The Indian Army is setting up a solar hydrogen-based microgrid at Chushul of Ladakh in partnership with PSU NTPC to provide a stable power supply in off-grid Army locations.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh laid the foundation stone for the project, which is set to support soldiers stationed in these strategically significant, but tough terrains in challenging climatic conditions.
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The system will replace existing diesel generator sets at off-grid Army locations, providing a sustainable power supply despite harsh winter conditions, NTPC said in a release and added that it will offer a stable power supply under adverse conditions.
The microgrid, which is highly scalable and suitable for various applications, will ensure reduced carbon emissions and promote cleaner and sustainable energy ecosystem.
According to NTPC, the system combines the reliability of battery storage with the extended energy storage capability of hydrogen, thereby making sure that there is a consistent power supply in these adverse terrains.
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"Given Ladakh's high solar irradiance and low temperatures, this project will facilitate the production and utilisation of green energy, eliminating reliance on fuel logistics and enhancing self-sufficiency in remote areas affected by road connectivity disruptions," NTPC said in a release.
Once operational, it would usher in a new era of decarbonisation of the defence sector far off the Himalayas, NTPC added.