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India Geothermal Energy

In 2022, India’s Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) had plans to develop a major geothermal energy power facility in Ladakh, but it abandoned its first drilling attempt after encountering a high volume of uncontrolled water and lack of advanced equipment. Now, it is gearing up for a fresh geothermal campaign in Ladakh to meet India’s growing energy needs.

ONGC plans to drill wells in Ladakh in the coming months and plans to set up a 1 MW power plant by next year. The water temperature at the first drill well in Puga is expected to be around 220F degrees to pipe hot water or steam to the surface, which would then be used to power a turbine to generate electricity.

The Geological Survey of India’s (GSI) mapping of India’s geothermal resources estimates 10 GW geothermal power potential per the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. Puga and Chumathang in eastern Ladakh seem to be the most promising geothermal fields in India. Efforts are also being made to utilize geothermal energy from existing oil and gas wells in ONGC’s Gandhar oil field in Ankleshwar, Gujarat, followed by Cambay Basin in Gujarat.

Opportunities for U.S. Companies

U.S. companies specializing in geothermal technology can explore opportunities in the Indian market, where geothermal energy is being viewed as a supplemental solution to energy storage and available backup options.

For entry into the Indian market, U.S. companies should identify quality, knowledgeable partners. Strategic planning, due diligence, and consistent follow-ups are the prerequisites for doing business successfully in India. U.S. companies may consider the following local trade show to showcase their technology and meet Indian partners:

The U.S. Commercial Service India team stands ready to help you conduct market research, find the right local partner, or establish a local presence. For further information regarding opportunities in this sector, please reach out to your local U.S. office or contact the U.S. Commercial Service in India.