Avaada Group Partners with GRIDCO and IIT-Bhubaneswar for Green Hydrogen Centre of Excellence in Odisha
In a significant step towards advancing clean energy initiatives in India, Avaada Group has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with GRIDCO (Grid Corporation of Odisha) and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar. This collaboration aims to establish a state-of-the-art Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Odisha, dedicated to integrated research, innovation, and technology development in the field of green hydrogen.
Overview of the Centre of Excellence
The proposed Centre of Excellence will focus on a variety of advanced studies related to green hydrogen, including:
- Energy storage solutions
- Industrial applications
- Mobility solutions
- Evaluating the techno-economic viability of emerging hydrogen technologies
This initiative is aligned with the Odisha Renewable Energy Policy 2022 (OREP-2022) and complements the national priorities outlined in the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM). The NGHM aims to position India as a global leader in clean hydrogen solutions, which are critical for achieving sustainability and reducing carbon emissions.
Roles and Responsibilities
Under the terms of the MoU, Avaada Group will develop a dedicated extension facility for the CoE within its production unit in Odisha. This facility will be equipped with specialized technical teams and research infrastructure to support various research and development (R&D) programs.
GRIDCO will serve as the Implementing Agency, coordinating with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) and the Government of Odisha for funding and program execution. Meanwhile, IIT-Bhubaneswar will act as the host and academic partner, providing land, research support, and institutional infrastructure necessary for the CoE’s operations.
Government Oversight
The administration of the Centre of Excellence will be overseen by the Principal Secretary of the Energy Department, Government of Odisha. This governance structure ensures that the CoE aligns with state and national energy goals while facilitating effective collaboration among industry stakeholders and academic institutions.
Significance of the Collaboration
The partnership between Avaada Group, GRIDCO, and IIT-Bhubaneswar represents a crucial milestone in India’s clean energy journey. Vineet Mittal, chairman of Avaada Group, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, “This collaboration between industry stakeholders and academia marks an important milestone in India’s clean energy journey and aligns with our vision to accelerate the transition towards a net-zero future.”
Mittal further noted that green hydrogen is poised to play a pivotal role in decarbonizing hard-to-abate sectors such as:
- Steel production
- Chemicals
- Heavy transport
By focusing on these sectors, the CoE aims to ensure that the future of energy is sustainable and clean.
Funding and Support for R&D
The National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM) has allocated INR 400 crore for research and development activities aimed at supporting integrated research in the green hydrogen sector. This funding will cover multiple areas within the green hydrogen value chain, including:
- Production techniques
- Transportation and storage methods
- Applications of hydrogen in various industries
- Safety protocols
By establishing Centres of Excellence across the country, the NGHM aims to create a robust ecosystem for innovation and development in green hydrogen technologies.
Future Prospects
The establishment of the Centre of Excellence in Odisha is expected to contribute significantly to the state’s emergence as a hub for next-generation renewable technologies. It will not only facilitate the development of innovative solutions in green hydrogen but also enhance the overall research and development landscape in the region.
As India strives to meet its renewable energy targets and commitments under international climate agreements, initiatives like this CoE will be instrumental in fostering collaboration between industry and academia, driving technological advancements, and promoting sustainable practices.
Conclusion
The partnership between Avaada Group, GRIDCO, and IIT-Bhubaneswar to establish a Centre of Excellence in Odisha marks a significant step towards advancing green hydrogen technologies in India. This initiative underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in driving innovation and achieving sustainability goals. With the right support and investment, green hydrogen has the potential to revolutionize energy systems and contribute to a cleaner, greener future.
Note: This article is based on information available as of October 2023 and is intended for informational purposes only.
