Bhutan Wind and Solar Energy Storage Power Station

Why is Bhutan building a solar plant in Rubesa?

Phuntsho Namgyal said that the solar plant in Rubesa is part of the country’s plan to diversify its energy sources and enhance energy security. In 2019, the International Renewable Energy Agency carried out a Renewable Readiness Assessment of Bhutan.

Is solar power a viable option in Bhutan?

The project in Rubesa is therefore a step towards diversifying Bhutan’s electricity supply. As well as expanding institutional capacity, it demonstrates the feasibility and viability of solar projects in the country. Source: DRE–MOEA (2016), International Renewable Energy Agency Source: BP Statistical Review of World Energy, Ember

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

How much solar energy will Bhutan produce?

According to the Renewable Energy Management Master Plan 2016, Bhutan has the potential to generate 12 gigawatts of solar power and 760 MW of wind energy. The first phase of the Sephu solar farm is expected to produce 25 million units of energy, enough to power 3,476 households, assuming an average urban household consumes five kilowatts of energy.

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.

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.