Archive · 25 Jun 2025
India Explores Geothermal Energy from Abandoned Oil Wells
Imagine the government wants to get energy from the heat inside the Earth, called geothermal energy.
They're planning to use old, empty oil wells to do this!
Right now, they're trying it out in a place called Bikaner, India.
They're working with some smart scientists to see if it works well enough to use everywhere.
Geothermal energy is great because it can make electricity all the time, unlike the sun which is only available during daytime.
India has a lot of potential for this kind of energy, and could become a big user of it, using it alongside solar power.
This could mean a more steady and environmentally friendly way to create electricity.
Government plans to utilize abandoned oil wells for geothermal energy.
A pilot project is underway in Bikaner, Rajasthan, with IIT Chennai.
Geological Survey of India estimates a potential of 10,600 MW of geothermal power.
Geothermal energy offers continuous electricity and grid stability.
India is the third-largest market for next-generation geothermal power capacity.
- Who
- Government of India, IIT Chennai, Geological Survey of India, Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL), and the International Energy Agency (IEA).
- What
- Government is exploring geothermal energy using abandoned oil wells.
- When
- Information from the article does not specify the precise timeframe, but mentions ongoing and planned projects.
- Where
- Pilot project in Bikaner, Rajasthan, India. Potential in Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, and the Son Narmada Fault Zone.
- Why
- To expand renewable energy portfolio and potentially provide around-the-clock electricity generation, contributing to grid stability and electricity security.
Benefits of Geothermal Energy
Other viewpoints
Consistent Power Generation
Benefits of Geothermal Energy
Geothermal energy can operate at full capacity, providing a steady source of electricity.
Other viewpoints
Alternative energy sources may have intermittent availability
Grid Stability
Benefits of Geothermal Energy
Geothermal plants can provide grid stability.
Other viewpoints
Some question this
- Pilot Project Location
- Bikaner, Rajasthan
- Estimated Geothermal Power Potential
- 10,600 MW
- SCCL Pilot Plant
- 20 kW in Manuguru area of Bhadradri Kothagudem district in Telangana.
- Geothermal Energy Utilization Rate
- Over 75% in 2023
- Wind Power Utilization Rate
- Less than 30% in 2023
- Solar PV Utilization Rate
- Less than 15% in 2023
- India's Market Potential
- Third largest for next-generation geothermal power capacity by 2050