In a joint effort to rapidly identify and develop emerging technologies within the power sector, the Ministry of Power and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy have launched a groundbreaking initiative called the National Mission on Advanced and High-Impact Research (MAHIR). With a primary focus on indigenous research, development, and demonstration of the latest and most promising technologies, MAHIR aims to position India as a global hub for manufacturing and deployment of cutting-edge solutions. This article delves into the key objectives, funding, scope, and research areas identified by MAHIR, highlighting its potential impact on India's power sector and sustainable development goals.

The Need for Mission MAHIR

With the global shift towards sustainable energy solutions and the need to address pressing environmental challenges, India recognizes the significance of advancing its power sector technologies. The rapid economic growth projected for the country, coupled with the ambitious goals of achieving Net Zero emissions and fostering initiatives like Make in India and Start-up India, necessitates a comprehensive and transformational approach to power research and innovation. By harnessing indigenous research and development efforts, India can establish itself as a frontrunner in power system technologies and applications development while contributing to the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals.

Objectives of Mission MAHIR

Identifying Emerging Technologies: MAHIR aims to identify and prioritize emerging technologies that hold significant promise for the global power sector. By focusing on indigenous development, the mission seeks to undertake the end-to-end creation of relevant technologies.

Collective Brainstorming and Technology Development: The mission provides a common platform for stakeholders in the power sector to engage in collective brainstorming and synergetic technology development. This collaborative approach helps devise pathways for seamless technology transfer.

Supporting Indigenous Technology Pilots: MAHIR supports pilot projects involving indigenous technologies, particularly those developed by Indian start-ups. The mission facilitates the commercialization of these innovative solutions, nurturing a vibrant ecosystem for research and development.

International Collaboration and Technology Transfer: Recognizing the importance of global alliances, MAHIR actively seeks partnerships to accelerate research and development efforts for advanced technologies. Bilateral or multilateral collaborations will provide opportunities for knowledge exchange and technology transfer.

Promoting Scientific and Industrial R&D: MAHIR endeavors to seed, nurture, and scale up scientific and industrial research and development within India's power sector. By creating an innovative ecosystem, the mission fosters an environment conducive to cutting-edge advancements.

Positioning India as a Leading Country: Through its comprehensive approach, MAHIR aspires to establish India as one of the leading countries in power system-related technologies and applications development. This accomplishment will strengthen the nation's standing in the global energy landscape.

Funding and Duration

MAHIR will receive funding from a pool of financial resources contributed by the Ministry of Power, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, and the Central Public Sector Enterprises associated with these ministries. In cases where additional funding is required, the Government of India's budgetary resources will be mobilized to support the mission's initiatives.

The mission is planned for an initial period of five years, spanning from 2023-24 to 2027-28. This timeframe allows for a comprehensive technology life cycle approach, from ideation to product development and implementation.

Collaboration and Ecosystem Development

To establish a robust innovation ecosystem, MAHIR emphasizes collaboration between industry, academia, and the government. Premier institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), National Institutes of Technology (NITs), Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs), and universities will play a pivotal role in driving research and development activities. By leveraging the expertise and resources of these esteemed institutions, MAHIR aims to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical implementation in the power sector.

Furthermore, MAHIR recognizes the importance of start-ups and established industries within the power sector. By actively involving both public and private power sector start-ups and established companies, the mission aims to create an innovation ecosystem that fosters collaboration, knowledge sharing, and technology adoption. The government acts as an enabler in this process, providing the necessary support and facilitating the creation of an ecosystem that nurtures creativity, entrepreneurship, and the translation of research into impactful solutions.

Identified Research Areas

As part of its strategic approach, MAHIR has identified eight key research areas that hold immense potential for transforming the power sector:

1. Alternatives to Lithium-Ion Storage Batteries

The mission recognizes the need to explore alternative energy storage solutions beyond conventional lithium-ion batteries. Research efforts will focus on developing and advancing technologies such as solid-state batteries, flow batteries, and other emerging storage technologies that can enhance energy storage capacity, efficiency, and sustainability.

