New Delhi, Oct. 26 — Eliminating dependence on diesel-guzzler gensets, a solar hydrogen-based microgrid will soon power the Indian Army’s off-grid location in Chushul, Ladakh, ensuring a reliable energy supply even during harsh winter conditions, where temperatures can plummet to -30degC at an altitude of 4,400 meters.

This innovative eco-friendly system, designed by the NTPC, a Public Sector Unit (PSU) will enhance operational efficiency while promoting sustainability in one of the most challenging environments.

On Friday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh laid the foundation stone of this unique project through video conferencing in the presence of Chief of India defence services, CMD, of the NTPC

A statement released from the Government said that this system will operate independently, using hydrogen as an energy storage medium to supply 200kW of power round-the-clock throughout the year. “This system will replace existing diesel gensets at off-grid Army locations, providing a sustainable power supply despite harsh winter conditions, where temperatures drop to -30degC at an altitude of 4,400 meters.

“The NTPC will maintain the project for 25 years, aiming to support Indian soldiers stationed in these strategically significant tough terrains and challenging climate,” said the statement.

These systems offer numerous advantages, including the integration of renewable energy sources, a stable power supply under adverse conditions, reduced carbon emissions, and the promotion of a cleaner and sustainable energy ecosystem as they are highly scalable and suitable for various applications.

Moreover, these systems combine the reliability of battery storage with the extended energy storage capability of hydrogen, ensuring a consistent power supply.

Given Ladakh’s high solar irradiance and low temperatures, this project will facilitate the production and utilization of green energy, eliminating reliance on fuel logistics and enhancing self-sufficiency in remote areas affected by road connectivity disruptions.

Once operational, it would usher in a new era of decarbonisation of the defence sector far off the Himalayas.

As a part of the Government’s ‘National Green Hydrogen Mission,’ NTPC has started a trial run of a hydrogen bus in Leh recently towards achieving its renewable energy targets and carbon neutrality in Ladakh.

The company is further setting up a hydrogen fuelling station and solar plant along with five fuel cell buses for operation on intracity routes in Leh.

NTPC is committed to achieving 60GW of renewable energy capacity by 2032 and becoming a major player in green hydrogen technology and energy storage domain. Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Pioneer. For any query with respect to this article or any other content requirement, please contact Editor at contentservices@htdigital.in