Wind power for climate-conscious Bhutan!

THIMPHU: From wind power to biogas, bicycles and electric buses, Bhutan is exploring new ways to play its part in the global push to keep climate change in check.

Last month, two wind turbines - the Himalayan mountain kingdom’s first - were inaugurated at Rubesa village in Wangduephodrang district, some 1,450 metres above sea level.

"Windmills are new to Bhutan, and we can easily harness wind here given the location of the village," said Pema Letho, an electrical engineer with Bhutan Power Corporation Limited.

The turbines are expected to generate a combined 600 kilowatts, enough to provide electricity to 300 households in the village, a four-hour drive from the capital Thimphu.

Bhutan’s government is promoting new sources of renewable energy amid increasing demand for electricity.

It is also hoping to reduce its reliance on hydroelectricity - which can lead to power shortages in winter when water levels drop - and import less fossil fuel for transport.

"The plan is to boost energy security in the country and diversify the energy supply," said Mewang Gyeltshen, acting director of the department of renewable energy.

"This is being done to counter the impending threats of climate change," he said.