BHEL Marks Milestone with Commissioning of Units 1 & 2 at Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project in Bhutan

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Thimphu, Bhutan, January 10, 2025 - Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), India's premier engineering and manufacturing enterprise, has successfully commissioned the first two units of the 6x170 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project (PHEP-II) in Bhutan. This achievement underscores the deepening energy cooperation between India and Bhutan, highlighting BHEL's significant contribution to the region's hydropower infrastructure.

The project, located in the Wangdue district of Western Bhutan, is a greenfield hydroelectric venture executed under a bilateral agreement between the Government of India and the Royal Government of Bhutan. PHEP-II, once fully commissioned, is expected to generate approximately 4,357 gigawatt-hours of clean, renewable energy annually, significantly boosting Bhutan's power generation capacity.

Unit 1 and 2 of the PHEP-II were synchronized on December 16 and 17, 2024, respectively. A ceremony celebrating this milestone was held at the project site, coinciding with Bhutan's National Day on December 17, 2024, attended by His Excellency Lyonpo Gem Tshering, Bhutan's Minister of Energy & Natural Resources, and Chairman of PHPA-II, among other dignitaries.

The commissioning of these units signifies BHEL's expertise in handling large-scale hydroelectric projects abroad. The Francis Turbines installed here, designed to operate at a rated head of 241 meters, represent the highest for any such turbine in Bhutan, showcasing advanced engineering tailored to the region's specific geographical and hydrological conditions.

This project adds to BHEL's long-standing engagement in Bhutan's hydropower sector, where it has previously executed notable projects like the 4x84 MW Chukha, 4x15 MW Kurichhu, 6x170 MW Tala, and 4x180 MW Mangdechhu. With the commissioning of these two units, BHEL's contribution to Bhutan's total installed hydropower capacity now stands at nearly 89%.

The success of PHEP-II is also indicative of BHEL's ongoing commitment to sustainable development in the region. Apart from this project, BHEL is currently executing an order for the 6x200 MW Punatsangchhu-I HEP, further strengthening its footprint in Bhutan. The company's involvement extends beyond Bhutan, with projects like the 4x225 MW Arun-3 HEP and 2x20 MW Rahughat HEP in Nepal, showcasing a broader regional impact.

The commissioning of these units not only serves as a testament to BHEL's technical prowess but also fortifies the energy partnership between India and Bhutan, advancing mutual interests in sustainable development and energy security.

BHEL's achievement at PHEP-II is a step forward in contributing to the global shift towards renewable energy sources, aiding in the reduction of carbon footprints and promoting a cleaner environment. The project's progress is closely watched by stakeholders as a model of international cooperation in the field of sustainable energy development.