Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Ladakh, Vinai Kumar Saxena, today unveiled a commemorative plaque at the Puga Geothermal Project site to mark the successful completion of geothermal wells GT#02 and GT#03 by ONGC Energy Centre. The achievement marks a significant step in the development of India’s first demonstration-scale geothermal power project at Puga and reinforces efforts to harness geothermal energy as a dependable source of clean power.
The newly completed wells are expected to play an important role in strengthening energy access in the remote and high-altitude region of Ladakh. The project aims to provide a reliable, round-the-clock source of electricity, particularly during the harsh winter months when conventional power supply faces significant challenges. It is also expected to reduce dependence on fossil fuels while promoting the use of renewable energy resources in the region.
Beyond electricity generation, the geothermal resource at Puga offers opportunities for a range of applications, including space heating, greenhouse cultivation, year-round agriculture, food processing and geotourism. These initiatives have the potential to generate sustainable livelihoods, enhance local economic activity and contribute to Ladakh’s long-term objective of becoming a carbon-neutral region.
The project also represents an important addition to India’s clean energy programme by promoting technological advancement, strengthening energy security and supporting the country’s commitment towards achieving its Net Zero goals. The Puga Geothermal Project is being implemented through a collaborative effort involving ONGC Energy Centre, the Union Territory Administration of Ladakh and the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Leh. The partnership, originally established to develop geothermal energy in the region, was renewed for another five years in June 2026.
The event was attended by Administrative Secretary Himanshu Gupta, IAS; Secretary to the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor, Ms Shashanka Ala, IAS; Deputy Commissioner, Changthang, Nitish Rajora; and Superintendent of Police, Changthang, Shri Abbas Jaffari. Speaking on the occasion, the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor highlighted the strategic importance of the Puga Geothermal Project for both Ladakh and the nation, and appreciated the efforts of the ONGC Energy Centre team in achieving this milestone.
Representing ONGC, Director (Technology and Field Services), Vikram Saxena, said the successful completion of the two geothermal wells reflects ONGC’s continued commitment to advancing clean energy technologies, strengthening the country’s energy security and supporting sustainable development in Ladakh.
Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) is India’s largest crude oil and natural gas exploration and production company and a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Government of India. Established in 1956, ONGC plays a vital role in strengthening the country’s energy security through the exploration, development, and production of oil and gas resources across onshore and offshore fields in India, as well as international assets through its subsidiary ONGC Videsh Limited. The company has diversified its portfolio across the energy value chain, including refining, petrochemicals, renewable energy, and green initiatives, while investing in advanced technologies to enhance operational efficiency and support India’s transition towards a more sustainable energy future.
