Tapping the Earth's Core: India’s Journey to Geothermal Energy Potential!
Kshitij Majji
Passionate B.Tech Applied Petroleum Engineering Graduate eager to contribute to the energy industry||Summer Internship at Gail (India) Limited, Jaipur||Chief Editor at UPES AAPG Student Chapter
”The Earth is a vast reservoir of energy waiting to be tapped.”
In the pursuit of sustainable energy solutions, geothermal energy emerges as a formidable contender for India, a nation grappling with escalating energy demands. This renewable resource, harnessed from the Earth’s internal heat, offers a consistent and reliable power supply that stands in stark contrast to the intermittency of solar and wind energy. As the Geological Survey of India identifies over 340 geothermal sites with an estimated capacity of 10,600 megawatts, the potential for geothermal energy to reshape India’s energy landscape becomes increasingly apparent. Technologies such as dry steam, flash steam, and binary cycle power plants are poised to tap into these underground reservoirs, providing a robust alternative to fossil fuels.
Recognizing the critical role of geothermal energy in its renewable energy strategy, the Indian government has set ambitious targets. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) aims to harness 10 gigawatts of geothermal power by 2030 through international collaborations with countries like the United States, Mexico, and New Zealand. This collaborative approach not only facilitates the transfer of knowledge and technology but also accelerates the development of a sustainable geothermal industry in India. The recent commissioning of a 20-kilowatt pilot plant in Telangana, utilizing binary Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) technology, marks a significant milestone in demonstrating the viability of geothermal resources for electricity generation.
As India transitions towards cleaner energy sources, geothermal energy offers substantial environmental benefits. It produces minimal greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional fossil fuels, contributing to India’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070. Furthermore, the development of geothermal resources can create employment opportunities and stimulate local economies, particularly in remote areas where these resources are located. By integrating geothermal energy into its energy mix, India not only enhances its energy security but also takes a decisive step towards sustainable development, ensuring a cleaner and more resilient future for generations to come.
History
The journey of geothermal energy exploration in India began earnestly in the early 1970s, catalyzed by the global oil crisis that underscored the need for alternative energy sources. In 1973, the Geological Survey of India (GSI) initiated systematic studies to assess the geothermal potential across the country. This marked a significant turning point as various techniques, including remote sensing, seismic surveys, and electrical resistivity measurements, were employed to identify promising geothermal provinces. Key areas such as Puga Valley, Manikaran, and Tattapani emerged as focal points for exploration, revealing the country’s rich geothermal resources. The GSI and the National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI) played pivotal roles in these early efforts, conducting extensive geological and geochemical analyses while drilling exploratory boreholes to investigate thermal zones.
As exploration efforts progressed, so did the evolution of India’s policy framework regarding renewable energy. The government recognized the necessity of developing a robust geothermal sector to enhance energy security and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Over the decades, various policies have been formulated to support renewable energy initiatives, including geothermal projects. However, challenges persisted in the exploitation of these resources. High initial capital costs and limited technical expertise hindered widespread adoption. Furthermore, the dominance of cheaper coal-based power generation created a significant barrier to investment in geothermal energy infrastructure. Despite these hurdles, the Indian government has remained committed to fostering a sustainable geothermal industry through international collaborations and research initiatives.
Today, India stands at a critical juncture in its geothermal journey. With an estimated untapped capacity of approximately 10,600 megawatts identified in the Geothermal Atlas of India published in 2022, the potential for growth is immense. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has set ambitious targets to harness 10 gigawatts of geothermal power by 2030, emphasizing collaboration with countries such as the United States and New Zealand to facilitate knowledge transfer and technological advancements. As pilot projects like the 20-kilowatt plant in Telangana demonstrate the viability of geothermal technology, India is poised to unlock its geothermal potential fully. By addressing historical challenges and leveraging its vast geothermal resources, India can pave the way for a cleaner, more sustainable energy future while contributing significantly to global climate goals.
Policy framework evolution
The evolution of geothermal energy policy in India reflects a growing recognition of the need for sustainable energy solutions amid escalating demands. The journey began in earnest in the early 1970s when the Geological Survey of India (GSI) initiated systematic exploration efforts to assess the geothermal potential across the nation. This period saw the identification of key geothermal provinces, including Puga Valley, Manikaran, and Tattapani, which were characterized by high heat flow and favorable geological conditions. However, despite these promising discoveries, the exploitation of geothermal resources faced significant hurdles. Initial efforts were hampered by high capital costs, limited technical expertise, and a regulatory framework that had yet to fully embrace renewable energy sources.
