| Abstract |
The geo-tectonic environment of the Ladakh region Himalayas is very conducive for the occurrence of abundant geothermal energy resources that are exploitable, based upon the available technologies. Hydrothermal manifestations and granitic plutons do occur at its various locations. Buried granites are the substantial source of heat energy and therefore have potential as enhanced geothermal resources. Various geo-investigations, including exploratory drilling and experimental utilization have been carried out at its two locations : Puga valley and Clumatang. However geothermal energy based commercial power generation and its use for non-electrical purposes have not commenced yet. Puga valley Ladakh is the most promising geothermal field of India. Its thermal fluids are associated with significant amounts of cesium, lithium, rubidium and some other active constituents which suggest their association with recent magnetic activity. Such a phenomenon is supported by the location of Puga Valley, which is towards south of Indus Sutur Zone, where wide spread partial melt generated from the subducted Indian crust is inferred from the presence of high electrical conductance within the crust. Our earlier studies established the presence of a shallow reservoir beneath Puga Valley with estimated power potential of 50 MWYear and led to the inference of deep reservoir located at depths km, with a reservoir temperature around 265°C. Recently reported magneto-telluric studies have established the presence of such a deep reservoir of about kms thickness.Using most of the available data we have modeled the estimated power potential of the Puga deep reservoir as 58 MWe for 100 years. The heat energy from the granitic intrusions of the Ladakh region, which are under a compressive stress regime, can he explored and exploited also. The technology is available for the purpose. Fossil fuels are mostly transported to large distances from the plains to Ladakh. However, small hydroelectric power generation potential does exist. Ladhak’s abundant geothermal energy resources holds a great potential for its sustainable socioeconomic development by providing clean and secure energy for various purposes including power generation, space heating, food processing and preservation and minerals extraction etc. The task ahead is to explore some of these and to generate power at Puga through national expertise and international cooperation. Plans are being made to achieve the objective. |