KHAMMAM: Efforts are on by SCCL and TSGenco to tap geothermal energy from the hot water springs in the forests around Pagideru and Khammamthogu villages in Pinapaka assembly constituency of Bhadradri-Kothagudem district.
First tapped in Italy in 1904, geothermal energy is the heat contained in rocks and fluids beneath the earth’s crust, found as far down as the earth's hot molten rock, magma.
To tap the geothermal energy from hot water springs in Pagideru and Khammamthogu, wells are proposed to be dug a mile deep underground for accessing steam and hot water. These can be used to drive turbines connected to electricity generators.
Scientists of the Geological Survey of India have already conducted a survey and dug over 10 bore wells. They found plenty of hot water underground, which they feel can be tapped for producing geothermal energy. SCCL has come forward to invest in the project and T Genco will extend all technical support to it. SCCL will spend `1.5 crore to produce 20 kilowatt power on a pilot basis.
The power thus produced will be supplied to the nearest villages free of cost. TSGenco will also be extending funds for the project under CSR. An MoU in this regard is expected to be signed between SCCL and TSGenco.
