UditVani, New Delhi: In a significant move to enhance regional energy security and accelerate the clean energy transition, Tata Power, one of India’s largest integrated power companies, has entered into a strategic partnership with Druk Green Power Corporation Ltd (DGPC), a subsidiary of Druk Holding and Investments Limited and Bhutan’s sole power generation utility. The collaboration aims to develop at least 5,000 MW of clean energy generation capacity in Bhutan.
Bhutan’s Vision for Energy Security and Diversification
This partnership aligns with Bhutan’s ambitious vision for its energy sector, which targets a total generation capacity of 25,000 MW by 2040. Bhutan seeks to diversify its energy portfolio beyond traditional hydropower to include solar and geothermal energy, a strategy that also involves new project structuring and financing through such strategic partnerships.
Largest Clean Energy Partnership in the Region
Supported by the Royal Government of Bhutan and the Government of India, this agreement marks the largest collaboration between two leading power companies in Asia’s clean energy sector. Both Tata Power and DGPC have a rich history of working together, having partnered for over 15 years in various projects across the region.
Focus on Bhutan’s Hydropower Potential
This partnership underscores Tata Power’s leadership as a preferred clean energy partner, not only in India but also in the broader region. It will help harness Bhutan’s hydropower potential and strengthen the region’s energy security. Key renewable energy projects to be developed include:
Hydropower Projects (4,500 MW):
– 1,125 MW Dorjilung HEP
– 740 MW Gongri Reservoir
– 1,800 MW Jeri Pumped Storage
– 364 MW Chamkharchhu IV
Solar Projects (500 MW): Developed by Tata Power Renewable Energy Ltd (TPREL), a subsidiary of Tata Power.
New Investment and Long-term Collaboration
As part of this partnership, Tata Power recently acquired a 40% stake in the 600 MW Khorlochhu Hydroelectric Project, with an investment of over Nu/INR 69 billion planned for its development. Tata Power has a history of successful collaboration with DGPC, beginning in 2008 with the development of the 126 MW Dagachhu Hydropower Plant, Bhutan’s first Public-Private Partnership in hydropower.
Enhancing Regional Energy Integration
Tata Power’s long-term commitment to regional energy security is further demonstrated by its involvement in the 1,200 km Tala transmission line, which evacuates clean energy from Bhutan to India. This collaboration is a significant step toward greater regional energy integration, which is expected to expand as Bhutan’s hydropower generation complements India’s energy demand patterns.
Statements from Leadership
Dr. Praveer Sinha, CEO & MD of Tata Power:
“This partnership reinforces Tata Power’s credentials as a leader in the clean energy space. Together, we are building 5,000 MW of renewable energy capacity that will not only harness Bhutan’s hydropower potential but also help meet the growing energy demands of both India and Bhutan with reliable, clean energy.”
Mr. Dasho Chhewang Rinzin, MD of DGPC:
“This strategic partnership is aligned with Bhutan’s goal to maximize the benefits of its vast renewable energy resources for the economic development and long-term energy security of the nation. We have great confidence in Tata Power’s ability to deliver on these expectations.”
Future Prospects and Economic Growth
As Bhutan’s economy is projected to grow by 7.2% in FY25, its energy requirements are expected to rise. Hydropower remains a critical part of Bhutan’s economy, and tapping into this resource will not only meet increasing energy demands but also create green jobs and drive infrastructure development. Additionally, Bhutan’s energy production peaks during the monsoon season, complementing India’s summer demand, which is crucial for regional energy integration.
The growing regional cooperation also opens up opportunities for power exports, as evidenced by the recent agreement for Bangladesh to import power from Nepal through India. This further strengthens the potential for increased investment in Bhutan’s hydropower sector.
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