India's first geothermal wells at Puga Valley (Ladakh) mark a major step towards harnessing indigenous geothermal energy for clean, renewable, and round-the-clock power generation.
News: India commissioned its first and deepest geothermal wells at Puga Valley, Ladakh, marking a milestone in the country's clean energy transition and Ladakh's carbon-neutral vision.
About
- Two geothermal wells drilled to a depth of 1,000 metres at an altitude of over 14,000 feet.
- The wells will support India's first 1 MW pilot geothermal power plant.
Key Highlights
- Harnesses heat from the Earth's interior to generate 24×7 renewable electricity.
- Maximum temperature of 135°C recorded at 400 metres depth.
- Implemented by ONGC Energy Centre in collaboration with the Ladakh Administration and LAHDC, Leh.
- Guided by the National Policy on Geothermal Energy, 2025.
About Puga Valley
- Located in the Changthang region of Ladakh, about 22 km from Salt Lake Valley.
- Famous for its hot sulphur springs and rich geothermal resources.
- Considered India's most promising geothermal energy site.
Geothermal Energy
- Renewable energy obtained from the Earth's internal heat.
- Used for electricity generation, heating and cooling.
- Provides reliable baseload power, unlike weather-dependent solar and wind energy.
Significance
- Advances India's clean energy and energy security goals.
- Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat and Net Zero commitments.
- Opens avenues for harnessing India's estimated 10,600 MW geothermal potential.