Swissnex conducts Cleantech India 2018 in Pune

Shashank Kelkar
Thursday, 13 December 2018

PUNE: Cleantech India 2018 showcased the best Swiss renewable energy solutions in e-mobility, battery storage, battery grid integration, fast charging technology etc at O Hotel, Koregaon Park on Thursday.

The event was organised by Swissnex, a Swiss government initiative. In all, 15 Swiss researchers and start-up entrepreneurs interacted with each other to explore joint ventures in the Indian clean energy market.

The day-long session comprised presentations by Swiss delegates followed by B2B discussions with local players. Later, the team visited the Pune Railway Station solar project.

Alejandro Santis, Head, BFH Energy Storage research Centre, told Sakal Times, “Fuel cells are unstable at high temperatures. Hence, innovative solutions are required before deploying them in India.”

Martin Ebner, CEO & president, Battrion AG, said, “Aligned Graphite Technology (AGT) enables fast charging of all types of Li ion batteries (used in mobile, laptops, UPS, e-vehicles). India has huge potential for battery-operated two- and four-wheelers. Only mass produced quality battery can compete with cheap Chinese battery.”

Gaganjot Kaur, Project Manager, said, “Swissnex India offers a platform to foster strong collaboration and ground-breaking innovation and acts as a complete facilitator to Swiss researchers and start-up entrepreneurs to enable them understand Indian challenges, frame business model and re-engineer their products as per local requirements. Our four focus areas are: Renewable energy, sustainable cities, deep technology and life sciences. Switzerland and India have similar vision for clean energy sector. Hence, it holds huge potential for synergy. Our success rate for start-ups is between 50 to 70 per annum.”

After Bengaluru and Pune, the delegation will visit their final destination, Mumbai. The Swiss team will analyse the event to understand the local requirements and form joint ventures with capable local players.