| Abstract |
The Geothermal resources are widely spread in India along Himalayan belt, West Coast of India, Narmada Tapi lineament and Godavari valley. Total 340 hot springs are reported in India, ranging in temperature from 32°C to 97°C at surface. Geological survey of India has carried out investigations for proving resource potential of some promising fields like Puga in Jammu & Kashmir, Tatapani in Chhattisgarh state, Tapoban and Manikaran in Himachal Pradesh, and hot springs of West coast of India. Geological mapping, geophysical survey, and drilling at shallow level was completed in these geothermal areas. Inspite of completing the exploration in these areas, the development of geothermal resources is still awaited. The geothermal resources are useful in providing energy in remote areas and as a substitute to the fossil fuels. Considering the need to develop environmental friendly energy resources, it is proposed to prepare a strategy for development of geothermal resources in India. The main constrain in development of geothermal resources in India is lack of facility for deeper level more than 200m depth, exploration by drilling, and involvement of private entrepreneur as end user of the geothermal energy. It is proposed to have systematic plan involving geological investigation to identify anomalous energy resource zones to prioritize further exploration programme, involving technical expertise from India and abroad; offering incentives to geothermal energy development at par with the non- conventional energy resources like Solar and Wind energy. It is also suggested to encourage private – public partnership with incentives for foreign direct investment, with duty concessions for import of machinery required for geothermal exploration and power generation. Technical collaboration with the leading agencies with scope for technology transfer may be encouraged. Geothermal exploration requires heavy investment at initial stages. Finance may be made available at concessional rates. Besides, as cost of electricity generated by geothermal source is high initially, suitable subsidy may be provided for encouraging development of geothermal resources in India. |