In a significant boost to India’s renewable energy ambitions, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved the establishment of a 250 MW solar power project with Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh. The project will be developed on approximately 850 acres of vacant defence land, making it the first large-scale solar-plus-storage initiative undertaken by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) on defence land.

New Delhi, June 09: The Central Government has approved a 250 MW solar power project with integrated Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) on around 850 acres of defence land in Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh. Implemented by NTPC Limited, the project is the first large-scale renewable energy initiative on defence land and aims to enhance energy security, reduce electricity costs for defence establishments, and support India’s clean energy goals.

✔ Rajnath Singh approves 250 MW solar power project in Sitapur, UP
✔ Project to be developed on around 850 acres of defence land
✔ Includes integrated Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)
✔ First large-scale solar-plus-storage project on defence land
✔ NTPC Limited to implement the project through competitive bidding
✔ Expected to reduce defence power procurement costs
✔ Supports India’s renewable energy and sustainability goals

The Government of India has taken a major step toward strengthening clean energy infrastructure by approving a 250 MW solar power project with Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) on defence land in Uttar Pradesh’s Sitapur district. According to the Ministry of Defence, the approval was granted by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, marking a historic milestone in the utilisation of defence land for renewable energy generation.

The project will be established on approximately 850 acres of vacant defence land and is being described as a first-of-its-kind initiative by the Ministry of Defence. It will combine large-scale solar power generation with integrated battery storage capabilities, ensuring a reliable and efficient energy supply for defence establishments.

According to the ministry, NTPC Limited will implement the project through a competitive bidding process aimed at securing optimal energy pricing and maximising long-term savings. The project will be executed in coordination with the Integrated Headquarters of the Ministry of Defence (Army) and the Directorate General Defence Estates (DGDE).

Officials stated that the project represents a unique convergence of national security, energy security, technological innovation, and environmental sustainability. By leveraging underutilised defence land for renewable energy generation, the Ministry of Defence aims to contribute to national development objectives while maintaining strategic interests.

The Ministry of Defence, NTPC, IHQ, and DGDE will work together to ensure timely implementation of the project. Once completed, the Sitapur Solar Power Project is expected to become one of India’s largest renewable energy facilities developed on defence land and could serve as a model for future solar-plus-storage projects across the defence sector.

The initiative aligns with the government’s broader vision of promoting clean energy, reducing dependence on conventional power sources, and achieving sustainability goals. The project is also expected to strengthen long-term energy security for defence forces while substantially lowering expenditure on conventional grid electricity procurement.

Over its operational lifespan, the project is anticipated to generate significant financial savings for the government by reducing energy costs and improving power reliability for defence establishments.

The approval of the 250 MW Sitapur Solar Power Project marks a landmark achievement in India’s renewable energy journey and the Ministry of Defence’s sustainability efforts. By integrating solar power generation with battery storage on defence land, the project will enhance energy security, reduce operational costs, and support India’s clean energy transition. As the first major solar-plus-storage project on defence land, it is expected to set a benchmark for similar initiatives across the country.

FAQ Section

Q1. What is the capacity of the Sitapur Solar Power Project?
The project will have a generation capacity of 250 MW along with an integrated Battery Energy Storage System (BESS).

Q2. Where will the solar project be developed?
The project will be established on approximately 850 acres of defence land in Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh.

Q3. Who approved the project?
The project was approved by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

Q4. Which company will implement the project?
NTPC Limited will implement the project through a competitive bidding process.

Q5. Why is this project significant?
It is the first large-scale solar-plus-storage project on defence land and is expected to strengthen energy security, reduce electricity costs, and support India’s renewable energy goals.