Gyetsa mini power project, in Chhumig in Bumthang has been defunct for the last one and a half years and the Bhutan Power Corporation has started repair works to curb the frequent power blackouts in Bumthang.
Established in 1989, the mini plant supplied power to most parts of Bumthang and some parts of Trongsa. Since October 2013 however, it malfunctioned when its turbine and some other mechanical components were damaged.
BPC officials in Bumthang said they had to completely halt operation since it led to overhead cost escalation and parts to be replaced were not readily available.
Today, BPC officials are replacing the complete set of mechanical and electrical parts. Existing infrastructures like the water reservoir and transformers including the main building will also be partly renovated.
BPC’ senior manager in Bumthang, Gyeltshen Sonam said once the plant starts functioning, power will be restored in Bumthang. It will also save cost to BPC.
To renovate the power plant, a few international companies carried out feasibility studies last year.