Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has virtually inaugurated a 3.7 MW solar plant at Chushul, Ladakh, a first-of-its-kind solar-hydrogen project. The project, commissioned in a record eight months, aims to replace diesel generator sets used at remote Army locations with a cleaner and more reliable energy system. The solar-hydrogen-based microgrid will reduce carbon emissions and support the region’s energy security by eliminating the need for fuel transportation from the plains.
The project, located at an altitude of 4,500 meters, is a unique initiative that uses hydrogen as a storage medium to supply 200 kW of power at any time of the day. This will not only reduce the logistical challenges of transporting fuel to remote Himalayan posts but also avoid the environmental impact of burning diesel. Every three units of power generated will save one liter of diesel, making it a significant step towards decarbonizing the defense sector in high-altitude regions.
NTPC, the company behind the project, has a diverse portfolio of thermal, hydro, solar, and wind power plants and is committed to achieving 60 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2032. The company is contributing significantly to India’s power requirements, with an installed capacity of 84,849 MW and an additional capacity of 30.90 GW under construction. NTPC is also exploring new business areas, including e-mobility, battery storage, and green hydrogen solutions, to deliver reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to the nation.
The project at Chushul, Ladakh, is a significant milestone in India’s journey towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future. It demonstrates the country’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting the use of renewable energy sources, even in the most challenging and remote locations. With the support of the government and companies like NTPC, India is poised to achieve its Net Zero goals and become a leader in the global transition to a low-carbon economy.