Follow India Renewable Energy News on WhatsApp for exclusive updates on clean energy news and insights

Rajnath Singh Unveils NTPC’s Solar–Hydrogen Microgrid in Ladakh

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has virtually inaugurated NTPC’s pioneering solar–hydrogen microgrid system at Chushul in Ladakh, marking a major advancement in clean energy deployment for high-altitude defence locations. The project features a 3.7 MW solar plant integrated with hydrogen-based energy storage, designed to provide uninterrupted green power to remote Army posts.

According to NTPC, the system was completed in just eight months, despite the region’s extreme terrain and climatic challenges. The microgrid is intended to replace the diesel generators currently relied upon in these isolated areas, thereby cutting carbon emissions and improving energy reliability.

The initiative will also significantly ease logistical burdens. With on-site production and storage of renewable power, the need to transport diesel from the plains will be sharply reduced. NTPC noted that three units of power generated by the microgrid offset the transport of one litre of diesel to the remote Himalayan stations.

The microgrid, equipped with hydrogen as the storage medium, is engineered to supply 200 kW of continuous power throughout the year. NTPC highlighted that the project—situated at 4,500 meters above sea level where winter temperatures can fall to –40°C—is one of the most distinctive installations of its kind globally. Once fully operational, it is expected to play a crucial role in decarbonising defence operations in high-altitude regions.

NTPC currently meets nearly one-fourth of India’s electricity demand, with an installed capacity of 84,849 MW. The company has 30.90 GW under construction, including 13.3 GW of renewable energy. It aims to expand its renewable portfolio to 60 GW by 2032, reinforcing India’s Net Zero ambitions.

Beyond power generation, NTPC is diversifying into emerging sectors such as green hydrogen, energy storage solutions, e-mobility, pumped hydro, nuclear power, and waste-to-energy, reflecting its broader commitment to sustainable energy development.