New
Delhi : Hon’ble Defence
Minister Shri Rajnath Singh virtually inaugurated NTPC’s 3.7 MW solar plant, a
first-of-its-kind solar–hydrogen project at Chushul, Ladakh. Despite the
challenging and high-altitude terrain, the project has been commissioned in a
record eight months’ time.
The
solar–hydrogen-based microgrid will replace diesel generator sets currently
used at remote Army locations, reducing carbon emissions and supporting a
cleaner and more reliable energy system for the region. By enabling local
production and utilisation of green energy, the project will eliminate the need
for fuel transportation from the plains, enhancing energy security and reducing
logistical challenges. Every three units of power generated will avoid carrying
one litre of diesel to these remote Himalayan posts.
NTPC
has designed a stand-alone microgrid using hydrogen as the storage medium to
supply 200 kW of power at any time of the day, throughout the year. Located at
an altitude of 4,500 metres with winter temperatures dipping to –40°C, this is
the world’s most unique project of its kind. Once fully operational, it is
expected to mark a major step towards decarbonising the defence sector in
high-altitude regions.
NTPC Ltd. is contributing
one-fourth of the India’s power requirements and has an installed capacity of
84,849 MW, with an additional capacity of 30.90 GW under construction,
including 13.3 GW of renewable energy capacity. The company is committed to
achieving 60 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2032, strengthening India's Net
Zero goals.
With a diverse portfolio
of thermal, hydro, solar, and wind power plants, NTPC is dedicated to
delivering reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to the nation. The
company is committed to adopting best practices, fostering innovation, and
embracing clean energy technologies for a greener future.
Along with power
generation, NTPC has ventured into various new business areas, including
e-mobility, battery storage, pumped hydro storage, waste-to-energy, nuclear
power, and green hydrogen solutions.