Affordable and clean energy
KIIT University Powers Sustainability: Advancing Clean Energy Solutions for a Greener Future
KIIT University is committed to advancing Sustainable Development Goal 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) through innovative and eco-friendly initiatives. The university utilizes IoT-based smart lighting systems to reduce energy consumption and has installed a 4×500 kg/day biogas plant to convert organic waste into biogas for hostel cooking and heating. KIIT promotes renewable energy by incorporating solar power, highlighted by the development of Asia’s first fully solar-powered smart village at Kalarabanka. In 2023, KIIT saved over 10.5 million kWh of energy, preventing nearly 11,000 tons of CO2 emissions, equivalent to planting more than 500,000 trees, reinforcing its leadership in clean energy and sustainability.
Remarkable Achievement on SDG 7 in 2023
Solar Energy Society of India Honours Achyuta Samanta
On Nov.4 2023, In the Solar World Congress at New Delhi, Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT & KISS, was honored for his efforts in advancing green initiatives at the KIIT and KISS campuses and utilizing solar power for daily operations. The recognition, presented by SESI President Praful Pathak, was attended by Dr. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, Director General of IMD. During the event, Dr. Samanta was praised for his exceptional contributions to educating indigenous children and integrating renewable energy and sustainable practices at KIIT-KISS. In this world congress delegates from more than 50 nations from scientific research, engineering, architecture, and industries are participating to strategize a sustainable future.
https://news.kiit.ac.in/achievements/solar-energy-society-of-india-honours-achyuta-samanta/
KIIT DU Receives Odisha State Energy Conservation Award (OSECA) 2023
On December 14, 2023, KIIT Deemed to be University was awarded the Odisha State Energy Conservation Award (OSECA) 2023 in the Educational Institute category. The ceremony took place at Lokseva Bhawan, Bhubaneswar, with distinguished guests including Shri Pratap Keshari Deb, Hon’ble Minister of Energy, Industry & MSME, Govt. of Odisha, and other key officials. The event also featured an exhibition of energy-efficient models, projects, and products. Energy conservation, which involves reducing energy usage and wastage, is a focus for KIIT DU, aiming to enhance energy efficiency through both long-term strategies and short-term actions. Prof. (Dr.) Chinmoy Kumar Panigrahi, Prof. Subrat Kumar Behera, and Dr. Arjyadhara Pradhan represented KIIT DU in receiving the award.
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University Initiatives for Affordable Clean Energy
Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7) focuses on guaranteeing that everyone has access to energy that is affordable, dependable, sustainable, and modern. https://sustainability.kiit.ac.in/
- KIIT University is committed to adopting alternative energy sources, such as Solar Power, Renewable Energy, and Biogas Plants, whenever feasible. This approach is selected based on suitability for the local climate and aims to minimize environmental impact.
- KIIT University manages its energy resources efficiently to eliminate energy waste, utilizing methods like Solar Water Heaters, Cooking with Natural Energy Sources, and reducing its Carbon Footprint.
- KIIT University collaborates to build a community that prioritizes sustainable energy by regularly organizing Seminars, Workshops, and Awareness Programs, as well as integrating Courses on Energy and Climate importance into the curriculum.
7.2.1 Energy Efficient Renovation and Building Policy
KIIT University is dedicated to minimizing its environmental impact by making sustainable choices in its operations. This includes prioritizing the safety of building occupants, ensuring regular maintenance to extend facility longevity, conserving scarce resources, retrofitting to enhance water and energy efficiency, and continually educating the campus community on sustainable practices. These efforts are reflected in the university’s policies and guidelines for energy-efficient buildings based on green building principles.
- Campus buildings are designed with passive cooling, natural ventilation, natural lighting, and integrated UV shielding, providing low-energy cooling alternatives to traditional air conditioning systems.
