Bhutan has launched its National Solar Energy Roadmap to diversify its energy sources and bolster energy security amid rising electricity demand. This landmark initiative positions solar power as a vital step toward achieving energy self-sufficiency by 2025, a goal that aligns with the kingdom’s broader commitment to sustainable development.
Bhutan Solar Energy Roadmap: Addressing Energy Challenges
Dasho Chhewang Rinzin, Secretary of Bhutan’s Ministry of Energy & Natural Resources, launched the National Solar Energy Roadmap during the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Assembly in New Delhi. This comprehensive plan outlines a strategy for scaling up solar power and capitalizing on the country’s abundant solar resources to address its energy challenges. For more insights on Bhutan’s solar initiatives, explore resources like PVKnowhow’s Bhutan Solar News Archives.
Developed by the Bhutan Energy Research and Development Center (BERDC) with support from the International Solar Alliance (ISA), the roadmap focuses on deploying large-scale ground-mounted solar PV plants, mini-grids, and rooftop systems nationwide. The strategy also includes institutional capacity building, supportive policies, and financial incentives to encourage solar energy adoption. These measures are essential for overcoming existing barriers and ensuring the long-term success of solar projects.
The Rubesa Plant: A Milestone in Bhutan’s Solar Roadmap
Bhutan marked a significant milestone last year with the inauguration of its first ground-mounted solar PV plant, the 180 kWp Rubesa Plant. Located in Wangdue, the facility was jointly developed by the BERDC and the Bhutan Power Corporation (BPC). Its 576 solar panels are expected to generate 263,000 kWh of electricity annually and serve as a valuable pilot for future large-scale solar projects. You can find more information on Bhutan’s solar projects at PVKnowhow.
The Rubesa Plant is a key component of Bhutan’s broader solar energy strategy, which includes developing additional ground-mounted plants in Shingkhar, Lhuentse, and Sephu. The roadmap also outlines plans for mini-grids in remote areas to extend electricity access to off-grid communities and promote energy equity. This decentralized approach aims to enhance energy resilience and reduce transmission losses.
International Collaboration Boosts Bhutan’s Solar Goals
The International Solar Alliance (ISA) has been instrumental in supporting Bhutan’s solar initiatives. The alliance provided technical assistance and funding for the Rubesa Plant and collaborated on developing the National Solar Energy Roadmap. Continued support from the ISA will be crucial for Bhutan to meet its solar energy targets. Learn more about Bhutan’s renewable energy grants and projects at PVKnowhow.
Dr. Ajay Mathur, Director General of the ISA, affirmed the organization’s commitment to assisting Bhutan on its solar energy journey. He also emphasized the importance of international collaboration in driving the global energy transition.
Driving Sustainable Development with Solar Energy
The National Solar Energy Roadmap is a significant step in Bhutan’s energy transition, placing solar power at the center of the country’s sustainable development. By diversifying its energy mix with solar—a key source of clean energy—Bhutan aims to reduce its dependence on hydropower, a source vulnerable to climate change impacts like altered precipitation patterns. This strategy ultimately strengthens the nation’s energy security and resilience. Further information can be found at PVKnowhow.
Successfully implementing the roadmap will not only help Bhutan achieve its energy self-sufficiency goals but also bolster its efforts to combat climate change. This initiative reinforces the country’s position as a global leader in environmental stewardship and sustainable development.
