• In January 2025, Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) successfully commissioned 2 units of the Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project (PHEP-II) in Bhutan, marking a significant achievement in the company’s portfolio.
  • The project is part of a bilateral agreement between the Government of India and the Royal Government of Bhutan, aimed at strengthening energy cooperation between the 2 nations.
  • This success further solidifies BHEL’s presence and contribution to Bhutan's energy infrastructure.

KEY ASPECTS

  • Project Overview:
    • Location: The Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project is situated in the Wangdue district of Western Bhutan, a region known for its hydroelectric potential.
    • Capacity: The project has a total installed capacity of 1,020 MW, with 6 units of 170 MW
    • Annual Power Generation: Once fully commissioned, the project is expected to generate 4,357 GWh (Gigawatt-hours) of electricity annually, making it a significant contributor to Bhutan's power grid and export capacity.
  • Technological Excellence:
    • Francis Turbine: The turbines used in the project are Francis Type turbines, designed to operate at a rated head of 241 meters, which is the highest for any such turbine in Bhutan.
    • The turbines are engineered to deliver high efficiency and performance, designed to the unique topographical and hydrological conditions of the site.
  • BHEL’s Role in the Project:
    • BHEL was responsible for the design, manufacture, supply, installation, and commissioning of the electro-mechanical works for the project.
    • This includes 6x170 MW vertical Francis turbines, matching synchronous generators, a SCADA system for control and monitoring, generator transformers, shunt reactors, and auxiliary systems.
    • The equipment for the project was manufactured in BHEL’s plants located in Bhopal, Jhansi, Rudrapur, Bengaluru, and its transmission business group.
    • On-site commissioning was carried out by BHEL’s Power Sector Eastern Region division based in Kolkata.
  • Commissioning Timeline:
    • Unit 1 and Unit 2 of the PHEP-II were successfully synchronized on December 16 and 17, 2024, respectively.
    • The full commissioning of all 6 units will complete the project, contributing to the power supply in Bhutan and its energy exports.

BHEL’S ONGOING PARTICIPATION IN HEP DEVELOPMENT OF BHUTAN

  • BHEL’s involvement in Bhutan’s hydroelectric sector dates back to several key projects, including:
    • Chukha (4x84 MW)
    • Kurichhu (4x15 MW)
    • Tala (6x170 MW)
    • Mangdechhu (4x180 MW)
  • With the commissioning of PHEP-II, BHEL’s contribution to Bhutan’s total installed power capacity now stands at an impressive 89%.
  • This shows BHEL’s important role in helping Bhutan achieve its energy goals and strengthen its position as a regional leader in hydroelectric power generation.
  • Additionally, BHEL is working on another major project, the Punatsangchhu-I Hydroelectric Project (PHEP-I), which has a capacity of 6x200 MW.
  • This will further extend BHEL’s contribution to Bhutan’s energy infrastructure.

BHEL’S ROLE

  • The commissioning of PHEP-II is a significant milestone in the long-standing energy cooperation between India and Bhutan.
  • Bhutan, a country with abundant hydropower resources, has been a key partner in India’s energy import strategy, with much of Bhutan’s hydroelectric output being exported to India.
  • This partnership not only helps Bhutan generate revenue but also aids India in meeting its energy demands.
  • BHEL’s contributions to these projects strengthen the bilateral relationship and ensure a reliable energy supply for both countries.

ABOUT BHEL

  • BHEL is a state-run company involved in the design, engineering, manufacturing, construction, testing, and servicing of products and services for the core sectors of the economy, including power, transmission, transportation, and infrastructure.
  • As of September 2024, the Government of India holds a 17% stake in the company, which remains one of India’s largest public sector enterprises.
Conclusion: BHEL’s Strategic Role in South Asia’s Energy Landscape The successful commissioning of the Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project marks a significant achievement for BHEL in its ongoing efforts to support Bhutan’s hydropower capabilities. With nearly 89% of Bhutan’s installed capacity being contributed by BHEL, the company has firmly established itself as a leader in the region’s energy sector.