7.2.2 Upgraded existing buildings to higher energy efficiency
Listed below are some Energy Efficiency Upgrade Plan practices taken up by us are:
Conservation of Energy
- Use of LED Bulbs/ Power Efficient equipment
- Solar Energy
- Biogas Plant
- Wheeling to the Grid
Water Conservation
- Rainwater Harvesting
- Tanks and Bunds
- Waste Water Recycling
- Water Bodies and Distribution System in the Campus
Solid Waste Management
- Liquid Waste Management
- Biomedical Waste Management
- E-waste Management
- Waste Recycling System
- Hazardous Chemicals and Radioactive Waste Management
Practices / Glimpses of Installed Environmental Stewardship
| i. Conservation of Energy | |
Solar Power Plant a) 10 Nos. of Roof-Top Solar PV power Plants b) Total Electricity Generation=1000 kWp c) Total CO2 emission avoided= 2977 Tons | Solar Water Heating System a) Numbers of Roof-Top Solar Heating – 40 b) Total Solar Based Water Heating Systems Installed-91,500 Ltrs per day c) Total CO2 emission avoided= 832 Tons |
 Solar Power Plant |  Solar Water Heating System |
ii. Solid Waste Management a) Biogas plant for organic waste | b) Composting for long decomposable organic waste |
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| 1000 Kg / day Capacity Biogas Plant | 500 Kg/Day Capacity Biogas Plants |
iii. Liquid Waste Management 3 Numbers of Sewage Treatment Plant | |||
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| a) STP at Campus 18 (Capacity – 90 KLD) | b) Sewage Treatment Plant at KIMS (2 million Liter per Day) | ||
| iv.Water Conservation | a) Rain water based ground water recharging pit all campus b) Sensor based pump controllers in 175 bore holes | ||
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| c) Sensor Based Over Head Tank Water Controller | d) Automatic Water Controller with Pump Starter | e) Rainwater Recharge Pit at Campus 11 | |
Minimizing Energy Waste
Annual internal energy audits are conducted to identify areas of energy waste.
| S. No. | Audit Findings | Action Plan Completed |
| 1 | Lights and air conditioning might remain on after classes end. | Red blinking indicators have been installed outside rooms to clearly identify electricity usage. Additionally, duty staff and security personnel are assigned to patrol on a rotating schedule. |
| 2 | Non-essential lighting in areas that are not in use, such as restrooms, corridors, pantries, and vacant offices. | The Energy Saving Cell oversees efforts to promote energy conservation among the campus community. Advanced IoT-based monitor sensors are installed in areas with low foot traffic to manage lighting efficiently. |
| 3 | Insulation of academic section’s AC condenser units are damaged and are exposed to the sunlight, water, dust, etc. There is a reduction in the performance of the machine. | The refrigerant pipes from the outdoor to indoor units have been insulated with new thick coated sheet. |
Transportation & Commute
A sustainable commuting plan is essential for the University’s environment. As the campus population grows each year, the University has invested in pedestrian-friendly infrastructure to minimize vehicle traffic on campus and ensure that all areas are easily accessible on foot.
Waste Minimization
Waste separation bins have been strategically placed across the campus to facilitate the sorting of waste. Recyclable materials are collected at the 3Rs yard, which stands for Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle, before being sent to recycling vendors for processing. Additionally, food waste from the hostel’s mess / cafeteria / office, including kitchen scraps, is collected daily to be composted, contributing to sustainable waste management practices. This approach not only promotes recycling but also helps in minimizing the amount of waste sent to landfills by repurposing organic waste into compost.
Educating Staff
Organise training programs to educate staff on energy-saving practices, encouraging them to power down equipment when it’s not in use.
7.2.3 Process for Carbon Management and Reducing CO2 emissions
Since 2015, KIIT University have been regularly measuring and monitoring our CO2 emissions. Over the years, we have increased our renewable power generation and decreased our dependency on the grid. We have also integrated energy efficient electrical systems, substituted the conventional vehicles by electric vehicles and certified zero-emission vehicles, conducted mega plantation drives in and around the campus and introduced various environmental awareness programs and courses on sustainability and climate action. This has resulted in reduction of carbon footprint of our University.
KIIT University’s carbon emissions in alignment with the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol Corporate Standard, which is widely recognized and commonly used for calculating and reporting greenhouse gas emissions. The report presents an overview of the methodology used, emission sources identified, and key findings related to KIIT University’s carbon footprint.
7.2.4 Energy Efficiency Plan in place to Reduce Energy Consumption
In 2023 Year:
- The University advanced its energy efficiency initiatives by further retrofitting LED lights to lower energy consumption and upgrading to IoT based sensor indicator lighting to minimize waste during low occupancy periods.
- Invest in renewable energy sources, such as Clean Energy, and SMART technologies, to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and decrease greenhouse gas.
- Adopt low-carbon operational practices in all campus buildings and infrastructure to achieve carbon neutrality by investing in energy conservation by promoting renewable energy sources and optimizing resource.
