The US Department of Energy (DOE) has pledged US$25 million towards the US-India Joint Clean Energy Research and Development Center (JCERDC) over the next five years. The R&D center is part of US President Obama and India Prime Minister Singh’s Partnership to Advance Clean Energy initiative that was revealed in November 2010.
The JCERDC aims to bring together the US and India in order to progress energy access and promote low-carbon growth with the development of clean energy technologies. Scientists from both countries will begin their research in three key areas: building energy efficiency, second-generation biofuels and solar energy. Financial awards from the DOE will be given under each of these three areas with universities, national laboratory’s, private companies and other eligible parties urged to apply.
“Developing and investing in new technologies is a key component to meeting the goals of a clean energy future,” said Secretary of Energy Steven Chu. “This innovative approach to collaborative research is a testament to the special relationship shared by the two countries. By working with our partners in India and sharing a strong commitment to building a clean energy economy, we can get further, faster, than by working alone.”
US grantees will match the funding that the DOE invests in order to support US$50 million in US research. Additionally, the Indian Ministry of Science and Technology will also provide an US$50 million in Indian public and private funding to support research in India. US government funding will only be used to support work conducted by US institutions and individuals, although the JCERDC will utilize existing R&D facilities in both countries.
Applications to be considered for funding under the JCERDC are due by August 16. Applicants are able to review the full funding opportunity announcement here.