ONGC Energy Centre, Ladakh Administration extend pact for India’s first Geothermal Power Project

New Delhi: The ONGC Energy Centre has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Union Territory Administration of Ladakh and the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council to extend their collaboration for another five years for the development of India’s first geothermal power project at Puga Valley in Ladakh.

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The agreement, signed on June 4, seeks to advance geothermal energy development in the Himalayan region through the establishment of a 1 MWe pilot geothermal power plant. Located at an altitude of over 14,000 feet, Puga Valley is considered one of the world's most promising geothermal provinces and is expected to serve as the foundation for commercial-scale geothermal power generation in India.

The project has already achieved a significant milestone with the successful drilling of India’s first geothermal well by the ONGC Energy Centre. According to the organisation, the well has generated sufficient steam for sustainable power production despite the region's challenging terrain and extreme weather conditions.

The breakthrough marks a major step in India's efforts to harness geothermal energy and places the country among a select group of nations pursuing geothermal resources as a dependable, round-the-clock renewable energy source.

The Puga geothermal project is expected to strengthen energy security in the Himalayan region, reduce reliance on conventional fuels, support sustainable development and generate economic opportunities for local communities. The initiative is also aligned with the vision of Narendra Modi to promote alternative energy resources and supports India's long-term zet-zero commitments.

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The MoU has been signed by Rudra Goud P. T., Administrative Secretary, Power Development and New & Renewable Energy Department, UT Ladakh; Romil Singh Donk, Deputy Commissioner, Leh; and Sunil Kumar on behalf of their respective organisations.

The renewed partnership is expected to accelerate India's geothermal energy ambitions and contribute to diversifying the country's renewable energy portfolio.

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