CSIR-CMERI Durgapur, NISE sign pact on solar research and capacity building

Share

The CSIR-Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (CMERI), Durgapur, and National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE), Gurugram, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to bolster the solar energy sector across the nation. 

Under the MoU, CMERI and NISE will conduct joint field studies for different solar technologies, and collaborate with international-level research institutions for undertaking research work in India. 

They shall work on skill development of stakeholders in areas like grid-connected solar rooftop systems, solar power plants (including their O&M), decentralized solar energy systems, and techno-financial appraisal of renewable energy projects.

CMERI and NISE will also work towards enhancing and expanding the capacity, capability, facility, and infrastructure through resource mobilization and aligning the capacity building.

Other cooperation areas include carrying out policy and regulatory studies on grid integration, recycling, and disposal of solar panels, batteries, etc.

Speaking about the partnership, Prof. (Dr) Harish Hirani, Director, CSIR-CMERI, Durgapur said this joint venture is significant to cater to the need of ‘national integrity’ for achievement of common goals and objectives related to R&D, implementation, consultancy services and promotion of solar systems, micro grid initiatives, energy storage systems, power converter and conditioning systems, solar thermal energy systems, solar cooking, electric vehicles, etc. This will be a step towards comprehensive electrification of India. 

The MoU is signed to improve resource sharing and coordination between the NISE and CSIR-CMERI for the effective utilization of the national resources, eliminating the duplicity of further capital investment for the same resource. 

Dr. Arun Kumar Tripathi, DG, NISE, reiterated that the MoU would pave the way for the exchange of knowledge, capacity building, and joint research project in solar energy. He appreciated and expressed his eagerness to collaborate with CSIR-CMERI, especially after the quantum leaps made by the Institute in the field of solar energy.

CSIR-CMERI, which recently developed the world’s largest solar tree of 11.5 kWp, intends to strengthen the renewable energy commitments further. It has expertise in the design and development of solar artifacts for multifaceted uses ranging from fulfilling localized energy demand to boosting the agricultural sector through solar-powered irrigation, agro dryer, cold storage, and battery-operated agricultural machinery, etc. 

The institute is currently developing a solar energy-based cooking system for the rural sector in India.

National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE), an autonomous centre of excellence under India’s Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, is engaged in solar PV/thermal R&D, testing, demonstration projects, skill development, consultancy, innovation, and incubation, etc. The institute is equipped with advanced equipment to carry out testing and certification of different solar PV/thermal gadgets.

This content is protected by copyright and may not be reused. If you want to cooperate with us and would like to reuse some of our content, please contact: editors@pv-magazine.com.