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.

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.

Does Bhutan have a national strategy for energy security?

Bhutan imports power every winter months, when the demand is at peak and generation is at lowest point. This tantamount Bhutan to be an importer of electricity despite abundance of renewable energy resources at its disposal. Therefore, suggests apparent lack of national strategy centering energy security.

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.

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.

What type of energy is used in Bhutan?

Oil is used predominantly in transport sector. Gas is used primarily for cooking in urban areas. In 2016, Bhutan consumed total energy of 650,220 tons of oil equivalent (toe). Renewable energy accounts for more than 64% of the total energy supplied, followed by oil and coal with 16% and 15% respectively.