Minister of Energy and Natural Resources of Bhutan, Shri Lyonpo Gem Tshering, met with the Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, Shri Manohar Lal and the Minister of State for Power and New and Renewable Energy, Shri Shripad Naik, in New Delhi today. The meeting focused on strengthening the longstanding cooperation between the two nations in the power sector.

Indo-Bhutan hydropower cooperation began in 1961, followed by an agreement on hydroelectric power cooperation in 2006.

During today’s discussions, both sides deliberated on the commercial optimization of power output from the Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project (1020 MW). Emphasis was also placed on the early commissioning of the Punatsangchhu-I Hydroelectric Project (1200 MW).

The discussion also covered the way forward for the Sankosh Hydropower Project. In addition, India and Bhutan discussed the transmission infrastructure planning up to the year 2040, for which detailed consultations are currently underway. It also covered the need to streamline approval for scheduling of power, particularly during lean months in Bhutan.

The Ministers appreciated the mutual friendship of the two nations and looked forward to further strengthening it.