Plaksha University launches Indorama Ventures Center for Clean Energy

 Plaksha University, a tech university that is reimagining technology education and research in India with cutting-edge technology programs, today announced the launch of Indorama Ventures Center for Clean Energy. This is one of the first research centers at Plaksha University with an objective to lead a clean energy transition through education and research.

The mission of the Indorama Ventures Center for Clean Energy is to support India’s transition to a net zero-carbon, self-reliant and energy-secure future. The center is focused on contributing to the global effort in reducing carbon emissions through research, industry and government partnerships, and public awareness campaigns on clean energy. Currently, the center is focused on three key research areas: Smart Homes, District Cooling with thermal storage, and Mitigation of Urban Heat Island (UHI).

Speaking about the launch, Prof. Rudra Pratap, Founding Vice Chancellor, Plaksha University, said, “At Plaksha, we have committed ourselves to carrying out research that is focused on solving the grand challenges of society. The Indorama Ventures Center for Clean Energy focuses on enhancing energy efficiency, decarbonization of the energy sector, and innovations for efficient usage of renewable energies. At Plaksha, we want to make a tangible impact on human and planetary health. For research to impact society, industry needs to be associated with it. The Indorama Ventures Center for Clean Energy works with several industry houses in its pursuit of implementing energy solutions in society.

Sharing his thoughts Prof. Vishal Garg, Director, Indorama Ventures Center for Clean Energy, Plaksha University, said, “Plaksha University, with support from Indorama Ventures, has established a Center for Clean Energy. This center has a vision of shaping India’s energy sector towards decarbonization, self-sufficiency, and grid security, ultimately delivering clean and secure energy access to all. We are in the process of setting up campus as a living lab. To begin with, we are focusing on decarbonising residential energy consumption and making our cities cooler for better liveability and reduced energy consumption. To accelerate the adoption of clean energy solutions, we need a massive momentum in research. This research should not only focus on technological advancements but also on making these solutions economically viable, culturally relevant, and supported by a robust policy framework. Interdisciplinary approach is essential, as it allows us to consider all aspects of a complex problem.”

Further commenting on the association, Mrs. Suchitra Lohia, Board of Directors Member and Deputy Group CEO of Indorama Ventures, said, “The Indorama Ventures Center for Clean Energy at Plaksha University embodies a noble cause, aligned with our shared commitment to sustainability. As Indorama Ventures continues to integrate renewable energy across our operations worldwide, it is evident that clean energy is not just a corporate agenda; it is a shared imperative for businesses, industries, and governments alike. The transition to clean energy is not merely a goal but a win-win opportunity for all stakeholders involved. We eagerly anticipate the remarkable journey ahead for the center.”

The center aims to play at the intersection of energy and digitalization to enable scalable, sustainable, and affordable deployment of energy solutions and develop industry relevant professionals and entrepreneurs.

Leading up to the launch of the center, Plaksha hosted two events encompassing a panel discussion on Towards a JUST Energy Transition for All, and a roundtable discussion on Decarbonization of the Indian Energy Sector. The gathering involved enthusiastic participation from 20 leaders spanning industry, academia, and policy domains. The deliberations yielded recommendations aimed at guiding research, capacity-building initiatives and need for startup opportunities within these sectors. Furthermore, the discussions covered a spectrum of topics, ranging from smart buildings, grid infrastructure, energy storage, role of policy and finance, equitable transitions, and entrepreneurial skills. In attendance were leaders from corporate and academia, including Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited, Ador Powertron, Linde India, PWC, Bharat Forge, Blaze Automation Pvt Ltd, Nagarro, BCG, and GIZ, WRI. These conversations underscored the pressing need for focused research in these critical areas.