Does Bhutan have energy-saving potential?

It is expected that with the increase in population and modernization of any country, energy consumption would increase. Bhutan is a carbon-negative country and committed to remaining carbon-neutral. Thus, identifying energy-saving potential will increase energy efficiency and contribute to continue fulfilling this pledge for years to come.

What is the energy demand in Bhutan?

Bhutan is a small developing country, and tremendous changes have been seen in the energy demand in the last few decades. The residential sector accounts for 33% of the total energy consumption of 650,220 tons of oil equivalent (IRENA, 2019 ). Energy sources used for lighting, cooking, heating, and appliances have changed over the years.

What kind of energy is used in Bhutan?

For space heating and water heating, electricity and wood fuel are used. Appliances that are considered are fans, television, and refrigerator. The results obtained from the study would provide a reference for Bhutan’s future energy planning and guidelines for policy-making. It would also provide suggestions for energy conservation.

Is biomass a source of energy in Bhutan?

In Bhutan, traditionally, biomass has been the principal source of energy and accounted for 91% of total resident energy use in 2005. Over the last 5–10 years, the energy usage pattern has changed drastically, switching to more modern fuels like electricity and LPG from traditional fuels like biomass (Lhendup et al., 2010 ).

Should Bhutan switch from wood fuel to electricity?

Shifting from wood fuel to electricity would increase the electricity demand, which the country can meet. Bhutan has a theoretical hydropower potential of 30,000 MW, out of which 23,765 MW is techno-economically feasible (NEC, 2016 ).

How has energy usage changed in Bhutan?

Over the last 5–10 years, the energy usage pattern has changed drastically, switching to more modern fuels like electricity and LPG from traditional fuels like biomass (Lhendup et al., 2010 ). In 1967, with Bhutan’s first hydroelectric plant of 360 kW installed, only Thimphu, the capital, received a power supply (Tshering and Tamang, 2004 ).