IIT Kanpur, Power Foundation of India Sign MoU to Set Up Chair in Power Sector Policy – Asia Pacific

On March 23, 2026, the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur) and the Power Foundation of India (PFI) entered into a significant memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at establishing a distinguished chair professorship focused on power sector regulation and policy. This initiative is designed to enhance research, teaching, and policy engagement within the power sector while fostering collaboration among academia, policymakers, and industry stakeholders.

Objectives of the MoU

The primary objectives of the MoU between IIT Kanpur and PFI include:

• Promotion of research in the field of power sector policy.
• Enhancement of educational programs related to energy and power regulation.
• Facilitation of policy engagement to influence decision-making in the power sector.
• Strengthening collaboration between academic institutions and industry players.
• Development of sustainable solutions for India’s power sector challenges.

Key Figures Involved

The MoU was signed by:

• Anshuman Srivastava, Executive Director at the Power Foundation of India.
• Raja Angamuthu, Associate Dean (Research and Development) and Acting Dean of Resources and Alumni at IIT Kanpur.

Significance of the Chair Professorship

During the signing ceremony, Professor Raja Angamuthu emphasized the importance of the MoU, stating that it represents a significant advancement for IIT Kanpur. He noted that the establishment of the Chair Professorship will play a crucial role in:

• Building a solid foundation for research and education in the energy domain.
• Developing policies that are informed by rigorous academic research.
• Enhancing IIT Kanpur’s engagement with the energy sector, which is vital for India’s economic growth.

Advancing Research and Policy Development

Anshuman Srivastava highlighted that the partnership between IIT Kanpur and PFI is expected to:

• Advance research initiatives focused on power sector policy.
• Contribute to informed decision-making processes in energy regulation.
• Encourage the development of innovative solutions that address the unique challenges faced by the power sector in India.

Collaboration Between Academia and Industry

The collaboration established through this MoU is anticipated to strengthen ties between academia and industry, particularly with public sector companies. This partnership aims to:

• Facilitate knowledge transfer between researchers and industry professionals.
• Support joint initiatives that address pressing issues in the power sector.
• Encourage internships and practical training opportunities for students in the energy field.

Impact on India’s Power Sector

The power sector in India faces numerous challenges, including the need for sustainable energy solutions, regulatory reforms, and technological advancements. The establishment of the Chair in Power Sector Policy is expected to have a positive impact by:

• Providing a platform for interdisciplinary research that combines engineering, economics, and policy studies.
• Encouraging the development of sustainable energy practices that align with global standards.
• Enhancing the capacity of policymakers to make data-driven decisions that promote energy efficiency and sustainability.

Future Prospects

The MoU between IIT Kanpur and PFI is a forward-looking initiative that promises to contribute significantly to the evolution of India’s power sector. As the country continues to transition towards renewable energy sources and sustainable practices, the collaboration is expected to:

• Foster innovation in energy technologies.
• Support the development of policies that promote energy access and equity.
• Encourage public-private partnerships that enhance investment in the energy sector.

Conclusion

The signing of the MoU between IIT Kanpur and the Power Foundation of India marks a pivotal moment in the advancement of power sector policy research and education in India. By establishing a Chair Professorship dedicated to this critical area, both institutions are taking proactive steps to address the challenges and opportunities within the energy landscape. This collaboration is set to pave the way for innovative solutions that will benefit not only the power sector but also the broader economy and society.

Note: The information presented in this article is based on the latest available data as of March 2026.