2. Modifying Electric Cookers/Pans for Indian Cooking Methods

In India, cooking methods and appliances differ significantly from other regions. To promote energy-efficient cooking practices, MAHIR aims to modify electric cookers and pans to better suit Indian cooking styles. The research will focus on optimizing energy consumption, reducing cooking time, and improving overall user experience while aligning with the cultural preferences and diverse culinary practices of the country.

3. Green Hydrogen for Mobility (High Efficiency Fuel Cell)

With a growing focus on clean and sustainable transportation, MAHIR recognizes the potential of green hydrogen as a fuel source for mobility. The mission will support research and development efforts to enhance the efficiency, scalability, and cost-effectiveness of fuel cells powered by green hydrogen. This initiative aims to accelerate the adoption of hydrogen-based transportation systems and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

4. Carbon Capture

Addressing climate change requires effective carbon capture technologies to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. MAHIR will prioritize research and development efforts aimed at developing advanced carbon capture methods and technologies. By focusing on cost-effective and scalable solutions, the mission aims to significantly reduce carbon dioxide emissions from power generation and industrial processes.

5. Geo-Thermal Energy

Geo-thermal energy holds great potential as a clean and renewable energy source. MAHIR will explore ways to harness and maximize the utilization of geo-thermal energy for power generation. The research will focus on improving efficiency, exploring new drilling techniques, and optimizing geo-thermal power plants to tap into India's abundant geothermal resources.

6. Solid State Refrigeration

Refrigeration and cooling systems consume significant amounts of energy. MAHIR aims to revolutionize cooling technologies by focusing on solid-state refrigeration. Research and development efforts will be dedicated to developing advanced solid-state cooling solutions that are energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and have a reduced carbon footprint.

7. Nano Technology for EV Battery

As the demand for electric vehicles (EVs) continues to rise, MAHIR recognizes the importance of enhancing battery technology to improve EV performance, range, and charging capabilities. The mission will focus on leveraging nanotechnology to develop high-performance EV batteries with enhanced energy density, longer lifespan, and faster charging capabilities.

8. Indigenous CRGO Technology

CRGO (Cold Rolled Grain Oriented) steel is a critical component in the manufacturing of power transformers. To reduce dependency on imports and promote self-reliance, MAHIR aims to develop indigenous CRGO technology. Research efforts will focus on enhancing the magnetic properties, production processes, and cost-effectiveness of CRGO steel, thereby contributing to the domestic manufacturing capabilities and reducing the overall cost of power infrastructure.

Scope and Implementation

Under the framework of Mission MAHIR, once research areas are identified and approved by the Apex Committee, the mission will invite proposals for outcome-linked funding from companies and organizations worldwide. The selection process for proposals will be based on a Quality cum Cost-Based Selection (QCBS) approach. In addition to funding external research agencies, the ministries' organizations may also collaborate in co-developing technologies with the selected research agencies.

To promote indigenous innovation, MAHIR will also fund pilot projects involving technologies developed by Indian start-ups. This support will enable the commercialization of these technologies, encouraging the growth of the start-up ecosystem within the power sector. The intellectual property rights (IPR) of the technologies developed will be shared between the Government of India and the respective research agencies or start-ups.

Furthermore, the mission will actively facilitate international collaboration to promote the exchange of knowledge and technology transfer. Collaborations with leading global laboratories and research institutions will accelerate the development of advanced technologies, enhance competencies, and broaden access to cutting-edge solutions.

Conclusion

The launch of the National Mission on Advanced and High-Impact Research (MAHIR) by the Ministry of Power and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy marks a significant step towards advancing India's power sector technologies. By promoting indigenous research, fostering collaboration, and embracing emerging technologies, MAHIR aims to position India as a global leader in power system-related innovations. Through its comprehensive approach, the mission not only supports national priorities such as achieving Net Zero emissions and promoting initiatives like Make in India and Start-up India but also contributes to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. With the collective efforts of industry, academia, and the government, MAHIR paves the way for a sustainable, efficient, and technology-driven power sector, ensuring a brighter and greener future for India and the world.