19th July 2025
The Department of Energy, MoENR announces the commissioning of Phase I (17.38 MWp) of the Sephu Solar Project in Sephu Gewog, Wangdue Phodrang, marking the launch of the country’s first utility scale solar photovoltaic power plant implemented by the Government.
Commissioning of the Phase-I of the Project marks an important step towards diversifying the energy generation portfolio in the country and build a resilient energy system to address the adverse impacts of climate change and to ensure energy security in the, in keeping with the National Energy Policy 2025 and sustainable development goals.
The commissioning event was graced by the Hon’ble Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, representatives from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), officers from the regulator and utility companies. The Gup and residents of Sephu Gewog also attended the event.
The project is funded by the Asian Development Bank through mix of loan and grant with some contributions from the Royal Government of Bhutan. The contract for the engineering, procurement and construction was awarded to M/s. Rigsar – PES JV in 2023.
In keeping with the contract, the contractor has successfully installed and commissioned 17.38 MWp of capacity and commenced operations. It is expected to generate approximately 25 million kWh annually and the project occupies around 44 acres of state land.
Through its green energy generation from the project, it is expected to boost the firm power during the winter season and complement hydro generation, which plummets during the winter season. It is also envisaged to propel economic growth and create green jobs in the country in the long run.
