Powering change: How plastic waste became clean energy | Fusion - WeRIndia

Innovation often begins with a simple question. What if waste could power the future?

This idea drives Imagine Powertree, a Gandhinagar-based startup founded by Shani Pandya.

The company blends sustainability with smart design. It turns plastic waste into renewable energy solutions.

Pandya started his journey as a chemical engineering student at Pandit Deendayal Petroleum University in Gujarat.

During his studies, he noticed two growing problems. Plastic pollution was rising. Solar installations were also inefficient and space-intensive.

Instead of ignoring these issues, he searched for a link between them. He believed every problem hides an opportunity. This belief shaped his work.

Pandya began experimenting with non-biodegradable plastic waste. He recycled it into strong, weather-resistant materials. These materials were suitable for solar applications.

This research led to two major innovations. The first was solar tiles made from processed plastic waste. The second was the PowerTree system.

The solar tiles are lightweight and durable. They are also cost-effective and eco-friendly. Therefore, they offer a practical alternative to traditional solar panels.

The PowerTree takes inspiration from nature. It mimics the structure of a real tree. Multiple solar panels are mounted like branches. Each panel sits at a different angle.

Because of this design, the PowerTree captures sunlight throughout the day. As a result, energy generation increases without needing large land areas.

These ideas are not limited to labs. They are already in use. An 8 kW PowerTree powers the Cactus Garden at the Statue of Unity. It supplies clean energy to the site.

Imagine Powertree has also contributed to the Gandhinagar Smart City project. Its structures help illuminate streetlights across the city.

A key strength of the startup lies in material use. Recycled plastic forms both the solar tiles and structural components. This approach links waste management directly with clean energy.

Today, Imagine Powertree is valued at ₹13 crores. Its solutions reduce plastic waste and promote renewable power at the same time.

The startup has gained recognition for its fresh thinking. More importantly, it offers hope.

Shani Pandya’s work proves one thing clearly. Waste is not always a problem. Sometimes, it is the resource that powers the future.

Image Credit: Imaginepowertree Website Screenshot

Image Reference: https://imaginepowertree.com/