities. Fellows are encouraged to publish in leading journals, establish new academic partnerships, secure project funding, and mentor students.
While at St. Petersburg Dr Justo is as well developing teaching programmes and expanding international collaborations. He will also teach graduate students courses related to power systems and AI.
“Dr. Justo’s research feeds into Tanzania’s development strategies, providing the innovative solutions needed to ensure reliable and sustainable energy for industries and communities," said Prof. Nelson Boniface, UDSM Deputy Vice Chancellor-Research.
“Innovations like virtual power plants are pivotal as Tanzania accelerates the adoption of solar and wind energy. These solutions align with our national objectives to ensure reliable electricity supply while minimizing carbon emissions”, he said.
He also said that the initiative was in line with Tanzania President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s clean energy campaign, which focuses on distributing gas banners to empower women and saving them from unclean energy use, is commendable. “Research efforts like these complement such initiatives, driving them toward meaningful success”.
Harnessing the role of Virtual Power Plants
At ITMO, Dr. Justo is delving into one of the most transformative concepts in the energy sector: virtual power plants (VPPs). These VPPs connect multiple decentralized energy sources—such as solar panels and wind turbines—into a digital network that functions as a single power plant.
AI plays a critical role in balancing energy demand and supply in real time, ensuring maximum efficiency and sustainability. “With AI systems, we can predict weather changes, monitor power consumption patterns, and seamlessly distribute energy to where it is needed most,” Dr. Justo explained.
“Imagine a household with excess solar energy being able to sell it directly to the grid. AI brings unprecedented flexibility to power systems”, he said.
The integration of such technologies is pivotal as Tanzania seeks to expand its renewable energy capacity. This collaboration aligns with UDSM’s broader mission to drive sustainable development in Tanzania through research, innovation, and knowledge transfer.
UDSM’s focus on practical research solutions ensures that projects like Dr. Justo’s contribute directly to national priorities, including industrialization, electrification, and environmental sustainability.
Some information and photos are courtesy of iTMO NEWS.