Union Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh virtually inaugurated NTPC’s groundbreaking 3.7 MW solar–hydrogen project at Chushul, Ladakh—commissioned in a record eight months despite the region’s extreme terrain and high altitude. The innovative microgrid system is designed to replace diesel generator sets at remote Army locations, significantly cutting carbon emissions and ensuring a more reliable, locally generated green power supply. By reducing the need to transport fuel from the plains, the project enhances energy security, simplifies logistics, and helps avoid one litre of diesel transport for every three units of power generated.
NTPC has developed this stand-alone hydrogen-based microgrid to deliver 200 kW of uninterrupted power year-round, even in the harsh Himalayan environment where temperatures drop to –40°C. Positioned at 4,500 metres above sea level, it is the world’s most unique project of its kind and is expected to play a crucial role in decarbonising defence operations in high-altitude regions. NTPC Ltd., which currently provides one-fourth of India’s power with an installed capacity of 84,849 MW and an additional 30.90 GW under construction, is steadily expanding its renewable capacity toward a 60 GW target by 2032, further strengthening India’s march toward Net Zero.
