NISE Launches Incubation Program To Boost Renewable Energy Start-Ups In India

The National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE), in collaboration with the National Solar Energy Federation of India (NSEFI) and Atal Incubation Centre (AIC), IIT Delhi Sonipat, has launched a call for proposals aimed at supporting start-up incubation in the renewable energy sector. This initiative focuses on fostering indigenous innovation, accelerating product development, and enabling market-ready solutions that contribute to India’s clean energy transition and self-reliance goals under Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat.

The program offers selected start-ups a unique opportunity to receive comprehensive support that includes pilot demonstration, testing, and validation of products, mentorship, and linkages with industry and government stakeholders. It aims to convert early-stage technologies, specifically those between Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3 and 4, into commercially viable solutions that can reach TRL 6 to 8.

Eligible start-ups must be DPIIT-recognized Indian entities with at least 51% Indian shareholding and should be developing renewable energy technologies with real-world applications. Only one application per start-up is allowed. The program discourages basic research, low-novelty projects, and projects already funded by other government schemes.

Focus areas for this call include solar energy systems, green hydrogen, advanced battery storage, decentralized renewable applications, AI/ML in energy systems, EV integration, small hydro, and smart grid innovations. Start-ups working on recycling technologies, biodegradable materials, and promoting circular economy practices in renewable energy are also encouraged to apply.

Through this initiative, selected start-ups will get access to NISE’s state-of-the-art testing and R&D infrastructure, which includes specialized labs for solar PV, green hydrogen, power electronics, and solar thermal technologies. AIC IIT Delhi will provide incubation support, working spaces, and mentorship, while NSEFI will facilitate industry connections, policy advocacy, and investment opportunities.

The support framework includes technical and industry mentorship, access to co-working spaces, product standardization and certification guidance, business linkages, potential seed funding and grants, pilot and demo project facilitation, and networking events. There is also an emphasis on developing robust local supply chains and reducing dependence on imported technologies.

Start-ups must appoint a qualified Project Leader (PI) who will be responsible for the project’s execution and must present the proposal during the selection process. Proposals will be evaluated in multiple stages, including eligibility screening, expert review, and final approval by an advisory committee. A boot camp may also be organized to prepare selected applicants for the final round.

Applications must be submitted by 26th August 2025, 11:59 PM IST, in PDF format via email to incubation@nise.res.in. Hard copies are not accepted. Proposals must be complete, with all supporting documents including startup details, team profiles, innovation pitch, TRL status, funding details, and startup pitch presentation.

NISE will sign a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with each selected start-up, laying out the terms of engagement, IP rights, revenue sharing, and performance benchmarks. The incubation support will initially last for two years, with a possible extension of up to one year based on performance. The program may be discontinued if progress is unsatisfactory or funds are misused.