C-DAC and VNIT Nagpur Launch Indigenous Wireless EV Charger for Sustainable Mobility

Advancing India’s Technological Frontiers: Power Electronics Innovations for a Sustainable Future

In a landmark stride towards technological self-reliance and sustainable development, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) unveiled a suite of groundbreaking advancements under the National Mission on Power Electronics Technology (NaMPET). These developments, ranging from wireless electric vehicle (EV) charging to energy-efficient building systems and indigenous rail propulsion technologies, underscore India’s commitment to fostering innovation through collaboration among academia, industry, and government.

Wireless Charging and the EV Revolution

Among the most notable breakthroughs was the successful transfer of a 1.5 kW wireless EV charger, jointly developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) and Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology (VNIT) Nagpur, to M/s Global Business Solution Pvt. Ltd for commercialization. This indigenous charger, capable of replenishing 90% of an EV battery within three hours at an efficiency rate of 89.4%, represents a significant leap in India’s e-mobility ecosystem.

Wireless charging technology, often considered the next frontier in EV infrastructure, eliminates the need for cumbersome cables and enhances user convenience. By leveraging this innovation, India can address one of the critical barriers to EV adoption—charging accessibility—while reducing dependency on imported technologies. This development aligns seamlessly with the government’s twin objectives of promoting the “Make in India” initiative and achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070.

However, the implications extend beyond convenience. The charger’s high efficiency minimizes energy wastage, making it an environmentally responsible solution. As EV adoption accelerates across the country, such indigenous technologies could play a pivotal role in reducing India’s carbon footprint while fostering a robust domestic manufacturing ecosystem.

Electrifying the Railways: A Step Towards 2030

Equally transformative is the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) signed between C-DAC, Chittaranjan Locomotive Works, and industry collaborators to develop an indigenous propulsion system for three-phase electric locomotives. This initiative dovetails with Indian Railways’ ambitious target of achieving 100% electrification by 2030, a cornerstone of the nation’s broader decarbonization agenda.

Electric locomotives, powered by advanced propulsion systems, are integral to reducing the rail sector’s reliance on fossil fuels. By developing these systems domestically, India not only strengthens its technological sovereignty but also circumvents the high costs associated with importing such critical components. The collaboration exemplifies the synergistic potential of public-private partnerships, where the technical expertise of research institutions converges with the practical insights of industry players.

The broader implications for India’s economy and environment are profound. Rail electrification, supported by indigenous technologies, could significantly lower operational costs, enhance energy efficiency, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, the initiative reinforces India’s position as a global leader in sustainable railway operations, setting a benchmark for other nations to emulate.

Kerala’s Carbon Neutrality Roadmap

In another forward-looking endeavor, MeitY announced a partnership with Kerala’s Knowledge Economy Mission (K-DISC) to deploy 48V Low Voltage Direct Current (LVDC) systems for energy-efficient buildings. These systems, designed to optimize energy use in residential and commercial spaces, are a key component of Kerala’s Carbon Neutrality Roadmap 2050 and India’s overarching Net Zero 2070 vision.

The adoption of LVDC technology marks a paradigm shift in building energy management. Unlike conventional alternating current (AC) systems, LVDC systems minimize energy conversion losses, thereby enhancing overall efficiency. This is particularly relevant in the context of renewable energy integration, where direct current (DC) power from solar panels and batteries can be utilized more effectively.

Kerala’s proactive approach to carbon neutrality serves as a microcosm of India’s broader sustainability aspirations. By piloting cutting-edge technologies such as LVDC, the state not only reduces its environmental impact but also creates a scalable model for other regions to adopt. This initiative underscores the critical role of localized solutions in addressing global challenges, highlighting the importance of tailored strategies in achieving climate goals.

Bridging Innovation and Commercialization

The NaMPET program, with C-DAC as its nodal agency, has emerged as a catalyst for advancing power electronics technologies in India. From microgrids and green energy solutions to e-mobility and smart power quality systems, the program’s diverse portfolio reflects a holistic approach to addressing the nation’s energy challenges.

At the heart of NaMPET’s success lies its emphasis on collaboration. By fostering partnerships among academia, industry, and government, the program bridges the gap between research and commercialization, ensuring that innovative technologies reach the market. The recent commercialization of multiple technologies developed under NaMPET, including the wireless EV charger, is a testament to this collaborative ethos.

MeitY Secretary Shri S. Krishnan aptly highlighted the strategic importance of indigenous power electronics development in supporting national initiatives such as “Make in India” and “Aatmanirbhar Bharat.” By reducing dependency on foreign technologies and fostering a culture of innovation, NaMPET not only strengthens India’s technological capabilities but also enhances its global competitiveness.

A Vision for the Future

The advancements unveiled under NaMPET represent more than just technological milestones; they embody a vision for a sustainable and self-reliant India. As the nation grapples with the dual challenges of climate change and energy security, such innovations offer a beacon of hope, demonstrating the transformative potential of science and technology.

Looking ahead, the success of these initiatives will hinge on their scalability and adoption. While the commercialization of the wireless EV charger and the deployment of LVDC systems are promising first steps, sustained efforts will be required to integrate these technologies into mainstream applications. This will necessitate not only robust policy support but also active engagement from industry stakeholders and end-users.

In a world increasingly defined by its ecological and economic interdependencies, India’s focus on indigenous innovation offers a compelling narrative of resilience and resourcefulness. By harnessing the power of collaboration and prioritizing sustainability, the nation is charting a course towards a future where technological progress and environmental stewardship go hand in hand.