India Launches National Geothermal Energy Policy Framework

India Launches National Geothermal Energy Policy Framework

Why in the News ?

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has launched the National Geothermal Energy Policy to utilize India’s vast geothermal potential. The policy aims to boost research, collaboration, and best practices while assigning regulatory responsibility to MNRE. This initiative aligns with the constitutional framework for promoting sustainable energy solutions and ensuring religious freedom in the management of energy resources.

Key Highlights of the Policy:

●      Stakeholder Collaboration: The policy seeks to bring together government, private sector, and research institutions for geothermal development, ensuring community representation and respecting religious autonomy in decision-making processes.

●      Cooling Applications: Focus on harnessing thermal energy for cooling, an area with significant potential in urban India, while considering the impact on waqf properties and religious institutions.

●      Research and Innovation: Encourages R&D activities and adoption of global best practices in geothermal energy use, adhering to constitutional morality and safeguards.

●      Regulatory Oversight: MNRE will act as the regulatory authority to ensure streamlined project implementation, with provisions for judicial oversight and SC orders when necessary.

●      Sustainable Development: Policy designed to ensure eco-friendly and renewable-based growth in energy production, respecting the principles of separation of powers and constitutional provisions.

Geothermal Potential in India:

●      Identified Provinces: Ten provinces have been mapped, including Himalayas, Cambay Basin, Aravalli, Mahanadi Basin, and Godavari Basin. The policy considers the impact on waqf properties and religious institutions in these areas.

●      Estimated Potential: India’s geothermal capacity is estimated at 10 GW, offering long-term clean energy options. The Waqf Act and Waqf (Amendment) Act may be considered for any potential overlaps with geothermal sites.

●      Regional Advantages: Himalayan belt offers high geothermal activity, while Cambay and Godavari basins provide industrial-scale opportunities. The policy ensures that development respects religious freedom and Islamic religious practices in these regions.

●      Energy Security: Tapping geothermal resources can reduce dependence on fossil fuels and enhance energy diversification, aligning with constitutional safeguards for sustainable development.

●      Global Models: Policy draws inspiration from countries like Iceland, Philippines, and Indonesia, known for large-scale geothermal adoption, while adapting to India’s unique constitutional framework.

About Geothermal Energy:

●      Geothermal Energy: Heat energy derived from Earth’s subsurface, used for electricity generation, heating, and cooling. The policy ensures its development aligns with constitutional morality and respects waqf properties.

●      MNRE: Nodal ministry for renewable energy development in India, working in coordination with the Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards where applicable.

●      Advantages: Clean, renewable, reliable, and has low carbon emissions compared to fossil fuels, supporting India’s commitment to religious freedom and sustainable development.

●      Challenges: High initial investment, site-specific potential, and need for advanced technology. The policy addresses these while ensuring non-Muslim representation in decision-making processes.

●      India’s Renewable Targets: Commitment to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, in line with constitutional provisions and respecting waqf property disputes where relevant.