Empowering Ladakh: NTPC and Indian Army Partner for Green Hydrogen Microgrid
Key Ideas
- NTPC collaborates with the Indian Army to implement a Solar Hydrogen-based Microgrid in Chushul, Ladakh, ensuring round-the-clock power supply using Green Hydrogen.
- The innovative system replaces diesel gensets at off-grid Army locations, offering stable power even in extreme winter conditions, promoting sustainability and reducing carbon emissions.
- The project leverages Ladakh's high solar irradiance, low temperatures, and tough terrains to enhance self-sufficiency, eliminate fuel logistics, and drive decarbonisation in the defence sector.
NTPC has partnered with the Indian Army to establish a Solar Hydrogen-based Microgrid at Chushul, Ladakh, aimed at providing round-the-clock power supply using Green Hydrogen in off-grid Army locations. This collaboration marks a significant step towards sustainability and energy efficiency in challenging terrains. The project, inaugurated by Hon’ble Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh, will utilize hydrogen as an energy storage medium to ensure 200kW of power supply throughout the year, replacing existing diesel gensets. NTPC plans to maintain the system for 25 years, supporting Indian soldiers stationed in tough terrains affected by harsh winter conditions. The Solar-Hydrogen microgrid offers advantages such as integrating renewable energy, stable power supply under adverse conditions, reduced carbon emissions, and a cleaner energy ecosystem. By leveraging Ladakh's natural resources, the project aims to enhance self-sufficiency, reduce reliance on fuel logistics, and drive decarbonisation. Additionally, NTPC has initiated trials of hydrogen buses and plans to set up a hydrogen fuelling station and solar plant for further renewable energy utilization. With its commitment to achieving renewable energy targets and advancing green hydrogen technology, NTPC is driving innovation in the energy sector toward a sustainable future.