NTPC Limited, India’s largest integrated power utility, unveiled its innovative eco-friendly and affordable housing solution, ‘Sukh’ Eco-house, at the India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2024 at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi. The eco-house utilizes approximately 80% ash and ash-based products from thermal power plants in its construction, offering a revolutionary approach to rural housing and showcasing NTPC’s commitment to sustainability and zero-carbon emissions.

India’s largest integrated power utility

Built with innovative interlocking wall blocks made from ash, these structures do not require any sand, cement, steel, or mortar, significantly reducing costs and construction time. The use of ash-based building material eliminates the requirement of cement and natural aggregates, leading to lower carbon emission and prevention of topsoil erosion.

A typical house, spanning 30 sqm and featuring a drawing room, bedroom, kitchen, and toilet, can be constructed for just Rs 1,50,000 in a span of 15-20 days. This method ensures durability, as demonstrated by its resilience to diverse weather conditions, including rain, storms, and high winds, for over two years.

Moreover, the houses achieve a remarkable 75% reduction in carbon emissions compared to conventional construction methods. From the foundation to the roof, and even the window and door frames, the entire structure is built using ash-based materials. The design allows the house to be dismantled and re-erected with minimal damage, adding to its practicality and longevity.

The eco-house aligns with the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G), providing a scalable and eco-friendly model for affordable rural housing. By addressing waste management and promoting the reuse of industrial byproducts, NTPC’s initiative paves the way for sustainable construction practices. The eco-houses can also be powered by solar energy, thereby strengthening India’s Net Zero commitments.

The transformative housing solution highlights NTPC’s efforts to foster a sustainable future through green construction practices by repurposing ash, a byproduct of thermal power generation, into cost-effective, resilient housing materials.