Rajnath clears solar-battery project on UP def land

Lucknow: Defence minister Rajnath Singh approved development of a 250 MW solar power project with integrated battery energy storage system on about 850 acres of vacant defence land in Sitapur. The project is first large-scale renewable energy initiative of its kind to be developed on defence land, aimed at strengthening energy security for defence establishments in UP while supporting govt’s broader objectives of increasing renewable energy use and reducing dependence on conventional power sources.According to the ministry, the project is expected to lower long-term electricity procurement costs for defence establishments and generate substantial savings over its operational lifespan.NTPC Green Limited will implement the project through competitive bidding process intended to secure optimal energy pricing. The project will be developed in coordination with the integrated headquarters of the MoD (Army) and directorate general defence estates.The ministry said the initiative combines national security requirements with renewable energy development and efficient use of vacant defence land. It added that the project could serve as a model for future solar and energy storage projects on defence land.​Once complete, the Sitapur project is expected to be among the largest renewable energy installations established on defence land in India.