The ISHRAE Goa Chapter successfully hosted its flagship event Techfest Goa 2025 recently at Goa. “Net Zero in Hospitality” brought together experts, industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the country to deliberate on innovative strategies and technologies for building a sustainable future in the hospitality sector, states a press release.
The event commenced with the traditional lamp lighting ceremony by the Chief Guest, Dr. Gavin Dias – General Manager, Goa Tourism Development Corporation, along with architect Anupam Mittal, Past Society President Er. N. S. Chandrashekar, Shaina Shirodkar (Goa Energy Development Agency), ISHRAE Goa Chapter President Dr. Jennifer Lewis, Convenor Rupchand Aldonkar, and Co-Convenor Amit Gaitonde.
In her welcome address, Dr. Jennifer Lewis briefed the gathering on the objectives of the Techfest and outlined the technical sessions planned for the day. Er. N. S. Chandrashekar, Past Society President, highlighted ISHRAE’s vision, mission, and the wide range of activities undertaken by the society nationwide.
Delivering the keynote, Dr. Gavin Dias spoke on the Government of Goa’s vision for sustainable tourism, emphasising the integration of Net Zero strategies in hospitality projects and sharing key implementation timelines.
Technical Sessions were held on:
• Net Zero Designs – MEP Consultant’s Perspective by Er. N. S. Chandrashekar, showcasing India’s Net Zero journey and innovative engineering solutions. (Followed by product presentation by M/s Voltas.)
• Net Zero Designs – Architect’s Perspective by architect Anupam Mittal, who presented people-centric strategies for sustainable hospitality, blending design with energy efficiency. (Followed by product presentation by M/s System Air.)
• Practical Implementation of Net Zero in Hospitality by Athen Chellappa, Area Director – Engineering & Director – Engineering, Taj Holiday Village & Spa, who shared real-world challenges and opportunities in implementing Net Zero practices in hotels. (Followed by product presentation by M/s Advance Valves.)
• Energy Action Plan (EAP) & Green Tourism Roadmap (GTRP) for Goa by Manoj Mahata (GIZ), on behalf of GEDA, outlining Goa’s pathway towards Net Zero by 2050. The session featured an interactive discussion with IGBC Chairman Kulasekhar Kantipudi and ISHRAE Goa Chapter President Dr. Jennifer Lewis.
(Concluded with product presentations by M/s Somany Tiles and M/s Victaulic.)
Valedictory & Partnerships:
A total of 13 organisations partnered to make the event a grand success, including Goa Tourism, Goa Shipyard, GEDA, Voltas, Victaulic, Somany Tiles, Aerolam, Kruger, Hira Technologies, Cosmos, System Air, Advanced Valves and Jai Ganesh Ispat. Delegates and guests also visited product stalls, networking over refreshments.
Conclusion:
ISHRAE Techfest Goa 2025 was marked by vibrant discussions, innovative ideas, and a collaborative spirit. Delegates, partners, speakers, and organisers expressed their satisfaction with the event, which successfully blended technical depth with practical insights—setting strong momentum for the sustainable transformation of Goa’s hospitality sector.