7.2.5 Reviews to Identify Areas with the Highest Energy Wastage
Annual internal energy audits are conducted to pinpoint areas of energy waste, along with an action plan to address these issues, as part of the initiative to reduce energy wastage through the internal committee.
Duty staff and security personnel are assigned to patrol on a rotating schedule to overcome the issues like:
- Lights and air conditioning might remain on after classes end.
- Non-essential lighting in areas that are not in use, such as restrooms, corridors, pantries, and vacant offices.
The Energy Saving Cell oversees efforts to promote energy conservation among the campus community. Advanced IoT-based motion activated sensors are installed in areas with low foot traffic to manage lighting efficiently.
7.2.6 Divestment Policy from Carbon-Intensive Energy
The KIIT University are dedicated to leading by example and making a positive impact on the environment. Our Sustainability and Climate Action Policy provides a comprehensive framework for achieving our sustainability goals, with a particular focus on reaching carbon neutrality by 2050. By 2035, Our aims to divert 60% of its electricity consumption from non-renewable to renewable energy sources.
Through environmental stewardship, energy efficiency, sustainable transportation, education and awareness, collaboration and partnerships, monitoring, and reporting, we are committed to creating a sustainable future for our institution and beyond.
Divestment Focus Area from Carbon-Intensive Energy
- Energy and Resource Efficiency: Adopt low-carbon operational practices in all campus buildings and infrastructure to achieve carbon neutrality by investing in energy conservation by promoting renewable energy sources and optimizing resource.
- Invest in renewable energy: Invest in renewable energy sources, such as clean energy, and SMART technologies, to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and decrease greenhouse gas.
- Promote Sustainable Transportation: Promoting environmentally friendly transport options are crucial for lowering carbon emissions. Biking, walking, carpooling, and using public transportation are all forms of alternative mobility that KIIT-DU support and encourage. Also,the University has a few initiatives related to electric vehicles (EVs) and transportation, including Solar Car, Electric Van, Electric Bike, Three-wheel Rechargeable Vehicle. The University have lessened the reliance on single-occupancy automobiles and promoted a culture of sustainable mobility by providing infrastructure and incentives for these alternatives.
Outcomes
The University saved 10,273,000 kWh units of energy in the year 2023. Our goal is to make a transition to a sustainable energy mix and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. In the last 5 years, the total energy generation through our solar PV systems is 4782151 kWh. Our plan is to incorporate other types of renewable sources such as from Wind Power, Fuel Cells, etc. The University intends to procure more power from utilities sourcing renewable power than fossil fuels.
7.4.1 Local Community Outreach Programs focused on Energy Efficiency
KIIT University is instrumental in conducting awareness programs (Seminar / Workshops, MoUs, Research Activities) for a local community to learn about energy efficiency and clean energy can be impactful and engaging awareness programs on sustainable practices, encouraging students and the broader community to adopt eco-friendly lifestyles. By fostering a culture of sustainability and involving the community in these endeavors, KIIT University has made significant strides in creating a greener and more sustainable future.
https://sustainability.kiit.ac.in/strategy-and-performance/
https://sustainability.kiit.ac.in/sustainability-development/
https://sustainability.kiit.ac.in/out-reach-project/
Some Activities Conducted in 2023
- MoU between KP and TPCODL
KIIT Polytechnic and Tata Power have signed an MoU to jointly offer a course on industry-relevant technology to Electrical Engineering students at KIIT Polytechnic. This course aims to provide students with a competitive advantage by keeping them updated with advanced technologies in energy promotion and distribution networks. The MoU was signed by Mr. S. Verma, Cluster Head of Business HR at Tata Power, and Dr. Sasmita Rani Samanta, Vice- Chancellor of KIIT-DU. The signing ceremony was attended by officials from IEC, academic heads from SoT and KP, students, as well as the Pro VC and Registrar of KIIT-DU, and representatives from TPCODL.
https://news.kiit.ac.in/schools/kiit-polytechnic/mou-between-kpand-tpcodl/
- KIIT School of Electrical Engineering IEEE & Bhubaneswar Sub-Section Jointly Organize ‘International Conference on Power Electronics & Energy’
The KIIT School of Electrical Engineering, in collaboration with IEEE Bhubaneswar Subsection, organized the 2nd International Conference on Power Electronics and Energy (ICPEE-2023) from January 3rd to 5th, 2023, in hybrid mode. Sponsored by IEEE Kolkata Section and IEEE IAS Society, the conference featured keynote speeches from distinguished experts like Prof. Josep M. Guerrero and Prof. Akshay Kumar Rathore. Over 47 research papers were presented during the event, which highlighted cutting-edge research in power electronics, renewable energy, and industry-academia collaboration. The conference concluded with an awards ceremony for best papers, recognizing exceptional contributions in the field.
