Avaada Group to Set Up Centre of Excellence in Odisha; Inks MoU with GRIDCO and IIT-Bhubaneswar to Advance Green Hydrogen Research

Mumbai, Dec 08: 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 specialised technical teams and research infrastructure. Avaada will also support selected R&D programmes 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 programme 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 decarbonising the hard-to-abate sectors such as steel, chemicals and heavy transport, ensuring that the future of energy is Always Clean. Always On.”

With an allocation of Rs 400 crores for R&D activities under the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM) scheme, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has proposed to set up Centre of Excellences (CoEs) for supporting integrated research in Green Hydrogen Sector, covering multiple areas in Green Hydrogen value chain including production, transportation & storage, applications and safety.