The Dorjilung Hydroelectric Power Project (DHPP) is one of Bhutan's most important national infrastructure initiatives. It is envisioned as a transformational 1,125 MW run-of-river project that will significantly strengthen the country's long-term energy security, economic development, and commitment to low-carbon growth. Recognized as a national priority by His Majesty the King, DHPP represents a modern approach to hydropower development, one that emphasizes strong environmental and social safeguards, adherence to international best practices, and a transparent Public-Private Partnership model between Druk Green Power Corporation Limited (DGPC) and Tata Power Company Limited of India. Supported by the financial and technical expertise of the World Bank Group, the project is expected to become a leading example of sustainable hydropower development in South Asia.
Rather than a classical corporate mission statement, DHPL's vision and guiding principles are defined by its national mandate and governance framework.
"To construct and operate a transformational, world-class 1,125 MW run-of-river hydropower facility that dramatically strengthens Bhutan's long-term energy security, closes seasonal winter power deficits, and drives sustainable low-carbon economic growth."
Capacity Expansion
Generating 4,500+ GWh of clean electricity annually — boosting Bhutan's total generation capacity by roughly 40%.
Regional Trade & Climate Action
Exporting surplus clean energy to India during peak summer demand, displacing millions of tons of CO2e annually.
Innovative Financing Model
A pioneering PPP model channeling private equity and international institutional capital while limiting sovereign borrowing.
Environmental & Social Stewardship
Strict ESG practices aligned with national regulation and the World Bank's Environmental & Social Framework.
Project Overview
Transforming the Lives of the People of Bhutan
The Dorjilung Hydroelectric Power Project (DHPP) is a 1,125 MW run-of-the-river project located on the Kurichhu River in Lhuentse Dzongkhag. As a joint initiative with DGPC, Tata Power, and support from the World Bank, DHPP represents a significant step towards energy security and economic prosperity for Bhutan.
Partnership Model and Financing
The project is being developed through a joint venture between DGPC and TCPL, where DGPC will hold 60 percent equity and TCPL will hold 40 percent. A dedicated company, Dorjilung Hydroelectric Power Limited (DHPL), has been incorporated to develop, operate, and maintain the project under a concession agreement with the Royal Government of Bhutan for a period of 30 years.
Financing and International Standards
DHPP has an estimated cost of USD 1.7 billion. The financing structure will follow a debt-equity ratio of seventy percent debt and thirty percent equity. The World Bank Group will serve as the lead multilateral financier.
Earmarked for development by 2026–2030 (1,125 MW).
2022 – 2025Completed
DPR Update with Support from World Bank
Planning, design and detailed engineering including ESIA.
2025Completed
SPV Formation and Commercial Agreements
DHPL incorporated between DGPC & TPC.
Key Achievements
Safety Training
764 hours of employee safety training conducted to strengthen awareness and competency.
Jul 2026
Accident Free Days
550 accident-free days through continuous safety commitment.
Jul 2026
1.3 Million Safe Man-Hours
1.3 million safe man-hours achieved without a lost-time injury.
Jul 2026
CLDP
Successfully launched the CLDP program with 22 participants in the refresher course for household electrical wiring.
Jul 2026
Moments from the Field
Structure
Organizational Hierarchy
A clear chain of accountability — from the Board of Directors through statutory oversight committees to the divisions delivering the project day to day.
Our Environmental framework ensures the DHPP operates to the highest international standards — protecting Bhutan's pristine ecosystems, conserving biodiversity, and maintaining water and air quality.
ESIA DocumentsESMP & MonitoringBiodiversity
Social
Our Social framework ensures community well-being — fair resettlement, local employment, cultural preservation, stakeholder engagement, and an accessible grievance redressal mechanism.
The Dorjilung Hydroelectric Power Project is a joint undertaking between the Druk Green Power Corporation (DGPC) and Tata Power Company Limited (TPCL), with the World Bank Group as the lead financier. Together, we are building a sustainable energy future for Bhutan and the region.
Dorjilung Project advances with key works underway as financial closure expected by December
Jul 19, 2026
The Dorjilung Hydroelectric Power Project (DHPP) has made significant progress, with more than 85 percent of the construction of access roads and bridges completed, while financial closure is expected by December 2026. The construction of access roads and bridges was awarded to two local contractors on 28th July 2025.
Dorjilung Hydroelectric Power Project to export 80 percent of generated electricity to India
May 09, 2026
Around 20 percent of the electricity generated from the 1,125 MW Dorjilung Hydroelectric Power Project is expected to be used domestically, while the remaining 80 percent will be exported to India.
Over Nu 2bn pre-construction works for Dorjilung Hydropower Project begins
May 08, 2026
The pre-construction works for the 1,125-MW Dorjilung Hydropower Project kicked off today with ground-breaking ceremonies held at Kurizampa and Rewan in Monggar. Major works under this phase include the construction of tunnels.