- KSRM Organizes Sustainability Hackathon Boot Camp
KIIT School of Rural Management in association with the EDI, Ahmedabad and World trade Centre, Bhubaneswar hosted a Boot Camp (ground expert session) with a vision of aligning students focus to sustainable development in line with Sustainability Development Agenda of the G-20, initiated by India as the president of the group. This Hackathon Challenge is being conducted across India to get 10000 qualified entries from various universities and B Schools. The boot camp was graced by Ms. Abha Mishra, Odisha State Head of UNDP, Mr Ashwini Rath CEO, Batoi Systems (P) Limited, Ms Nimeshika Natarajan, Assistant Director, WTC, Mr Durga Prasad Gouda, COO, AIC-Nalanda Institute of Technology, Dr Subrat Biswal, Regional Head EDI and Prof. Nishith Parida, Director KSRM. The speakers deliberated upon the issue of sustainability and its growing relevance for the world at large. Eighty innovative proposals on the theme were received for the next qualifying round where a regional winner would be decided. All these regional winners would participate in the national round which would be held in Ahmedabad. The successful proposals would be business rolled subsequently.”
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https://news.kiit.ac.in/schools/ksrm/ksrm-organizes-sustainabilityhackathon- boot-camp/
For More Activities:
https://news.kiit.ac.in/archives/
https://sustainability.kiit.ac.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Environmental-Activities_2023.pdf
7.4.2 Promote Awareness & Education towards Renewable Energy beyond the University
Social Contribution Towards a Better Living by Solar Home Light System for Households (LANTERNS):
Start of Solar Lantern distribution program throughout Odisha State to Non-electrified villages. Total 50,000 solar lanterns were distributed among villagers. Appreciated Impactful assessment study was made jointly by Power Finance Corporation and SECI (Solar Energy Corporation of India) of solar power station in distribution of 50k solar lanterns in different interior village of Odisha.
Outcomes of 2023
- 50,000+ households got benefits with an indirect benefit to 200,000+ people.
- Energy conservation leading to less use of non-renewable resources.
- Awareness about cost effective renewable resources.
- Multipurpose usage for everyday household activities including children’s education.
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KIIT Signed an MOU with JS Renewable to enhance proficiency of B. Tech students in Renewable Energy
KIIT School of Electrical Engineering initiated a “Green Energy Academy” in association with leading Corporate Houses. The objective of the academy is to collaborate with the MNRE, Government of India’s flagship dream project of “Skill India” to create trained manpower in Renewable Energy. In this connection, an MoU was signed between Mr. J. S. Bhatia, Founder, JS Renewable and KIIT School of Electrical Engineering, as part of the GET Program for escalating proficiency of the B. Tech students in Renewable Energy. “Under the academy, we launched a ‘Graduate Engineering (GET)’ program in Solar Energy at KIIT School of Electrical Engineering & allied School of Technology.
7.4.3 Services to Local Industry focussed on Energy Efficiency and Clean Energy
1. KIIT-DU has developed and delivered the concept designs along with drawings and proof concepts for the modified shell for Heavy Weight Torpedo (HWT) on 18-May-2023, against the service order number 3420007791/SO dated 21-October-2022. KIIT-DU will be providing the warranty of 12 months for all the designs/drawings/3d models against the PO. Since the proof of concepts were delivered physically, service will be provided for maintaining the same. The assembly procedure was jointly developed by KIIT and BDL SEG team and a demonstration was given to the SEG team.
https://sustainability.kiit.ac.in/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Evidence_16.3.1-DRDO2.pdf
2. KIIT-TBI launched “INVENT”- a joint initiative of the Technology Development Board (TDB), Government of India, Department for International Development (DFID), Government of the United Kingdom and Villgro Foundation as the monitoring agency for the implementation of the program. INVENT aims to make a positive social impact by providing incubation support to technology-oriented start-ups whose offerings benefit the Bottom of Pyramid of the society.
