ADB approves $30m loan for Bhutan’s distributed solar project

The Asian Development Bank and the Government of Bhutan signed a $30 million loan agreement to support a project that aims to generate up to 35 megawatts of clean energy by installing solar panels on rooftops of public infrastructure in Bhutan.

Energy security in Bhutan is a growing concern due to increasing electricity demand and inadequate power supply, especially in winter. This project aims to help the Bhutanese government enhance energy system resilience to climate change and address security issues by diversifying energy sources.

The project will receive a $100 million loan from ADB and a $1 million technical assistance grant to support the development of rooftop solar investments, new solar technologies, workforce skills, and institutional capacity for solar energy development.

ADB is committed to promoting sustainable development and eradicating extreme poverty in the Asia-Pacific region. Established in 1966, the bank is owned by 68 members, including 49 from the region.

Attribution: Asian Development Bank report

Subediting: M. S. Salama