India Advances Power Electronics Innovation with VNIT Nagpur, C-DAC, and Kerala Collaborations

India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has taken a decisive step toward advancing the nation’s technological and sustainability goals by formalizing pivotal agreements under the National Mission on Power Electronics Technology (NaMPET). These agreements aim to commercialize cutting-edge innovations in power electronics, bridging the gap between research laboratories and industrial application. Among the highlights are the transfer of a highly efficient wireless charger technology, a collaborative venture for electric locomotive propulsion systems, and the deployment of energy-saving solutions designed to align with India’s ambitious carbon neutrality targets.

Powering Progress: India’s Strategic Push in Power Electronics Innovation

At the heart of this technological stride is the transfer of the 1.5 kW Wireless Charger technology, developed jointly by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) and Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology (VNIT) Nagpur. With an impressive efficiency rate of 89.4% and advanced safety features, this innovation represents a significant leap in wireless charging solutions. The technology has been handed over to Global Business Solution Pvt. Ltd., setting the stage for its commercial rollout. This development not only signals India’s growing prowess in power electronics but also underscores the importance of indigenous innovation in addressing modern energy challenges.

The wireless charger’s efficiency and safety features are particularly noteworthy, as they cater to the increasing demand for reliable and sustainable charging solutions in sectors such as electric vehicles and consumer electronics. By transferring this technology to a private entity, MeitY ensures that the innovation reaches the market swiftly, fostering a culture of collaboration between academic institutions and industry stakeholders. This move could potentially position India as a global leader in wireless charging technology, a sector poised for exponential growth in the coming years.

Further bolstering India’s technological ambitions, C-DAC has entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Chittaranjan Locomotive Works (CLW) and industry partners to develop an indigenous propulsion system for electric locomotives. This collaboration is integral to Indian Railways’ electrification goals, which aim to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2030. The propulsion system, designed to be both efficient and sustainable, marks a significant shift toward reducing dependency on imported technologies. By harnessing local expertise and resources, the project aligns with the broader vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, or self-reliant India, while addressing critical environmental concerns.

The electrification of railways is a cornerstone of India’s sustainability agenda, and the development of indigenous propulsion systems is a bold step in that direction. Electric locomotives powered by homegrown technology not only reduce carbon footprints but also enhance operational efficiency and reliability. The collaboration between C-DAC, CLW, and industry partners exemplifies the synergy required to tackle complex infrastructure challenges, paving the way for a greener and more sustainable transportation network.

In another significant initiative, C-DAC has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Kerala Development and Innovation Strategic Council (K-DISC) to deploy 48V Low Voltage Direct Current (LVDC) systems. These systems are designed to optimize energy consumption and contribute to carbon neutrality, aligning with India’s Net Zero 2070 vision. LVDC technology is particularly suited for microgrids and decentralized energy systems, offering a scalable solution for regions with limited access to conventional power grids. By focusing on energy efficiency and renewable integration, this initiative underscores the importance of localized solutions in achieving national sustainability targets.

The deployment of LVDC systems in Kerala is a testament to the state’s proactive approach to innovation and sustainability. Known for its progressive policies and emphasis on green technology, Kerala serves as a model for other states looking to implement similar initiatives. The partnership between C-DAC and K-DISC highlights the role of regional collaboration in addressing global challenges, demonstrating that meaningful change often begins at the grassroots level.

The broader NaMPET program, under which these agreements fall, is dedicated to advancing research, development, and commercialization in power electronics. Its focus areas include microgrids, e-mobility, smart power quality centers, and high-voltage applications—domains that are critical for India’s transition to a sustainable energy future. By fostering innovation in these areas, NaMPET aims to create a robust ecosystem that supports both technological advancement and environmental stewardship.

What makes NaMPET particularly impactful is its emphasis on bridging the gap between theoretical research and practical application. By facilitating partnerships between academic institutions, government bodies, and industry players, the program ensures that innovations are not confined to laboratories but are translated into real-world solutions. This approach is crucial for addressing the multifaceted challenges of energy management, from improving grid reliability to enabling widespread adoption of electric vehicles.

Reflecting on these developments, it becomes evident that India is not merely keeping pace with global technological trends but is actively shaping them. The initiatives under NaMPET demonstrate a clear commitment to fostering innovation while addressing pressing environmental concerns. From wireless chargers to electric locomotives and LVDC systems, the agreements formalized by MeitY encapsulate a vision of progress that is both inclusive and sustainable.

As the world grapples with the twin challenges of energy security and climate change, India’s efforts in power electronics offer a blueprint for other nations. By prioritizing indigenous innovation and fostering collaboration across sectors, the country is charting a path toward a future where technology and sustainability coexist harmoniously. These agreements are not just milestones in India’s technological journey; they are stepping stones toward a greener, more resilient world.