Mumbai, August 9: Rajesh Unnikrishnan’s journey is a testament to the power of passion and purpose. A seasoned mechanical engineer with over two decades of experience, Rajesh has traversed continents, managing large-scale power projects in Europe. Armed with an MBA from Bradford University, he wasn’t just technically adept but also strategically astute, primed to navigate the complexities of the energy landscape.
However, a turning point arrived during his tenure in India as the General Manager of the Solar Division at a multinational corporation. Witnessing firsthand the disheartening reality of solar installations failing prematurely due to poor workmanship and inferior components, Rajesh knew he had to act. This wasn’t just about efficiency; it was about a cleaner, brighter future.
Driven by this conviction, Rajesh, along with his colleagues, embarked on a mission to empower others. They volunteered, conducting free seminars for MSME owners, demystifying solar power systems and providing a comprehensive guide to select reliable contractors. The success of these initiatives sparked a realization: a dedicated training institute was needed to bridge the knowledge gap.
Thus, in 2022, the Indian Institute of Solar Energy (IISE) was born. This brainchild of Rajesh’s vision offers a spectrum of courses, catering to aspiring engineers, entrepreneurs, and seasoned professionals alike. Their flagship one-year program, designed for working engineers, allows them to pursue their solar education online, ensuring minimal disruption to their current careers. Hands-on experience is paramount at IISE, with each semester culminating in a Personal Contact Program at actual solar power plants.
The institute’s faculty is a stellar constellation of industry experts and professional engineers, many entrepreneurs themselves. This unique blend ensures students receive not just theoretical knowledge but also practical insights, preparing them to excel in the solar workforce. IISE graduates are recognized by the industry as having been trained by the best, equipping them to become the best.
Rajesh acknowledges the significant manpower shortage plaguing the solar sector. This challenge underscores IISE’s critical role: equipping the next generation with the expertise to meet the burgeoning demand for solar energy professionals. His story transcends individual achievement; it’s a testament to social entrepreneurship, illuminating the path for budding engineers and entrepreneurs in the solar industry.
Furthermore, IISE is set to expand across India, mainly to tier 2 and 3 cities. Rajesh, along with IISE, is set to play an even more significant role in making solar education accessible and driving India’s transition to clean energy.
IISE: Building a Brighter Future, One Solar-Powered Step at a Time
IISE isn’t just about training; it’s about leadership, expertise, and a curriculum meticulously crafted to address India’s unique needs. Their focus areas are a beacon for those seeking to:
- Launch a Career in Solar Energy: Beginners or experienced professionals, IISE offers a roadmap to success in this burgeoning field.
- Upgrade Existing Skills: The solar industry is dynamic. IISE’s courses keep professionals abreast of the latest technologies.
- Train Employees: Businesses can leverage IISE’s customized programs to equip their workforce with cutting-edge solar expertise.
- Integrate Solar Programs: Educational institutions can partner with IISE to create robust solar curriculums.
- Embrace Solar Solutions: Businesses and organizations seeking to adopt solar power can find guidance and support at IISE.
- Become an IISE Franchise: Entrepreneurs can explore franchise opportunities as IISE expands its reach across India.
- Shape Policy and Investment: Policymakers, government agencies, and investors can gain valuable insights from IISE’s research and expertise.
Join the Solar Revolution!
Rajesh Unnikrishnan’s story is an inspiration and a call to action. By harnessing the power of the sun, we can illuminate a brighter, more sustainable future. Partner with IISE, and together we can make this vision a reality.
