Hydropower Milestone in Bhutan: India-Assisted Project Completed, Boosts Capacity by 40%
Thimphu (Bhutan): With India’s support, Bhutan has successfully completed the 1,020 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project, as its sixth and final unit (170 MW) was synchronized with the power grid. A ceremony was held at the project powerhouse to celebrate the commissioning of the last unit, marking the full operationalization of the project.
This is the fifth major hydropower project in Bhutan established with India’s cooperation. With its commissioning, Bhutan’s total power generation capacity has risen by nearly 40%, crossing 3,500 MW.
The operationalization of all units further strengthens the energy partnership between the two countries. Punatsangchhu-II is not just a hydropower project but also a symbol of India-Bhutan cooperation, showcasing their shared commitment to clean energy, prosperity, and a greener future. It also reflects India’s strong commitment to its “Neighbourhood First” policy, under which it continues to extend assistance to neighboring countries in multiple sectors.
The event was attended by Bhutan’s Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay, Indian Ambassador to Bhutan Sudhakar Dalela, MEA Special Secretary & Financial Advisor Anurag Agarwal, and representatives of WAPCOS.
The Embassy of India in Bhutan posted on social media platform X on August 27, noting that the Punatsangchhu-II project stands as a vibrant symbol of a sustainable India-Bhutan partnership in clean and green energy. Since the commissioning of its first unit in December 2024, the project has generated over 2,160 million units of clean electricity—a milestone underscoring the two nations’ shared commitment to sustainable development and renewable energy.
According to the Indian Embassy, both governments have collaborated in the development of five major hydropower projects in Bhutan:
Chukha Hydroelectric Project (336 MW)
Kurichhu Hydroelectric Project (60 MW)
Tala Hydroelectric Project (1,020 MW)
Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Project (720 MW)
Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project (1,020 MW)
With the completion of Punatsangchhu-II, Bhutan’s installed power generation capacity has increased by nearly 40%, crossing 3,500 MW.