Geothermal energy is a clean and renewable resource that can be economically extracted from the heat sources beneath the Earth. This form of energy has a wide range of applications, from generating electricity to providing space heating. As we delve deeper into the Earth, temperatures rise significantly. However, for geothermal energy exploration, we focus on accessible temperatures at shallower depths, indicated by surface manifestation, like hot springs or geysers, and a higher geothermal gradient. Exploring geothermal reservoirs is crucial for efficient electricity production.

Geothermal energy holds significant potential, especially in a country like India, where energy demand is high and sustainable solutions are increasingly crucial. The geothermal research group is dedicated to developing and showcasing technologies that promote adopting geothermal energy as a clean and renewable energy source in India.

Effective geothermal exploration pivots on thorough multidisciplinary research, utilizing various geophysical methods (including gravity, magnetic, seismic, resistivity, thermal, and rock mechanics), geological approaches (including structural and petrological analysis), and hydrogeochemical studies. CSIR-NGRI excels as a research institution capable of seamlessly integrating these diverse studies, thereby enhancing the efficiency of identifying and assessing prospective geothermal sites.

In the past six decades, few investigations have been conducted by CSIR-NGRI and other organizations into geothermal energy exploration. Currently, CSIR-NGRI is spearheading a significant initiative to explore geothermal energy using a multidisciplinary approach in two key regions: the Puga-Chumathang-Panamik Geothermal Province in Ladakh Himalaya and the Tattapani Geothermal Province in Chhattisgarh. This initiative represents a major step towards harnessing clean and reliable energy sources, which could contribute substantially to the economic development and energy security of the country.