Embassy of IndiaThimphu, Bhutan

Embassy of India

Thimphu

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Synchronization of Units 1 & 2 of Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project

Today, on the joyous occasion of Bhutan’s National Day, the Royal Government of Bhutan announced the synchronization with the Indian power grid of Units 1 and 2 (170 MW each) of the 1020 MW Punatsangchhu–II HEP. A ceremony was held at the project site to mark the occasion, which was attended by Hon’ble Lyonpo Gem Tshering, Minister of Energy & Natural Resources; Shri Rajesh Kumar Chandel, Managing Director, PHPA-II; project management team and other officials.

India and Bhutan enjoy longstanding cooperation in the hydropower sector. Till date, both governments have partnered in the development of four major hydro-electric projects in Bhutan totalling 2136 MW, including 336 MW Chukha HEP, 60 MW Kurichhu HEP, 1020 MW Tala HEP and 720 MW Mangdechhu HEP. 

Taking forward this mutually beneficial cooperation, both sides are working towards the commissioning of all six units of the 1020 MW Punatsangchhu-II HEP next year. Synchronization of Units 1 and 2 enables transmission of electricity generated by these units to India and marks an important milestone in the development of the project. Once completed, the project will increase Bhutan’s installed power generation capacity to around 3465 MW and contribute in a significant way towards Bhutan’s economic growth and development.

In consonance with the Joint Vision Statement on the India-Bhutan Energy Partnership agreed during Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s visit to Bhutan in March 2024, both sides continue to work together to enhance their partnership in the clean energy sector through development of new energy projects in the fields of hydropower, solar and green hydrogen, including through participation of Indian entities as strategic partners.

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17 December 2024

Thimphu