In a significant move to enhance its energy security, Bhutan has issued a tender for the design and construction of a 120 MW solar plant in Sarpang District. This project, officially known as the Wobthang PV Power Plant, includes a transmission line to the Sarpang substation and related infrastructure. It represents the first phase of a proposed 300 MW solar park, signaling a major push towards renewable energy diversification. The project will be executed by the state-owned Druk Green Power Corporation (DGPC) and is open to international bidders, with financing support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
Details of the Bhutan solar tender Plant Project
As part of its strategy to diversify its energy mix, Bhutan is advancing the Bhutan solar project : Stunning 120 MW Power…. The tender, managed by Druk Green Power Corporation (DGPC), is structured as an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract. This means the winning bidder will be responsible for the entire project lifecycle, from initial design and engineering to sourcing solar panel raw materials and final construction.
The tender follows the ADB’s Open Competitive Bidding procedure and is open to international firms, provided they form a joint venture with a local Bhutanese construction company. DGPC has set specific eligibility criteria for bidders, requiring them to demonstrate proven experience in executing at least one similar large-scale solar project in recent years. This ensures that only qualified companies with a strong track record in the solar panel manufacturing process and plant construction are considered for this landmark initiative.
Solar Project Scope of the Bhutan solar tender
The project will be executed in two distinct lots. The first lot concentrates on the design, engineering, procurement, testing, and commissioning of the 120 MW solar plant itself. The second lot covers the same lifecycle for the associated transmission line that will connect the plant to the national grid via the Sarpang substation.
This 120 MW installation is the cornerstone of a much larger vision: a 300 MW solar park to be built on government land near the Sarpang Dzong (the district’s central administrative office). The entire park is planned to be developed in three phases, with this initial phase targeted for completion by 2025. DGPC plans to seek concessional loans for the full project, with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) already expressing firm interest and providing financing for this first phase.
Impact on Bhutan’s Energy Mix from the Bhutan solar tender
The Bhutanese government’s tender marks a critical step in the nation’s energy strategy. Historically, Bhutan has generated nearly all of its electricity—around 2,900 GWh annually—from hydropower. However, this heavy reliance creates significant challenges, as the country often faces power shortages during the dry winter months when river flows are low. This project is a key component of Bhutan ‘s Solar Power Shift: A New Era in Renewable Energy Security.
The Wobthang solar plant is expected to directly address these seasonal deficits and diversify Bhutan’s energy portfolio. It joins other key initiatives, such as the Sephu Solar Project, which are detailed in the Bhutan Solar Panel Manufacturing | Market Insights Report. These efforts, including another Bhutan solar project : 100 MW Solar Initiative…, demonstrate a clear commitment to reducing dependence on a single energy source.
DGPC, established in 2008 following the merger of four major hydropower plants, is spearheading this transition. By working closely with partners like the ADB, DGPC is ensuring that Bhutan can build a more resilient and stable energy future capable of meeting its growing demands year-round.
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