India’s Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has launched the National Policy on Geothermal Energy, a strategic move to tap into the country’s largely unexplored geothermal resources. This policy aims to diversify India’s renewable energy mix, bolster baseload power supply, and align with the nation’s net-zero emissions target by 2070.
Geothermal energy, derived from the Earth’s crust, offers a versatile range of applications, including electricity generation, heating, cooling, and even geo-tourism. The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has identified 381 hot springs nationwide, with temperatures ranging from 35°C to 89°C, and Himalayan resources reaching nearly 200°C. These resources are spread across 13 geothermal provinces, including Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and West Bengal, among others.
The policy outlines a comprehensive framework for geothermal development. It envisions a geothermal data repository, collaboration with various agencies, and the integration of geothermal heating and cooling technologies into the National Building Code. To foster innovation, the policy encourages research in hybrid geothermal-solar plants, retrofitting abandoned oil wells, and advanced geothermal systems.
MNRE will act as the nodal ministry, working with international partners and multilateral institutions to establish pilot projects. Detailed guidelines, standard operating procedures, and periodic progress reports will be issued. In its initial phase, MNRE has approved five projects focused on pilot demonstrations and resource evaluation.
This policy could significantly shape India’s energy sector. By diversifying its renewable portfolio, India can enhance energy security and reduce reliance on variable renewable sources like solar and wind. Geothermal’s baseload capability can provide a stable power supply, crucial for India’s growing energy demands. Moreover, the policy’s emphasis on innovation and international collaboration could accelerate technological advancements and make geothermal energy more accessible and efficient.
As MNRE Secretary Indu Shekhar Chaturvedi stated, “The policy is a step towards harnessing the untapped potential of geothermal energy, which can play a significant role in India’s renewable energy transition.” This strategic move could indeed catalyze a geothermal energy revolution in India, setting a precedent for other nations with similar geothermal potential.