Bhutan, a small kingdom in the Himalayas, is attracting attention with its unique development model based on environmental sustainability and human well-being.
One of the country’s most ambitious and inspiring projects, the “hydropower happiness” initiative, promotes renewable energy with a nod to the state’s religious grounding: Buddhism.
The initaitve is focuses on harmony with nature, mindfulness, and collective well-being.
Bhutan’s Physical Geography
The country has enormous potential for hydropower generation due to its mountainous rivers and water resources.
Today, more than 70% of Bhutan’s electricity is generated by hydroelectric power plants, making the country one of the world leaders in renewable energy.
Buddhism Goes Green
Hydroelectric plants aim to harmoniously combine environmental sustainability, social justice, and spiritual well-being.
This approach is based on the principle of “Gross National Happiness“, which was introduced in 1972 by the King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck.
This approach assumes that a country’s development should be measured not only in terms of economic growth, but also in the context of human and environmental well-being.
Buddhist Principles in Energy Efficiency
The Buddhist concept of “wisdom” and “compassion” is closely linked to the idea of caring for the planet and its future generations.
Hydropower in Bhutan goes beyond the use of natural resources for economic growth, in a country abundant with water, but also expresses a concern for harmony with nature.
Regional Dynamics: South Asia
India is the main consumer of electricity produced in Bhutan.
This model not only benefits Bhutan, but helps India in providing energy for its growing population.
The collaboration with India is becoming a symbol of how sustainable practices can be beneficial for both sides, while minimising the carbon footprint and maintaining energy security in the region.
Bhutan’s Future Trajectory
Over the long term, Bhutan aims to create a model that will serve as an example for other countries, showing how renewable energy can be used to improve quality of life while respecting the principles of equity and sustainability.
Risks of HEP Future
Hydropower development in Bhutan brings environmental and social risks such as land flooding, the loss of biodiversity, and ecosystem changes.
Seasonal fluctuations, in precipitation and water storage patterns, can affect the stability of electricity supplies.
However, Bhutan’s aim to combines green energy with religious principles will do more good than harm for Bhutan as it seeks to benefit from the excess of HEP potential in the country.
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