India’s clean energy ambitions received a major boost as Oil and Natural Gas Corporation’s (ONGC) Energy Centre successfully completed two deep geothermal wells at the Puga Geothermal Project in Ladakh.

 

This marks a crucial step towards the country’s first demonstration-scale geothermal power project.

 

Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena unveiled a commemorative plaque at the project site to mark the completion of geothermal wells GT#02 and GT#03, a milestone that could transform Ladakh’s energy landscape.

 

Located in one of India’s most promising geothermal regions, the Puga project is expected to unlock new opportunities for clean, reliable and round-the-clock power generation in the high-altitude region. The initiative aims to strengthen energy access in remote areas, reduce dependence on conventional fuels and provide dependable electricity during Ladakh’s harsh winters.

 

The project’s potential extends beyond power generation. Geothermal energy could support space heating, greenhouse cultivation, year-round agriculture, food processing, geotourism and sustainable livelihoods, creating new pathways for socio-economic development in Ladakh as the region moves towards its carbon-neutral vision.

 

At the national level, the project reinforces India’s clean energy strategy by promoting technological self-reliance, enhancing energy security and supporting the country’s long-term Net Zero goals.

 

The Puga Geothermal Project is being developed through a five-year collaboration between ONGC Energy Centre, the Union Territory Administration of Ladakh and LAHDC-Leh, renewed in June 2026.

 

The Lieutenant Governor highlighted the project’s importance for both Ladakh and the nation while commending the ONGC Energy Centre team for the achievement.

 

Representing ONGC, Director (Technology and Field Services) Vikram Saxena said the achievement reaffirmed ONGC's commitment to innovation, energy security and a sustainable future for Ladakh and India.

 

With the completion of the two deep wells, India has taken a significant step towards tapping geothermal resources as a new pillar of its clean energy transition.