New Delhi, Oct 22 (NationPress) Coal India Limited (CIL) has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology Madras to create the Centre for Sustainable Energy.

This Centre at IIT Madras is set to function as a pivotal hub for advanced research and development, along with capacity-building initiatives in sustainable energy technologies.

With support from CIL’s funding and in line with its strategic diversification objectives, the Centre will aim to devise solutions for repurposing coal mines, foster low-carbon technologies, and redefine coal as a crucial resource in India’s clean energy landscape, as stated by the Coal Ministry.

“This collaboration highlights a mutual dedication to steering India’s energy transition through homegrown research, innovation, and technology development, aiming for the nation’s net-zero goals by 2070,” the statement elaborated.

PM Prasad, Chairman of CIL, expressed that Coal India is evolving from merely being the country’s energy supplier to becoming a significant facilitator of India’s clean energy transition.

“This MoU signifies a landmark moment in Coal India’s path toward sustainable development. Through this partnership with IIT Madras, we aspire to create indigenous solutions that guarantee energy security, decarbonization, and socioeconomic advancement,” he remarked.

V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras, emphasized that collaborations between industry and academia have been crucial in IIT Madras’ efforts to lead India’s shift to a low-carbon economy.

“The partnership with Coal India exemplifies our dedication to this mission. Together, we seek to create scalable and impactful solutions that bolster India’s sustainable energy future,” he stated.

The ministry also indicated that the Centre will play a vital role in human capital development via PhD, postdoctoral, and internship programs, cultivating the next generation of researchers and engineers to spearhead India’s green energy revolution.