India’s largest battery storage push has begun as NTPC moves ahead with the installation of 5 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) at its coal-based power plants.
The state-run power giant is investing around Rs 5,000 crore in the project to reduce renewable energy curtailment and improve grid stability.
The initiative marks a major step in India's clean energy transition as the country looks to integrate more solar and wind power into the electricity network.
With the largest battery storage push, NTPC aims to store surplus renewable energy generated during periods of low demand and supply it back to the grid when consumption rises.
The project will help address one of the biggest challenges facing the renewable energy sector—wasted clean energy due to limited storage and grid constraints.
NTPC is deploying battery storage systems with a total capacity of 5 GWh across multiple coal-fired power stations. The batteries will be installed within existing thermal power plant premises, allowing the company to leverage available land, transmission infrastructure, and operational resources.
The battery storage project is expected to:
As renewable energy generation continues to grow in India, periods of excess solar and wind power are becoming more common. Without adequate storage, a portion of this electricity is often curtailed, resulting in energy losses and lower returns for developers.
Also Read: Is Digital Lifeline of India at Risk? The Undersea Cable Chokepoints
Instead of building entirely new sites, NTPC is integrating battery storage with its existing coal-based power plants. These facilities already have strong transmission connectivity and operational systems, making them suitable locations for large-scale energy storage deployment.
The batteries will store excess renewable energy generated during the day and release it when demand increases or renewable generation falls. This approach can reduce pressure on thermal power plants and help maintain a balanced power supply.
A 5 GWh battery storage system can deliver around 1 gigawatt (GW) of electricity for five hours or 500 megawatts (MW) for ten hours, depending on operating requirements.
The move also aligns with India's broader strategy to modernize its power sector while increasing the share of clean energy in the national energy mix.
India has set ambitious renewable energy targets and is rapidly expanding solar and wind capacity. However, large-scale energy storage is becoming essential to manage the intermittent nature of renewable power generation.
Industry experts believe battery storage will play a critical role in ensuring grid reliability as renewable energy capacity rises in the coming years. NTPC's latest investment reflects the growing importance of energy storage in supporting India's long-term clean energy ambitions.
The project is expected to strengthen renewable energy integration while reducing dependence on conventional backup generation during peak demand periods.
NTPC Limited is India's largest power generation company and a leading public sector enterprise in the energy sector. The company operates a diversified portfolio that includes thermal, hydro, solar, and wind power projects across the country.
We use cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Read more...
