Can solar power plants help Bhutan achieve energy security?

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. The project particularly demonstrates viability of solar power plants on a utility scale.

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

Is grid-tied solar a viable alternative energy source in Bhutan?

The commissioning and inauguration of the 180kW grid-tied ground mounted solar photo-voltaic power plant marks the start of Bhutan’s investment in grid-tied solar energy as a viable alternative energy source in the face of soaring domestic demand and climate change.

What is Bhutan's largest solar project?

The Sephu project will be Bhutan’s largest solar facility. Credit: Bhutan ministry of energy and natural resources The Bhutanese government has started construction on the country’s first utility-scale solar farm, the Sephu solar project, which boasts a capacity of 17.38MW.

Can Solar Water Heaters increase energy consumption in Bhutan?

Increases in energy eficiency can help shape and decrease energy demand, thus facilitating renewable energy uptake. Heating is a major source of energy consumption in Bhutan and eforts have been made to encourage the uptake of solar water heaters.

How much solar power does Bhutan have?

The DRE–MOEA (2016b) estimates theoretical solar potential at 6 terawatts (TW) and restricted technical potential at 12 GW. Bhutan’s overall wind regime is heavily influenced by the seasonal monsoon, which means that wind speeds are high from November to April and low in the remaining months.