The solar photovoltaic plant will be developed under the Special Development Package of the Youth Services and Sports Department. Officials said the initiative aligns with Ladakh’s long-term goal of becoming a carbon-neutral and environmentally sustainable region.
BY PC Bureau
May 10: The Union Territory Administration of Ladakh has approved the installation of a 500 KWp rooftop solar photovoltaic plant at the National Directorate of Sports (NDS) Ice Hockey Rink in Leh, marking a significant step towards integrating renewable energy with modern sports infrastructure.
The project, cleared by Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, will be implemented at an estimated cost of ₹2.38 crore under the Special Development Package (SDP) of the Youth Services and Sports Department, UT Ladakh.
Officials said the solar installation on the rooftop of the iconic ice hockey rink is aimed at promoting clean energy adoption while enhancing the sustainability of public infrastructure in the high-altitude region.
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The LG Secretariat said the initiative reflects Ladakh’s broader vision of transitioning towards a carbon-neutral and environmentally sustainable economy, in line with its focus on renewable energy expansion and climate-responsive development.
Lieutenant Governor Saxena said the project represents a “dual benefit” of strengthening sports infrastructure while advancing clean energy goals in the Union Territory. He noted that Ladakh’s abundant sunlight makes it particularly suited for large-scale solar integration.
The solar plant is expected to reduce electricity consumption costs at the facility while lowering the carbon footprint of one of the region’s premier winter sports venues.
The NDS Ice Hockey Rink in Leh has emerged as a key centre for winter sports in India and has hosted the Khelo India Winter Games for the past three consecutive editions. Authorities are also exploring plans to make the facility operational throughout the year.
Officials added that the project is expected to serve as a model for integrating renewable energy systems into public infrastructure across Ladakh, particularly in ecologically sensitive zones where sustainable development is a priority.
The administration has been pushing a series of solar and green energy initiatives across the Union Territory as part of its long-term strategy to reduce dependence on conventional energy sources and promote environmental conservation in the Himalayan region.
