Arunachal Pradesh Drills First Geothermal Production Well

In a significant leap towards sustainable and renewable energy in India’s northeastern region, the Centre for Earth Sciences and Himalayan Studies (CESHS) has successfully drilled the first geothermal production well in Dirang, West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh. This historic development marks a breakthrough in tapping high-altitude geothermal potential and promises to bring eco-friendly heating and agricultural processing technologies to the region.

Why in News?

The geothermal drilling in Dirang is the first of its kind in Northeast India, establishing a major precedent for renewable energy use in remote and mountainous areas. The well, drilled after two years of scientific research, could soon make Dirang India’s first geothermal-powered city, revolutionizing clean energy access in high-altitude terrains.

Key Features & Objectives

• Location: Dirang, West Kameng district, Arunachal Pradesh
• Project Lead: Centre for Earth Sciences and Himalayan Studies (CESHS)
• Support: Ministry of Earth Sciences and Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh

International Partners

• Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI), Oslo
• Geotropy ehf (Iceland)
• Guwahati Boring Service (GBS)

Background and Scientific Details

• Based on two years of geochemical and structural surveys in western Arunachal.
• Dirang was identified as a medium-to-high enthalpy geothermal zone with estimated reservoir temperature of 115°C.
• Geological features include quartzite overlying schist near the Main Central Thrust (MCT) — favorable for geothermal activity.

Potential Applications

• Eco-friendly fruit, nut, and meat drying
• Space heating for high-altitude homes and institutions
• Controlled-atmosphere storage systems for agriculture
• Geothermal-powered city infrastructure in future

Significance

• First geothermal production well in the Northeast
• Pioneers the use of clean and renewable energy in the Himalayas
• Offers a sustainable heating solution for cold regions
• Boosts agro-economy and energy self-reliance
• Sets a national precedent for geothermal energy use in remote areas