DHPL Welcomes Joint World Bank Group Mission to Review Environmental and Social Readiness of the Dorjilung Hydroelectric Power Project (DHPP)
Oct 08, 2026
DHPL Welcomes Joint World Bank Group Mission to Review Environmental and Social Readiness of the Dorjilung Hydroelectric Power Project (DHPP)
Gyelpozhing, 08 October 2026: Dorjilung Hydro Power Limited (DHPL) hosted a joint World Bank Group (WBG) mission to the Dorjilung Hydroelectric Power Project (DHPP) from 3 to 7 October 2026. The 15-member WBG’s delegation was led by Mr. Janmejay Singh, Practice Manager, E&S Standards, South Asia Region Cluster 2 (Washington, DC), and Mr. Sunil Kumar Khosla, Lead Energy Specialist and Task Team Leader (Thimphu).
Over five days, the multidisciplinary team of WBG specialists in energy, environment, social development, and dam safety worked closely with DHPL and its stakeholders in Gyelpozhing, Mongar. Together, they assessed the project's readiness to advance from pre-construction to main construction, with particular focus on DHPL's environmental and social commitments. The programme combined review meetings, site visits, and technical discussions.
The mission began on 3 October with a kick-off meeting and readiness review at Wangchuk Hotel, Mongar. The next day, the team visited the active pre-construction sites, including the dam site, powerhouse, and access road, to see first-hand the physical readiness of the project and how environmental, health, and safety practices are applied on the ground. Discussions also covered contractor performance, supervision arrangements, incident prevention, and the follow-up of corrective actions.
Throughout the mission, the team reviewed progress on several priority areas, including the Biodiversity Management Plan (BMP), social safeguards, capacity building for employees and communities, and the Community and Local Development Plan. These reviews gave the team and DHPL an opportunity to discuss what is working well, where further attention is needed, and how identified gaps can be addressed before main construction begins.
The mission concluded on 7 October with a wrap-up meeting at the DHPL campus in Gyelpozhing. It was attended by the mission team, DHPL's Director of Operations, General Managers, and consultants, along with other senior officials. At the meeting, DHPL and the WBG team agreed on next steps, responsibilities, and timelines.
Speaking at the meeting, Mr. Singh emphasized the importance of the mission, noting that, at the end of the day, everyone involved is one team working to deliver the project in the best possible way for the people of Bhutan. He added that missions like this help ensure that issues are identified and addressed early in the project's implementation.
"DHPL remains committed to upholding high environmental and social standards in every phase of the project, so that the Dorjilung Hydroelectric Power Project delivers lasting benefits for the communities and the environment it touches. A mission like this gives us the space to fix issues early in the implementation stages," said Mr. Tandin Tshering, General Manager, Environment, Social, Health and Safety Division, DHPL.
Following the mission, DHPL will act on the agreed next steps within the agreed timelines, in coordination with the WBG team, as the project prepares to move from pre-construction to main construction.
DHPL expressed its appreciation to the WBG mission team for their valuable review, guidance, and constructive engagement, and for their continued support for the project. DHPL also thanks all its stakeholders for their time and continued cooperation.
Dorjilung Hydro Power Limited (DHPL) Welcomes Wildlife Expert from Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary for Snake Conservation Awareness
Jul 22, 2026
In an effort to enhance wildlife awareness and ensure a safe working environment, distinguished wildlife expert Mr. Bal Krishna Koirala, Deputy Chief Forestry Officer, Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary, has kicked off a three day workshop on snake awareness for the employees of the Dorjilung Hydro Power Project (DHPL).
DGPC and Tata Power partner to Build Skill Development Framework for Clean Energy Future in Bhutan
May 05, 2026
The 1,125 MW Dorjilung Hydroelectric Power Project (DHPP) marked a significant milestone with the conduct of Salang Tendrel (Ground Breaking) ceremonies to officially commence pre-construction activities for the project. The ceremonies were held simultaneously at Rewan (Package-I) and Kurizampa (Package – II) reflecting the project’s span across the two Dzongkhags of Mongar and Lhuentse and its national significance.
Lam Neten appoints New Lam of Dorjilung Hydro Power Limited
Feb 01, 2026
In a ceremony held at the Mongar Dzong this morning, the Lam Neten of Mongar Rabdey officially appointed Sungkhorp Thinley as the new Lam of Dorjilung Hydro Power Limited (DHPL). The appointment was formalized through the sacred bestowal of the Dhar, a traditional gesture that marks the conferral of spiritual authority and responsibility.
Free Home Appliance Repair & Maintenance Training under the Village Skills Development Programme (VSDP)
Dorjilung Hydroelectric Power Limited (DHPL) is pleased to announce a free skills training on Home Appliance Repair & Maintenance under the Village Skills Development Programme. The training is …
At Dorjilung Hydroelectric Power Limited (DHPL), we are deeply committed to environmental stewardship. The Dorjilung Hydroelectric Power Project (DHPP) is designed and operated with a profound respect for Bhutan's pristine natural environment, which is central to our national identity and the well-being of our people. We believe that sustainable development is the only viable path forward, and we strive to ensure that our project contributes positively to the environment and the communities we serve.
