Works have begun to supply power to the Jigmeling industrial estate in Sarpang. A 400kV gas insulated substation located nearby will supply the electricity.
Four investors started the works to construct their manufacturing units at the estate since last year. One of them, a paper factory, expects to complete its structure by early next year.
According to the Bhutan Power Corporation, the office is readying a 130kV transmission line to supply power in the area also known as the Special Economic Zone.
Dorji Wangchuk, the substation maintenance manager said, “We have completed the survey to supply a 130kV transmission line in the area. It will be ready by the time the constructions are complete.”
51 manufacturing businesses have been allotted a plot each in the area on lease.
Meanwhile, the 400kV gas insulated substation has been receiving electricity from the Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Plant. According to the manager, at the moment, the substation is yet to run at its optimum with many hydropower projects incomplete.
The substation was constructed mainly to connect power lines between eastern and western Bhutan
“So if the Kurichhu power supply is disrupted, we could supply the electricity in the region from our station via Tingtibi to Nganglam and then to Nangkhor,” Dorji Wangchuk said.
The gas insulated substation is the first of its kind in the country. It was constructed at a cost of Nu 2.5bn and commissioned in 2018.
Karma Wangdi, Sarpang
Edited by Sonam Wangdi
