News

Dehradun, Uttarakhand – 13 November 2025

The Green Energy Conclave, organized as a key feature of the 6th Dehradun International Science & Technology Festival, was successfully sponsored and co-hosted by Quantum University. This high-level gathering of policymakers, scientists, and industry professionals focused on accelerating the renewable energy transition in Uttarakhand and beyond.

Opening Ceremonies & Welcome

The event commenced with the customary Lighting of the Lamp, a mark of respect and positive beginnings. Immediately thereafter, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor Dr Vivek Kumar delivered the welcome address. As part of the formalities, saplings were distributed, and bespoke mementos and stoles made of nettle fibre (locally known as “bichhu ghas”) were presented to the dignitaries, symbolising the theme of green growth and native-material sustainability.

Distinguished Guests & Key Speakers

Prominent among the attendees were

• Dr R. Meenakshi Sundaram, IAS, Principal Secretary for Energy, Planning & Housing (Uttarakhand)
   
• Er. Sanjay Mukherjee, CGM & Head of UCRG, KDMIPE, ONGC Ltd.
   
• Dr Durgesh Pant, Director General of UCOST
   

In his keynote, Dr. Sundaram emphasized the importance of enabling policy, strong synergies between industry and academia, and infrastructure-led deployment of renewable technologies. Dr. Pant and Dr. Kumar highlighted how universities like Quantum can act as innovation hubs—through research, start-ups, incubation, and partnerships—to drive real-world green energy solutions.

Technical Presentations & Sector Insights

A series of technical sessions followed, with two of the major presentations given by UREDA (Uttarakhand Renewable Energy Development Agency) and ONGC. The UREDA presentation covered solar initiative roadmaps for the hill region, non-conventional energy potential in the State, and rural electrification through renewable energy. ONGC shared its strategic efforts in exploring hybrid energy systems and EV-connectivity pathways. These sessions underscored both the resource-richness and the deployment challenges of renewables in Uttarakhand’s unique terrain.

Awards & Recognition

One of the ceremony’s defining moments was the Green Energy Awards segment, where Quantum University recognized two institutions:

• UREDA for its sustained contribution to solar and non-conventional energy development in the state
   
• Tata Motors for its efforts in promoting electric vehicles throughout Uttarakhand
   

These awards reinforced the message that transitions to green energy are collaborative endeavors—involving government agencies, private industry, and academic catalysts.

The Role of Academia in the Energy Transition

Throughout the event, a recurring theme was the indispensable role of academic institutions. Quantum University’s own R&D agenda—which spans green technologies, renewable-power systems, solar thermal systems, thermal storage, and digital sustainability frameworks—was cited as a model for how universities can translate research into impact. The vice chancellor reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to aligning curricula, research labs, and incubator platforms with national and regional sustainability goals.

Closing & Vote of Thanks

The conclave concluded with a formal Vote of Thanks, during which the organisers acknowledged the dignitaries, partner organisations, and participants for their contributions. With collective resolve, the event reaffirmed the region’s ambition: to emerge as a trailblazer in renewable energy deployment, technology innovation, and sustainable development.

Significance & Outlook

This conclave marks a strategic milestone for Uttarakhand’s energy future. By bringing together key stakeholders under a single platform and championing collaborative action, Quantum The University helped catalyse momentum for how policy, academia, and industry can align to turn green energy from vision to reality.

As the state pursues its renewable energy targets and universities deepen their ecosystem for innovation, such events play a crucial role in translating high-level strategy into ground-level execution