Our Environmental Commitment
Our commitment to the environment is embedded in every phase of the project, from planning and construction to operation and decommissioning. We adhere to the highest international standards and best practices to minimize our environmental footprint. Our comprehensive Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS) ensures that all potential impacts are identified, assessed, and mitigated effectively.
Key Environmental Initiatives
Biodiversity Conservation: We are implementing a robust Biodiversity Management Plan to protect and enhance the rich flora and fauna in the project area. This includes habitat restoration, species monitoring, and the establishment of conservation corridors.
Water Quality Management: We employ state-of-the-art systems to maintain the quality of the Kurichhu River. Continuous monitoring and treatment ensure that the river's ecological balance is preserved.
Air Quality Control: During construction, we utilize dust suppression techniques and emission control measures to safeguard local air quality and the health of nearby communities.
Waste Management: We follow a comprehensive waste management plan that prioritizes reduction, reuse, and recycling. All waste is handled in an environmentally sound manner.
Climate Change Mitigation: As a clean energy project, DHPP significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel-based power generation. We are proud to contribute to Bhutan's commitment to remain carbon-neutral and support global climate goals.
International Standards & Best Practices
DHPP is guided by Good International Industry Practice (GIIP) and aligns with the Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) Guidelines of the World Bank Group. We have also adopted the Hydropower Sustainability Assessment Protocol (HSAP) to ensure that our project meets the highest environmental and social standards. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our adherence to ISO 14001:2015, the international standard for environmental management systems.
Community & People
Social Responsibility
At Dorjilung Hydroelectric Power Limited (DHPL), we recognize that our success is intertwined with the well-being of the communities we serve. The Dorjilung Hydroelectric Power Project (DHPP) is not just an engineering marvel; it is a catalyst for social progress and a testament to our commitment to inclusive and equitable development. We are dedicated to ensuring that the project brings lasting benefits to the people of Lhuentse Dzongkhag and contributes to the broader socio-economic fabric of Bhutan.
Our Social Commitment
Our social commitment is built on the principles of transparency, fairness, and respect for human rights. We engage with stakeholders in a meaningful and culturally appropriate manner, ensuring that their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed. Our approach is guided by international best practices, including the World Bank's Environmental and Social Standards (ESS).
Key Social Initiatives
Community Engagement & Stakeholder Participation: We maintain an open and continuous dialogue with affected communities, local leaders, and civil society. Regular meetings, public consultations, and information dissemination sessions are held to ensure transparency and build trust.
Land Acquisition & Livelihood Restoration: We have implemented a comprehensive Land Acquisition and Livelihood Restoration Plan (LALRP) that provides fair compensation at replacement cost. We support affected households with livelihood restoration programs, transitional allowances, and access to new opportunities.
Local Employment & Skills Development: We prioritize the employment of local people in project-related activities. Our vocational training programs equip community members with valuable skills, enhancing their employability and contributing to local economic growth.
Cultural Heritage Preservation: We respect and protect the cultural heritage and traditions of the local communities. Our Cultural Heritage Management Plan ensures that sacred sites and cultural practices are preserved and respected.
Grievance Redressal Mechanism (GRM): We have established a robust GRM to address any concerns or complaints from the community. The mechanism is accessible, transparent, and responsive, with multiple channels for submitting grievances.
Community Health & Safety: We implement community health and safety plans to mitigate risks associated with the project. This includes awareness campaigns, health camps, and close coordination with local health authorities.
Gender Equality & Social Inclusion
DHPL is committed to promoting gender equality and social inclusion. We have developed a Gender and Vulnerability Action Plan to address the specific needs and concerns of women, youth, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups. We ensure that women have equal access to employment opportunities, training, and participation in decision-making processes. Our project aims to empower women and contribute to a more just and equitable society.
Latest Updates
Key Milestones
2004Completed
Project Identified in PSMP
Installed capacity as 400 MW plant.
2011Completed
PFS by Norplan of Norway
Installed capacity assessed at 1,230 MW.
2015Completed
DPR by DGPC with EIPL
Installed capacity optimized at 1,125 MW.
2019Completed
PSMP-2040 by JICA
Earmarked for development by 2026–2030 (1,125 MW).
2022 – 2025Completed
DPR Update with Support from World Bank
Planning, design and detailed engineering including ESIA.
2025Completed
SPV Formation and Commercial Agreements
DHPL incorporated between DGPC & TPC.
Latest Updates
Key Achievements
Safety Training
764 hours of employee safety training conducted to strengthen awareness and competency.
Jul 2026
Accident Free Days
550 accident-free days through continuous safety commitment.
Jul 2026
1.3 Million Safe Man-Hours
1.3 million safe man-hours achieved without a lost-time injury.
Jul 2026
CLDP
Successfully launched the CLDP program with 22 participants in the refresher course for household electrical wiring.
Social
Our Social framework ensures community well-being — fair resettlement, local employment, cultural preservation, stakeholder engagement, and an accessible grievance redressal mechanism.