The 25-megawatt Begana Integrated Multipurpose Small Hydropower Project officially entered its construction phase with the ground-breaking ceremony today. The project is expected to strengthen domestic energy production and help supply and manage water for the capital. It is among the few projects in the country designed to serve both energy and water security needs.
The project, located along the Thimchhu in Thimphu’s Kawang Gewog, is expected to generate over 104 Gigawatt hours of electricity annually. To put it simply, that is enough electricity to supply around 25,000 to 30,000 households annually.
Beyond power generation, the project is also designed to enhance the reliability of the drinking water supply for Thimphu and the surrounding areas.
The intake structure will be developed near Tango, while the powerhouse will be constructed near Dodena at Begana.
The civil works, which include the physical construction of the project, worth more than 1.5 billion ngultrum, have been awarded to Rigsar Construction Private Limited. The project is expected to be completed in about two years and seven months.
Officials say the project will boost the country’s energy security, create employment opportunities, strengthen infrastructure development, and support the country’s growing domestic electricity demand in the long term.
Deki Lhazom
Edited by Sonam Pem
