Hydropower Research & Development Centre

As the representative of the Royal Government of Bhutan, DGPC plays a key role in accelerating Bhutan’s hydropower development, along with the operation and maintenance of the existing hydropower plants.

One of DGPC’s important mandate is to build capacity in the water-to-wire business in hydropower sector. In pursuit of fulfilling the mandate, DGPC initiated the establishment of the four Centres of Excellence (CoEs) between 2010 and 2013. This would satisfy the shortage of experts, who can responsibly build highly specialised skills and undertake specialised works, which otherwise are dependent on external expertise.

To provide impetus to the existing CoEs and focus on the research-oriented services, the hydropower research and development centre (HRDC) was established by merging the existing CoEs in 2015. Considering the growth and expansion of its services, HRDC base was shifted from Chhukha to Rinchentshe in early 2018 and established as an independent profit centre.

Currently, HRDC has a trained and experienced professionals certified by reputed institutions to undertake special testing and diagnostic jobs using state-of-the-art testing equipment in all hydropower plants under DGPC. It also offers professional services to Bhutanese industries and neighbouring places in India. Further, HRDC shares its experiences and competencies through trainings, and publishing papers and professional engagement in international events.