In hydropowered Bhutan, solar starts to rise amid winter shortfalls and climate pressures

Thimphu, Bhutan is witnessing a rise in solar energy adoption amid winter energy shortages and climate challenges. Historically, Bhutan has relied on hydroelectric power for its electricity needs, maintaining a carbon-negative status. However, increasing demand and winter river low levels have led to reliance on imported Indian electricity.

Climate change, threatening glaciers that feed rivers, has intensified efforts for energy diversification. Rinzin Galley, senior engineer at Norion Renewable Energy, notes a surge in solar projects. The Dechencholing solar farm, with a 4.45 MW capacity, is the company's largest project. This is part of a broader plan to develop 5,000 MW of solar energy.

Bhutan currently produces 3,700 MW from hydroelectric power, which drops 80% during winter. This gap is being filled by electricity imports from India. Bhutan's energy targets aim for 25,000 MW by 2040, with solar making up 25% of that capacity. However, limited land space and challenging terrain pose obstacles to solar project development.

Rooftop solar installations are common in Thimphu, but the cost remains prohibitive for many. Despite this, Bhutan's solar targets focus on large-scale projects rather than individual rooftop installations. The country acknowledges the impact of climate change on its energy resources and is preparing for a future with less reliable glaciers.