The Defence Institute of High Altitude Research (DIHAR), a Leh-based laboratory of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has developed a groundbreaking solar thermal technology to provide heating for soldiers stationed in the challenging high-altitude environment of Ladakh. This innovation comes as a crucial solution for troops facing extreme winter conditions, with temperatures often plummeting to -40 degrees Celsius.
Traditionally, the Indian Army has relied on fossil fuels like diesel generators and traditional 'bukhari' (fire pot) for heating. However, these methods pose logistical challenges due to transportation difficulties and fuel storage in the remote region. Recognizing the need for a sustainable and efficient alternative, DIHAR has harnessed Ladakh's abundant solar energy to create a system capable of maintaining comfortable living conditions for soldiers even in the harshest winters.
The "Solar Thermal Energy Based Technology for Space Heating (Human Habitation) In High Altitude" system utilizes Evacuated Tube Collector (ETC) technology. These collectors contain copper pipes filled with a special anti-freeze fluid that captures solar radiation and transfers the heat to a storage tank. This stored thermal energy is then used to heat shelters throughout the night, ensuring a consistent and comfortable temperature for the soldiers.
"The system has an efficiency of forty percent and a pilot plant is being made for the Indian Army unit at Hanle," said Mr. Sarfraz Nazir, Scientist at DIHAR, in an interview with NDTV. He further explained that the technology is designed to be entirely self-sufficient, relying solely on renewable solar energy.
Ladakh's unique geographical conditions make it an ideal location for solar power generation. With over 300 cloud-free days and high solar irradiance, the region receives an abundant amount of solar energy. The DIHAR system capitalizes on this, offering a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution to the challenges of heating in high-altitude regions.
A pilot project has already been implemented in an existing shelter at DIHAR, Leh. Results show that the system can maintain an average temperature of 15 to 20 degrees Celsius inside the shelter, even when the outside temperature drops to -19 degrees Celsius.
While the initial cost of the pilot project is ₹60 lakhs, DIHAR emphasizes the long-term cost benefits and sustainability of the system. With an expected lifespan of 15-20 years and no fuel costs, the investment is projected to pay for itself in less than three years. This technology represents a significant step towards ensuring the well-being of Indian soldiers deployed in challenging environments while promoting the use of renewable energy sources.
