New Delhi: In a significant step towards achieving India’s clean energy and net-zero goals, the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) under the Ministry of Defence and the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) under the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the development of 300 MW capacity of solar-based renewable energy projects across DRDO campuses in the country.
The MoU Exchange Ceremony took place at DRDO Bhawan, New Delhi, in the presence of Dr Samir V. Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO, and Santosh Kumar Sarangi, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of New & Renewable Energy.
Strategic Move Towards Energy Self-Reliance
This collaboration marks a major step in advancing energy self-sufficiency within India’s strategic defence research infrastructure. The agreement aims to establish self-reliant, Net-Zero campuses at all major DRDO locations by the year 2027, contributing significantly to India’s climate goals and sustainable development strategy.
By integrating clean energy solutions into defence establishments, the initiative will help reduce carbon footprints, enhance energy security, and lower operational costs in the long run.
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300 MW Solar Capacity to Power DRDO Establishments
Under the MoU, SECI will support the development and implementation of solar power projects with a cumulative capacity of 300 MW at various DRDO facilities across India. This will not only meet the energy demand of these campuses but also set an example of green energy adoption in government and strategic institutions.
The partnership also reflects the government’s emphasis on decarbonising the defence sector and aligning national security infrastructure with India’s clean energy transition goals.
Accelerating India’s Net-Zero Vision
The MoU aligns with India’s broader mission to achieve Net-Zero emissions by 2070 and underscores the role of renewable energy in enabling sustainable growth. Through this collaboration, DRDO and SECI aim to build resilient, low-carbon campuses that can function independently of conventional power sources.
The initiative also showcases the increasing synergy between strategic defence agencies and renewable energy institutions to advance green technologies and infrastructure.
About DRDO
The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) is India’s premier defence research agency under the Ministry of Defence. Established in 1958, DRDO works to develop cutting-edge defence technologies and strengthen India’s self-reliance in military systems and infrastructure. With a vast network of laboratories and research facilities, DRDO plays a critical role in enhancing India’s defence preparedness and technological capabilities.
About SECI
The Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI), a central public sector enterprise under the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE), is India’s nodal agency for implementing renewable energy projects. Established in 2011, SECI plays a key role in promoting solar and other renewable energy technologies, supporting capacity addition, and driving the nation’s transition to clean and sustainable energy.
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