MoU on harnessing geothermal energy in Uttarakhand

PrashantNews

The Uttarakhand government on Friday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Iceland-based Verkis Consulting Engineers to harness the geothermal energy in the hill state.

The agreement was signed in the virtual presence of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and Icelandic Ambassador Dr Benedikt Hoeskuldsson at the state secretariat. Chief Secretary Radha Raturi was also present.

As per the studies prepared by the Geological Survey of India (GSI) and the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, Dehradun, about 40 geothermal sites have been identified in Uttarakhand, where geothermal energy can be exploited.

“Verkis will prepare a feasibility report on the chances of producing energy from the geothermal resources,” said a government official.

CM Dhami described the MoU as a new beginning in the field of energy security and sustainable development of Uttarakhand as well as the country.

The CM said that through this MoU of geothermal energy, not only the goal of clean and renewable energy will be achieved but the path of inclusive development will also be paved while ensuring environmental security, added the statement.

He said that Iceland is a leading country in the field of geothermal energy and with their technical cooperation and experience, Uttarakhand will emerge as an important state in the field of geothermal energy.

The Uttarakhand CM added that no objection has also been received from three important ministries of the Government of India, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy and Ministry of External Affairs. The expenditure burden of studying the feasibility of geothermal energy in the state will be borne by the Government of Iceland, a statement said.

Varkis Consulting Engineers is having global expertise in the field of geothermal energy.

 

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