In a major move to strengthen energy security and promote clean energy, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved the setting up of a 250 MW Solar Power Project with a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at Sitapur (Ex-Cantonment) in Uttar Pradesh. The project will be developed on nearly 850 acres of vacant defence land and is being described as the first initiative of its kind by the Ministry of Defence (MoD).
Raksha Mantri Shri @rajnathsingh has approved the first large-scale Solar-BESS project on defence land at Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh. Developed by NTPC, the 250 MW renewable energy initiative will strengthen energy security for defence establishments across the state while delivering… pic.twitter.com/gLuIEwnOyJ
— Ministry of Defence, Government of India (@SpokespersonMoD) June 9, 2026
NTPC to execute the project
The project will be implemented by NTPC Limited, which will select developers through a competitive bidding process. The aim is to secure the best possible power rates and maximise savings for defence establishments. The project will be carried out in close coordination with the Integrated Headquarters of MoD (Army) and the Directorate General Defence Estates (DGDE).
Focus on clean energy and cost savings
The solar project is part of the government’s broader effort to increase the use of renewable energy and reduce dependence on traditional power sources. Once operational, it is expected to provide long-term energy support for the Armed Forces while cutting the cost of purchasing conventional electricity from the grid. Officials believe the project will lead to substantial savings for the government over its entire operational life.
Defence land to support national Development goals
The initiative also highlights the government’s plan to make productive use of vacant defence land. By combining solar power generation with battery storage technology, the project aims to ensure a more reliable supply of clean energy while supporting environmental sustainability goals.
A major renewable energy project for the defence sector
The Ministry of Defence said the project brings together national security, energy security, technological advancement and environmental responsibility. The MoD, NTPC, IHQ of MoD and DGDE will work together to ensure the timely execution of the project.
After completion, the Sitapur Solar Power Project is expected to become one of India’s largest renewable energy projects established on defence land. It is also likely to serve as a model for future solar-plus-storage projects across the defence sector.
