IIT Bombay signed a Memorandum of Understanding with ABB India to create a new, high-tech electrical machines and drives lab within its Department of Energy Science and Engineering.

ABB India was represented at the MoU signing by:

–  Mr. Sanjeev Arora, President, Motion Business Unit
–  Mr. Amit Gupta, Divisional President, Motion Services
–  Mr. Prasanna Deshpande, Business Development Head
–  Ms. Dhenuka Srinivasan, AVP, Environment & Sustainability Affairs
–  Ms. Sohini Mookherjea, Country Communication Manager

IIT Bombay was represented by:

–  Prof. Ravindra Gudi, Dean ACR
–  Prof. Suryanarayana Doolla, Dean SA
–  Mr. Ravishankar Gedela, CEO DRF
–  Mr. Nishant Maloo, Senior AVP DRF
–  Prof. Manaswita Bose, Head of DESE
–  Prof. V. S. S. Pavan Kumar Hari, DESE
–  Prof. D. Venkatramanan, DESE
–  Prof. Siddavatam Ravi Prakash Reddy, DESE
–  Prof. Zakir Hussain Rather, DESE

The lab will provide students with practical experience on industry-grade equipment, focusing on the growing importance of energy efficiency and sustainability in today’s industrial landscape. Both undergraduate and postgraduate students will benefit from this initiative, gaining hands-on training that closely mirrors real-world applications in sectors such as renewable energy and electric vehicles.

The lab will be outfitted with advanced equipment, including five energy-efficient electrical machine sets, variable frequency drives (VFDs), and programmable logic controllers (PLCs). These tools will give students a chance to simulate industrial scenarios, such as those found in wind turbines and electric vehicle systems, helping them develop a thorough understanding of modern energy systems and their applications. With ABB India’s support, the lab aims to shape future engineers who are ready to drive innovation in an increasingly sustainability-focused industry.

Sanjeev Arora, President of ABB India’s Motion Business, expressed pride in the collaboration, stating, “We are humbled to partner with the premier education institute IIT Bombay to support the institute in nurturing the next generation of engineers who are well-equipped to address the evolving demands of the industrial sectors with a focus on energy efficiency and conservation. The advanced technologies used in the new lab are innovative and sustainable in nature, ensuring that future engineers prioritize sustainability in their careers while contributing to a more resource-efficient world.”

The partnership underscores the critical role that electrical machines and drives play in various industries. As these industries evolve and integrate more energy-efficient technologies, it becomes essential for engineering students to grasp these advancements. The lab will serve as a bridge between academic learning and practical industry experience, ensuring students are prepared for the technological demands they will face in their careers.

Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Director of IIT Bombay, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, saying, “IIT Bombay’s partnership with ABB India marks a significant step toward empowering our students with advanced technical expertise and a deep understanding of sustainable energy systems. This state-of-the-art lab will provide immersive, hands-on training in cutting-edge technologies that mirror real-world industrial applications. Our goal is to nurture engineers who are not only skilled innovators but also champions of energy efficiency and environmental stewardship, prepared to lead the way in shaping a sustainable and resource-efficient future.”

This collaboration between IIT Bombay and ABB India exemplifies the institute’s commitment to equipping students with cutting-edge knowledge and practical skills that meet the evolving demands of modern industry. By fostering an environment emphasizing innovation and sustainability, IIT Bombay plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of engineering education in India. The Institute strengthens its academic offerings through initiatives like this and reaffirms its leadership in producing engineers ready to lead in an increasingly resource-conscious and technology-driven world.