Tata Power, DGPC Launch Training Ecosystem to Support Bhutan’s 5,000 MW Clean Energy Vision

• Aim to build a future-ready workforce to support the operation and maintenance of large-scale clean energy assets under the strategic partnership
• Hon’ble Prime Minister of Bhutan, Lyonchhen Tshering Tobgay, graced the MoU signing ceremony at Thimphu
• Training programmes will be delivered through Tata Power Skill Development Institute

Tata Power, one of India’s largest integrated power utilities, and Druk Green Power Corporation (DGPC), the sole power generation utility of Bhutan, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Thimphu, Bhutan, to establish a comprehensive skill development ecosystem.

The MoU lays the foundation for a structured training framework aimed at building a future-ready workforce to address both immediate and long-term requirements under the ongoing partnership between Tata Power and DGPC to jointly develop clean energy projects.

The MoU signing ceremony, was graced by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of Bhutan, Lyonchhen Tshering Tobgay. The MoU was formally signed by Dr Praveer Sinha, CEO & Managing Director, Tata Power, and Dasho Chhewang Rinzin, Managing Director, DGPC. Ms Anjali Pandey, President- Generation, Tata Power, along with other senior representatives from Tata Power, DGPC, and relevant institutions, were also present at the ceremony.

Training programmes will be delivered through the Tata Power Skill Development Institute (TPSDI), leveraging its expertise in power sector skilling.

Dr Praveer Sinha, CEO & Managing Director, Tata Power, said “This partnership with DGPC underscores our collective vision of creating a future-ready talent ecosystem for Bhutan’s growing clean energy sector. Leveraging its strong credentials in power sector training, Tata Power Skill Development Institute (TPSDI) will help nurture industry-ready professionals with comprehensive expertise in safe operations, emerging technologies, and operations & maintenance.”

Tata Power will provide technical expertise, training infrastructure, courseware, and accreditation support through TPSDI for the effective implementation of the programmes. DGPC will facilitate the mobilisation and deployment of trainees, ensuring seamless execution under the MoU and subsequent definitive agreements.

DGPC will also be responsible for securing all necessary approvals from the Government of Bhutan and relevant Bhutanese authorities, while Tata Power will obtain the requisite approvals from the Government of India.

Dasho Chhewang Rinzin, Managing Director, DGPC, said, “This MoU is a practical step towards strengthening local capabilities required under the ongoing partnership to develop 5,000 MW of clean energy capacity. DGPC will work with relevant Bhutanese authorities and stakeholders to identify training needs, mobilise trainees where appropriate, and ensure that the programme supports national priorities and complements the Royal Government of Bhutan’s broader workforce development efforts.”

The proposed skill development initiatives under this MoU will be implemented in a phased manner:

• Phase 1: Focus on immediate deployment of safety training to ensure workforce readiness prior to site entry, including mandatory safety induction programmes for project workers.
• Phase 2: Expansion into technical skill development covering construction, material handling, and earth-moving equipment operations, tailored to project construction requirements.
• Phase 3: Development of specialised capabilities for the long-term operation and maintenance of clean energy assets.

Tata Power Skill Development Institute (TPSDI) was established to bridge the skill gap in the power sector by delivering industry-relevant, modular training and certification programmes. TPSDI is accredited by the National Safety Council of India (NSC) to conduct safety training, administer assessments, and issue joint certifications. As an approved training partner of the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and a Dual Awarding Body recognised by the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET), TPSDI operates a robust training network across India, offering hands-on training across the power value chain, including thermal, hydel, and renewable energy technologies such as solar, wind, and green hydrogen.

This MoU reflects a collaborative and practical approach to developing the skills required for Bhutan’s clean energy growth, with DGPC working alongside relevant Bhutanese authorities and Tata Power providing technical training support.

Tata Power, Bhutan & World Bank Drive $515M Clean Energy Boost with Dorjilung Project

Bhutan has signed $515 million in financing agreements with the World Bank, alongside Tata Power, to build the 1,125 MW Dorjilung Hydroelectric Power Project—its largest hydropower initiative, expected to generate one-third of the nation’s electricity and boost GDP by 2.4%.

