Avaada Group, a diversified clean energy conglomerate, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with GRIDCO and IIT-Bhubaneswar to establish a state-of-the-art Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Odisha dedicated to integrated research, innovation, and technology development in the green hydrogen sector.
The proposed Centre of Excellence will spearhead advanced studies on green hydrogen usage—including energy storage, industrial applications, and mobility—while evaluating the techno-economic viability of emerging hydrogen technologies. This strategic initiative aligns with the Odisha Renewable Energy Policy 2022 (OREP-2022) and complements national priorities under the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM), aimed at positioning India as a global leader in clean hydrogen solutions.
Under the MoU, Avaada Group will develop a dedicated extension facility of the CoE within its production unit in Odisha, equipped with specialized technical teams and research infrastructure. Avaada will also support selected R&D programs at the CoE, thereby strengthening India’s innovation ecosystem and contributing to the state’s emergence as a hub for next-generation renewable technologies.
As per the collaboration framework, GRIDCO will act as the Implementing Agency—coordinating with MNRE and the Government of Odisha for funding and program execution—while IIT Bhubaneswar will serve as the Host and Academic Partner, providing land, research support, and institutional infrastructure. The Principal Secretary, Energy Department, Government of Odisha, will oversee the administration of the CoE.
Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Vineet Mittal, Chairman of Avaada Group, said, “We are excited to partner with GRIDCO and IIT-Bhubaneswar for setting up the Centre of Excellence for Green Hydrogen in Odisha. This collaboration between industry stakeholders and academia marks an important milestone in India’s clean energy journey and aligns with our vision to accelerate the transition towards a net-zero future. We believe that green hydrogen will play a pivotal role in decarbonizing the hard-to-abate sectors such as steel, chemicals, and heavy transport, ensuring that the future of energy is always clean and always on.”
With an allocation of Rs 400 crores for R&D activities under the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM) scheme, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has proposed to set up Centers of Excellence (CoEs) for supporting integrated research in the Green Hydrogen Sector, covering multiple areas in the Green Hydrogen value chain, including production, transportation & storage, applications, and safety.
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