Is grid-tied solar a viable alternative energy source in Bhutan?

The commissioning and inauguration of the 180kW grid-tied ground mounted solar photo-voltaic power plant marks the start of Bhutan’s investment in grid-tied solar energy as a viable alternative energy source in the face of soaring domestic demand and climate change.

Can solar power grow in Bhutan?

“We did the studies on renewable energy management master planning in 2016 and the reports say Bhutan has a capacity for 12 Giga watts of solar energy and 760 MW of wind so we have a lot to tap as there is a lot of opportunity for solar energy solar power to grow in Bhutan. There is a lot of potential and I think this is the right step.”

Will a solar project improve Bhutan's energy security?

The Ambassador of Japan to Bhutan, Satoshi Suzuki, who addressed the gathering virtually said he hoped that the solar project would help enhance Bhutan’s energy security, which is indispensable for the socio-economic development of the country.

Why should Bhutan invest in solar power?

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. The commissioning and inauguration of the 180kW grid-tied ground mounted solar photo-voltaic power plant

Can a solar power plant boost hydropower supply in Bhutan?

"Solar plant such as this can augment hydropower supply to meet our rapidly increasing domestic electricity demand, especially in winter months," he said. Electricity in Bhutan is mostly generated from hydropower, a renewable energy source, unlike fossil-fuel driven power plants that are major contributors to carbon dioxide emissions worldwide.

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 which takes Bhutan a step closer to achieving energy security through a diversified and sustainable energy supply mix.