The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay has received a donation of US$18.6 million from an alumnus to set up a Green Energy and Sustainability Research Hub, the premier institute said on Thursday.
However, IIT B did not reveal the identity of the alumnus and said that he wished to remain anonymous. This contribution will redefine the role of the institute in tackling the global climate crisis. The hub will be located within a state-of-the-art academic building on the IIT Bombay campus in suburban Powai and will focus on key areas of focus, the institute said in a statement.
It added that focus areas include assessing climate risks and developing effective mitigation strategies, climate change adaptation and comprehensive environmental monitoring. Additionally, the Hub seeks to advance climate solutions, promote the adoption of renewable energy sources and energy-efficient technologies.
It will facilitate research in a number of important areas, including battery technologies, solar photovoltaics, biofuels, clean air science, flood forecasting and carbon capture, the statement said. It added that the research center will also provide industry-tailored academic training and develop strategic collaborations with global universities and corporations.
The establishment of this hub underlines our dedication to tackling climate challenges through cutting-edge research, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and fostering entrepreneurial endeavours, said Professor Subhasish Chowdhary, Director, IIT Bombay.
He said, “The Green Energy and Sustainability Research Center is testament to the impact that collective efforts can achieve in paving a sustainable path to the future. It is a rare occurrence in Indian academia that a philanthropist chooses to remain anonymous. ” Added.