A disparity in energy demand and availability affects both urban and rural areas in India. A significant surge of population movement into cities, with a concordant need for energy, particularly in transportation, electricity, and household fuels, results in intermittent power outages and surges. Meanwhile, one third of the country’s rural population lacks electricity.

This presents enormous opportunities to develop innovative ways to develop and distribute energy. Among those being researched by Tata Center are the production of biofuels, the conversion of waste products into energy, and the development of autonomous micro-powergrids. Solutions developed by the Tata Center for India will have long-ranging implications throughout the developing world.