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 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

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 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.

Who inaugurated a solar power plant in Bhutan?

4 October 2021: The Chairperson of the National Council of Bhutan, Lyonpo Tashi Dorji, inaugurated the 180 kW grid-tied ground mounted solar photo-voltaic power plant at Rubesa, Wangduephodrang today.