How much does low voltage electricity cost in Bhutan?

The unsubsidised average tarif (or average cost of delivery) of low voltage electricity in Bhutan is estimated at 5.81 BTN/kWh. The cost of delivery of electricity is likely to be much higher in regions that are remote and/or sparsely populated.

How much electricity does Bhutan generate?

Of-grid hydropower and solar home lighting systems accounted for a very small percentage of electricity generation in 2014 (Figure 1). Bhutan’s installed power generation capacity in 2017 was 1.6 gigawatts (GW), representing only 6% of its techno-economic feasible hydropower potential.

How can energy pricing improve energy eficiency in Bhutan?

Reforms to energy pricing can help level the playing field for renewable energy technologies, thus incentivising their uptake in both on-grid and of-grid settings. In the specific case of Bhutan, improving energy eficiency is a fundamental and cost-efective first step towards integration of renewables in all sectors.

Why does Bhutan have a high demand for electricity?

Furthermore, with Bhutan located in the cold Himalaya mountain range, the demand for electricity for heating is also high during the winter months. A significant portion of total electricity generation is exported to India, which has increased from 1 460.5 GWh in 2000 to 5 700 GWh in 2017; i.e. 74% of total generation (DHPS, 2018).

Why is energy consumption growing in Bhutan?

Energy consumption in Bhutan has been growing rapidly (with a CAGR of 5.49% since 2005). Most of this demand – especially in the transport and industrial sectors – is met through imported fossil fuels, which represent a significant and growing economic burden.

Can Solar Water Heaters increase energy consumption in Bhutan?

Increases in energy eficiency can help shape and decrease energy demand, thus facilitating renewable energy uptake. Heating is a major source of energy consumption in Bhutan and eforts have been made to encourage the uptake of solar water heaters.