Question 4787

In which of the following Indian states are geothermal plants located?

Answer

Himachal Pradesh

Why?

The correct answer is Himachal Pradesh . Key Points Geothermal energy is the thermal energy generated and stored in the Earth's interior . India has significant potential for this renewable energy source, with approximately 340 hot springs identified across the country. The state of Himachal Pradesh is a primary hub for geothermal activity in India, particularly in the Manikaran area of the Kullu district . This site is located in the Parvati Valley , where hot springs emerge at temperatures near the boiling point of water. A pilot geothermal power plant was established at Manikaran by the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) to utilize the natural steam and hot water for power generation. Hence, Himachal Pradesh is the correct state where such plants/experimental sites are located. The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has categorized Indian geothermal provinces into several regions, including the Himalayan Geothermal Province , which covers parts of Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh . While states like Assam , Tripura , and Nagaland possess certain hot springs, they do not currently host established or prominent geothermal power plants compared to the well-documented projects in the Northwest Himalayan region. Additional Information Other prominent geothermal sites in India include: Puga Valley: Located in Ladakh , it is considered the most promising geothermal field in India for commercial-scale electricity generation. Tattapani: Situated in the Balrampur district of Chhattisgarh , it is another major site where the NTPC has planned geothermal projects. Tapovan: Located in Chamoli district , Uttarakhand , known for its high-temperature thermal springs. Bakreshwar: A well-known geothermal area in West Bengal characterized by high helium content in the thermal gases. Tuwa: A geothermal field located in the Panchmahal district of Gujarat . The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) aims to harness 10,000 MW of geothermal energy by 2030 through international collaborations and indigenous research.