Patna: Bihar is poised to become the first state in eastern India to produce electricity from geothermal energy, with plans underway to harness underground heat in the Rajgir hills. The Bihar Renewable Energy Development Authority (BREDA) has identified the potential to generate between 50 and 100 megawatts of power, with an initial target of up to 15 MW.
For the first time, the state’s proposed renewable energy policy includes provisions for geothermal energy, and a draft of the policy has been sent to the Law Department for approval. If implemented promptly, Bihar could lead the region in adopting this clean energy source, joining Puga in eastern Ladakh—the only site in India where geothermal power is currently being produced.
Surveys have pinpointed multiple geothermal hotspots within a 500-square-kilometre stretch of the Rajgir hills. Electricity is generated by converting subterranean heat into steam, which drives turbines—an approach that is considered both cost-effective and environmentally friendly, with zero emissions during generation.
The initiative reflects Bihar’s efforts to expand its renewable energy portfolio and reduce dependence on polluting fossil fuels.
