NEWS

• Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has prepared a National Policy on Geothermal Energy.
• Objective: Promote geothermal energy as an additional renewable resource to help meet India’s 2070 net-zero target.

HIGHLIGHTS

What is Geothermal Energy?

• Harnesses heat stored in Earth’s crust.
• High-enthalpy resources (volcanic regions, geysers, hot springs) primarily used for electricity generation.
• Currently, geothermal remains largely untapped in India despite potential.

Key Goals of the Policy

• Advance geothermal research & exploration.
• Improve drilling techniques and reservoir management.
• Develop cost-effective power generation and direct-use technologies.
• Encourage collaboration with global geothermal bodies and national research institutes.

Geothermal Potential in India

• Geological Survey of India (GSI) has identified 10 geothermal provinces including:
  • Himalayan Province
  • Naga-Lusai
  • Andaman & Nicobar Islands
  • Son-Narmada-Tapi Belt

Implementation Measures

• Resource Data Repository: MNRE to create a national geothermal data repository.
• Collaboration with Oil & Gas sector: Utilize deep drilling and abandoned wells for geothermal projects.
• Regulatory Framework: Developers must submit data post-survey to repository.

Investment & Indigenous Focus

• 100% FDI permitted in renewable energy sector, including geothermal.
• Preference to indigenous technologies to reduce import dependency.
• Promotion of local innovation in drilling and monitoring.

Way Forward

• Central and State governments may announce additional guidelines, incentives, and financial support.
• Policy emphasizes sustainable, scalable, and bankable geothermal development.
• If implemented effectively, geothermal could diversify India’s renewable energy mix and support climate goals.