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.

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.

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.

What happened to Shingkhar solar power plant?

When Shingkhar solar power plant was dropped the ADB couldn’t fund the wind farm as it became economically non-viable. As per the Renewable Energy Management Master Plan 2016, it is estimated that Bhutan has the potential to produce 12 gigawatts of solar and 760 megawatts of wind energy.

How many kilowatts is a solar panel?

The energy department installed the first 180-kilowatt grid-tied solar plant in Rubesa, Wangdue, 11.7-kilowatt grid-tied solar panel at the energy and natural resources ministry’s compound, and 80-kilowatt off-grid solar pant at Aja ney, Mongar among others.

Is Bhutan a fossil fuel country?

The Director also said that Bhutan generates all our electricity from renewables, yet it hides a paradox. He said that almost 78 per cent of our energy consumption is fossil fuel because our transportation system is dependent on it, including cooking and heating needs.