Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has given the green light for a 250 MW solar power project with a battery energy storage system on around 850 acres of unused defence land in Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh. This initiative marks a significant move towards promoting renewable energy in the country, as stated by the Defence Ministry.
The Ministry of Defence is embarking on its first-of-its-kind project, collaborating with NTPC Limited to establish a large-scale solar power generation facility with integrated BESS support on defence land. The project is being executed through a competitive bidding process to ensure optimal energy pricing and savings for defence establishments.
In a joint effort with the Integrated HQ of MoD (Army) and the Directorate General Defence Estates, the project signifies a fusion of national security, energy security, technological innovation, and environmental sustainability. This underscores the Ministry of Defence’s dedication to utilizing its assets to support national development goals while safeguarding strategic interests.
The Sitapur Solar Power Project is anticipated to become one of the most significant renewable energy projects on defence land in the country upon completion. It is poised to set a benchmark for future solar-plus-storage projects within the defence sector. The collaboration between the ministry, NTPC, IHQ, and DGDE aims to ensure the timely and successful implementation of the project.
The project aligns with the government’s emphasis on clean energy, sustainability, and reducing reliance on traditional energy sources. Apart from enhancing long-term energy security for the defence forces, it is projected to substantially decrease expenses related to procuring conventional grid power for defence establishments. This move is expected to lead to substantial savings for the government over the project’s lifecycle.
