CSIR-NAL Transfers Solar Coating Technology to Boost Domestic Renewable Manufacturing
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India: CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (CSIR-NAL) has signed a Transfer of Technology agreement with Supreme Solar Pvt. Ltd. for its NALSUN-NGTM coating technology, designed to enhance the efficiency of flat plate solar water heaters. The graphene oxide-based coating uses water as a solvent, eliminating hazardous chemicals and complying with environmental regulations. Developed by CSIR-NAL scientists, the coating replaces expensive physical vapour deposition methods and improves sunlight-to-heat conversion efficiency by up to 70%. This advancement is expected to lower household electricity consumption by 1,000–2,000 kWh annually while reducing carbon emissions by 1–2 tonnes. By reducing reliance on electric and gas-powered water heating, the technology is particularly beneficial for remote areas with limited access to conventional energy sources.
The agreement aligns with India’s goal of strengthening domestic solar manufacturing under initiatives such as ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat.’ India currently imports a large volume of evacuated tube collectors each month, a dependency that this technology aims to address. Following the technology transfer in February 2024, Supreme Solar has set up a production facility, including a 4-metre-long spray pyrolysis plant, the first of its kind in India, to apply the coating efficiently. Full-scale production commenced in December 2024, with an initial daily output of 10 flat plate collectors, and expansion plans are underway to meet demand. The coating also has applications in solar desalination, solar drying, and industrial process heating, with a durability exceeding 20 years. This partnership represents a step towards self-reliance in renewable energy technology and supports national efforts to promote sustainability.
Source: The Financial World