Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually inaugurated NTPC’s 3.7 MW solar plant, a component of the solar–hydrogen-battery energy storage system (BESS) based microgrid project at Chushul, Ladakh, India, developed jointly by NTPC and the Indian Army. The microgrid system includes a 3.7 MW solar PV plant for the supply of power to the 200kW load and hydrogen generation, a hydrogen generation system (PEM electrolyser), hydrogen storage, BESS to supply continuous power for limited time and to cater for emergency operation, and a fuel cell system for generating 200 kW of electrical power.
NTPC stated that the project was commissioned in a record eight months’ time despite the challenging and high-altitude terrain.
The solar–hydrogen-based microgrid will replace diesel generator sets currently used at remote Army locations, reducing carbon emissions and supporting a cleaner and more reliable energy system for the region. By enabling local production and utilisation of green energy, the project will eliminate the need for fuel transportation from the plains, enhancing energy security and reducing logistical challenges. Every three units of power generated will avoid carrying one litre of diesel to these remote Himalayan posts.
“NTPC has designed a stand-alone microgrid using hydrogen as the storage medium to supply 200 kW of power at any time of the day, throughout the year. Located at an altitude of 4,500 metres with winter temperatures dipping to –40°C, this is the world’s most unique project of its kind,” stated NTPC. “Once fully operational, it is expected to mark a major step towards decarbonising the defence sector in high-altitude regions.”
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