Strategic Initiatives at CSTEP strives to find solutions to two major challenges that we face today: the achievement of a sustainable and secure future and the facilitation of the clean energy transition. In pursuit of this, we conduct extensive technology and policy research on energy resources, critical raw materials, and advanced agricultural technologies via rigorous research, modelling, and analysis. Achieving circular economy is another crucial aspect we are exploring to secure a sustainable future.
Green urea can boost decarbonisation while reducing India’s import dependency
Urea is among the most consumed chemicals in India—as an indispensable fertiliser in agriculture, and, thereafter, as an important raw material for producing plastics, and nutrient feed for cattle. In the conventional process of urea production, natural gas is the primary source of hydrogen and carbon dioxide that are used as raw materials. According to Energy Statistics India, fertiliser production accounts for 32% of India’s total annual natural gas consumption.
Carbon-to-chemicals: A techno-commercial assessment
Carbon capture and utilisation (CCU) is an innovative concept that involves converting carbon dioxide (CO₂) captured from point sources of emission or the air into value-added products. It has been gaining considerable attention lately for its role in realising a circular economy. In this context, our study aimed to examine the techno-economics of producing methanol and urea from the captured CO₂, while also evaluating the implications of producing these chemicals domestically, instead of importing them.
Harnessing carbon capture to boost India’s methanol energy security and economy
India has an ambitious goal of adding 450 GW of renewable energy by 2030. According to the Central Electricity Authority, the country has 147 GW of installed capacity as of May 2024. We must add 50 GW per annum in the next 6 years to meet the target set for 2030. Any shortfall is likely to be met by coal, complicating our emission reduction goals. Therefore, the exploration of alternatives that can complement mainstream renewable energy options is not just a choice but a necessity.
Senior Analyst
The Senior Analyst will play a key role in analysing and assessing the environmental sustainability of current and emerging agricultural practices through comprehensive life-cycle analysis (LCA).
Responsibilities
India committed to achieving net-zero by 2070; new tech to mitigate climate change
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's Sixth Assessment Report has, for the first time in the three-decade history of its reports, dedicated an entire chapter to innovation and technological development. The immense potential of new technologies for climate adaptation and mitigation is being recognised by policymakers and investors alike.
A Comprehensive Recycling Framework and Policy Solutions for Managing Solar Photovoltaic Waste in India
India is among the top five leading countries in solar power installed capacity. Of India’s ambitious target of 500-GW RE capacity by 2030, over 292 GW is likely to be generated using solar power. This increase in installed capacity, while promising, also opens doors to massive waste streams and increased emissions. According to the Center for Study of Science, Technology and Policy’s (CSTEP’s) analysis, India is projected to generate approximately 4.5 million tonnes of solar photovoltaic (PV) waste by 2050.