New Delhi: Coal India Limited (CIL) on Wednesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) to establish the “Centre for Sustainable Energy” on the institute’s campus.
The MoU was signed by Achyut Ghatak, Director (Technical), CIL and V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, in the presence of P.M. Prasad, Chairman, CIL, along with senior officials from both institutions.
The upcoming centre will act as a hub for advanced research and capacity-building initiatives in sustainable energy technologies. Supported by CIL’s funding, the initiative aligns with the company’s strategic diversification plan and its commitment to India’s clean energy future. It will focus on developing low-carbon technologies, repurposing coal mines for alternative uses and reimagining coal as a key feedstock for clean energy production. The collaboration aims to drive indigenous innovation and technology development to help India achieve its net-zero target by 2070.
Highlighting the significance of the partnership, CIL Chairman P.M. Prasad said that Coal India is evolving from being the nation’s primary energy supplier to a major catalyst for clean energy transformation.
“This MoU marks a historic step in Coal India’s journey toward sustainable growth. Through this collaboration with IIT Madras, Coal India aims to generate indigenous solutions that ensure energy security, decarbonization and socioeconomic progress,” he stated.
Echoing this sentiment, IIT Madras Director V. Kamakoti said the partnership reflects the institute’s continued effort to foster industry–academia collaborations for a low-carbon future. “Together, we aim to develop scalable and impactful solutions that support India’s sustainable energy future,” he said.
The Centre will also play a key role in developing skilled talent through PhD, postdoctoral, and internship programmes, nurturing future researchers and engineers to lead India’s green energy transition.
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