Aldrogen Energy, from the Chemical Engineering Department of Jadavpur University (JU) secured a place among the top three winners at the prestigious Carbon Zero Challenge (CZC 5.0). The start-up earned recognition for its innovative 6.25 kVA hybrid hydrogen-powered generator, designed to deliver zero-emission power for India’s growing off-grid and decentralized energy needs.
Innovation Rooted in Academia and Incubation
Incubated at Jadavpur University’s innovation council, Aldrogen Energy was founded by Sayantanu Mandal, with technical guidance from Chemical Engineering Assistant Professor Raj Kumar Das and mentorship from Mechanical Engineering Professor Dipankar Sanyal. The team developed the generator as a sustainable alternative to conventional diesel-based power systems, addressing the urgent need for clean energy solutions across sectors.
National Recognition at Carbon Zero Challenge 5.0
Hosted by Indian Institute of Technology Madras from January 29 to 31, 2026, CZC 5.0 served as a national eco-innovation and entrepreneurship platform aimed at accelerating climate-focused technologies. The competition attracted 1,321 applications from across the country. After rigorous screening, 25 start-ups advanced to the finals, each receiving ₹5 lakh to develop a working prototype. Among these finalists, Aldrogen Energy emerged as one of the top three winners, alongside EDS Wagon Tech and Karotimam. Each winning start-up secured an additional ₹10 lakh award prize, recognizing their breakthrough contributions to climate technology.
Hybrid Hydrogen Generator: Clean, Reliable and Scalable
Aldrogen Energy’s hybrid hydrogen-powered generator produces reliable and clean electricity by using hydrogen stored in a safe solid-state form, combined with oxygen from the air. The integrated battery system ensures stable power output while generating only water as a by-product, making it a truly zero-emission solution.
Founder Sayantanu Mandal commented, “Our hybrid hydrogen-powered generator delivers reliable electricity with zero emissions and near-silent operation. With smart safety features and remote monitoring capabilities, it provides a sustainable alternative to diesel generators.”
The technology has strong potential applications across multiple sectors, including:
*Defence operations
*Transportation
*Data centres
*EV charging infrastructure
*Residential communities
*Disaster management
*Rural electrification
The start-up has now entered the pilot deployment stage and is actively exploring investment opportunities, with plans to launch the product commercially within the next year.
Strong Institutional and Alumni Support
The achievement has drawn praise from university leadership and alumni networks. Vice-Chancellor Chiranjib Bhattacharjee described the win as a proud moment for the university, highlighting the extensive financial and mentorship support provided by alumni. Meanwhile, Debashis Ghosh, Honorary Treasurer of JCEAA, noted that the accomplishment reflects a significant shift in youth mindset toward entrepreneurship and job creation.
Driving India’s Clean Energy and Start-Up Ecosystem
With its hydrogen-powered generator, Aldrogen Energy exemplifies how university-led innovation can address real-world energy challenges. By combining advanced chemical engineering research with entrepreneurial drive, the start-up is contributing to India’s transition toward clean, decentralized, and sustainable energy systems. As reported by bengalinfo.com, as climate innovation gains momentum nationwide, JU’s success at IIT Madras reinforces the growing role of academic incubators in nurturing next-generation green technology ventures.
