Embassy of IndiaThimphu, Bhutan

Embassy of India
Thimphu

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Synchronization of Unit 5 (170 MW) of 1020 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project

Today, a ceremony was held at the 1020 MW Punatsangchhu-II HEP powerhouse to mark the successful synchronization of Unit 5 (170 MW) with the power grid. Lyonpo Gem Tshering, Hon’ble Minister of Energy & Natural Resources; Shri Sudhakar Dalela, Ambassador of India to Bhutan; Shri Prakash Chand Upadhyaya, Managing Director, Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project Authority; project management team and officials of the Royal Government of Bhutan participated in the ceremony.

2. India and Bhutan enjoy longstanding mutually beneficial cooperation in the hydropower sector. Both governments have partnered in the development of four major hydro-electric projects in Bhutan viz. Chukha HEP (336 MW), Kurichhu HEP (60 MW), Tala HEP (1020 MW) and Mangdechhu HEP (720 MW).

3. Both sides are working towards the full commissioning of the Punatsangchhu-II HEP (1020 MW) this year. Units 1 and 2 were commissioned in December 2024, Unit 3 in March 2025 and Unit 4 in May 2025. The remaining unit (Unit 6), is expected to be commissioned soon. Once completed, the project will increase Bhutan’s installed power generation capacity by around 40% and contribute to Bhutan’s economic growth and development.

4. In consonance with the Joint Vision Document on the India-Bhutan Energy Partnership of March 2024, both sides continue to work together to enhance their partnership in the clean energy sector through the development of new energy projects.

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17 July 2025
Thimphu