11 September, 2025 (Yes Punjab News)
The two-day international workshop on ‘Powering Prosperity and Security: U.S.–India Energy Innovation for a Free and Reliable Indo-Pacific’ concluded today at PHD Chambers, Chandigarh.
The event was co-hosted by the Nexus Startup Hub at the American Center, New Delhi, U.S. Embassy, New Delhi; University of Connecticut (UConn); Punjab State Council for Science & Technology (PSCST), IIT Ropar and PHD Chamber of Commerce & Industry (PHDCCI).
The workshop served as a unique platform that brought together experts, startups, universities, and research institutions to deliberate on joint solutions for strengthening Indo-Pacific energy security while accelerating innovation in the energy sector.
The inaugural session was addressed by Mr. Nicholas DiNardo, U.S. Diplomat, U.S. Embassy, New Delhi, who underlined the U.S. commitment to advancing joint energy solutions with India for regional stability and prosperity. Dr. Dapinder Bakshi, Joint Director, PSCST, highlighted Punjab’s proactive role in fostering clean energy innovations and promoting startup-led solutions.
Dr. Radhika Trikha, CEO, AWaDH–IIT Ropar, stressed the need for academic institutions to drive technology development and industry linkages. Dr. Tolga Turker, Director, Global Entrepreneurial Programs, University of Connecticut, emphasized the importance of building entrepreneurial bridges between India and the U.S. for energy innovation.
In the keynote session on ‘Voices of Vision’, Dr. Arun Kumar Nayak, Head of the Nuclear Controls & Planning Wing, BARC- Mumbai, highlighted nuclear power’s role in meeting future energy needs with sustainability and safety. Brig. (Dr.) Sanjeev Chopra (Veteran) in his address on ‘Energy Innovation at Crossroads’ called for stronger Indo-U.S. collaborations in LNG trade, nuclear cooperation, and AI-driven energy transformation.
In a session coordinated by Ms. Divya Rajput, In-Country Director, UConn Global, Abhinavb Jha (ASPL Fusion) deliberated on nuclear energy’s role in strengthening energy security.
In the session on ‘Energy Innovations’, Prof. Dhiraj K. Mahajan and Prof. Asad Sahir of IIT Ropar presented their research initiatives in hydrogen technologies, with special emphasis on need of indigenization of fuel cell membranes and innovations in clean hydrogen production pathways.
Er. Maganbir Singh highlighted PSCST’s role in advancing ex-situ management of paddy straw and the ongoing transformation of industry towards cleaner fuels. The dialogue highlighted the potential of cross-disciplinary research and innovation in shaping next-generation energy solutions.
The session on ‘Building Energy Innovation Ecosystems’ involving Mr. Arjun Mittal, Founder and CEO, Envinova, India; Dr. Arrik Khanna, Associate Dean, Chitkara University, Punjab; Dr. Vandit Vijay, SSS-NIBE discussed India’s entrepreneurship landscape, stressing the importance of universities, long-cycle infrastructure projects, and collaborative pathways with U.S. counterparts to accelerate commercialization.
Another panel on Energy Security Startup Ecosystem, involved Mr. Sukhmeet Singh, CEO, A2P Energy Solutions, India, Mr. Vineet Khurana, CEO, SACC, India and Mr. Suchin Jain, CEO at iPanelKlean Solar, India emphasized the critical role of startups in delivering scalable energy solutions and contributing to economic resilience.
The Startup Showcase drew strong attention as five innovative enterprises presented clean energy solutions.
iPanelKlean Solar introduced its solar panel cleaning technology that emphasizes dust removal, water conservation, and safety of technicians. ARES Systems presented its vision of a hydrogen-powered future with energy storage and conversion systems based on fuel cells for heavy-duty mobility and industrial applications, along with hydrogen generation through electrolysis.
Huskage Innovations demonstrated how local biogenic residue can be transformed into green hydrogen and allied products in a carbon-negative and distributed manner.
The valedictory session featured remarks by Mr. Nicholas DiNardo (U.S. Embassy), Dr. Tolga Turker (UConn), Dr. Dapinder Bakshi (PSCST), and Dr. Mukesh Kestwal (IIT Ropar). The experts reaffirmed the importance of cross-border partnerships in addressing emerging energy challenges and building resilient systems.
By linking energy security with innovation, the workshop opened new avenues for Indo-U.S. research collaborations, joint ventures, and technology pilots. It also underscored Punjab’s growing role as a hub for clean energy entrepreneurship and as a strategic partner in advancing global energy resilience.
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