Karnataka has taken a significant step toward strengthening its renewable energy ecosystem by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with leading Australian and Indian institutions to nurture around 20 clean energy startups every year.

The state Energy Department has partnered with the University of New South Wales (UNSW), IIM Bengaluru, and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) to promote innovation, incubation, and commercialisation in clean technologies.

The initiative, facilitated by the Australian India Business Council, will focus on key domains including energy storage, solar, wind, bioenergy, and green fuels, aligning with India’s broader clean energy transition goals.

Under the three-year partnership, the Karnataka Renewable Energy Development Corporation Limited (KREDL) will establish an incubation and technology innovation centre in Bengaluru. The facility will provide startups with infrastructure support, local funding, and access to industry networks.

UNSW will play a critical role by offering capacity building, technical mentorship, and access to global research and innovation ecosystems, helping startups scale and compete internationally.

The collaboration aims to position Karnataka as a global hub for clean energy innovation, accelerating the development of next-generation renewable technologies and strengthening India’s leadership in the global energy transition.