Bengaluru: After nurturing thousands of start-ups across multiple sectors in recent years, Karnataka is now shifting its focus to renewable energy technologies. Barely a few weeks after chief minister Siddaramaiah announced plans to set up an incubation centre to promote research in clean energy, the Energy Department on Thursday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the University of New South Wales (UNSW), Australia, NSRCEL of IIM-Bengaluru, and the Foundation for Science, Innovation and Development (FSID) at IISc to boost innovation, incubation, and commercialisation in the sector.As part of the initiative, the Energy Department plans to nurture around 20 start-ups annually across domains such as energy storage, solar, wind, green fuels, and emerging clean technologies. By integrating global research, entrepreneurship, and scientific expertise, the proposed centre is expected to play a key role in strengthening Karnataka’s clean energy innovation ecosystem at both national and global levels.The MoU was signed by KP Rudrappaiah, managing director of Karnataka Renewable Energy Development Corp Ltd (KREDL), and Lisa Zamberlan, pro vice-chancellor (international) at UNSW. Facilitated by the Australian India Business Council (AIBC), the collaboration also saw IISc and IIM-Bengaluru signing separate MoUs with KREDL, the state’s nodal agency for promoting and developing renewable energy projects.According to senior Energy Department officials, under the three-year partnership, KREDL will establish an incubation and technology innovation centre in Bengaluru to support start-ups in solar, wind, bioenergy, and energy storage. While KREDL will provide infrastructure and local funding, UNSW — through its Founders Program — will offer capacity building, technical mentorship, and access to global research and innovation networks. High-potential ventures will also receive advanced incubation, international exposure, and expanded market access through UNSW’s global network.Energy minister KJ George said, “This partnership will drive innovation and incubation in renewable energy technologies and startups, strengthening Karnataka’s relationships with Australian institutions and creating new investment opportunities.” Gaurav Gupta, additional chief secretary (Energy), said, “This collaboration seeks to establish a global ecosystem leveraging Australian expertise, benefiting Karnataka’s businesses, govt, and citizens.“Prof Lisa Zamberlan, pro vice-chancellor (international) at UNSW, said, “The MoU reflects a shared commitment by UNSW and KREDL to advance clean energy innovation across Australia and India. The partnership aligns strongly with UNSW’s Progress for All agenda, particularly our focus on sustainability and impact. Together, we aim to support clean energy startups and contribute to long-term outcomes for climate action, energy transition and sustainable development.”
