The Himachal Pradesh Horticultural Produce Marketing and Processing Corporation (HPMC), under the guidance of Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi, is planning to build the state’s first controlled atmosphere (CA) store powered by geothermal technology in Kinnaur.
In collaboration with an Icelandic company, the pilot project will be launched in Tapri, Kinnaur, with the aim of enhancing the preservation of agricultural produce.
Minister Negi explained that geothermal cooling utilises the Earth's constant below-surface temperatures to cool buildings, offering a sustainable and energy-efficient method for maintaining ideal storage conditions for fruits and vegetables. This technology works by transferring heat from the building's interior to the cooler ground in a closed-loop system, reducing energy consumption compared to conventional cooling methods.
In addition to the geothermal-powered CA store, HPMC has successfully developed a small-scale fruit and vegetable dryer, currently processing 500 kg per day. This is part of the corporation’s ongoing efforts to improve the storage and processing of horticultural products.
Minister Negi also highlighted HPMC’s recent achievement of producing 2,000 tonnes of apple concentrate, which has helped meet the growing demand for its products, including apple cider, vinegar, and wines, now being sold in major metro cities like Delhi and Jaipur.
Looking to the future, Minister Negi mentioned that the corporation envisions using geothermal technology to provide sustainable energy solutions, potentially generating electricity and heating for local communities. This initiative not only supports the growth of Himachal Pradesh’s horticultural industry but also serves as a model for sustainable agricultural infrastructure in India.