Project scheme : Run-off-the-river
Project commission : 2006 – 2007
Tala hydropower plant is located downstream of Chhukha hydropower plant. With the completion of field investigations March 1993, the detailed project report was prepared in October 1993. Tala Hydroelectric Project Authority was constituted for the construction, operation, and maintenance of the project. The project components stretch for approximately 100 km from the dam at Wangkha to the TRT outfall at Tabji.
Despite the several adverse geological issues encountered within the project components and extensive damage caused by the unprecedented rains of 2000, the first unit was successfully commissioned in July 2006, and the last unit in March 2007.
Salient Features
Historical Development
Operational Highlight
Financial Performance
Renovation and Maintenance
To supplement power generation from THP during the lean season, Tsibjalumchhu stream, immediately on the downstream of THP dam on the left bank of Wangchhu river, was diverted to the dam on June 30, 2014. The diversion scheme, built at a cost of Nu. 285.760 million has the potential to augment annual energy generation by 93 MU, utilising the Tsibjalumchhu inflow during winter months. The augmentation project was fully undertaken by DGPC, including the feasibility studies, design and engineering.
From 2012 onwards, the original cast runners were replaced with forged fabricated runners and further hard-coated to withstand the pitting and abrasion by sediments.
The Computerised Controlled System (CCS) could not be made fully operational despite continuous efforts since the commissioning of the project. It is proposed to replace CCS by a modern SCADA system. Further, other initiatives as part of resolving teething problems and modernisation were also initiated.
Socio-Economic Benefits and Sustainability
The project has made significant contribution to Bhutanese economy. Upon commissioning, the GDP contribution of electricity sector increased from about 13% to about 20%. The availability of power also spurred the growth of many domestic industries in the country.
Even during the project construction phase, the local economy of Gedu went through a dramatic transformation as the project provided growth opportunities and made significant contributions. The project provided the community with better road access and other infrastructure such as water supply, and facilities like communication, schools and health services. Such assets built by the project authority have been handed to the various government agencies.
THP continues to provide many such services for the benefit of its employees and the community. THP has set up early child care and development centre, basic health unit, lhakhang and school for the benefit of its employees as well as the local community.
Organogram