Project Overview

• Capacity: 1,125 MW
• Location: Kurichhu River, eastern Bhutan
• Annual Generation: Over 4,500 GWh of clean electricity
• Completion Target: 2031
• Economic Impact: Expected to raise Bhutan’s GDP by 2.4%

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Financing & Structure

• Total Project Cost: $1.7 billion
• World Bank Financing: $300M from IDA (includes $150M grant), $215M from IBRD, up to $300M from IFC
• Public-Private Partnership: Druk Green Power Corporation (60%) and Tata Power (40%)
• Private Sector Catalyzation: Expected to mobilize $900M additional financing

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Regional Impact

• Exports to India: Nearly 80% of annual generation
• Carbon Reduction: Displacement of 3.3 million tons of CO₂ annually
• Energy Security: Reduces winter imports, provides surplus summer power for export

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Economic & Social Benefits

• Jobs: Direct and indirect employment opportunities
• Sectors Boosted: Manufacturing, tourism, and small businesses
• Revenue Use: Export revenues reinvested in health, education, and infrastructure

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Leadership Statements

• Dasho Tshering Tobgay, PM of Bhutan: “This project is a cornerstone of Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan… advancing our carbon-negative commitment.”
• Johannes Zutt, World Bank VP South Asia: “The financing model sets a new standard for sustainable infrastructure development.”
• Dr Praveer Sinha, CEO Tata Power: “This landmark project will strengthen regional energy security and deepen India–Bhutan clean energy cooperation.”

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Key Takeaways

• Bhutan’s largest hydropower venture under PPP
• Model for sustainable financing with minimal sovereign debt exposure
• Transforms Bhutan’s energy sector, reinforces carbon-negative status
• Deepens regional clean energy trade with India

Tata Power and DGPC Partner on ₹13,100 Crore Dorjilung Hydropower Project in Bhutan

Tata Power and Bhutan’s Druk Green Power Corporation (DGPC) have signed commercial agreements to jointly develop the 1,125 MW Dorjilung Hydroelectric Project in Mongar, Bhutan, reported ETEnergyWorld citing Tata Power’s stock exchange filing and detailing the 1,125 MW project structure.

The project will be executed through a special purpose vehicle (SPV), with DGPC holding 60% equity and Tata Power 40%. At ₹13,100 crore total cost, it will be Bhutan’s second-largest hydropower project and the largest public-private partnership (PPP) hydro project in the country.

Key highlights of the Dorjilung project

• Capacity: 1,125 MW, divided into six units of 187.5 MW each.
• Location: Kurichhu River, Mongar district, Bhutan.
• Design: Run-of-the-river project with six-hour pondage for peaking, ensuring reliable power supply.
• Equity structure: DGPC – 60%, Tata Power – 40%.
• Investment: Tata Power will infuse ₹1,572 crore in equity, in tranches.
• Total cost: ₹13,100 crore.
• Significance:
  • Bhutan’s second-largest hydropower project.
  • The largest PPP hydro project ever undertaken in Bhutan.
  • Strengthens India-Bhutan energy cooperation, with ~80% of generated clean power expected to be supplied to India.

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Strategic importance

• Regional energy security: Contributes significantly to Bhutan’s hydropower exports, a major revenue source.
• India–Bhutan cooperation: Supports the bilateral plan to expand hydropower cooperation to 5,000 MW.
• Clean energy push: Provides peaking power that complements India’s solar and wind expansion.
• Economic impact: Creates jobs, boosts local economies, and strengthens Bhutan’s energy independence.

Why this matters

This agreement marks a milestone in South Asia’s energy collaboration, showcasing how public-private partnerships can unlock large-scale renewable projects. For Tata Power, it expands its international footprint in clean energy, while for Bhutan, it cements its role as a regional hydropower hub.

Largest FDI by An Indian Pvt Co. in Bhutan: Reliance Power to Develop Large-Scale Solar & Hydro Power Projects

Anil Ambani's Reliance Power has partnered with the Government of Bhutan to develop large-scale solar and hydro power projects. This collaboration is part of Bhutan's efforts to achieve its net-zero goals and enhance its renewable energy infrastructure.

