New Delhi: In a significant boost to sustainable energy in high-altitude regions, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually inaugurated NTPC’s 3.7 MW solar plant at Chushul in Ladakh on Friday. The project represents a first-of-its-kind solar–hydrogen microgrid in one of the world’s most challenging terrains, built at an altitude of 4,500 metres, where winter temperatures can drop to –40°C.
A Landmark Solar-Hydrogen Project
The solar–hydrogen microgrid has been completed in a record eight months and is designed to replace diesel generator sets currently powering remote Army posts in the region. The project is expected to reduce carbon emissions, improve energy reliability, and ease logistical challenges by minimizing the need to transport diesel from the plains. NTPC estimates that every three units of power generated by the microgrid will eliminate the transportation of one litre of diesel to these remote posts.
The stand-alone microgrid uses hydrogen as the storage medium, ensuring the availability of 200 kW of power round the clock throughout the year. Once fully operational, this initiative is expected to significantly decarbonise defence infrastructure in strategically sensitive high-altitude areas.
Enhancing Energy Security in the Himalayas
The Chushul project is a major step towards strengthening India’s energy security in forward locations. By replacing diesel with a clean energy alternative, NTPC aims to reduce carbon footprint while providing reliable and uninterrupted power supply to military installations in extreme weather conditions. This innovative model can also serve as a blueprint for other remote and high-altitude installations across the country.
NTPC’s Commitment to Clean Energy and Net Zero Goals
NTPC Ltd., which contributes nearly one-fourth of India’s electricity generation, currently has an installed capacity of 84,849 MW with an additional 30.90 GW under construction, including 13.3 GW of renewable energy projects. The company aims to achieve 60 GW of renewable capacity by 2032, in line with India’s Net Zero objectives.
With a diversified portfolio spanning thermal, hydro, solar, and wind power, NTPC is also expanding into emerging sectors such as e-mobility, battery storage, pumped hydro storage, waste-to-energy, nuclear power, and green hydrogen. The company remains committed to adopting best practices and advanced clean energy technologies to support India’s transition to a sustainable energy future.
About NTPC Limited
NTPC Limited is India’s leading public sector power generation company, headquartered in New Delhi. Established in 1975, NTPC is primarily engaged in the generation and sale of electricity, along with related activities such as consultancy and project development. The company operates across thermal, hydro, and renewable energy sectors and plays a key role in India’s energy security, sustainable development, and infrastructure growth.
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