Bhutan has embarked on an ambitious clean energy journey with the launch of a five-year Country Partnership Strategy (CPS) in collaboration with the International Solar Alliance (ISA). The initiative aims to accelerate the deployment of solar power, strengthen energy security, and reduce the kingdom’s reliance on fossil fuel imports.
According to projections, the strategy could save Bhutan approximately USD 42.6 million in energy imports by 2029, while also curbing greenhouse gas emissions and generating carbon credits.
The CPS rests on four strategic pillars: expanding solar installations, ensuring policy readiness, strengthening institutional capacity, and mobilizing financing for large-scale projects. ISA will provide Bhutan with technical expertise, including feasibility studies and e-procurement support, to de-risk investments and attract private sector participation.
Karma Tshering, Secretary of the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources (MoENR), emphasized Bhutan’s recent progress in renewable energy, highlighting the successful establishment of the Solar Technology and Application Resource Centre (STAR-C) and pilot storage projects.
Bhutan has laid out clear milestones: 1,000MW of solar capacity by 2029, 2,500MW by 2034, and 5,000MW by 2040. Officials say the country will pursue a mix of solar technologies to achieve these targets.
“This partnership is not just about energy security, but also about building a resilient, sustainable future,” Tshering said.
With abundant sunshine and international support, Bhutan’s solar roadmap signals a transformative shift in the country’s energy landscape, positioning it as a model for renewable growth in the region.
