India & Iceland Share A Spirit Of Innovation And Positive Energy: Hardeep Singh Puri

Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, recently completed a fruitful visit to Iceland, emphasising the shared commitment of both nations towards innovation and sustainable development.

Despite geographical distance, Puri highlighted the common spirit of positive energy driving their respective futures.

In a post on the social platform X, Puri expressed gratitude for the warm reception extended to the Indian delegation during a dinner hosted by Bergdis Ellertsdottir, Deputy Permanent Secretary of State of Iceland.

The gathering included Iceland’s Ambassador to India, Benedikt Hoskuldsson, alongside leading experts in energy, trade, and multilateral affairs.

One of the highlights of the visit was a meeting with Kristinn Ingi Larusson, Chief Commercial Officer of CarbFix, a pioneering Icelandic company specialising in carbon capture and storage (CCS).

CarbFix’s innovative approach transforms carbon dioxide into solid stone by injecting it into underground basalt formations, an internationally acclaimed climate mitigation technique now offered globally, including through collaborations like the ORCA direct air capture facility with Climeworks.

Puri underscored India’s potential to adopt such cost-effective technologies, pointing out the extensive basalt rock formations along India’s west coast that are ideal for permanent carbon storage.

This aligns with India’s ambitious green energy goals under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Insights into geothermal energy

Further discussions in Reykjavik included a session with Arni Hrannar Haraldsson, CEO of ON Power, Iceland’s largest geothermal energy producer.

ON Power operates geothermal plants at Hellisheiði and Nesjavellir, generating both electricity and hot water, complemented by hydroelectric production at the Andakilsa station.

Puri noted ON Power’s sustainability efforts and its initiatives to build electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, encouraging the shift towards greener transportation for both public and commercial users.

The minister suggested these technologies could be adapted to India’s Himalayan regions — Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Ladakh — known for their geothermal potential.

The visit exemplifies the growing collaboration between India and Iceland in clean energy innovation. Puri’s engagement with Icelandic leaders reflects India’s commitment to embracing advanced, sustainable technologies to drive its energy transition and climate goals.

By leveraging Iceland’s expertise in carbon capture and geothermal power, India aims to accelerate its path towards net-zero emissions while fostering stronger bilateral ties rooted in mutual respect and shared vision.

Also Read: Tamil Nadu Goods Train Fire Triggers Evacuation; Disrupts Chennai Rail Services