Sector Focus:
Affordable – Healthcare – Agriculture – Clean Energy – Education
Water and Sanitation – Waste to Wealth – Livelihood Promotion
Financial Inclusion
KIIT-TBI Offers:
Seed Funding Dedicated Mentorship Plug and Play Workspace
Support Services Capacity Building Programmes
https://kiitincubator.in/invent/
3. Ambedkar Social Innovation Incubation Mission (ASIIM) – Funding Opportunity for Scheduled Caste Entrepreneurs, Supported by Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJ&E), Govt of India Initiative under Venture Capital Fund for SCs (VCF-SC)
The objective of this initiative is to provide focused support to young SC entrepreneurs who are engaged in working on innovative and technology-oriented business ideas either in educational campuses or Technology Business Incubators (TBIs), to help them setup successful commercial en terprises.
Provision for Equity Support
The identified innovative ideas from SC students in the TBIs would be provided equity assistance towards TBI accommodation cost, Hardware, Software, Fellowship, Travel and marketing, IP filing, Tool-room expenses, Co-workers etc.
Funding Heads
TBI Accommodation Cost Hardware / Software Fellowship IP filing
Travel and Marketing Tool Room Expenses Coworkers (1) @ Rs 20,000/month
7.4.4 Support Government in Clean Energy and Efficiency Policy Development
1. Sustainable Nitrogen Management in SAARC Countries
The Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Bhubaneswar, India has contributed to the National Nitrogen Policy Report for India through its work with the South Asian Nitrogen Hub (SANH). KIIT’s work with SANH includes:
- Mapping existing policies and government programs
- Investigating the consequences of reducing nitrogen pollution
- Surveying farmers on their use of nitrogen
- Developing an app to help farmers decide on fertilizer and manure.
KIIT Collaborated with Government Department/United Nations: –
- South Asian Nitrogen Hub
- International Nitrogen Management System (INMS) of United Nations
- Ministry of Forest and Environment, Government of India
2. Expert Advice on “National Innovation and Startup Policy
KIIT-TBI provides the expert advice on National Innovation and Startup Policy to the Ministry of Human Resources Development, Government of India to promote and support innovation, technology commercialization and startups in academic setup.
For more details: https://nisp.kiit.ac.in/
- The University is involved in expert opinion and advice through its involvement with a horde or national and international organizations under the umbrella of associations and councils. The University is a prominent member of the following international organizations:https://kiit.ac.in/about/global-footprint/
- S. S. Ray, Director, School of Architecture and Planning, KIIT Deemed to be University has actively participated in the meeting of the State High Level Committee collaborated with the Central High Level Committee to facilitate refining the urban planning in cities and to escort the process of unlocking the potential of the cities as engines of economic growth to achieve the objective of enhancing the liveability of the cities and environment sustainability.
3. Regional Startup Network
Building Entrepreneurial Capacity in the Indo-Pacific Countries of Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, and Nepal: A unique interconnected space for collaboration between Entrepreneurs, Investors, Researchers, Policy Makers, Private, Public & Government Organizations.
https://rsn.kiitincubator.in/
7.4.5 Assistance for Startups Supporting a Low-Carbon Economy or Technology
U. P. Singh and Dr. Arindam Basak, Faculty of School of Electronics Engineering received assistance fund from the University and Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India to accelerate research work in start-up potential as they commercialize the innovative idea “Process Development of Thin Film Solar Cells from Abundant and Non-toxic Materials”. Photovoltaic (PV) technologies based on inorganic thin film absorber materials may enable cost-effective solar energy production at large scales. Thin film technologies reduce the amount of material required in creating the active material of photovoltaic devices, such as solar cells. The materials which are used in this project are earth abundant and non-toxic. Also, the methodology adopted is user friendly. Hence no environmental impact and risk is associated with this project. A proper structural, electrical, and optical study of this material can lead us to fabricate a more efficient, cost effective and eco-friendly solar cell.
For More Information:
https://electronics.kiit.ac.in/research/research-projects/
https://electronics.kiit.ac.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Research-Facility-Thin-Film-Lab.pdf
Remarkable Installed Technology Driven Start-up Promote Low Carbon Innovation
- The steam-based cooking system for mass cooking are installed.
- 10,000 LPD solar water heating system for cooking purpose are installed.
- CO2 Reduction by steam cooking, Solar water heating, Biogas use and Solar Power use – 1486 tons / year.