Bhutan has launched its National Solar Energy Roadmap, aiming to diversify its energy sources and enhance energy security as it prepares for increased electricity demand. The roadmap emphasizes solar energy as a crucial step towards 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
The National Solar Energy Roadmap was officially launched by Dasho Chhewang Rinzin, Secretary of the Ministry of Energy & Natural Resources of Bhutan, during the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Assembly in New Delhi. This comprehensive roadmap outlines a strategic plan for scaling up solar energy in Bhutan, addressing the country’s energy challenges while capitalizing on its abundant solar resources. For more insights on Bhutan’s solar initiatives, explore resources like PVKnowhow’s Bhutan Solar News Archives.
The roadmap, developed by the Bhutan Energy Research and Development Center (BERDC) with support from the International Solar Alliance (ISA), focuses on deploying large-scale ground-mounted solar PV plants, mini-grids, and rooftop solar systems across the country. It also emphasizes institutional capacity building, supportive policies, and financial incentives to create an enabling environment for solar energy adoption. These efforts are crucial for overcoming barriers to wider solar adoption and ensuring long-term project success.
Bhutan’s First Ground-Mounted Solar PV Plant and the Bhutan Solar Energy Roadmap
In a significant milestone, Bhutan’s first ground-mounted solar PV plant, the 180 kWp Rubesa Plant, was inaugurated last year. Jointly developed by the BERDC and the Bhutan Power Corporation (BPC), the Rubesa Plant, located in Rubesa, Wangdue, comprises 576 solar panels and is expected to generate 263,000 kWh of electricity annually. This project serves as a valuable pilot for future large-scale solar deployments. 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, extending electricity access to off-grid communities and promoting energy equity. This decentralized approach can enhance energy resilience and reduce transmission losses.
International Support and Collaboration for the Bhutan Solar Energy Roadmap
The International Solar Alliance (ISA) has played a pivotal role in supporting Bhutan’s solar energy initiatives, providing technical assistance and funding for the Rubesa Plant and collaborating on the development of the National Solar Energy Roadmap. The ISA’s ongoing commitment to supporting Bhutan’s implementation of the roadmap is crucial for achieving the country’s 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 in its solar energy journey, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration in driving the global energy transition.
Bhutan Solar Energy Roadmap: A Key Driver of Sustainable Development
The National Solar Energy Roadmap marks a significant step forward in Bhutan’s energy transition, with solar power playing a central role in the country’s sustainable development. By diversifying its energy mix and increasing its reliance on solar energy, Bhutan aims to reduce its dependence on hydropower, which, while renewable, can be vulnerable to climate change impacts like altered precipitation patterns. This diversification strengthens energy security and resilience. Further information can be found at PVKnowhow.
The successful implementation of the roadmap will not only contribute to Bhutan’s energy self-sufficiency goals but also support its efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable development, reinforcing the country’s global leadership in environmental stewardship.
