Why do we need a renewable base in Bhutan?

Recently, the need to expand renewable base in Bhutan's energy system has felt strongly, firstly to diversify the energy sources for enhancing energy security, and secondly, because of an unequivocal consensus from the global climate scientists about the potential threat on the energy resources, particularly hydropower due to climate change.

Why is energy security important in Bhutan?

Energy security is at the heart of the energy policy. Achieving energy security, however, is difficult as energy sector faces challenges due to resource depletion and climate change. It is becoming a key concern for Bhutan due to perpetual demand growth including climate change presenting formidable challenge.

What drives Bhutan's energy policy?

Examining from energy security perspective, Bhutan's energy policies seem to be driven by natural resource endowments, rather than national strategy. Hydropower is accorded with highest national priority due to availability of huge hydropower potential favored by rugged geographical terrain, and considering that the resource is clean.

Why is Bhutan not able to secure its energy requirement?

Despite availability of diverse source of clean energy resources in excess of national demand, both in terms of potential and installed capacity, Bhutan has not been able to secure its energy requirement, especially in lean season. Bhutan imports power every winter months, when the demand is at peak and generation is at lowest point.

What is Bhutan's integrated energy strategy?

The objectives driving this integrated strategy are clear: Guarantee long-term energy security; fuel sustainable socio-economic growth; enhance resilience against climate change; ensure continued access to reliable and competitive energy; and position Bhutan in the forefront of clean energy development.

Is Bhutan ready for energy self-sufficiency?

Bhutan continues to import electricity, especially during winter months when demand spikes, and it has only heightened with electricity imported from the energy exchange with effect from January 2022. Given enormous renewable energy resource endowment, it is critical that Bhutan prepares for energy self-sufficiency using its own resources.