The CLIMAFIX Summit is India’s largest climate startup summit, organized by EAI & Energy Consortium – IIT Madras. Muthu Kumar of Pristine Energia shares his thoughts on GHG Management at CLIMAFIX Summit 2022, Nov 22, 2022, at the IIT Madras Research Park, Chennai.
The session was moderated by Vinod Shankar, Java Capital
Other panel participants were:
Sapna Nijhawan – FinBird (Watch their presentation – here)
Sandeep Bhattula – Qualivon Technologies (Watch their presentation – here)
Our specialty focus areas include 
Ronak Mistry – Greenovate Solutions (Watch their presentation – here)
Inderan Kannan – Climec Lab (Watch their presentation – here)
Startups like Pristine Energia are leading the charge with innovative green technologies. Their eco-friendly approach to synthesizing activated carbon and biochar has the potential to transform the landscape of greenhouse gas (GHG) management. In this presentation, Muthu, representing Pristine Energia, introduced their groundbreaking technologies and outlined their vision for a greener, more sustainable future.
Introduction and Current Challenges:
Muthu Kumar, representing Pristine Energia, begins by explaining the current challenges in the technology used for activated carbon synthesis. He points out that the existing two-stage process, where biomass is converted into charcoal and then into activated carbon, is not only inefficient but also environmentally harmful due to soil pollution and low productivity.
Pristine Energia’s Approach:
Pristine Energia offers a solution to these problems. Their patented technology provides an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to the existing methods. With a 25 kgs per day activated carbon plant in TDC Lab at IIT Madras, and plans for a 300 kgs per day pilot plant, they are already making strides towards a more sustainable future.
Biochar Technology:
Muthu then discusses Pristine Energia’s biochar technology, which addresses pollution and productivity concerns. This unique system has a very high yield and productivity, and they capture CO2 through amines for regeneration. The technology is ready for field implementation, with plans to put up a 120 tons per day output plant for charcoal synthesis.
Revenue Model:
Their revenue model includes biochar and consulting, with plans to extend the system to activated carbon and physiochemical activation in the medium to long term. This diversified approach positions Pristine Energia to tap into various segments of the market effectively.
Investment and Return:
Pristine Energia is seeking an investment of around two crores for a 120 tons per day charcoal plant, with an expected return on investment of 1.5 years, excluding working capital. This investment will not only drive their growth but also contribute significantly to the reduction of GHG emissions.
Team and Expertise:
Their team, which includes PhDs from IIT Madras and other technical experts, is well-equipped to drive the company’s vision forward. With their combined expertise and innovative technologies, Pristine Energia is well-positioned to capitalize on the excellent market for biochar and activated carbon.
Pristine Energia’s breakthrough technologies offer a glimpse into the future of GHG management. By providing eco-friendly and cost-effective solutions, they are paving the way for a greener, more sustainable world. As we continue to combat climate change, startups like Pristine Energia will play a crucial role in revolutionizing the way we manage and mitigate GHG emissions.
