Renewable Energy & Technology
Jul 2025
Bhutan unveils National Energy Policy 2025, titled Powering a Green, Resilient Future
It sets an ambitious target of 25,000 MW (15,000 MW from hydro; 5000 MW solar and remaining from wind, biomass, geothermal, green hydrogen) of installed renewable energy capacity by 2040 to strengthen energy security, enhance economic competitiveness, and build climate resilience. The policy is anchored on five strategic pillars: hydropower, renewable diversification, infrastructure development, market reform, and energy efficiency. It also calls for private sector participation, fostering investment and innovation in the energy sector. This policy represents a significant milestone in Bhutan’s journey toward sustainable energy development and inclusive green growth, positioning the country as a leader in renewable energy innovation in the region.
Sept 2025
Solar Technology Application Resource Centre (STAR-C) established in College of Science and Technology in Phuentsholing, Bhutan
This state-of-the-art facility was established with support from the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources (MoENR) and the International Solar Alliance (ISA). The Centre serves as a national hub for solar energy training, testing, knowledge sharing, and innovation. It also strengthens the college’s commitment to sustainability, capacity building, and applied research and supports its mission of generating new knowledge to serve societal needs, while contributing to Bhutan’s broader renewable energy goals.
May 2025
Commissioning of 18 MW Suchu Hydropower Project at Sombaykha, Haa
The Suchu Hydropower project is entirely designed, developed and managed by Bhutanese professionals which is a clear testament to the growing capacity and talent within the country.
Jul 2025
Commissioning of Phase 1 (17.38 MWp) of the Sephu Solar project at Wangduephodrang
The Commissioning of the Phase I (17.38 MWp) of the Sephu Solar Project in Sephu Gewog, Wangdue Phodrang, marks the launch of the country’s first utility scale solar photovoltaic power plant implemented by the Government. This marks an important step towards diversifying the energy generation portfolio in the country and build a resilient energy system to address the adverse impacts of climate change and to ensure energy security in the, in keeping with the National Energy Policy 2025 and sustainable development goals.
Jul 2025
High-Level Dialogue Advances Solar Lift Irrigation for Bhutan’s Agriculture
High Level Dialogue -Advancing Renewable Energy powered lift irrigation systems in Bhutan with the launch of the Landscape Assessment Report and Multi Criteria Analysis Framework for Solar Lift Irrigation Systems; Bhutan PURE (Productive Use of Renewable Energy Energy) tool platform and Launch of the grid connected Solar PV at Gangri, Paro organized by ICIMOD and DOE, MoENR: A high-level dialogue on accelerating the future of agriculture, held in Thimphu, brought together government officials, experts, and development partners to discuss challenges faced in advancing renewable energy irrigation systems in the country and explore strategies to overcome them. To support renewable energy-powered lift irrigation, ICIMOD and the Department of Energy launched two key reports – Landscape assessment report and Multi-criteria analysis framework for solar lift irrigation systems.
Aug 2025
Bhutan–India Flagship Punatsangchhu-II Project Achieves Full Commissioning
Commissioning of the Punatsangchhu-II Hydro power project with its final unit -6 (170MW) synchronised to the national grid on The Punatsangchhu II Hydroelectric Project, a flagship collaboration between Bhutan and India has successfully synchronized Unit 6 (170MW)- the final unit of the 1020 MW project with the National grid. This milestone marks the full commissioning of all six units, further reinforcing Bhutan’s standing as global leader in clean energy.
Sep 2025
Development of National Clean Air Action Plan for Bhutan Climate
The Department of Environment and Climate Change along with ICIMOD launched the development of the country’s National Clean Air Action Plan through an inception workshop in Thimphu on 15th September. The action plan aims to provide a comprehensive, evidence based strategy to address air pollution sources, strengthen institutional framework and ensure effective monitoring and coordination across sectors.
Nov 2025
INR 40 billion credit line new rail links
Announcement of INR 40 billion credit line by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The 40 billion line of credit is to support energy projects in Bhutan.
Nov 2025
Joint inauguration of PHPA-II by his majesty The King and Prime Minister Modi
Inauguration of the Punatsangchhu -II Hydroelectric Project 1020 MW jointly by His Majesty the King and the Prime Minister of India, Mr. Narendar Modi at the Tashichhodzong, Thimphu on 11th November 2025. A milestone achievement for the Royal Government of Bhutan for the completion of the 1020 MW hydro electric project
Climate & Environment
Feb 2025
Press Release on Bhutan and Singapore Sign Implementation Agreement on Carbon Market Cooperation
Bhutan and Singapore Implementation Agreement on Carbon Market Cooperation signed by Lyonpo Gem Tshering (Bhutan) and Ms. Grace Fu Hai Yien (Singapore) on 28 February 2025 is the first bilateral agreement under Article 6.2, since the Article 6 rulebook was finalized in Baku. This partnership enables Bhutan to participate in global carbon markets, supporting sustainable projects and climate mitigation efforts. Building upon their 2023 Memorandum of Understanding on enhancing Bhutan’s role in international climate finance, the agreement facilitates high-integrity carbon credit transactions aligning with Bhutan’s carbon neutrality goals while enabling Singapore to meet climate commitments with access to high-quality carbon credits. Both nations emphasized the importance of international collaboration in tackling climate change and advancing the global green transition.
Oct 2025
Launch of the 3rd National Determined Contributions (NDC 3.0) at the Royal Highland Festival, Laya, Gasa Dzongkhag
The NDC 3.0 reaffirms the country’s pledge to remain carbon neutral while setting stronger goals for a resilient, inclusive and sustainable future. It also builds on long term low emission and climate resilient development strategy and calls for continued international partnership and support in finance, technology and capacity building.
Nov 2025
Bhutan Carbon Market Readiness | COP30 Side Event
Bhutan is participating in the COP at Balem, Brazil which will bring together policymakers, international partners, investors, and technical experts to explore Bhutan’s readiness for international carbon market participation