Can solar power plants help Bhutan achieve energy security?

The Solar Plant in Rubesa is one such initiative that takes Bhutan a step closer to achieving energy security through a diversified and sustainable energy supply mix. The project particularly demonstrates the viability of solar power plants on a utility-scale.

What are Bhutan's upcoming solar projects?

He added that those involved would greatly benefit and take part in Bhutan’s upcoming solar projects. One imminent project is the construction of Bhutan’s first mega solar power plant, a 17MW plant in Sephu, Wangdue. Today, all of Bhutan’s electricity generation is from renewables such as hydropower, wind, and solar.

How much solar power does Bhutan have?

Director of the Department of Renewable Energy (DRE), Phuntsho Namgyal, said that Bhutan was endowed with 12,000 megawatts (MW) of solar power potential. He added that today, a negligible percentage (next to zero) of solar energy is tapped.

How is Bhutan achieving energy security?

Bhutan is undertaking various initiatives to broaden its energy mix by exploring other clean, renewable energy sources. The Solar Plant in Rubesa is one such initiative that takes Bhutan a step closer to achieving energy security through a diversified and sustainable energy supply mix.

Why should Bhutan invest in solar energy?

Like hydropower, sun is a bountiful resource Bhutan can tap into for producing renewable energy in keeping with our carbon neutrality commitments and also for enhancing energy security through diversification of energy sources.

Will Bhutan build a mega solar power plant?

One imminent project is the construction of Bhutan’s first mega solar power plant, a 17MW plant in Sephu, Wangdue. Today, all of Bhutan’s electricity generation is from renewables such as hydropower, wind, and solar. However, 78 percent of the country’s energy consumption is supplied by fossil fuels, largely for transportation purposes.