As India moved into the 21st century, the government began to recognize the importance of a robust policy framework to support renewable energy initiatives, including geothermal energy. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has been at the forefront of this evolution, launching various programs aimed at fostering research and development in geothermal technologies. In 2024, the MNRE established a dedicated Task Force led by Dr. A.K. Tripathi to review and implement the “Indian Geothermal Energy Development Framework.” This strategic blueprint aims to facilitate international collaboration and knowledge transfer, drawing insights from countries with established geothermal sectors such as the United States and New Zealand. The Task Force’s mandate includes evaluating global geothermal technologies and identifying viable applications tailored to India’s unique geological context.
Despite these advancements, challenges persist in harnessing India’s geothermal potential. The historical reliance on coal as a primary energy source has created an economic barrier to investment in geothermal projects, which often require substantial upfront capital and long-term commitment. Additionally, there is a pressing need for skilled professionals equipped with expertise in geothermal technologies. The newly formed Task Force aims to address these issues by proposing solutions that streamline regulatory processes and enhance technical training programs. As India strives for energy independence and sustainability, overcoming these challenges will be crucial for unlocking the vast potential of geothermal energy, positioning it as a key player in the nation’s renewable energy landscape.
Current Status of Geothermal Energy in India
Geothermal energy in India is emerging as a promising renewable resource, with significant potential identified through recent assessments and pilot projects.
Resource Assessment
The Geothermal Atlas of India (2022), published by the Geological Survey of India (GSI), has estimated the geothermal energy potential in the country to be approximately 10,600 MW. This assessment is based on extensive exploration conducted across 381 thermally anomalous areas throughout India, which included detailed studies on temperature, discharge, and water quality in various geothermal fields.
Active Projects and Research Initiatives
India’s geothermal energy sector has seen some notable developments:
The 20 kW pilot geothermal plant in Telangana, commissioned by Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL), utilizes Binary Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) technology. This closed-loop system extracts heat from geothermal resources found at a depth of 1,000 meters, which were initially discovered during coal exploration. The plant converts this thermal energy into electricity, marking India’s first operational geothermal power facility. Construction began in 2021 with funding of approximately INR 2.42 crore from the Ministry of Coal, aiming to demonstrate the viability of geothermal energy in India.?
The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) is progressing with its geothermal energy initiative in the Puga Valley, Ladakh, where it plans to establish a 1 MW geothermal power plant. Initial drilling began in 2022, revealing encouraging temperatures of 130 degrees Celsius at a depth of just 40 meters. However, operations were temporarily suspended due to environmental concerns following a blowout incident that led to hot water flowing into the Puga Stream, raising alarms among local communities and environmental groups. To address these issues, ONGC has upgraded its drilling equipment and is set to resume work in 2024, targeting depths of 1,000 meters where temperatures are anticipated to exceed 200 degrees Celsius. This project, supported by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Union Territory Administration of Ladakh and the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, also involves collaboration with Iceland Geothermal (ISOR) to navigate the complexities of geothermal extraction. As drilling resumes, ONGC is committed to responsible development by employing advanced techniques to minimize environmental impact while aiming to provide clean, sustainable energy for local communities and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
The Centre of Excellence for Geothermal Energy (CEGE) at Pandit Deendayal Energy University plays a crucial role in advancing geothermal research. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) supports various research initiatives under its Renewable Energy Research and Technology Development Programme (RE-RTD), although specific funding for geothermal R&D has been limited in recent years.
India’s geothermal energy landscape is characterized by its nascent stage of development but holds considerable promise for future growth. With ongoing pilot projects and international collaborations, there is potential for significant advancements in this sector.
Utilisation of Geothermal Energy:?
Technologies Used?
The Binary Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) is a prominent technology for generating electricity from geothermal energy, particularly from low to medium temperature resources. ORC systems utilize organic fluids with lower boiling points than water, allowing them to efficiently convert geothermal heat into electricity.
In India, a notable application is the planned 50 kW ORC setup in Unai, Gujarat, where geothermal wells will provide the necessary heat source1. Globally, ORC technology has been successfully implemented in countries like Iceland and the USA, showcasing its effectiveness in harnessing geothermal resources.
The ORC's closed-loop system minimizes environmental impact by preventing direct contact between the geothermal fluid and turbine components, thus ensuring no emissions are released during operation. This technology represents a sustainable solution for utilizing geothermal energy, particularly in regions with lower geothermal gradients.
