As the world celebrates Earth Day on April 22, MIT World Peace University (MIT-WPU) is proud to announce two groundbreaking advancements in sustainable energy, demonstrating our commitment to shaping a cleaner, greener future.
MIT-WPU researchers have developed a novel hydrogen production process using sugarcane juice and microorganisms, a sustainable alternative that also converts CO? into acetic acid. This eco-friendly method aligns with India’s Green Hydrogen Mission and can be a game-changer for the sugar industry.
MIT World Peace University (MITWPU) made significant advancements in sustainable energy research with two pioneering projects: a novel process for generating green hydrogen directly from sugarcane juice and an innovative batch reactor system for biodiesel production using agrowaste-based heterogeneous catalysts. These developments underscore MITWPU’s commitment to India's green energy transition and sustainable future.
The university has developed a unique process to generate hydrogen from sugarcane juice using microorganisms. This process also converts carbon dioxide into acetic acid, making it more sustainable. This research supports the Government’s Green Hydrogen Mission and offers sugar industries an opportunity to produce hydrogen, reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels.
A patent has already been submitted for this technology. This project proposal has been submitted for funding to the Ministry of Non-Conventional Energy (MNRE). The Centre of Excellence on green hydrogen has also been submitted to MNRE, Government of India.
Dr Bharat Kale, Emeritus Professor and Director of Material Science [COE], said, “The university’s bioprocess operates at room temperature using sugarcane juice, seawater, and wastewater, contributing to global efforts to reduce hydrogen costs to $1/kg. Unlike conventional water-splitting methods, this process generates valuable byproducts, ensuring zero discharge and making it a viable solution for India’s energy transition. We are seeking industry partners for lab-scale development and eventual technology transfer.”
Work on hydrogen storage using a metal-organic framework (MOF) is also underway. The MOFs for hydrogen storage and CO2 captures have been focused intensely.
The university aims to support industries in scaling up the technology, which could be commercially viable within a year. The project is led by researchers Dr Sagar Kanekar, Dr Bharat Kale, Dr Anand Kulkarni, Prof. Niraj Topare, Dr Santosh Patil, Dr Dev Thapa, Dr Biswas and Dr Ratnadip Joshi.
In addition, MITWPU has developed an operational, efficient batch reactor system for sustainable biodiesel production using an agro-waste-based heterogeneous catalyst. This catalyst and system have been patented, offering an environmentally friendly solution by eliminating waste generation and utilising agricultural residues into affordable and efficient catalysts. The porous structure of the catalyst increases surface area, improving efficiency and giving thermal stability during production.
Dr Kale added, “Biodiesel produced through this system is an economical alternative to fossil fuels. The patent covers both the catalyst and process design, ensuring production efficiency. While industry partnerships are still being discussed, commercialisation is expected within six months of technology transfer. Large-scale biodiesel production will rely on industry adoption supported by government policies. The process contributes to India’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to renewable energy, particularly in states like Punjab and Haryana, where biomass burning is a concern.”
These projects are spearheaded by Prof Niraj Topare, Dr Santosh Patil, and Dr Bharat Kale. Both innovations highlight sustainable energy solutions, offering viable alternatives to fossil fuels while supporting India’s green energy transition. The university continues to seek industry collaborations to accelerate the commercialisation of these technologies.
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