The Ministry of Defence has approved the establishment of a 250 MW solar power project with an integrated Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Uttar Pradesh’s Sitapur, marking the first time vacant defence land will be used for a large-scale solar-plus-storage facility.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh cleared the project, which will be developed on around 850 acres of unused defence land in the former Sitapur Cantonment area. The initiative is aimed at strengthening energy security for the armed forces, promoting renewable energy and reducing dependence on conventional sources of electricity.

According to the Ministry of Defence, the project represents a significant step towards achieving sustainability goals while ensuring more efficient utilisation of defence assets.

First Large-Scale Solar-Plus-Storage Project On Defence Land

Describing it as a first-of-its-kind initiative, the ministry said the project combines large-scale solar power generation with battery energy storage support to provide a reliable and efficient source of energy for defence establishments.

The integrated battery storage system will help ensure a stable supply of electricity and improve energy management capabilities. Officials said the project is expected to contribute to the long-term energy security of the armed forces while reducing the cost of purchasing conventional grid power.

The ministry noted that the initiative aligns with the government’s broader commitment to clean energy and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

Once operational, the project is expected to generate substantial savings for the government over its lifecycle through lower electricity procurement costs.

NTPC To Execute Project Through Competitive Bidding

State-run power major NTPC Limited has been tasked with implementing the project through a competitive bidding process aimed at securing the most economical power pricing for defence installations.

The project will be developed in coordination with the Integrated Headquarters of the Ministry of Defence (Army) and the Directorate General Defence Estates (DGDE).

According to the ministry, close coordination among all stakeholders will be critical to ensuring timely execution of the project.

Officials said the initiative demonstrates how defence infrastructure and land assets can be leveraged to support broader national development priorities while safeguarding strategic interests.

Boost To Energy Security And Sustainability

The Ministry of Defence said the Sitapur project represents a convergence of national security, energy security, technological innovation and environmental sustainability.

By generating clean energy on defence land, the project is expected to reduce the carbon footprint of defence establishments and contribute to India’s renewable energy ambitions.

Upon completion, the Sitapur Solar Power Project is expected to become one of the country’s largest renewable energy facilities established on defence land. It is also expected to serve as a model for future solar-plus-storage projects in the defence sector.

The ministry said the initiative underlines its commitment to using available assets more effectively while supporting the country’s transition towards sustainable and secure energy systems.

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