Uttarakhand is set to harness geothermal energy from the natural hot springs of Tapoan to generate electricity. Experts from Iceland-based engineering firm Verkís have submitted a detailed report to the state government, confirming Tapoan’s suitability for geothermal power generation. The assessment follows a field study conducted between March 25 and 27 in collaboration with officials from UJVNL.
The team inspected hot springs, cold springs, and borewells drilled by the Geological Survey of India (GSI) in the 1980s. One borewell was found to produce hot water at a rate of 240 to 300 litres per minute, with a temperature of 77.1°C — ideal for geothermal power. Experts believe this source alone could supply electricity to nearly 5,000 homes in nearby Jyotirmath. The Icelandic team will further study around 40 such geothermal sites across the state.
For locations where electricity generation is not feasible, the government plans to develop wellness tourism infrastructure such as spas, heated pools, and tourist resorts, leveraging the therapeutic appeal of natural hot springs.
Globally, more than 20 countries including the U.S. (3,676 MW) use geothermal energy. In India, estimates from 15 years ago suggested a potential of 10,600 MW from geothermal sources.
In geothermal power generation, steam from underground hot water sources is used to spin turbines. The condensed water is then reinjected underground, making the process sustainable.
