As Bhutan advances plans to expand its renewable energy capacity, preparations for the Wangchhu Hydroelectric Project are gaining momentum, with officials stepping up engagement with communities in the project area. The proposed 570-megawatt hydropower plant will be built across Darla and Bongo gewogs in Chhukha and Lhamoi Dzingkha gewog in Dagana, marking one of the country’s major upcoming energy investments.
Representatives from Druk Green Power Corporation Limited (DGPC), accompanied by officials from relevant agencies, recently held consultation meetings with residents from the three gewogs. More than 200 people attended the discussions, reflecting strong public interest in the project and its potential impact on local livelihoods.
Many residents welcomed the development, expressing optimism that the project would bring improved infrastructure, employment opportunities and economic growth to the region. Community members also highlighted the potential for better road connectivity and services, which they believe could help reduce rural-urban migration by creating more opportunities closer to home.
Some participants, however, raised concerns over land and property loss, acknowledging that large-scale infrastructure projects inevitably bring challenges. Local leaders noted that while certain households may be affected, much of the project area lies on government land, and efforts will be made to resolve outstanding issues through dialogue and fair compensation.
Officials emphasized that community consultation and consent remain central to the project’s implementation. According to DGPC, construction will begin only after concerns are addressed and local approval is secured.
The Wangchhu Hydroelectric Project is a flagship initiative under Bhutan’s Renewable Energy Development Roadmap 2040 and is expected to play a crucial role in meeting the country’s winter electricity demand, when hydropower generation typically declines. Once operational, it will contribute significantly to national energy security and long-term sustainability goals.
The project has evolved over time. An initial study in 1995 proposed a 900-megawatt plant, which was later revised to 570 megawatts following further assessments in 2014. In September last year, DGPC signed key agreements with India’s Adani Power in New Delhi to jointly develop the project.
With the detailed project report already completed, construction is expected to start in the coming months and is projected to take more than five years. The total estimated cost stands at around Nu 60 billion. The dam will be constructed in Gamanang village under Darla Gewog, covering over 750 acres of government land, along with smaller portions of private, orchard and institutional land. Affected individuals will be offered either land substitution or compensation in line with the Land Act.
Once completed, the Wangchhu Hydroelectric Project is expected to become a cornerstone of Bhutan’s renewable energy expansion, supporting both national development and local communities for generations to come.
