Ladakh: Group Surya Wins Solar-Hydrogen Microgrid Project

By Chitrika Grover/ Updated On Tue, Mar 11th, 2025

Group Surya’s subsidiary, Surya International, has secured an EPC package to develop a 200 kW Solar-Hydrogen BESS-Based Microgrid in Chushul, Ladakh. NTPC Renewable Energy Limited (NTPC REL), a subsidiary of NTPC Ltd., awarded the project to the Odisha-based company. NTPC and the Indian Army launched this initiative to utilize green hydrogen for round-the-clock (RTC) power supply in off-grid defense locations facing extreme climatic conditions.

Project Overview

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh laid the foundation stone for the project via video conferencing, accompanied by the Chief of India’s Defense Services, NTPC’s Chairman & Managing Director (CMD), and senior officials from the Ministry of Defence and the Indian Army. The initiative will deploy a solar hydrogen-based microgrid system to ensure an uninterrupted energy supply, independent of conventional power sources.

The solar-hydrogen microgrid project has received an investment of ₹102 crore and is designed to generate 200 kW of continuous power throughout the year. Built to endure extreme conditions, the system will operate at temperatures as low as -30°C and at an altitude of 4,400 meters, making it a technological milestone in renewable energy deployment.

Surya International’s Expertise in Hydrogen Projects

With Ladakh’s high solar irradiance, the system enhances energy security, minimizes logistical fuel dependencies, and strengthens India’s defense infrastructure. Notably, the project is located near the historic Battle of Rezang La, where, in 1962, the 13th Kumaon Regiment bravely defended against overwhelming odds.

Surya’s Previous Projects

Surya International has previously executed two projects using hydrogen technology. These projects are located in Bangalore and Himachal Pradesh. The Hydrogen Mobility Station Project in Chamba, Himachal Pradesh, for the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC). The other project is Alkaline Hydrogen Electrolyzer Design & Manufacturing for HPCL in Bangalore, developed with BARC’s technology support.