Two Units in the Bhutan Hydropower Project Are Commissioned by BHEL

By successfully commissioning two units of the Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project (PHEP-II) in Bhutan, Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) has reached a significant milestone. This project was carried out under a bilateral agreement between India and Bhutan and has a total capacity of 6×170 MW. These units' commissioning is the most recent development in a long-running collaboration to increase energy production in the area.

Overview of the Project
The Wangdue district in Western Bhutan is home to the greenfield hydroelectric project known as PHEP-II. It is intended to contribute to Bhutan's energy independence by producing a significant amount of renewable energy. When all six units are fully commissioned, the project is anticipated to generate 4,357 gigawatt-hours of electricity annually.

Details of Turbines
Francis Turbines, which are specifically made to run at a rated head of 241 meters, are installed as part of the project. This Francis Type Hydro Turbine in Bhutan has the highest rated head, demonstrating cutting-edge engineering and technology. The turbines play a key role in optimizing energy output and efficiency.

Important Dates and Occasions
Unit 1 and Unit 2 were synchronized on December 16 and December 17, 2024, respectively. On December 17, 2024, a celebration of Bhutan's National Day was held at the project site. His Excellency Lyonpo Gem Tshering, Bhutan's Minister of Energy & Natural Resources, attended the event, demonstrating the importance of the project to the country.

The Function and Contributions of BHEL
The design, production, supply, installation, and commissioning of various electro-mechanical works were among BHEL's duties in the PHEP-II. This included synchronous generators, a SCADA system, vertical Francis turbines with a capacity of 6×170 MW, and other necessary equipment. The machinery came from BHEL's manufacturing facilities in Bengaluru, Rudrapur, Jhansi, and Bhopal.

Prior Bhutanese Projects
In Bhutan, BHEL has a solid track record of carrying out hydroelectric projects. The 4×84 MW Chukha, 4×15 MW Kurichhu, 6×170 MW Tala, and 4×180 MW Mangdechhu are notable projects. Since PHEP-II was put into service, BHEL has contributed close to 89% of Bhutan's installed capacity.

Present and Upcoming Initiatives
BHEL is aggressively growing its presence in the area. The business is currently carrying out an order for the Punatsangchhu-I Hydroelectric Project, which has a capacity of 6×200 MW. In Nepal, BHEL is also working on the 2×20 MW Rahughat HEP and the 4×225 MW Arun-3 HEP. Over 2.8 GW of hydro projects are still in progress, and the company has successfully completed over 3.8 GW of hydro projects abroad.

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