Defence Minister Inaugurates NTPC’s Solar–Hydrogen Microgrid at Chushul
Mumbai: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually inaugurated NTPC’s 3.7 MW solar plant at Chushul, Ladakh, marking the launch of India’s first solar–hydrogen-based microgrid project. Commissioned in just eight months despite the high-altitude terrain, the project is a milestone in clean energy innovation.
The microgrid will replace diesel generators at remote Army posts, cutting carbon emissions and easing logistics. Every three units of power generated will save the transport of one litre of diesel to Himalayan locations. Designed to supply 200 kW of power round-the-clock, the system uses hydrogen as a storage medium and operates at an altitude of 4,500 metres, where winter temperatures drop to –40°C — making it the world’s most unique project of its kind.
Once fully operational, the initiative is expected to significantly decarbonise defence operations in high-altitude regions while strengthening energy security.
NTPC Ltd., which currently contributes one-fourth of India’s power needs with an installed capacity of 84,849 MW, is expanding its renewable portfolio with 30.90 GW under construction, including 13.3 GW of green energy. The company aims to achieve 60 GW of renewable capacity by 2032, supporting India’s Net Zero targets.
Beyond power generation, NTPC is diversifying into e-mobility, battery storage, pumped hydro, waste-to-energy, nuclear power, and green hydrogen solutions, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and sustainability.
