India’s Geothermal Energy: 10600 MW Potential Unlocked by MNRE’s Bold Initiative

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has introduced the Renewable Energy Research and Technology Development (RE-RTD) Programme to advance renewable energy innovations in India. With an estimated geothermal potential of 10,600 MW, the Geological Survey of India (GSI) has identified 381 geothermal sites, compiling key insights in the Geothermal Atlas of India, 2022. While Andhra Pradesh is included in research efforts, no geothermal power projects have been initiated in the state.

Currently, India’s only operational geothermal project is a 20 kW pilot plant set up by Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) in Telangana. Despite its small scale, this project represents a crucial step in utilizing geothermal energy. The RE-RTD programme focuses on fostering indigenous technology, cutting costs, and improving efficiency. By promoting research and development, MNRE aims to unlock geothermal energy’s full potential. This initiative plays a vital role in accelerating India’s transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.

India’s Geothermal Energy: 10600 MW Potential Unlocked by MNRE’s Bold Initiative

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has launched the Renewable Energy Research and Technology Development (RE-RTD) Programme, a pioneering initiative to accelerate India’s transition to clean energy. By bringing together research institutions and industry experts, the program aims to develop affordable, cutting-edge solutions for various renewable energy sources, including the largely untapped geothermal sector.

India’s Untapped Geothermal Potential

India has vast geothermal energy prospects, with an estimated capacity of 10,600 megawatts (MW), as highlighted by Shripad Yesso Naik, Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy. To map this potential, the Geological Survey of India (GSI) has identified 381 geothermal hotspots across the country. Their findings, compiled in the Geothermal Atlas of India (2022), provide critical insights into underground temperatures, water flow rates, and chemical compositions of these regions. This atlas serves as a roadmap for researchers and policymakers, helping them prioritize areas for exploration and development.

Research Over Projects: Andhra Pradesh’s Role

Under the RE-RTD programme, states like Andhra Pradesh are actively contributing to geothermal research. While the state has no operational geothermal power projects yet, efforts are focused on advancing scientific studies and technological innovations. Researchers are assessing local geothermal resources to determine their feasibility for future energy production. The program’s emphasis on research and development (R&D) reflects a strategic approach—building a strong knowledge base before scaling up infrastructure.

India’s First Geothermal Milestone

Although geothermal energy is still in its early stages in India, the country has made progress with a 20-kilowatt (kW) pilot plant in Manuguru, Telangana. Developed by the Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL), this small-scale project demonstrates the feasibility of converting geothermal heat into electricity. While its output is modest, the plant marks a crucial breakthrough, proving that India’s geothermal resources can be effectively harnessed.

Why Geothermal Matters

Geothermal energy—generated from the Earth’s internal heat—offers a reliable and continuous power source, unlike solar or wind energy, which depend on weather conditions. It holds significant promise for heating, electricity, and industrial applications. However, high upfront costs and technical challenges in drilling and resource extraction have slowed its adoption. The RE-RTD programme seeks to overcome these barriers by developing homegrown technologies suited to India’s unique geological conditions.

The RE-RTD Programme: Bridging Gaps

The RE-RTD initiative is more than just a research effort—it’s a collaborative platform where academia and industry work together to address real-world challenges. Key focus areas include:

• Cost Reduction: Developing innovative drilling techniques and materials to lower exploration expenses.
• Efficiency Boost: Enhancing energy conversion systems to maximize output.
• Sustainability: Minimizing environmental impact during resource extraction.

By investing in these areas, the program aims to make geothermal energy commercially viable, paving the way for large-scale projects.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Despite its potential, geothermal energy faces several obstacles. Many identified sites are located in ecologically sensitive or remote areas, requiring careful planning to avoid environmental damage. Additionally, limited public awareness and policy support have slowed progress. The MNRE is addressing these challenges by promoting industry partnerships, funding research, and integrating geothermal energy into national renewable energy goals.

A Sustainable Vision

The RE-RTD programme underscores India’s commitment to diversifying its energy mix and reducing its dependence on fossil fuels. Geothermal energy, alongside solar and wind, could play a crucial role in achieving the country’s target of 500 GW of renewable capacity by 2030. Success in this field would not only enhance energy security but also generate jobs, support rural electrification, and reduce carbon emissions.

Conclusion

India’s geothermal journey is just beginning. With the RE-RTD programme laying the foundation for innovation, the coming years could witness significant advancements. Andhra Pradesh’s research efforts, combined with the success of Telangana’s pilot project, provide hope for a future where geothermal energy plays a meaningful role in India’s green energy transition. By prioritizing R&D and fostering collaboration, MNRE is steering the country toward a cleaner, more self-reliant, and sustainable energy future—one where the Earth’s hidden heat becomes a key driver of progress.