Why in the news?

  • The Energy Efficiency Services Limited(ESSL) is preparing to set up the largest Geothermal Energy technology pilot project in Andhra Pradesh.

Geothermal Energy

  • What is it?: 
    • Geothermal energy is the heat derived from the Earth’s interior that can be harnessed for electricity generation, heating, and other applications.
    • It originates from the radioactive decay of elements and the residual heat from the planet’s formation.
  • Global Scenario:
    • Major producers: USA, Indonesia, Philippines, New Zealand, Iceland, and Kenya.
    • Iceland gets over 25% of its energy from geothermal sources.
    • FAO and IRENA promote geothermal for low-carbon development.
  • Indian Scenario:
    • Estimated potential: ≈10 GW as per Geological Survey of India.
    • Major Geothermal Provinces:
      • Himalayan belt – Puga (Ladakh), Chhumathang
      • Son-Narmada-Tapi (SONATA) belt – Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat
      • Cambay Graben – Gujarat
      • Godavari and Mahanadi basins – Andhra Pradesh, Odisha
      • West coast & Andaman-Nicobar Islands
  • Advantages
    • Renewable: Unlimited heat from Earth’s core.
    • Clean Energy: Low CO₂ emissions compared to fossil fuels.
    • Cost-Efficient in Some Areas: Used for heating homes, baths, and generating electricity.
    • High Energy Yield: Modular expansion possible; competitive electricity costs.
  • Challenges
    • High upfront exploration and drilling costs.
    • Site-specific resource availability.
    • Technological gaps and lack of skilled manpower.
    • Seismic risks and groundwater contamination if not managed properly.
    • Limited public/private investment and data in India.
  • Government Initiatives
    • MNRE’s National Geothermal Energy Policy (Draft): promotes exploration, R&D, and private investment.
    • Puga Geothermal Project (Ladakh): India’s first geothermal power plant (piloted by ONGC Energy Centre & Ladakh UT Administration).
    • The National Clean Energy Fund can support geothermal research.