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.

Can solar power plants help Bhutan achieve energy security?

The Solar Plant in Rubesa is one such initiative that takes Bhutan a step closer to achieving energy security through a diversified and sustainable energy supply mix. The project particularly demonstrates the viability of solar power plants on a utility-scale.

Will Bhutan build a mega solar power plant?

One imminent project is the construction of Bhutan’s first mega solar power plant, a 17MW plant in Sephu, Wangdue. Today, all of Bhutan’s electricity generation is from renewables such as hydropower, wind, and solar. However, 78 percent of the country’s energy consumption is supplied by fossil fuels, largely for transportation purposes.

What are Bhutan's upcoming solar projects?

He added that those involved would greatly benefit and take part in Bhutan’s upcoming solar projects. One imminent project is the construction of Bhutan’s first mega solar power plant, a 17MW plant in Sephu, Wangdue. Today, all of Bhutan’s electricity generation is from renewables such as hydropower, wind, and solar.

How many solar panels does Bhutan have?

With 464 solar panels, the 180kW plant will produce 263,000 units of energy a year, which is adequate to meet the electricity supply demands for around 90 households. Director of the Department of Renewable Energy (DRE), Phuntsho Namgyal, said that Bhutan was endowed with 12,000 megawatts (MW) of solar power potential.

Will a 180kW solar plant bring Bhutan's utility scale solar power dream closer?

He said that the current pilot project of the 180kW solar plant brings Bhutan’s utility scale solar power generation dream closer. The pilot project engaged around 10 engineers and technicians from the DRE and Bhutan Power Corporation (BPC), who carried out the design, construction, installation, and grid integration work.