Bhutan’s Solar Evolution

Solar Photovoltaics (PV) is a crucial complementary source of electricity to diversify and secure Bhutan’s electricity sources. As the hydropower output dips during the non-monsoon months and the inflow of Himalyan rivers are gradually under the climate change-induced fluctuation, posing long-term unpredictability and challenges, DGPC’s venture into solar PV is in alignment with the Bhutan’s Renewable Energy Development Roadmap 2024 and the National Energy Policy 2025 which aims for the development of 5,000 MW of solar PV alongside 20,000 MW of hydropower, strengthening the country’s commitment to sustainable energy.

Through its dedicated team constituted in early 2023, DGPC started working on rooftop as well as ground-mounted utility-scale PV installations - the scaling up of the rooftop installations and implementation of the ground-mounted PV are in full swing while the feasibility study for many identified projects are ongoing. DGPC is also prospecting the new site to works towards the 5,000 MW target..

Most parts of Bhutan receive higher irradiation from the sun owing to its higher elevation that enhances the solar PV energy production. The low level of air pollution in Bhutan ensures that the solar PV modules remain free of dust most of the time ensuring lower low frequency of cleaning.

The clear blue sky and the cool air, particularly during the winter days when the river inflow plummets, make a compelling case for Bhutan to bank upon the next alternative and complementing source of electricity generation. The evolution of solar PV technology quick deployment timelines reduces the project gestation time significantly compared to hydropower.