Andhra Pradesh’s New Research Hub to Help MSEs Advance RE Tech

National Institute of Technology-Andhra Pradesh is establishing a Common Research and Technology Development Hub (CRTDH) in renewable energy.

Sponsored by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, this Hub will help local micro and small enterprises develop technological solutions for off-grid and on-grid renewable energy systems. The Hub would also nurture start-ups.

According to NIT-AP officials, the infrastructure and equipment at this research centre would facilitate micro and small enterprises to conduct research and development activities, including testing of innovative products and new technologies.

The department of scientific and industrial research will offer Rs 5 crore financial support to the Hub. NIT-AP, on its part, will contribute Rs 2.15 crore, including land and building for the research centre.

The project will be led by the department of electrical engineering in collaboration with other departments of the institute. Director, NIT Andhra Pradesh, Prof CSP Rao, said that the institute aims to establish state-of-the-art Common Research and Technology Development Hub (CRTDH).

“India has crossed the milestone of 100 GW in renewable energy generation and moved towards strong green and sustainable energy transition. This centre will bridge the gap between academia and industries and will strengthen the relationship for mutual benefits. I congratulate the department of electrical engineering for creating such a research and development centre. Our gratitude goes to DSIR for the sanction of the project,” said Prof Rao.

The key features of the new research hub have been specified as follows:

• To deliver first-hand Research and Development technological solutions to the MSEs’ in the renewable energy sector, including testing services.
• Development of data-driven simulation and design tools for assessment of renewable resource potential, cost assessment, operation-maintenance planning, and risk assessment through testing and characterising of renewable resources.
• Design and development solutions to decentralise power generation and to increase the penetration of renewable energy into the grid.