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Himachal Signs Geothermal Pact with Iceland Firm, CM Sukhu Inaugurates Key Projects

The Himachal Pradesh government has signed an MoU with Geotropy India Pvt. Ltd. to explore and harness the state's geothermal energy potential. Chief Minister Sukvinder Singh Sukhu emphasized the project's goal of reducing dependence on conventional energy sources with this round-the-clock clean option. Separately, the CM inaugurated two major road projects in the Amb sub-division, completed at a total cost of Rs 16.26 crore, to improve connectivity for thousands of residents. He also dedicated a library and gymnasium complex to support youth development in the region.

Key Points: Himachal Pradesh Signs Geothermal Energy MoU with Icelandic Firm

  • MoU signed for geothermal energy exploration
  • No financial burden on state government
  • CM inaugurates road projects worth Rs 16.26 crore
  • Projects to benefit over 11,000 residents
  • Focus on 24/7 clean energy availability
2 min read

Himachal Pradesh Government signs MoU to harness geothermal energy potential in the state

Himachal CM Sukhu signs geothermal energy MoU with Geotropy India, aims for green energy state. Also inaugurates road projects worth Rs 16.26 crore.

"geothermal energy is one such clean, environment-friendly option - Chief Minister Sukvinder Singh Sukhu"

Shimla, February 6

To move closer to the goal of making Himachal Pradesh a Green Energy State, the state Chief Minister, Sukvinder Singh Sukhu, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with M/s Geotropy India Pvt. Ltd. on Thursday.

According to the Himachal Pradesh CMO, Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi and Ambassador of Iceland to India, Benedikt Hoskuldsson, were also present on the occasion.

The MoU was signed by Chief Engineer, Directorate of Energy, D.P. Gupt, on behalf of the state government, and by Tomos Otto Hansson, Chairperson of Iceland-based GEOTROPY ehf.

Reaffirming the State Government's strong commitment to sustainable energy, the Chief Minister said the government is actively working to harness green energy sources in Himachal Pradesh, and that geothermal energy is one such clean, environment-friendly option.

He also stated that the state has significant geothermal potential that must be utilised to reduce dependence on conventional energy sources.

The Chief Minister highlighted that one of the major advantages of geothermal energy is its availability round the clock. He directed the company to begin exploration immediately to harness the state's geothermal potential as soon as possible.

He further clarified that this exploration will not place any financial burden on the State Government.

Senior officers from the Directorate of Energy were also present on the occasion.

Earlier, the state Chief Minister dedicated two key development projects, completed at a cost of Rs 16.26 crore, to the people of the Amb sub-division of Una district.

The Chief Minister inaugurated the upgraded Takarla-Baduhi road via Nei-Abadi, developed at a cost of Rs. 6.57 crore. The upgrade of this nearly 5-kilometre-long stretch will benefit more than 11,000 residents.

In addition, the Chief Minister dedicated the 6.50 kms Amb-Gagret-Harijan Basti road and a Bridge connecting it, completed with an outlay of Rs 9.50 crore. The bridge will significantly enhance road connectivity for the Shree Chintpurni and Gagret Assembly constituencies.

The Chief Minister also inaugurated the Samarthya Gyandeep Library and Gymnasium at Maidi Khas, which was constructed at a cost of approximately Rs 20 lakh, by unveiling the plaque from Takarla. This centre will support the educational, intellectual, and physical development of youth.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
Interesting to see Iceland's involvement. They are world leaders in geothermal tech. Hope this partnership brings real expertise and doesn't end up as just another MoU signed for headlines. The road and library projects are also very welcome development work.
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Priya S
As someone from Himachal, I'm thrilled! We need sustainable solutions that don't harm our beautiful mountains. Geothermal sounds promising. Also, the new roads and library in Una are much-needed infrastructure. Hope the execution matches the announcement. 🤞
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Vikram M
Good initiative, but I have a question. Has a proper environmental impact assessment been done for geothermal exploration? We must ensure it doesn't trigger landslides or affect water sources in the fragile Himalayan ecology. Due diligence is key.
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Rohit P
Finally some forward thinking! Solar and hydro are great, but having a base load power source like geothermal that works day and night is crucial for a green energy state. Hope other hill states like Uttarakhand and Sikkim also explore this.
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Michael C
The dual focus on large-scale renewable energy projects and local community infrastructure (roads, library, gym) is the right way to approach development. One supports long-term goals, the other addresses immediate needs. A balanced approach.

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