Pune: In a significant move towards sustainable defence infrastructure, the Indian Army has inaugurated India’s first geothermal-based Net Zero Energy Building at Jhansi.
This groundbreaking project was virtually unveiled by Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, PVSM, AVSM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command, from Pune.
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Constructed in just under four months, the energy-efficient structure leverages geothermal exchange systems to maintain consistent indoor temperatures by harnessing the Earth’s thermal energy.
This innovative approach drastically minimizes reliance on conventional energy sources and contributes to India’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2047. The building is expected to offset more than 50 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually.
The structure’s Net Zero Energy status has been independently verified by the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Calicut, which confirmed its ability to achieve annual energy neutrality through a combination of geothermal and solar photovoltaic systems, intelligent energy design, and smart automation technologies.
Key Features of Geothermal-Based Net Zero Energy Building:
- Solar rooftop system
- Smart lighting and motion sensors
- Low-energy automation
- Efficient thermal insulation for off-grid operability
This initiative is a flagship project under the Year of Technology Absorption, demonstrating the Army’s forward-thinking commitment to sustainable infrastructure, rapid deployment, and operational resilience in remote and high-demand areas.
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“This project exemplifies our vision for green transformation in defence infrastructure. It reflects our dedication to creating self-sustaining facilities that serve both operational and environmental goals,” said an official statement from Southern Command.
The building sets a benchmark for energy-independent defence installations, aligning with the Indian Army’s strategy to integrate renewable energy systems, reduce operational carbon footprints, and enhance sustainability across military establishments nationwide.
About the Project
This geothermal-based Net Zero Energy Building serves as a prototype for future installations in challenging terrains, where energy autonomy and environmental performance are vital.
Its rapid construction, use of alternative materials, and incorporation of climate-smart technologies positions the geothermal-based net zero energy building as a model for both public and private sector green building initiatives.
