The Indian Army has taken a major step towards promoting sustainable energy by signing an MoU with National Thermal Power Corporation Renewable Energy Limited (NTPC REL) for the installation of a Green Hydrogen-based Micro Grid Power Plant project in the Northern borders. This initiative aligns with the National Green Hydrogen Mission, which seeks to promote the use of renewable energy and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
Under the MoU, the Indian Army will provide land on lease for 25 years and commit to purchasing the generated power through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). The proposed project will be set up by NTPC on Build, Own, and Operate (BOO) Models at a mutually identified location in Eastern Ladakh. The project will involve the installation of a Solar Power Plant for the hydrolysis of water to produce Hydrogen. The Hydrogen produced will then be used to power fuel cells during non-solar hours, thus reducing dependence on fossil fuel-based generator sets and contributing towards the abatement of greenhouse gas emissions.
This project is a significant milestone for the Indian Army, as it is the first government organization to enter into an agreement with NTPC REL for such a project. It sets the stage for similar projects in the future, promoting sustainable energy and reducing the country’s dependence on fossil fuels. This initiative will not only benefit the environment but also help meet the energy requirements of the Indian Army in remote areas where there is no access to national/state grids.
Overall, the Indian Army’s decision to install a Green Hydrogen-based Micro Grid Power Plant project is a major step towards promoting sustainable energy in the country. The success of this project will pave the way for similar initiatives, encouraging other government organizations to adopt sustainable practices and contribute towards the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.