In Hydropowered Bhutan, Solar Starts To Rise
Bhutan is expanding its solar energy capacity to supplement its traditional reliance on hydropower, which faces seasonal shortages. The country aims to diversify its energy mix to meet growing demand from construction and data centers.
Why it matters
Diversifying energy sources is critical for Bhutan's economic growth and its ability to maintain its carbon-negative status amidst climate change.
Engineer Rinzin Galley stands on a platform overlooking a former military shooting range on the edge of Bhutan's capital Thimphu, now home to a gleaming field of solar panels.With abundant waterways, Bhutan has long relied on hydroelectric power to meet its electricity needs and stay carbon negative -- absorbing more planet-warming gases than it emits.But demand is growing, and in winter, when rivers run low before the mountain melt arrives, Bhutan already relies on imported Indian electricity.Climate change is also threatening the future of the glaciers that feed those rivers, adding impetus to a push for energy diversification."Solar projects are booming," said Rinzin, senior engineer at Norion Renewable Energy.The company's biggest project to date is the Dechencholing solar farm on former military land, with an installed capacity of 4.45 megawatts (MW).Dechencholing is one of several solar fields developed in recent years, including the country's first mega project -- Sephu, with…
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