Gautam Adani Deepens India-Bhutan Green Energy Ties with Mindfulness City Role and Major Hydropower Push

Major MoU for 5,000 MW Hydropower Capacity

A key highlight of the visit was the signing and oversight of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for 5,000 megawatts of hydropower capacity. This agreement represents one of the largest commitments in Bhutan’s renewable energy sector and reinforces its role as a clean power exporter in South Asia.

Hydropower already forms the backbone of Bhutan’s economy, and the new capacity is expected to significantly boost electricity generation, much of which will be exported to India under long-standing bilateral arrangements.

Energy experts say the MoU strengthens regional energy security while supporting India’s transition toward low-carbon power sources.

Groundbreaking for Wangchhu Hydroelectric Project

Gautam Adani also took part in the groundbreaking ceremony for the 570 MW Wangchhu Hydroelectric Project, a major run-of-the-river power plant valued at approximately $720 million.

Under the project structure, Adani holds a 49% stake, while the remaining share is owned by Bhutan’s Druk Green Power Corporation, the country’s leading hydropower developer.

The Wangchhu project is expected to generate clean electricity with minimal environmental impact, as run-of-the-river plants avoid large reservoirs and reduce ecological disruption. Once operational, it will contribute both to Bhutan’s revenue and India’s renewable energy supply.

High-Level Meetings with Bhutan’s Leadership

During the visit, Gautam Adani held meetings with Bhutan’s Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay and His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.

Discussions focused on expanding cooperation in green energy, sustainable infrastructure, and investment that respects Bhutan’s environmental values. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to projects that deliver economic benefits while preserving Bhutan’s unique ecological and cultural identity.

Officials described the meetings as constructive, forward-looking, and rooted in mutual trust built over decades of close India-Bhutan relations.

Strengthening Long-Standing India-Bhutan Energy Ties

India and Bhutan share one of South Asia’s most successful bilateral energy partnerships. Bhutan exports more than half of its electricity to India, making hydropower a critical pillar of its economy.

Projects like Wangchhu build on this legacy, ensuring steady revenue for Bhutan while helping India meet growing power demand through clean sources. Analysts note that such cooperation is increasingly important as both countries pursue climate goals and energy security.

Carbon-Negative Bhutan and Green Energy Goals

Bhutan is globally recognized as one of the few carbon-negative countries, absorbing more carbon dioxide than it emits. Hydropower plays a central role in maintaining this status by providing clean electricity domestically and to neighboring countries.

The new hydropower commitments, combined with mindful urban planning through the Gelephu Mindfulness City, are seen as ways to modernize Bhutan’s economy without compromising its environmental leadership.

Gautam Adani’s participation has been framed as supportive of these goals rather than extractive, emphasizing partnership over exploitation.

Adani Group’s Expanding Focus on Renewables

For the Adani Group, the Bhutan projects fit into a broader strategy of expanding its renewable energy footprint across South Asia. The conglomerate has invested heavily in solar, wind, and now hydropower as part of its long-term transition toward sustainable energy.

Industry observers say the Bhutan partnership enhances Adani’s regional presence while showcasing a model of cross-border cooperation in clean power development.

Regional Impact and Future Outlook

The agreements and projects announced during the visit are expected to have long-term regional impact. Increased hydropower capacity could stabilize electricity supply, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and strengthen economic ties between India and Bhutan.

Construction activity related to the Wangchhu project is also expected to generate employment and infrastructure development in Bhutan, while revenues from power exports will support social programs and national development.