Bhutan off-grid solar energy storage power station

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.

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

What is Bhutan's first solar power project?

The first phase of Bhutan’s first utility-scale solar power project at Sephu in Wangdue Phodrang is set for completion by March next year. A utility-scale solar facility generates solar power and feeds it into the grid. The 17.38-megawatt solar farm is expected to generate around 24 million units of energy annually, once operational.

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

Could a solar power plant be connected to Bhutan's national grid?

On 27 August, the first ground-mounted solar power plant to be connected to Bhutan’s national grid went online. Households could be powered for a year by the solar plant at Rubesa, given the average household in Bhutan uses 1,567 kWh of electricity per year

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.