Uttarakhand approves Geo-Thermal Energy Policy 2025 to harness natural heat sources

The Uttarakhand government has approved the Geo-Thermal Energy Policy 2025, aiming to use the Earth’s natural heat to generate energy. This move is part of the state’s broader goal to strengthen energy security and reduce carbon emissions. The policy was passed during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami in Dehradun.

The new policy supports scientific and technical research to explore and use geothermal sources in the state. These energy sources will be used for electricity generation, heating and cooling systems, water purification, and other community uses.

Agencies to implement the policy

The policy will be carried out by the state energy department, in collaboration with Uttarakhand Renewable Energy Development Agency (UREDA) and Uttarakhand Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited (UJVNL). These agencies will work together to develop geothermal projects across the state. The policy applies to all geothermal projects planned within Uttarakhand.

Officials say this move is in line with Uttarakhand’s long-term goals of clean energy, environmental sustainability, and energy independence. It could become a model for other states in India.
Under this new policy, geothermal energy projects can be allotted for a period of up to 30 years from the date they begin operations. Both government and private companies can take part in these projects. Land for the projects may be allotted through competitive bidding or other selection methods defined by the government.

If financial help is not available from the central government, the state government is ready to offer support. For the first two projects, the state will provide up to 50% financial assistance, with a maximum of ₹3 crore, to help prepare detailed project reports and feasibility assessments.
Private land needed for the projects can be transferred or approved according to the revenue department’s guidelines. If the land required is forest land or other protected areas, then leases or pattas will be given only if the state's proposed lease policy allows it, and only after getting the required government approvals or forest clearances.

What is geothermal energy?

Geothermal energy is the heat that comes from beneath the Earth’s surface. In the Himalayan region, this energy becomes visible through hot springs, which are formed when water travels deep underground, gets heated by thermal activity, and returns to the surface through natural vents.

Experts say these geothermal sources are found along a major geological line called the Main Central Thrust. This is where the Indian plate has pushed into the Eurasian plate, causing heat to rise. Hot springs are commonly seen in areas along this line.
In the same cabinet meeting, the state also approved Uttarakhand State Mineral Exploration Trust Rules, 2025. These rules encourage the formation of State Mineral Exploration Trusts, which will help in exploring the state’s mineral resources.

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The cabinet also approved Uttarakhand District Mineral Foundation Trust Rules, 2025, which include changes to the previous 2017 rules. These trusts are meant to ensure that mining-affected areas receive proper development funds and care.
The government also decided to form a Project Management Unit (PMU). This unit will study how much load bridges in the state can safely carry. It will work under the Public Works Department (PWD).

Another important approval was for setting up a digital forensic lab under the state tax department. This lab will help improve tax law enforcement by collecting and analyzing digital evidence.
Seven companies listed by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology have been allowed to supply IT-related services and materials in the state. This decision aims to improve the state’s digital infrastructure.

Lastly, the cabinet announced a social welfare update. People with disabilities will continue to receive their disability pension even if their sons or grandsons turn 20 years old. This move is expected to provide financial security to differently-abled individuals and their families.
With the approval of the Geo-Thermal Energy Policy 2025 and other key decisions, Uttarakhand has taken a major step toward clean energy, infrastructure development, and social welfare. The state aims to use its natural resources wisely and offer support to its citizens, while also improving its technological and energy capabilities.