C. Balagopal, Chairman, Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC), on Monday emphasized the importance of industrial innovation, institutional reforms and coordinated action in accelerating Kerala’s transition to energy efficiency and long-term sustainability.
Mr. Balagopal delivered the valedictory address at the third edition of the International Energy Festival of Kerala (IEFK 2026) at the Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) in Kochi. The event was organized by the Energy Management Center (EMC).
Speaking on the occasion, Ajith Kumar, Executive Chairman of the Public Sector Transformation Board, highlighted the need for systemic transformation, policy action and public sector leadership to achieve energy and climate goals in line with national and global priorities.
Held from February 7 to 9, the festival featured technical meetings, policy dialogues, student-focused programs and public initiatives. EMC Director R. Harikumar described the festival as a platform that brings together policy makers, industry leaders, academia, international agencies and students to advance Kerala’s clean energy vision.
Participants in the event included the Global Green Growth Institute, the Alliance for an Energy Efficient Economy and the Global Buildings Performance Network, and government agencies such as the Electrical Inspectorate and the Department of Factories and Boilers. EMC has signed an agreement with the Center for Science and Technology of Non-Participating and Other Developing Countries in New Delhi for joint research, capacity building and knowledge exchange in sustainable energy and related fields.
The trailer of a documentary on VK Damodaran, a well-known scientist and environmentalist, was released at the event. Dinesh K., Registrar, KUFOS and EMC Joint Director AN Dinesh Kumar also spoke.
Published – 09 Feb 2026 20:37 IST
