CM Pushkar Singh : A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Uttarakhand government and Iceland-based Varkis Consulting Engineers for exploration and development of geothermal energy. The agreement was signed in the presence of CM Pushkar Singh Dhami and Ambassador of Iceland Dr. Benedikt Hauskulsson at the Secretariat.
CM Pushkar Singh described the agreement as an important step for the energy security and sustainable development of Uttarakhand and the country. He said that this initiative will not only meet the target of clean and renewable energy but will also promote inclusive growth while maintaining environmental balance. Iceland is a leading country in the field of geothermal energy, and with its technical cooperation, Uttarakhand can become a leading state in this field.
The project has received necessary approvals from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy and Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. The cost of the preliminary study of this project will be borne by the Government of Iceland.
According to the Geological Survey of India and Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, Dehradun, around 40 geothermal sites have been identified in Uttarakhand from where geothermal energy can be harnessed. Workis Consulting Engineers, which has global expertise in this area, will contribute to the efficient and rapid development of geothermal projects in Uttarakhand through its technical capabilities.
On this occasion, Principal Secretary Raji P. Shrivastava, Director Bhupinder Singh, Executive Director PSCFC Devinder Singh, Chairman Backfinco Harjinder Singh Thekedar, Joint secretary-cum-director SC sub plan Raj Bahadur Singh, Under Secretary Manohar Lal Bangarh, Deputy Director Rupinderpal Singh, Joint Director Sushil Kumar, DCFA Avtar Singh, Deputy Director Sarbjinder Singh Randhawa, Deputy Director Parminder Singh Gill among several other officials and dignitaries were also present.