FAST READ
- GSI estimates theoretical geothermal potential of about 10,600 MW.
- India has mapped 381 hot springs and identified 42 promising geothermal manifestations.
- The National Policy on Geothermal Energy was notified on 15 September 2025.
WHY IN NEWS
- A 4 September 2026 PIB backgrounder highlighted geothermal energy after commissioning of India's first two geothermal wells in Ladakh.
- The topic matters because geothermal can provide low-carbon energy that is available round the clock.
TOP DATA & FACTS
- Estimated theoretical geothermal resource: about 10,600 MW.
- Hot springs mapped by GSI: 381.
- Promising geothermal manifestations identified: 42.
- National Policy notification date: 15 September 2025.
- Projects sanctioned during July-August 2025: 5.
- International cooperation mechanisms cited with 4 countries: Australia, Iceland, Saudi Arabia and the United States.
- First 2 geothermal wells in Ladakh mark an early demonstration milestone.
- India's net-zero target year: 2070.
- Geothermal can provide 24x7 firm renewable heat/power where geology is suitable.
- The policy also recognises possible reuse of abandoned oil and gas wells for geothermal recovery.
PRELIMS
- Geothermal energy derives from heat within the Earth.
- Unlike solar generation, geothermal output need not depend on daylight.
- India's geothermal resources are spatially concentrated in suitable geological zones.
- Estimated theoretical geothermal resource: about 10,600 MW.
- Hot springs mapped by GSI: 381.
- Promising geothermal manifestations identified: 42.
QUICK REVISION
- Estimated theoretical geothermal resource: about 10,600 MW.
- Hot springs mapped by GSI: 381.
- Promising geothermal manifestations identified: 42.
PROBABLE OBJECTIVE QUESTION
With reference to the above topic, consider the following statements:
- Geothermal energy can provide firm renewable energy where suitable resources exist.
- India's theoretical geothermal potential has been estimated at around 10,600 MW.
- Geothermal power requires solar radiation as its primary energy source. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only