This partnership represents the largest FDI by an Indian company in Bhutan's renewable energy sector. The projects will support Bhutan's goal of sustainable development and clean energy production.

The investment by Reliance Power in partnership with the Government of Bhutan for the development of solar and hydro power projects is up to $1 billion.

Reliance Power Ltd. and Druk Holding will co-develop the 770-MW Chamkharchhu-1 Hydro Project, which is classified as a run-of-the-river project under a concession model aligned with Bhutan’s policies.

Druk Holding and Investments (DHI) is the commercial arm of the Royal Government of Bhutan, established in 2007. Its primary purpose is to hold and manage the existing and future investments of the Royal Government for the long-term benefit of the people of Bhutan. DHI aims to grow its investment portfolio by 10x by 2030, focusing on future-oriented investments.

In this joint venture, Reliance Power will hold a 49 percent stake, while DHI will maintain majority ownership with a 51 percent share. The project will operate under a concession model in line with the government’s policies.

Key Projects:

1. 500 MW Solar Power Plant: This will be developed in Gelephu Mindfulness City, Bhutan, in two phases of 250 MW each over the next two years 2. Once completed, it will be the largest solar installation in Bhutan 2

2.770 MW Chamkharchhu-1 Hydroelectric Project: This run-of-the-river project aims to boost Bhutan's existing power capacity.

A media release confirmed that land for the project has already been earmarked, and a technical team, consisting of experts from Reliance, DHI, and external consultants, is currently conducting site assessments and technical studies. The project is set to become one of the largest investments in Bhutan’s renewable energy sector and represents the largest FDI by an Indian company in Bhutan.

Earlier in August this year, Tata Power, one of India's largest integrated power companies, has had entered into a strategic partnership with Druk Green Power Corporation Ltd (DGPC), a subsidiary of DHI, and the sole generation utility of Bhutan for the development of the 600 MW Khorlochhu Hydropower Project.

Tata Power to Develop 600 MW Khorlochhu Hydropower Project in Bhutan

Tata Power to partner with Druk Green Power Corporation Ltd. for developing the 600 MW Khorlochhu Hydropower Project in Bhutan

• This strategic partnership is a step towards strengthening the clean energy collaboration between India and Bhutan
• The project aligns with Bhutan's ambitious goal of achieving 15 GW of hydropower generation capacity by 2040

With the support of the Royal Government of Bhutan and the Government of India, Tata Power, one of India's largest integrated power companies, has entered into a strategic partnership with Druk Green Power Corporation Ltd (DGPC) of Bhutan for the development of the 600 MW Khorlochhu Hydropower Project. The Project is located in the Trashiyangtse Dzongkhag (District) in Eastern Bhutan on the Kholongchhu river. While the clean power from the project will help meet Bhutan's increasing electricity requirements, it will also complement and contribute to India's energy transition to renewables.

The partnership involves a 40% equity investment by Tata Power in the Public Private Partnership Company, Khorlochhu Hydro Power Limited. The estimated project cost including financing charges is approximately Rs. 6900 Crore (approx US $821 millions) with a construction timeline of 5 years. All the statutory approvals are in place for construction work to start immediately.

This announcement comes in a couple of months after Adani Group announced the signing of an agreement with Bhutan for a 570 MW green hydro plant, which also included transformative infrastructure initiatives in the neighboring country.

This alliance between Tata Power and DGPC is an extension of the existing partnership in the 126 MW Dagachhu Hydropower Plant in Bhutan. Once operational, the Khorlochhu Hydropower Project will help Bhutan meet its winter electricity requirements which is increasing rapidly. It will also export electricity to India to support the increasing power demands of Indian utilities during the summer months.

This marquee investment underscores Tata Power's commitment to its "Sustainable is Attainable" intiative, striving towards carbon neutrality and providing alternative clean energy to India.

The MoU for the project has already been signed between Tata Power and DGPC and the Definitive Agreement will be executed shortly.

Dr. Praveer Sinha, CEO & MD, Tata Power said, “This is a landmark alliance for Tata Power and Druk Green Power Corporation. The development of the 600 MW Khorlochhu Hydropower Project in Bhutan will provide energy security to the region. This project marks a significant step towards building a sustainable energy landscape underscoring Tata Power’s commitment to a greener future.”

