The global transition to clean energy has largely focused on renewable electricity generation. However, one of the most significant sources of carbon emissions remains hidden inside industrial facilities, where fossil-fuel-based boilers continue to power critical manufacturing processes. Addressing this challenge is the mission of Trigen Decarbonisation, an IIT Madras-incubated deep-tech startup led by co-founder and CEO Ashish Sethi.
Please find the attached link of his conversation with Mr. Chetan Bhattacharji from Earth Chakra, where they cover variety of topics ranging from Importance of Heat pumps in the Electrification, The energy efficiency that heat pumps bring in the Industrial heating and cooling processes, the Impact of Hormuz crisis on the Fuel prices and availability and on Industries Decarbonisation roadmap.
Trigen is developing indigenously engineered high-temperature heat pumps designed to replace conventional combustion-based heating systems. By enabling industrial heat generation through electrification, the company demonstrates how manufacturing can transition toward a zero-combustion future while maintaining commercial viability.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Trigen’s technology is its versatility. The company’s ultra-low ambient heat pumps are deployed in demanding environments where conventional solutions struggle to perform. In regions such as Ladakh, these systems provide space heating for defence personnel operating in temperatures below -35°C. At the same time, the technology is being used in industrial settings in Garment manufacturing plant in Odisha to deliver localized heating and cooling, helping improve working conditions during extreme heat.
Trigen has also achieved a significant technical milestone by delivering commercial steam and pressurized hot water in the range of 120°C to 145°C through electrical heat pump systems. This capability places the company among a very small number of organizations globally that have successfully developed and commercialized such solutions.
The growing urgency around industrial decarbonization is being shaped not only by environmental goals but also by global energy market volatility and the economic advantages that the heat pumps bring about in the Industrial Heating and cooling processes. According to Sethi, geopolitical developments and fluctuating energy costs are accelerating the adoption of cleaner thermal infrastructure, prompting industries to rethink long-term investments in traditional fuel-based systems.
Beyond sustainability, the business case for electrification is becoming increasingly compelling. Replacing legacy diesel and gas boilers with intelligent, closed-loop heat pump systems can significantly reduce energy consumption and operating costs to the tune of 30-50% of the fuel cost. For manufacturers, this creates an opportunity to improve profitability while simultaneously progressing toward net-zero and ESG objectives.
Trigen Decarbonisation represents a growing wave of Indian deep-tech innovation focused on solving complex industrial challenges through engineering excellence. Its work highlights how advancements in hardware technology can contribute to reducing emissions, improving energy efficiency, and supporting the broader transformation of global manufacturing.
