New Delhi: To promote sustainable energy within India’s healthcare and research sectors, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam (NVVN) on October 4, 2024. This collaboration aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) and a cleaner, greener future, emphasizing renewable energy adoption across critical sectors.
The MoU focuses on harnessing solar power to meet the energy needs of ICMR’s institutes, a move that supports India’s broader push toward sustainability and green energy. Under the agreement, NVVN will be responsible for supplying, installing, testing, commissioning, and maintaining rooftop solar panels at 15 ICMR institutes across the country, with a combined capacity of 4,559 KW.
This initiative also includes a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for grid-connected solar projects, offering a fixed solar tariff for the next 25 years. The long-term agreement ensures both cost efficiency and environmental sustainability for ICMR’s research and operational activities.
Notably, seven ICMR institutes are already benefiting from solar power under earlier projects. The new partnership with NVVN will significantly expand solarization efforts, reducing ICMR’s carbon footprint and contributing to energy savings.
The collaboration marks a milestone in advancing India’s renewable energy goals within the healthcare research sector, positioning ICMR as a leader in green energy adoption. By integrating sustainable energy solutions, the ICMR is setting a precedent for other institutions in the biomedical field, paving the way for a more environmentally conscious and energy-efficient future.
