Northeast’s first geothermal production well was drilled in Dirang, in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, marking a significant milestone for sustainable energy. The Centre for Earth Sciences and Himalayan Studies (CESHS) is spearheading this innovative project, which represents a major advancement in the Himalayan region’s use of renewable energy.
Project Overview
- Location: Dirang, West Kameng district, Arunachal Pradesh
- Agency: Centre for Earth Sciences and Himalayan Studies (CESHS)
- Collaborators:
- Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI), Oslo
- Geotropy ehf, Iceland
- Guwahati Boring Service (GBS), India
Dirang was determined to be a medium-to-high enthalpy geothermal zone by the team after two years of careful geochemical and structural surveys. The estimated subsurface temperatures were 115°C.
Applications and Benefits
The geothermal energy harnessed from this well is set to revolutionize the region by powering:
- Agricultural Processing: Eco-Friendly drying units for fruits, nuts, and meat.
- Space Heating: Providing warmth in high-altitude homes and institutions.
- Storage Solutions: Controlled-atmosphere storage facilities to preserve agricultural produce.
Why Dirang
- Geological Mapping and Tectonic Insights
- Favorable Subsurface Structure for Geothermal Drilling
- Dirang’s Geological profile near the main central thrust
- Quartzite and Schist layers support clean energy access
- Tectonic conditions enabling low-impact drilling in Dirang
Future Prospects
Following the successful completion of the Northeast’s First Geothermal well, CESHS intends to expand operations by drilling deeper in Dirang. The goal is to establish a standard for sustainable energy solutions in isolated and mountainous areas by converting Dirang into the first geothermal-powered city in India.
Dirang’s geothermal project is not just a regional achievement but a national milestone in India’s journey toward renewable energy. It exemplifies how scientific collaboration and innovative thinking can lead to sustainable solutions tailored for challenging terrains.