NTPC and Indian Army to establish solar hydrogen microgrid in Ladakh

NTPC, in partnership with the Indian Army, is set to deploy a solar hydrogen-based microgrid at Chushul, Ladakh, aimed at providing stable, renewable power to off-grid Army locations. The 200 kW microgrid system will use hydrogen as an energy storage medium, replacing diesel generators currently operating at the remote site, situated at an altitude of 4,400 meters where temperatures can plummet to -30°C in winter.

NTPC will operate and maintain the microgrid for 25 years, ensuring a reliable power supply in extreme conditions. The system harnesses Ladakh’s abundant solar resources and incorporates hydrogen energy storage to maintain consistent energy delivery, reducing reliance on fuel logistics and enhancing energy self-sufficiency.

In addition to the microgrid, NTPC is conducting hydrogen-powered bus trials in Leh and is developing a hydrogen fueling station, a solar plant, and five fuel cell buses for local routes. As part of its decarbonisation strategy, NTPC aims to achieve 60 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2032 and is advancing efforts in hydrogen blending, carbon capture, and electric mobility.