Mr. Dasho Chhewang Rinzin, MD, DGPC, said, “This strategic partnership with Tata Power to develop the Khorlochhu hydropower project is a significant step towards Bhutan’s energy security and economic development as the country seeks to become a High Income GNH Economy by 2034. This partnership with Tata Power opens new avenues for sourcing investments to harness Bhutan’s huge hydropower and solar potential. It further ensures access to and complements the evolving Indian energy market for surplus generation in the summer months with opportunities to expand in future to the regional market. Looking forward, DGPC hopes to not only build on this partnership with Tata Power but also emulate similar partnerships with other interested partners.”

The Khorlochhu Hydro Power Ltd will also sign long-term Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) with Tata Power Trading Corporation Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Power Company Ltd, for export of the summer surplus power to the Indian market and with Bhutan Power Corporation Ltd (a subsidiary of Druk Holding & Investments Ltd) for the domestic sale of power in the winter months.

Tata Power also has a successful Joint Venture with Power Grid Corporation of India Limited for a 1,200 km long Tala transmission line to bring electricity from Bhutan to Delhi.

Adani To Enter Bhutan To Build 570 Mw Green Hydro Plant

Gautam Adani, Chairman of the Adani Group, recently announced the signing of an agreement with Bhutan for a 570 MW green hydro plant. This collaboration also includes transformative infrastructure initiatives in the neighboring country.

The Adani Group aims to work closely on hydro and other infrastructure projects in Bhutan, inspired by the vision of Bhutan King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay. Additionally, they plan to contribute to green energy management for Bhutan, which aspires to be a carbon-negative nation.

The project will be located in Chukha province. During his visit to Bhutan, Adani also had the honor of meeting Bhutan's King, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. Adani expressed admiration for Bhutan's vision and commitment to eco-friendly initiatives, including the ambitious masterplan for the Gelephu Mindfulness City, which includes large computing centers and data facilities. This collaboration aims to contribute to green energy management and transformative infrastructure development in Bhutan.

Bhutan has significant solar energy potential. According to the Renewable Energy Management Master Plan, the country could produce up to 12 gigawatts (GW) of solar energy in technical terms. However, the current installed capacity for solar energy, apart from large hydro plants, is only 9 megawatts (MW).

Bhutan's wind energy potential is estimated at 760 MW. While wind energy is still in its early stages, the country is gradually exploring wind power as a complementary source to reduce reliance on hydropower during winter and dry months.

While hydropower remains the dominant renewable energy source in Bhutan, the country is also exploring other options to diversify its energy mix.

Boon (formerly Swajal) Marks Entry in Bhutan By Collaborating with &Beyond Hotel to Eradicate Plastic Wastage

Boon and &Beyond's collaboration targets a reduction in carbon emissions exceeding 2,800 kilograms.

Boon, a globally recognized water technology startup utilizing cutting-edge IoT technology, is pleased to announce its strategic partnership with &Beyond Hotel, marking its entry in Bhutan. Together, they are dedicated to providing access to safe drinking water while simultaneously addressing the critical issues of plastic waste and water inefficiency through Boon's revolutionary ZeroMileWater™ technology. This pioneering endeavor underscores our commitment to sustainability, eco-friendly hospitality, and the broader cause of environmental conservation within the Bhutanese context.

Boon patented Zero Mile Initiative introduces an innovative in-house water purification system that filters and packages water in eco-conscious glass bottles, thus substantially reducing plastic waste. By embracing a zero-mile delivery approach, this initiative further minimizes carbon emissions associated with long-distance transportation.

Boon's collaboration with &Beyond in Bhutan is fully aligned with the nation's unwavering dedication to environmental preservation. Bhutan, often heralded as the world's first carbon-negative country, a vital carbon sink in the global fight against climate change. The partnership between Boon and &Beyond is poised to contribute significantly to Bhutan's sustainability efforts, potentially resulting in the reduction of over 2,800 kilograms of carbon emissions and more than 930 kilograms of plastic waste annually. 

