Coal India Limited (CIL) signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) to establish the Centre for Sustainable Energy at IITM, signaling a strategic step in India’s clean-energy transition. The partnership aims to advance cutting-edge research, technology development, and capacity building to help achieve the nation’s net-zero emissions target by 2070.
Objectives of the Centre
The new Centre for Sustainable Energy will serve as a hub for research and development (R&D) in sustainable and low-carbon energy technologies. Supported by CIL’s funding, the Centre’s core focus areas include:
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Repurposing decommissioned coal mines for renewable energy and industrial use.
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Developing low-carbon, clean energy technologies.
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Reimagining coal as a feedstock for producing clean fuels and chemicals.
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Promoting decarbonization and circular economy approaches to energy generation.
The Centre will also contribute to human capital development through Ph.D., post-doctoral, and internship programs, nurturing future leaders in sustainable energy research.
Leadership Statements
CIL Chairman Shri P.M. Prasad highlighted Coal India’s transformation from being India’s leading energy provider to an enabler of sustainable energy solutions, stating that this MoU marks a “historic step toward sustainable growth”. He emphasized that the collaboration would ensure energy security, economic progress, and decarbonization through indigenous research and innovation.
IIT Madras Director Shri V. Kamakoti underlined the importance of industry–academia partnerships in shaping India’s low-carbon economy. He said, “This partnership epitomizes IIT Madras’ commitment to driving scalable and impactful sustainable energy solutions,” reflecting a shared vision for India’s green transformation.
Importance for India’s Energy Transition
This collaboration aligns with India’s national goals of enhancing energy diversification, promoting Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and achieving long-term carbon neutrality. It also complements CIL’s existing initiatives under the Ministry of Coal’s Sustainable Development Cell, which focuses on environmental reclamation, mine repurposing, and ecological restoration efforts.
Furthermore, IIT Madras’ ongoing projects, including solar-wind hybrid installations and battery energy storage innovations at the IITM Research Park, will integrate smoothly with the Centre’s mission to pioneer sustainable energy systems adaptable across sectors.
Conclusion
The establishment of the Centre for Sustainable Energy by Coal India and IIT Madras marks a pivotal moment in India’s journey toward a clean, self-reliant energy economy. With its blend of industry expertise and academic excellence, the partnership will drive innovation, enhance resource efficiency, and help position India as a leader in global sustainable energy solutions.
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Source: PIB
