CSIR-NAL Transfers Eco-Friendly Solar Coating Tech to Boost India’s Renewable Energy Push
Indigenous NALSUN-NG™ Technology to Reduce Import Dependency in Solar Thermal Sector
Bengaluru, June 23, 2025 — In a significant step toward self-reliance in renewable energy, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research–National Aerospace Laboratories (CSIR-NAL) has transferred its next-generation solar absorber coating technology, NALSUN-NG™, to Mysuru-based clean-tech startup Helix Solar Private Limited. The agreement, signed today, marks the second commercialization of this innovative coating, reinforcing India’s push for sustainable energy solutions under initiatives like Make in India and the National Solar Mission.
A Green Alternative to Conventional Solar Coatings
NALSUN-NG™ is a graphene oxide-based solar selective coating designed for photothermal applications, particularly flat plate solar water heaters. Unlike traditional coatings that rely on volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and flammable solvents, this water-based solution is entirely eco-friendly, using non-toxic, RoHS- and REACH-compliant inorganic materials.
“This technology eliminates the need for hazardous chemicals while maintaining high efficiency, making it ideal for both urban and rural applications,” said Dr. Abhay A. Pashilkar, Director of CSIR-NAL. “It’s a testament to India’s capability to innovate sustainable alternatives in the renewable energy sector.”
Reducing Import Dependency, Boosting Local Manufacturing
India currently imports around 5–6 lakh evacuated tube collectors monthly. The adoption of NALSUN-NG™ could significantly reduce this dependency by enabling domestic production of high-efficiency flat plate solar water heaters.
The coating stands out for its cost-effectiveness and scalability. Unlike capital-intensive physical vapor deposition (PVD) techniques used in conventional coatings, NALSUN-NG™ requires minimal infrastructure investment, has no flammable components, and poses no effluent treatment challenges—making it easier for small and medium enterprises to manufacture.
Rigorous Testing and Market Viability
Extensively tested against ASTM and International Energy Agency (IEA) standards, NALSUN-NG™ has been certified by NABL-accredited laboratories. Its intellectual property is protected under Indian and international patents, and its durability exceeds 20 years.
This marks the second successful transfer of the technology, following its earlier commercialization by another industry partner. The growing industry interest highlights its technological maturity and market potential.
Aligning with India’s Climate Goals
The widespread adoption of this technology could accelerate the deployment of efficient solar thermal systems, supporting India’s renewable energy targets and climate action commitments.
“By empowering local manufacturers with cutting-edge, sustainable solutions, we are not just reducing imports but also creating jobs and fostering innovation,” added Dr. Pashilkar. “This is a crucial step toward a greener and more self-reliant India.”
With this transfer, CSIR-NAL and Helix Solar aim to drive affordable, eco-friendly solar thermal solutions, furthering India’s transition to clean energy.
Key Takeaways:
✅ Eco-friendly: No VOCs, non-toxic, water-based coating
✅ Cost-effective: Minimal infrastructure needed vs. traditional PVD methods
✅ Durable: Over 20-year lifespan, certified by NABL labs
✅ Import reduction: Could replace 5–6 lakh monthly imported tube collectors
✅ Scalable: Ideal for SMEs and rural applications
Impactful quotes extracted and refined:
From Dr. Abhay A. Pashilkar, Director, CSIR-NAL:
-
“NALSUN-NG™ represents a paradigm shift in solar thermal technology – it delivers high performance without compromising environmental safety. This is Indian innovation at its best.”
-
“By transferring this technology to Helix Solar, we’re not just commercializing a product, we’re enabling India’s renewable energy ecosystem to become more self-sufficient.”
-
“Traditional solar coatings rely on hazardous chemicals and complex processes. Our water-based solution proves sustainability and efficiency can go hand-in-hand.”
Technology Benefits:
4. “What makes NALSUN-NG™ revolutionary is its simplicity – no special infrastructure, no toxic byproducts, just clean energy generation anyone can manufacture.”
-
*”With a 20+ year lifespan and international certifications, this technology demonstrates that ‘Make in India’ can mean ‘Best in the World’.”*
Industry Impact:
6. “Every NALSUN-NG™ coating applied means fewer imports, more local jobs, and cleaner energy for Indian households – a triple win for our economy and environment.”
-
“The fact that this is our second successful technology transfer speaks volumes about the market readiness and reliability of this indigenous innovation.”
Environmental Perspective:
8. “While most green technologies focus just on end-use benefits, NALSUN-NG™ is environmentally responsible throughout its entire lifecycle – from production to application.”
-
“This technology brings us closer to realizing the vision of solar thermal systems in every Indian home without the ecological concerns of conventional alternatives.”
Would you like me to tailor these quotes for specific audiences (investors, policymakers, consumers etc.) or media formats?
sbrosu