Dainik Nation News Portal
DAINIK NATION BUREAU/DEHRADUN
An MoU signed between Uttarakhand government and Icelandic company Varkis Consulting Engineers for the exploration and development of geothermal energy in the state. The agreement was signed at the Secretariat in the presence of Iceland’s Ambassador Dr. Benedict Hoskulsson and other senior officials, with Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami participating virtually.
CM Dhami termed the MoU as a milestone in Uttarakhand’s energy landscape, stating that it aligns with the goals of clean and renewable energy while promoting inclusive and environmentally sustainable development. He highlighted Iceland’s global leadership in geothermal energy and expressed confidence that their technical expertise would position Uttarakhand as a key player in this field.
The Chief Minister noted that three central ministries — Environment, Forest and Climate Change; New and Renewable Energy; and External Affairs — have granted the necessary clearances for this initiative. Importantly, Iceland will bear the cost of studying the feasibility of geothermal energy projects in the state.
According to assessments by the Geological Survey of India and the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, around 40 geothermal sites have been identified in Uttarakhand. The collaboration with Varkis Consulting Engineers, a globally renowned company, is expected to expedite the development of these projects.
Senior officials, including Chief Secretary Radha Raturi and representatives from Iceland’s embassy and Varkis Consulting Engineers, attended the event, marking a new chapter in Uttarakhand’s renewable energy journey.
