Agra: Aligarh Muslim University Prof.
Mohammad Rihan
, of the
electrical engineering department
, was appointed director general of the
National Institute of Solar Energy
(NISE), an autonomous body under the ministry of new and renewable energy (MNRE).
His appointment was endorsed by a selection committee comprising subject matter experts and senior IAS officers following interviews conducted in Dec 2023.
The recommendation was subsequently approved by the appointments committee of the cabinet, government of India. He will serve at NISE on deputation for three years, with the possibility of an extension of two years.
Rihan brings a wealth of experience from his tenure in the electrical engineering department, where he has made significant contributions to smart grid and solar energy. His expertise in these areas aligns seamlessly with NISE’s mandate to promote research & development, testing, certification, and skill development in solar energy technologies.
During his time at AMU, he led the integration of 6.5MWp solar PV plants into the campus distribution grid, marking one of the largest installations in any academic institution in the country. He spearheaded a pioneering project worth Rs 20 crore for a 3.3 MWp solar farm, setting a benchmark for academic institutes nationwide.
As founder director of the Centre for Grid Integrated Green and Renewable Energy at AMU has been instrumental in addressing research challenges posed by high renewable energy penetration. Under his guidance, the centre initiated a joint M.Tech programme on green energy and sustainable development in collaboration with NISE, aligning with national priorities for green energy transition and the National Education Policy.
His academic record is complemented by his mentorship of PhD scholars in the areas of smart grid, solar energy, and synchrophasors measurement, with several of them receiving prestigious Prime Ministers’ Research Fellowship. His expertise has also been sought by govt and private sector entities for consultancy on energy efficiency, conservation initiatives, and modernisation of electricity infrastructure.
