27th August 2024
A 24-member delegation from Switzerland called on His Excellency Lyonpo Gem Tshering, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, RGoB. After the exchange of pleasantries, Lyonpo said that Switzerland is close to everyone in Bhutan. From size to greenery to the beauty of its mountains, Switzerland has inspired Bhutan and its people. Furthermore, Lyonpo highlighted that Switzerland has been one of Bhutan’s key development partners since 1985, assisting through various projects, especially in the agriculture, education, infrastructure, forestry and energy sectors.
Moving forward, Lyonpo stated that Bhutan, through its Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, is committed to realizing His Majesty’s vision of generating over 20 GW of electricity by 2040. While the country is on track to achieve 5,000 MW by 2025, the target of 10,000 MW by 2034 presents a significant opportunity for Swiss companies to engage in Bhutan’s energy sector. The scope also expands with Bhutan’s pursuit to diversifying the power generation through the alternative energy sources such as solar, wind, bio-fuel, and hydrogen fuel initiatives. These initiatives are also being pursued in response to the challenges posed by melting glaciers due to global warming and climate change, as well as to address country’s energy security concerns. Diversifying energy sources is crucial for Bhutan to ensure a stable and sustainable energy supply throughout the year, especially hydropower faces increasing variability due to climate change and other challenges.
Among the delegates were CEOs of 18 Swiss companies who were exploring engagement opportunities in Bhutan in energy, forestry, and trade sectors and beyond.
