Thematic Areas

Our research focuses on how innovative technologies can help enable sustainable energy transition at the state level. Our initiatives in Kerala will help identify the challenges and opportunities in implementing innovative technologies such as floating solar, green hydrogen, small hydro, small wind turbine, solar-wind hybrid, energy storage and other renewable energy systems. Our focus is on looking at technological solutions that are scalable, cost-effective, and innovative to pave way for the state’s energy future.

In Kerala, our ongoing work assesses and prioritizes new technologies for the state’s clean energy transition based on factors such as renewable energy potential, technological maturity, resource availability, economics, policies, and environmental impacts. Additionally, we will leverage clean energy technologies hub to exchange best practices and learnings on the latest trends, challenges, opportunities and developments across states and regions with various stakeholders.

Our focus is on shaping cities in Kerala for a greener and more sustainable future by increasing renewable deployment and promoting energy efficiency.

In Kerala, we have worked closely with the Kochi Municipal Corporation (KMC), to develop a roadmap and an action plan for building decarbonization in Kochi city. We also worked with the corporation to benchmark the energy performance of office buildings in the city to inform the design of a city-wide benchmarking program. Additionally, we have evaluated the state's readiness in implementing space cooling recommendations outlined in the India Cooling Action Plan (ICAP) through on-ground research and stakeholder engagement. We will continue to support the state and Urban Local Bodies within the state to identify and implement high-impact cooling actions.

Through knowledge exchange and capacity building initiatives, we aim to empower city leaders and policymakers with the insights and knowledge needed to make informed decisions that prioritize sustainability in urban development. Our goal is to shape cities that are resilient to climate change, offer a high quality of life, and minimize environmental impacts. By doing so, we pave the way for a sustainable and livable future for urban communities.

Our research focuses on assisting state energy agencies in efficiently planning their energy supply towards meeting the growing demand and to accommodate the increasing penetration of renewable energy sources in the electricity mix.

We are undertaking an energy modelling exercise in Kerala, using the Low Emissions Analysis Platform (LEAP), to assess impact of potential renewable electricity capacity additions until 2030. This case study will help policymakers, state-level planners, and utilities to establish long-term clean energy pathways and will play a vital role in facilitating informed decision-making processes during the state's medium- and long-term planning exercises. Our collaboration with policymakers, energy stakeholders, and experts using this tool will enable us to identify pathways for integrating diverse energy sources.

Integrated energy planning approach can enable strategically managing resources, building a resilient infrastructure, and embracing a diversified energy portfolio for a sustainable, reliable, and low-carbon energy future at the state level.