Bengaluru  : Enzen, the global energy and utility specialist advisory company based in Bengaluru, today conducted the final pitch event at its ‘Innovation for Sustainable Development’, the company’s first-ever global sustainability programme.

This two-day semi-final marked the continuation of a worldwide contest launched by Enzen in June 2018. Since then, the company has received more than 680 entries from around the globe, of which only 27 were selected to pitch to a panel of industry experts at Bengaluru.

Themed ‘Transformation into a Sustainable Environment’, the event saw participants from Asia, Africa, Australia, Europe, Central and North America pitch their solutions to help make energy and water more accessible, sustainable and affordable on a global and local level.

The teams comprised of researchers, academics, entrepreneurs and students, all of whom share a passion for creating a sustainable environment and making a positive contribution to the energy and water industries. Among the broad themes submitted were wind energy, energy trading, electric vehicle charging, drone-based monitoring for rural power, water recycling and wastewater treatment.

All ideas were evaluated by an eminent panel of subject matter experts, senior industry personnel and academics, each one a highly-regarded leader in his or her field. The final three winners will be announced at a gala ceremony held within in the UK.

In addition to a cash prize, the three winning teams will receive mentoring from Enzen experts, and see their ideas incubated at the company’s research facilities in India or the UK. Enzen will be evaluating ways in which these ideas can be grown into commercially viable propositions through either partnership, investment, co-creation or other routes.

Dr. Uma Rajarathnam, Head of Applied Research and Collaboration (ARC) for Enzen, said: “We’re proud to host this global initiative aimed at fostering innovation that’s focused on the sustainability of energy and resources. The end goal is to optimise existing systems and infrastructure as well as examine new ways in which we can add value to the power and water sectors, thus benefiting the maximum number of people.

“It’s heartening to see the enthusiasm and the quality of the submissions received this year. There are so many radical new ideas that have the potential to transform the world as we know it. Contests like these allow innovators to expose their concepts to a wider audience.”

“We are really excited to be in India to pitch our idea for sustainable water supply– it’s like a dream come true for us to be amongst some of the most innovative people in the industry. We are passionate about combating climate change and entered the competition on the recommendation of our peers in the space. Over the last two days, we have not only had the chance to interact with like-minded individuals but have also had the opportunity to learn from some of the sharpest minds in the business. We take back a wealth of learning with us”, said one of the international finalists during the event.

The event was graced by an eminent jury which included professionals from areas such as climate change, digital technology, energy, green growth and sustainable energy.