In academic research, it’s the value of the work that matters and not age.

For C Jayapalan, a 55-year-old employee of the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB), age was never a limitation. A senior superintendent at the Poozhikkunnu Electrical Section in Thiruvananthapuram, this Peroorkada pursued his research with unwavering dedication, even while managing a full-time job. His PhD focused on energy justice and the tariff structure for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.

Jayapalan’s work also explored the concept of "Power Environ," examining how environmental opposition to hydropower projects impacts energy justice. This study was published in the prestigious international journal Energy Policy in 2019.

He also investigated tariff strategies for EV charging stations, proposing a model that considers renewable energy availability and time-based power tariffs. This study, published in The Electricity Journal, assumes significance as the Indian government is yet to formulate comprehensive guidelines for EV tariff structures.

Balancing job and studies
Despite his demanding job, Jayapalan’s academic pursuits remained dynamic. After completing an MBA from IGNOU and qualifying UGC-NET, he secured admission to the PhD programme at IIT Madras in 2016. Apart from a six-month leave for mandatory coursework, he managed his research alongside his job and submitted his thesis within three years.

Age is just a number!
“In Western countries, individuals active in various fields often enter academia later in life. Age is no barrier there; the focus is on what one can contribute,” says Jayapalan. “Modern medical science views retirement age as merely a number. Globally, the concept of retirement is evolving.”

Jayapalan's wife, C S Beena, works with the Census Directorate, and their son, Niranjan, is pursuing a B Tech degree.