Has the Government Unveiled the National Policy on Geothermal Energy for Net Zero?
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Synopsis
The Indian government has officially launched the National Policy on Geothermal Energy (2025), which aims to support the nation's Net Zero goal by 2070. This initiative is a significant step towards enhancing energy security and diversifying renewable energy sources.
Key Takeaways
- National Policy on Geothermal Energy introduced by the Indian government.
- Aim to achieve Net Zero by 2070.
- Focus on diversifying renewable energy sources.
- Encourages research and development in geothermal technology.
- Promotes collaboration with international bodies and local industries.
New Delhi, Sep 17 (NationPress) The government has officially announced the National Policy on Geothermal Energy (2025), reaffirming its dedication to the ambitious Net Zero Goal by 2070 and enhancing the nation’s energy security through a diverse array of renewable energy sources.
With significant untapped geothermal resources, India is set to harness this clean and dependable energy source for generating power and direct-use applications, including district heating, agriculture, aquaculture, and temperature control via Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHPs). The newly introduced policy outlines a thorough framework aimed at fostering exploration, development, and utilization of geothermal energy across the country, as stated by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).
This innovative policy promotes research, inter-ministerial cooperation, and the adoption of global best practices for geothermal energy development. The regulatory and stewardship responsibilities for geothermal energy will be managed by the ministry.
It aims to seamlessly integrate geothermal energy with India’s Net Zero (2070) and renewable energy goals, focusing on electricity generation, climate control, agriculture (greenhouses, cold storage), tourism, and desalination.
The policy encourages the research and development of advanced systems such as hybrid geothermal-solar plants, retrofitting abandoned oil wells, and Enhanced/Advanced Geothermal Systems (EGS/AGS). It emphasizes local innovation, joint ventures, and the repurposing of existing oil and gas infrastructure.
Furthermore, the policy emphasizes collaboration with international geothermal organizations and leading nations, alongside partnerships with state governments, oil and gas companies, and research institutions to establish a robust public-private ecosystem for the long-term advancement of the geothermal sector.
Additionally, it advocates for knowledge sharing and the development of human resources within the sector.
As an initial step towards exploring geothermal energy, the ministry has approved five projects focused on both pilot initiatives and resource assessment aimed at evaluating the feasibility and potential of geothermal energy in India.
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has further indicated that it will continue to oversee progress while fostering an environment conducive for developers, industries, and research institutions to actively engage in India’s transition to clean energy.
Point of View
The launch of the National Policy on Geothermal Energy represents a pivotal moment for India as it aligns with the global transition towards sustainable energy. This policy not only showcases the government's commitment to achieving the Net Zero target but also emphasizes the importance of innovation and collaboration in harnessing our natural resources responsibly.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the National Policy on Geothermal Energy?
The National Policy on Geothermal Energy (2025) is a framework established by the Indian government to promote the exploration, development, and utilization of geothermal energy as part of its commitment to achieving the Net Zero goal by 2070.
How will this policy impact India's energy sector?
This policy aims to diversify India's energy sources, enhance energy security, and promote the use of clean and renewable energy through geothermal power generation and various direct-use applications.
What are the key focuses of the policy?
The policy emphasizes electricity generation, space heating/cooling, agricultural applications, tourism, and desalination, while promoting research and collaboration between various stakeholders.
What initiatives are included in the policy?
The policy encourages R&D in advanced geothermal systems, hybrid geothermal-solar plants, and retrofitting abandoned oil wells, alongside fostering public-private partnerships.
What is the government's next step in geothermal energy exploration?
The ministry has sanctioned five projects aimed at exploring the potential of geothermal energy in India through pilot initiatives and resource assessments.
