<p><strong>Syllabus section: Geography</strong></p>
<p><strong>Why in news?</strong><br />
The first geothermal power project of India will be established at Puga village of eastern Ladakh.</p>
<p><strong>About:</strong><br />
• In the first phase of the pilot project, one megawatt (MW) power generation capacity will be generated.<br />
• India's first-ever geothermal power project, known as Geothermal Field Development Project is planned to commission by the end of 2022. The tripartite MOU was signed between ONGC Energy, LAHDC, Leh, and the Power Department of UT Ladakh.<br />
• In the first phase, the pilot project implemented by the ONGC-OEC will explore within the depth of 500 meters and it is planned to supply 24 hours free power to 10 neighboring villages that are not connected with the northern grid for power supply.<br />
• The second Phase is proposed for deeper and lateral exploration of geothermal reservoirs by drilling the optimal number of wells and setting up of a higher capacity demo plant in Ladakh. The second phase will be the Research and Development stage or demonstration of the project.<br />
• In the third phase, it is planned to promote joint ventures and commercial projects. Puga is a place where it is uncovered with a potential of more than 100 MW of geothermal energy.</p>
<p><strong>Source: News on Air</strong><br />
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