Case Studies from International Examples and Their Relevance to India
Iceland serves as a leading example of effective geothermal energy utilization. The country generates about 90% of its primary energy from renewable sources, with geothermal energy playing a crucial role in both electricity generation and district heating. Iceland’s geothermal resources are harnessed not only for power but also for heating homes, swimming pools, and greenhouses, demonstrating a cascading use of geothermal energy that enhances economic resilience and environmental sustainability.
The economic benefits of utilizing geothermal energy in Iceland are substantial, contributing approximately 3.5% to the country’s GDP by replacing oil for space heating. This model highlights the potential for India to similarly exploit its geothermal resources to bolster energy security and reduce fossil fuel dependency, particularly in regions like Ladakh where geothermal potential is high.
The Garching geothermal plant, operational since 2021, exemplifies innovative geothermal electricity generation. It utilizes an Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) system to convert thermal water into electricity, supplying around 14,000 households while maintaining a high operational availability rate. This project showcases the feasibility of integrating geothermal plants into the existing energy mix and their potential to provide stable baseload power without carbon emissions.
For India, adopting similar ORC technology can facilitate the development of geothermal plants in identified provinces, enhancing local energy supply and contributing to national renewable energy targets.
India’s first geothermal project is underway in the Puga Valley of Ladakh, where the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) is exploring high-temperature geothermal resources. This project aims to establish a one-megawatt pilot plant with plans for future expansion. The initiative is significant not only for its potential to generate clean energy but also for its role in reducing reliance on diesel generators in remote areas.
The Puga Valley project aligns with India’s goals of achieving carbon neutrality and diversifying its renewable energy portfolio. The success of this project could serve as a model for further exploration and development of geothermal resources across the country, particularly in regions with identified geothermal hot springs.
Direct Use Applications:
Geothermal energy has diverse direct use applications that significantly benefit agriculture, aquaculture, and community wellness.
Agriculture: Geothermal heat is utilized for greenhouse heating, enhancing plant growth by providing consistent temperatures. This method improves crop yields and reduces reliance on fossil fuels for heating.
Aquaculture: In fish farming, geothermal energy maintains optimal water temperatures, leading to faster growth rates and higher survival rates of fish. It also minimizes disease risks by stabilizing aquatic environments, as seen in facilities like Blue Ridge Aquaculture in Virginia.
Spa Applications: Geothermal hot springs are popular for therapeutic bathing, attracting tourism and enhancing local economies. They provide community benefits by promoting health and wellness while supporting eco-friendly tourism initiatives.
Government Policies and Support Mechanisms:
The Government of India, through the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), has taken significant steps to promote geothermal energy as part of its broader renewable energy strategy. The MNRE has initiated various programs aimed at developing the geothermal sector, including the establishment of a dedicated Task Force led by Dr. A.K. Tripathi. This Task Force is responsible for reviewing the draft Indian Geothermal Energy Development Framework, which aims to harness 10 GW of geothermal capacity by 2030. The framework emphasizes the importance of international collaboration, particularly with countries like the United States, Mexico, and New Zealand, to facilitate technology transfer and best practices.
To further support geothermal development, the MNRE offers substantial financial incentives: up to 100% funding for research organizations and up to 70% for private sector initiatives involved in geothermal projects. This financial backing is crucial for fostering innovation and reducing the financial barriers associated with initial capital investments in geothermal technologies. The draft policy also outlines plans for creating demonstration projects to assess technical viability before scaling up to commercial operations, thereby ensuring that investments are based on proven technologies.
Despite these advancements, challenges remain in fully realizing India’s geothermal potential, primarily due to historical reliance on coal and limited technical expertise in geothermal technologies. However, the MNRE’s commitment to building a sustainable and environmentally responsible geothermal energy industry reflects a strategic vision that aligns with India’s renewable energy targets and its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. By addressing these challenges and leveraging its vast geothermal resources, India is poised to enhance its energy security while contributing significantly to global efforts in combating climate change.
Challenges Facing Geothermal Development:
Geothermal energy is a promising renewable resource, but its development faces several challenges. These can be broadly categorized into technical challenges and environmental and social considerations.
Technical Challenges
The development of geothermal energy projects requires significant upfront investment. This includes costs associated with exploration, drilling, and plant construction. The financial risk is substantial because the viability of a geothermal resource must be confirmed through exploratory drilling, which can be both expensive and uncertain.
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Current technologies for harnessing geothermal energy are still evolving. There are limitations in drilling techniques, heat extraction methods, and the ability to efficiently convert geothermal heat into electricity. For instance, enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) require advanced technology to create artificial reservoirs in hot rock formations, which is still under research and development.
