IIT Kanpur promotes multidisciplinary approach to renewable energy

Prof. Pradip Swarnakar leads the Just Transition Research Centre (JTRC) at IIT Kanpur. In a recent interview, he discussed the importance of a multidisciplinary approach for sustainable development in the renewable energy sector. Swarnakar highlighted the growing job opportunities in renewable energy. However, achieving energy transition goals requires diverse skills and data-driven strategies. Educational institutions must adapt to these needs. Established in 2021, JTRC focuses on research and capacity building related to climate and energy policies. It began with a focus on coal and thermal power but now includes various topics like electric vehicles and agriculture. The team consists of researchers from fields like sociology, economics, and environmental science. He emphasized that the renewable energy sector needs workers with knowledge in both technical and social sciences. This ensures that technologies are accepted and integrated into society. The Just Transition initiative aims to support communities that may be negatively affected by the shift to a green economy. In India, the Just Transition concept must account for its heavy reliance on coal. Swarnakar noted the need to assess the potential impacts of reducing coal use on workers and local communities. He called for efforts to create sustainable economic alternatives in coal regions. Finally, he expressed the importance of involving young people in the green energy transition. With India’s youthful population facing high employment challenges, this sector offers numerous job opportunities. Targeted skills training can help bridge the gap between aspirations and job opportunities for youth in coal-dependent areas.