Mumbai : Taking pioneering steps in the renewable energy sector, Dr. Raman Singh, CM, Chhattisgarh is aggressively pursuing the implementation of Geothermal Power Project in the state. The state government has granted permission for the installation of a Geothermal Power Plant at Tattapani, Distt. Balrampur, Surguja to National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC).
NTPC has started exploratory and preparatory work. It has also started interacting with ONGC and other international organisations for drilling. It expects to start project activities within the next 24 months after finalization of DPR. Geothermal generation refers to the harnessing/exploitation of geothermal energy or the vast reservoir of heat energy stored in the earth’s interior. In India, studies for locating this renewable energy source were undertaken by the Geological Survey of India over the last three decades. Around 340 hot springs were located.
Geothermal generation is relatively new and even in the US less than 4,000 MW of power is generated through this renewable source of energy. Tattapani Geothermal field is located 95 kms NNE of Ambikapur and is connected by all weather tar road from Bilaspur. Tatapani geothermal field is the most promising geothermal resource in Central India. The proposed project would be developed under the partnership format, wherein Chhattisgarh Renewable Energy Development Agency (CREDA) would act as a facilitator while the responsibility of designing, constructing, financing, operating, maintaining and running of the Project shall be of the NTPC.
Under facilitation role CREDA shall provide all required support and assistance to the developer in procuring Applicable Permits required from any Government Instrumentality for implementation and operation of the Project and assist in finalization and expeditious signing of Power Purchase Agreement. NTPC shall be responsible for funding the entire development of Geothermal Power Plant.
