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Dagachhu Hydropower Plant
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The Dagachhu Hydropower Plant is a pioneering project as it is the first in Bhutan to be developed under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. Commissioned in 2015, the plant has a capacity of 126 megawatts and is located in Dagana district. Another distinctive feature is that it was the first cross-border project registered to generate emission reduction certificates (carbon credits) under the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) of the Kyoto Protocol. The electricity is sold to India, with revenues benefiting both the private investor (an Indian company) and the Bhutanese government. The project demonstrates an innovative financing model for infrastructure development in Bhutan, combining commercial interests with sustainable energy generation and climate protection.
- Location: Bhutan
- Top sights: Ta Dzong · Moenlam Chenmo Hall · Darayutsho Chorten
- Nearby: Wangdue Phodrang (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Oct, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 8 | 10 | 14 | 17 | 19 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 20 | 17 | 13 | 10 |
| Rain mm | 5 | 14 | 39 | 125 | 199 | 274 | 365 | 280 | 222 | 101 | 6 | 3 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Dagachhu Hydropower Plant is a pioneering energy facility in the Dagana district, recognized as Bhutan's first major infrastructure project utilizing a public-private partnership model to significantly boost national power generation and green energy export capabilities.
Visiting
Access to the inner turbine rooms and core operational zones is generally restricted for safety and security, but travelers can typically appreciate the external engineering magnitude and the surrounding reservoir from public access roads.
Where to view it
The most striking vantage points are usually found along the winding mountain roads that overlook the river valley, where one can see the massive dam structure contrasting powerfully against the pristine Himalayan landscape.
Local products
In the nearby settlements and district markets, visitors might come across traditional Bhutanese crafts, local agricultural produce, and regional textiles rather than direct industrial products from the power plant itself.
Active season
The plant is active year-round to provide continuous electricity, while the surrounding natural landscape is most accessible and vividly green during the post-monsoon autumn months when the river flow is also quite robust.
Nearby
Exploring the outer parameters of this energy landmark fits wonderfully with a broader cultural tour of the remote Dagana district, including visits to historical dzongs and trekking through the lush, mountainous terrain.
Geography
Facts
- First PPP infrastructure project in Bhutan
- Generates carbon credits under the CDM mechanism
- Power is sold to India to Tata Power Company
- A joint venture of Druk Green Power Corp and India's Tata Power
- Construction was partly financed by the Asian Development Bank
- The project utilizes the water of the Dagachhu river
- Increased Bhutan's attractiveness to foreign investors
- Shows commitment to innovative, green financing
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Dagachhu Hydropower Plant (5)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Who developed the Dagachhu plant?
It was Bhutan's first hydropower plant with foreign investment (Austria).
Where is the plant located?
In Dagana district on the Daga Chhu river.
What is special about the CDM status?
It was the world's first cross-border Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) project.
How is the energy exported?
The entire amount of electricity produced is exported to India.
Can you visit the plant?
Visits are usually restricted to professional visitors with permission.
Dagachhu Hydropower Plant: where is it located?
Dagachhu Hydropower Plant is located in Bhutan.
Dagachhu Hydropower Plant: what is there to see?
Highlights include Ta Dzong, Moenlam Chenmo Hall, Darayutsho Chorten.
Dagachhu Hydropower Plant: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Oct, Nov.
Dagachhu Hydropower Plant: why is it worth visiting?
The Dagachhu Hydropower Plant is a pioneering project as it is the first in Bhutan to be developed under a public-private partnership (PPP) model.
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