Ankleshwar, India — April 24, 2026 — Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) has taken a significant step in India’s clean energy transition by commissioning the country’s first geothermal pilot project under its “Wells to Watts” initiative. The project, inaugurated at ONGC’s Ankleshwar Asset in Gujarat, showcases an innovative model for converting legacy oil and gas infrastructure into sustainable energy sources.
The pilot utilizes an abandoned hydrocarbon well at the Gandhar Field, transforming it into a geothermal energy system capable of generating 450 kilowatts of continuous Renewable Energy–Round-The-Clock (RE-RTC) power. Unlike intermittent renewable sources such as solar or wind, geothermal energy offers stable, uninterrupted output, making it a reliable addition to India’s evolving energy mix.
Developed in collaboration with Indian Institute of Technology Madras and supported by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), the project reflects a broader push toward indigenous innovation and low-carbon technologies. It also aligns with India’s national vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, which emphasizes self-reliance in critical sectors, including energy.
The “Wells to Watts” initiative is designed to repurpose decommissioned or non-producing oil wells, reducing environmental liabilities while unlocking new economic value. By leveraging existing infrastructure, ONGC aims to minimize capital expenditure and accelerate deployment timelines compared to building entirely new renewable energy facilities.
Industry experts view the Ankleshwar pilot as a proof-of-concept that could be scaled across India’s vast network of mature oil and gas fields. If replicated successfully, the model could contribute to emissions reduction goals, enhance energy security, and support the country’s commitment to expanding its renewable energy capacity.
ONGC, India’s largest upstream oil and gas producer, has been actively diversifying its portfolio to include cleaner energy solutions. The geothermal pilot marks a strategic shift toward integrating conventional energy expertise with emerging renewable technologies, positioning the company as a key player in India’s long-term energy transition.