Dr. Vibha Tripathi, Managing Director of Boon, remarked, "Our collaboration with &Beyond Bhutan extends the reach of our global impact. Boon's innovative NetZeroWater™ technology seamlessly complements &Beyond's steadfast commitment to sustainable tourism and the broader development goals of Bhutan. Together, we are setting new benchmarks in sustainable hospitality and environmental preservation."

Boon embraces a circular economy approach by providing sustainable glass bottles for monitoring water quality and hydration delivery, aided by state-of-the-art AI and IoT technologies. This initiative significantly minimizes plastic waste generation within hotel rooms and premises.

About Boon (formerly known as Swajal):

Boon, formerly known as Swajal, is a pioneering impact-driven water technology startup that leverages advanced technology and innovation to transform the landscape of drinking water solutions. Boon is on a mission to celebrate water as the precious resource it truly is. Boon introduced the revolutionary WaterATM™ in 2014 and developed one of the world's pioneering IoT platforms, Clairvoyant™, for monitoring drinking water purifiers on a global scale. Over time, Boon has expanded the focus of Clairvoyant™ to encompass not only its profound social impact but also its substantial environmental contribution by enabling hotels, restaurants, and offices to transition from plastic-based hydration solutions to more sustainable alternatives.

BHIM–UPI Launched in Bhutan

Finance Minister Smt Nirmala Sitharaman and Finance Minister of Bhutan Mr Lyonpo Namgay Tshering jointly launch BHIM–UPI in Bhutan

Launch fulfils the commitment made by two countries during Prime Minister of India’s State visit to Bhutan in 2019

Union Minister of Finance & Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of State for Finance Dr Bhagwat Kisanrao Karad and Secretary, Department of Financial Services Shri Debashish Panda at the BHIM-UPI launch in New Delhi yesterday

Union Minister of Finance & Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, along with her counterpart, the Hon’ble Finance Minister of Bhutan, Mr Lyonpo Namgay Tshering, jointly launched BHIM–UPI in Bhutan yesterday afternoon in a virtual ceremony. 

The function was also attended by the Minister of State (Finance) Dr. Bhagwat Kishanrao Karad, the Governor of the Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan Mr Dasho Penjore, Secretary, Department of Financial Services, Shri Debasish Panda, the Ambassador of India to Bhutan, Ms Ruchira Kamboj, the Ambassador of Bhutan to India General V. Namgyel, and the MD & CEO of NPCI Shri Dilip Asbe.

While speaking on the occasion, Smt. Sitharaman said that the services have started in Bhutan under India's neighbourhood first policy and India is proud of our achievement and feel pleasure in sharing it with our valued neighbour. 

The Finance Minister said that BHIM UPI is one of the brightest spot and an achievement for digital transactions in India during the time of COVID-19 pandemic with more than 100 million UPI QRs have been created in last 5 years and BHIM UPI in 2020-21 has processed 22 billion transactions worth value Rs 41 lakh crore.

The Finance Minister of Bhutan, Mr Lyonpo Namgay Tshering, thanked and appreciated the Government of India for the launch of BHIM-UPI services in Bhutan and added that the bond between the two countries has become stronger each passing day.

This launch fulfils the commitment made by the two countries during the Hon'ble Prime Minister of India’s State visit to Bhutan in 2019. Following that visit, India and Bhutan have already enabled inter-operability in acceptance of Rupay cards in each other’s countries in two phases – acceptance of Rupay cards issued in India at Bhutan based terminals in the first phase, and vice versa in the second phase.

With today’s launch of BHIM-UPI in Bhutan, the payment infrastructures of the two countries are seamlessly connected and will benefit a large number of tourists and businessmen from India who travel to Bhutan each year. This will enhance the ease of living and ease of travelling through cashless transactions at the touch of a button.

As a part of the launch, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman also made a Live transaction using BHIM-UPI to purchase an organic product from a Bhutanese OGOP outlet, which sells fresh farm produce made organically by local communities in Bhutan.

Bhutan is the first country to adopt UPI standards for its QR deployment, and the first country in our immediate neighbourhood to accept mobile based payments through the BHIM App.