R Meenakshi Sundaram Pushes Geothermal Expansion as Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Explores New Sites in Uttarakhand – EQ
In Short : Uttarakhand is accelerating efforts to explore geothermal energy potential in partnership with ONGC, with additional sites under evaluation. The initiative aims to harness clean, baseload power from geothermal resources to diversify the state’s renewable mix. Expanding geothermal development could improve energy reliability, support sustainable growth, and unlock long-term low-emission power generation opportunities in mountainous regions.
In Detail : Uttarakhand is stepping up efforts to explore geothermal energy as a reliable and sustainable power source, with new locations being assessed in collaboration with ONGC. The initiative reflects growing interest in tapping underground heat resources to complement existing renewable energy capacity. Geothermal energy offers round-the-clock generation, making it an attractive option for strengthening energy security in mountainous regions.
Geothermal energy differs from solar and wind by providing stable baseload power. Heat stored beneath the earth’s surface can be converted into electricity or used for direct heating applications. This reliability makes geothermal projects valuable for balancing intermittent renewable sources and reducing dependence on conventional fossil-fuel-based generation.
The state has already identified potential geothermal zones, particularly in regions with natural hot springs and favorable geological formations. Expanding exploration to additional sites aims to better understand resource availability and commercial feasibility. Detailed surveys, drilling studies, and temperature assessments are typically conducted to evaluate long-term energy potential.
Collaboration with ONGC brings technical expertise in subsurface exploration and drilling operations. The company’s experience in geological mapping and resource assessment can help accelerate identification of viable geothermal reservoirs. Such partnerships also reduce project risks and support structured development of geothermal infrastructure.
Geothermal energy development can provide multiple benefits for Uttarakhand. Apart from electricity generation, geothermal heat can be used for tourism, greenhouse farming, space heating, and wellness applications. These additional uses can create local economic opportunities while promoting sustainable development in remote regions.
The initiative aligns with broader efforts to diversify the renewable energy mix. While hydropower remains a key source in hill states, geothermal energy offers an alternative that is less dependent on seasonal water availability. This diversification improves resilience and helps maintain stable energy supply throughout the year.
Exploring geothermal sites also supports long-term decarbonisation goals. Geothermal plants typically have low emissions and small land footprints compared to other generation technologies. Development of such projects can contribute to clean energy targets while minimizing environmental impact.
However, geothermal development requires careful planning, including environmental assessments and resource sustainability studies. Drilling costs, geological uncertainties, and infrastructure challenges in hilly terrain must be addressed. Pilot projects and phased development can help validate technical and financial feasibility before large-scale deployment.
The move to explore additional geothermal locations signals growing interest in unlocking untapped renewable resources. With technical collaboration, policy support, and targeted investment, geothermal energy could emerge as a dependable clean power option. Expanding exploration efforts may help Uttarakhand build a diversified, reliable, and sustainable energy portfolio for the future.
