Economic Opportunities

Economic Opportunities: Empowering Communities

The 570 MW Wangchhu Hydroelectric Project (WHPL) stands as a transformative engine for Bhutan’s national economy and a lifeline for the Chhukha and Dagana communities. By leveraging a Nu 60 Billion investment through a strategic partnership between Druk Green Power Corporation (DGPC) and the Adani Group, the project is designed to bridge the country’s critical winter energy gap while generating substantial export revenue during the summer months. Beyond energy, WHPL is a catalyst for localized growth, transforming rural landscapes into hubs of commercial activity. From upgrading vital farm road networks that connect remote villages like Baeyul Kunzang to urban markets, to establishing direct-to-site agricultural trade for local farmers, the project ensures that the benefits of hydropower extend far beyond the turbine hall and into the homes of every resident in the valley

Project Area: 2,613,600 sq.ft.

Ownership and Costs:
Nu 60 Billion

Glacial Monitoring:
58 Glaciers

Capacity:
570 MW.

Commencement Date:
January 20, 2026

Key Economic Pillars

The Wangchhu Hydroelectric Project (WHPL) serves as a transformative economic engine for Southwestern Bhutan, leveraging a strategic partnership between DGPC and Adani Group to drive regional prosperity. By prioritizing local recruitment in Chhukha and Dagana, establishing ‘Farm-to-Site’ vegetable markets for local growers, and upgrading critical farm road networks like those in Baeyul Kunzang, the project ensures that its Nu 60 Billion investment creates tangible benefits far beyond the power grid. These initiatives collectively curb rural-urban migration, empower agricultural trade, and enhance accessibility, laying a sustainable foundation for long-term community growth and energy security.

Eco-Tourism Potential: The project-led infrastructure improvements are expected to boost accessibility to the Jigmechhu eco-tourism area, creating new avenues for the hospitality sector.

Strategic Connectivity: Construction of new bridges and the upgrading of existing farm roads, such as those in Alnkard, to facilitate safer and faster transportation of trade goods.

Priority Local Hiring: Direct employment opportunities for skilled and unskilled workers from Darla, Bongo, and Lhamoi Dzingkha gewogs.

Supply Chain Opportunities: Increased demand for local goods, catering services, and small-scale retail to support the expanding workforce and their families.