The Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) has partnered with Indus Towers Limited, a major telecom infrastructure provider, to launch two new research projects focused on renewable energy. These initiatives aim to improve solar power technology and develop sustainable methods for energy storage. The collaboration is part of Indus Towers’ Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, Pragati.
With increasing pressure to address climate change and energy needs, the focus of this collaboration is to develop practical solutions that support the transition to cleaner power sources. Indus Towers MD and CEO, Prachur Sah, noted that the partnership reflects a growing need for joint efforts between industry and academic institutions to solve real-world problems. He highlighted two key research areas: the development of Perovskite Solar Cell technology and the use of agricultural waste in battery storage systems.
One of the projects will explore Perovskite Solar Cells, a promising alternative to traditional silicon-based photovoltaic cells. These next-gen solar panels could deliver higher efficiency without driving up production costs. The technology could be used in both land-based and space-based solar systems and is being developed entirely through local research.
The second research effort focuses on converting rice straw, a common form of agricultural waste, into hard carbon material. This carbon will be used in sodium-ion batteries, providing a more sustainable and affordable option compared to lithium-based batteries. The method also offers a solution to the environmental issue of stubble burning, contributing to cleaner air and more responsible waste management.
Prof Ravindra Gudi, Dean of Alumni and Corporate Relations at IIT Bombay, emphasized the importance of purposeful research and collaboration. He said partnerships like this show how academic institutions and companies can work together to tackle major challenges, particularly in the field of clean energy.
This collaboration strengthens IIT Bombay’s position as a center for applied research and innovation. By combining technical expertise with funding from Indus Towers, the goal is to turn advanced scientific concepts into scalable technologies. The initiative also demonstrates how corporate funding can drive meaningful progress toward self-reliant and sustainable energy systems in India.
