Coal India Limited (CIL) on Wednesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) to establish the “Centre for Sustainable Energy” at the IIT Madras campus. The MoU was signed by Shri Achyut Ghatak, Director (Technical), CIL, and Shri V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, in the presence of Shri P.M. Prasad, Chairman, CIL, along with senior officials from both organizations.

The Centre will function as a hub for advanced research and development (R&D) and capacity-building initiatives in sustainable energy technologies. Backed by CIL’s funding and aligned with its strategic diversification goals, the initiative will focus on repurposing coal mines, developing low-carbon technologies, and exploring coal as a valuable feedstock for India’s clean energy future. The collaboration highlights a shared commitment to advancing indigenous research and innovation to support India’s net-zero ambitions by 2070.

Speaking at the event, Shri P.M. Prasad, Chairman, CIL, said, “Coal India is transforming from the nation’s energy provider to a key enabler of India’s clean energy transition. This MoU marks a historic step in Coal India’s journey toward sustainable growth. Through this collaboration with IIT Madras, Coal India aims to generate indigenous solutions that ensure energy security, decarbonization, and socioeconomic progress.”

Shri V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, emphasized the importance of industry–academia collaborations in driving the country’s low-carbon initiatives. “The partnership with Coal India epitomizes the institute’s commitment to this cause. Together, we aim to develop scalable and impactful solutions that support India’s sustainable energy future,” he stated.

In addition to research and technology development, the Centre will contribute to human capital development through Ph.D., postdoctoral, and internship programs, nurturing the next generation of researchers and engineers to lead India’s green energy transformation.