Geothermal resources are not uniformly distributed; they are often located in specific geological settings like tectonic plate boundaries or volcanic regions. This means that not all regions have access to viable geothermal resources, limiting the geographical scope of potential development. Additionally, the geological characteristics of a site can complicate drilling and resource extraction, leading to further technical challenges.
Environmental and Social Considerations
Geothermal energy extraction can have several environmental impacts:
The fluids extracted from geothermal reservoirs may contain harmful substances such as heavy metals and salts, which can contaminate local water supplies if not managed properly. Open-loop systems pose a higher risk of water contamination compared to closed-loop systems that reinject fluids back into the earth.
Geothermal power plants can emit gases like hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and carbon dioxide (CO2), which can contribute to air quality issues. While emissions from geothermal plants are significantly lower than those from fossil fuel plants, they still represent a concern that must be addressed through proper management.
The physical footprint of geothermal plants is smaller than that of traditional fossil fuel plants; however, land disturbance during drilling and construction can impact local ecosystems.
The extraction of geothermal fluids can induce seismic events if not carefully monitored, raising concerns about the stability of the surrounding area.
Community Engagement Strategies
Effective community engagement is crucial for the successful implementation of geothermal projects. Strategies include:
Building Trust: Engaging local communities early in the process helps build trust and address concerns about environmental impacts. This includes transparent communication about potential risks and benefits associated with geothermal development.
Social License to Operate: Obtaining a social license involves ensuring that local communities feel heard and valued in decision-making processes. This may include public consultations, educational outreach, and incorporating community feedback into project planning.
Mitigation Measures: Developing strategies to mitigate environmental impacts can alleviate community concerns. This includes implementing technologies to minimize emissions and ensuring responsible management of water resources
Future Prospects and Strategic Recommendations
To effectively harness the potential of geothermal energy, several strategic recommendations can be made across various dimensions, including expansion goals, investment opportunities, expertise development, and regulatory enhancements.
Expansion Goals
The target of harnessing 10 GW of geothermal power by 2030 through international collaborations is ambitious yet achievable. This goal aligns with global trends toward increasing renewable energy capacity, particularly in light of commitments made at international conferences like COP28, where countries pledged to triple renewable energy production by 2030. To reach this target, it is crucial to:
Implement advanced geothermal technologies that enhance efficiency and access to geothermal resources, such as Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS). These technologies can significantly expand the geographic scope of geothermal energy production by utilizing hot dry rock formations.
Collaborate with nations that have established geothermal markets and expertise. Countries like Iceland and the Philippines can provide valuable insights and technologies that can be adapted for local conditions.
Create designated areas for geothermal development that include infrastructure for research, development, and deployment. This could involve partnerships with local governments and private entities to establish pilot projects that demonstrate feasibility and attract further investment.
Investment Opportunities
Attracting private investment is essential for achieving the 10 GW target. This can be facilitated through:
Governments should develop attractive incentive structures such as tax credits, grants, and subsidies specifically for geothermal projects. The Inflation Reduction Act in the U.S. serves as a model for how policy can stimulate investment in clean energy sectors.
Encourage collaborations between government entities and private companies to share risks associated with geothermal exploration and development. Such partnerships can lower costs and improve project viability.
Highlight successful geothermal projects to build confidence among investors. Case studies demonstrating profitable operations in regions with similar geological conditions can serve as powerful tools for attracting funding.
Building Expertise and Infrastructure
Developing a skilled workforce is critical for the growth of the geothermal sector. This can be achieved through:
Establish specialized educational programs focusing on geothermal engineering at universities and technical colleges. These programs should include practical training opportunities through internships or partnerships with existing geothermal facilities.
Promote research initiatives that explore innovative methods of harnessing geothermal energy. Collaboration with research institutions can lead to breakthroughs in technology that enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
Organize workshops and conferences that bring together industry experts, researchers, and students to share knowledge and best practices in geothermal energy development.
Regulatory Framework Enhancements
A streamlined regulatory process is vital for expediting project approvals. Recommendations include:
Review and revise existing regulatory frameworks to reduce the number of environmental reviews required for geothermal projects. For instance, aligning geothermal permitting processes more closely with those used in oil and gas drilling could significantly shorten approval timeline.
Provide clear guidelines for developers regarding environmental assessments and compliance requirements. This transparency will help new entrants navigate the regulatory landscape more efficiently.
Involve local communities, environmental groups, and other stakeholders early in the project planning process to address concerns proactively and facilitate smoother approvals.
By focusing on these strategic areas—expansion goals, investment opportunities, expertise building, and regulatory enhancements—stakeholders can position themselves to capitalize on the vast potential of geothermal energy as a key player in the transition to a sustainable energy future.