NTPC has partnered with the Indian Army to establish a solar H₂-based microgrid at Chushul, Ladakh. This significant step will provide a stable power supply using green H₂ in off-grid Army locations. The Hon'ble Defense Minister Shri Rajnath Singh laid the foundation stone of this unique project through video conferencing in the presence of Chief of India defense services, CMD, NTPC and other senior officials from Ministry of Defense, Indian Army and NTPC.

NTPC has designed this innovative solar H₂-based microgrid system to operate independently, using H₂ as an energy storage medium to supply 200 kW 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 -30°C at an altitude of 4,400 meters. NTPC will maintain the project for 25 yr, aiming to support Indian soldiers stationed in these strategically significant tough terrains and challenging climate.

The solar-H₂ microgrid is set to replace existing diesel generators currently in use at off-grid Army locations. 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 H₂, 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 decarbonization of the defense sector far off the Himalayas.

Additionally, NTPC started a trial run of a H₂ bus in Leh recently towards achieving its renewable energy targets and carbon neutrality in Ladakh. The company is further setting up a H₂ fueling station and solar plant along with five fuel cell buses for operation on intracity routes in Leh.

NTPC is committed to achieving 60 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2032 and becoming a major player in green H₂ technology and energy storage domain. The company is pursuing several initiatives toward decarbonization, including H₂ blending, carbon capture, electric buses and smart NTPC townships.