Bhutan is positioning itself as a regional leader in renewable energy with an ambitious plan to rapidly expand solar power nationwide. The Royal Government of Bhutan (RGoB), through the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources (MoENR), has joined hands with the International Solar Alliance (ISA) to implement the National Solar Energy Roadmap (2025-2040) and the Country Partnership Strategy (CPS) 2025-2029.
The roadmap sets clear capacity targets:
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1,000 MW by 2029
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2,500 MW by 2034
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5,000 MW by 2040
According to MoENR projections, the strategy will save USD 42.6 million in energy imports, reduce fossil fuel use by 677 kilolitres, avoid 0.7 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions, and create USD 1.2 million in carbon credits. It will also add 620 MW of new generation capacity while generating jobs and strengthening Bhutan’s clean energy economy.
Bhutan’s approach balances large solar farms with decentralized rural solutions. Key projects like the Sephu Solar Power Plant in Wangdue Phodrang and the Jigmeling project in Sarpang complement rooftop systems, floating solar, hybrid installations, and solar-powered irrigation pumps.
Two 180 MW pilot projects have already demonstrated solar’s value during winter, when hydropower output declines.
Linking Solar Power to Rural Development
The plan aims to power agriculture and rural livelihoods by introducing solar-powered irrigation, cold storage, milling, and food processing. These initiatives will strengthen value chains, reduce post-harvest losses, and boost farmers’ incomes.
“Solar can improve livelihoods, create jobs, and provide a better future for rural communities,” said Ashish Khanna, Director General of ISA.
Training programs will help local communities manage and maintain these systems, ensuring ownership and sustainability.
Capacity Building and Financing
The CPS focuses on:
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Expanding solar deployment to reduce imports
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Strengthening policy frameworks and regulations
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Building institutional and technical capacity
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Mobilizing private-sector financing
ISA supports feasibility studies, tendering, and entrepreneurship development while helping de-risk private investments.
The Solar Technology and Application Resource Centre (STAR-C) at the College of Science and Technology will receive USD 200,000–300,000 funding over two years to promote solar innovation, technical support, and international partnerships.
Despite having over 2,300 MW of hydropower, Bhutan often relies on imports during dry seasons. Solar energy offers a low-cost, year-round solution that improves reliability and reduces vulnerability to climate change.
By integrating large-scale infrastructure, rural applications, and public-private partnerships, Bhutan is building a resilient and inclusive energy future. Its model shows how renewables can drive economic growth, energy security, and climate action simultaneously.