Arunachal signs MoU with Norwegian Geotechnical Institute to explore harnessing geothermal potential
Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI) to explore feasibility of harnessing geothermal potentials that the state’s numerous hot springs offer.
The intention of this MoU is to provide a facilitating mechanism for the two parties to work together on mutually agreed, progressive and supportive activities; aiming for further development in the field of Geotechnics and Rock Engineering by dealing with complex sub-surface geological and geotechnical issues faced by the state.
To begin with, NGI will carry out geological, geochemical and geothermal investigation of few selected geothermal sites in Tawang and West Kameng districts that will include MT Survey to decipher the deeper geoelectrical configuration of geothermal springs (hot-springs) and feasibility to utilize the Geothermal Energy resources for further use.
The MoU was signed by Repo Ronya, Secretary, Science and Technology, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, and Dr Rajinder Bhasin, Technical Expert, NGI, Norway, in presence of Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Science and Technology Minister Honchun Ngandam, Chief Secretary Dharmendra and Dr Vivek Kumar, Senior Advisor, Norwegian Embassy, New Delhi.
Congratulating NGI and the department of science and technology, Chief Minister Pema Khandu said that it’s a right step towards green and clean energy production especially in the light of global warming concerns.
“It’s a great coincidence that this MoU is being signed on World Tourism Day as its theme this year is ‘Tourism & Green Investment’ that perfectly goes in tandem with this new initiative,” Khandu pointed.
He expressed optimism that the study will lead to development of renewable geothermal sources in Arunachal Pradesh and increase energy supply to meet present and
