The energy transition is more than just a shift towards lower carbon sources. It is about reshaping how we live, by aligning both economic growth and environmental responsibility with a clear focus on our net-zero emission goals as a country.
The second edition of “Changemakers of Tomorrow 2024”, an event hosted by Shell India was an initiative that brought together some of the brightest minds in the country to deliberate on India’s lower carbon future.
Held recently on September 9th, at the KTPO Convention Center in Bengaluru, the event emphasized a proactive approach towards fostering collaboration and innovation. Attended by over 4000 participants, Changemakers of Tomorrow united industry leaders, government representatives and the next generation of innovators to engage, and design unique solutions towards shaping the future of energy.
The event was inaugurated by Shri Madhu Bangarappa, Honourable Minister for Primary & Secondary Education, Government of Karnataka, who commended Shell on its commitment to nurturing future talent. “It is inspiring to experience an event like Changemakers of Tomorrow that brings together the brilliance and creativity of young minds, industry leaders, and innovators,” he said, addressing the audience. He highlighted how such initiatives equip the next generation with the mindset and skills needed to shape a more resilient and lower-carbon energy future.
Capturing the essence of the event in her opening address, Mansi Madan Tripathy, Chairperson, Shell Group of Companies in India said, “With this event, we are turning our vision into reality, ensuring a balanced transition to meet today’s energy needs while building the energy system of the future through technological innovations.”
Tripathy further emphasized Shell’s commitment to equipping young innovators with the tools, knowledge, and support necessary to drive transformative change in India’s energy landscape. “As we witness the remarkable response to Changemakers of Tomorrow, it is clear that India’s youth are not just dreaming of a carbon-neutral energy future but actively engineering it.”
As the guest of honour, the Additional Chief Secretary of Energy and Water Resources for the Government of Karnataka, Shri Gaurav Gupta (IAS), set the tone for dynamic discussions with his keynote address. Praising the event for fostering collaboration between government, industry, and young entrepreneurs, he said, “India's energy landscape is evolving rapidly, and the transition to a low-emission and resilient energy future is paramount for our nation's growth.” Spotlighting Shell’s role in the energy transition ecosystem he added, “With platforms like Changemakers of Tomorrow that support young entrepreneurs and foster industry collaborations and dialogues, Shell is creating a dynamic ecosystem poised to accelerate India's transition to a low-carbon economy."
High-octane discussions among industry leaders, like Kamal Bali, President and Managing Director of Volvo Group India, Mansi Madan Tripathy, Chairperson, Shell Group of Companies in India and Vijay Nirani, Managing Director of Nirani Group and TruAlt Energy, explored how partnerships can overcome key challenges in energy transformation. They explored the significance of these collaborations in driving low-carbon energy solutions and expanding choices for India’s energy future.
Shell India’s role in this rapidly evolving energy ecosystem is prominent through its integrated energy portfolio of downstream, integrated gas, power, renewables and upstream sectors. It's comprehensive support for startups and student initiatives was underscored at the event. Their flagship program showcased at the event, called NXplorers, has already positively impacted over 300,000 students across India. Other highlights of the event included a Startup Island showcasing over 50+ startups in the energy space, Shell.ai Hackathon, etc., highlighting innovation among future leaders. The event also showcased innovative solutions just as Next-generation data-centre cooling with Shell immersion cooling fluids, Shell Recharge and much more.
Carrying the spirit of collaboration and innovation, interesting masterclasses and interactive sessions were organized by Shell’s partners and industry leaders such as Wipro, Microsoft, Accenture, Infosys, HP, and Tata Consultancy Services.
Such initiatives not only support innovation, and problem-solving, but also enable young innovators to actively contribute to India’s transition towards a sustainable, lower-carbon future.
India’s energy transition is no longer a distant vision as long as poignant steps towards the net zero journey are taken by key players in the sector, like Shell India.