Bhutan and International Solar Alliance Sign Agreement to Operationalize STAR-C at CST Phuentsholing

Operationalization of Solar Technology Application Resource Centre

A significant step towards advancing solar energy capabilities in Bhutan was taken recently with the signing of an operationalization agreement for the Solar Technology Application Resource Centre (STAR-C). The agreement was formalized at the College of Science and Technology (CST), a constituent college of the Royal University of Bhutan (RUB), located in Phuentsholing. This initiative marks a crucial milestone in Bhutan's commitment to renewable energy and its partnership with the International Solar Alliance (ISA).

The signing event took place during a high-level mission from the ISA to Bhutan, which occurred between September 13 and 19, 2025. The agreement was signed by key representatives, including Mr. Ashish Khanna, Director General of ISA, and Dr. Cheki Dorji, President of the College of Science and Technology. Also present were Mr. Nar Bahadur, Regional Programme Head (Asia) for ISA, and Mr. Felipe Saliba, Chief of Knowledge Management and Institutional Development (KMID) for ISA. The formalization was witnessed by Hon'ble Secretary Mr. Karma Tshering of the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources.

STAR-C's Mandate: Research, Training, and Standards

The STAR-C is envisioned as a pivotal hub for solar technology in Bhutan and the region. Its core functions will encompass a broad range of activities aimed at fostering innovation and capacity building in the solar sector:

• Research and Development: Serving as a center for solar technology research, development, and application.
• Testing and Standards: Operating as a laboratory for testing solar applications and setting standards for imported solar products to ensure quality and reliability.
• Training and Capacity Building: Providing essential training for technicians and building institutional capacity within the country.
• Entrepreneurship: Fostering entrepreneurship and incubation in solar energy solutions.

The ISA has committed a grant of between USD 200,000 to USD 300,000 to support the establishment and operation of STAR-C for a period of two years.

Bhutan's Strategic Partnership with ISA

Bhutan became a member of the International Solar Alliance in October 2022 and was subsequently identified as one of three focus countries for the establishment of a STAR-C as a regional initiative under the ISA and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization. This operationalization agreement follows a broader Country Partnership Agreement (CPA) signed in April 2024 between the ISA and Bhutan's Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, along with the Royal University of Bhutan.

This week, Bhutan also launched its Country Partnership Strategy (CPS) 2025–2029 in collaboration with the ISA, aiming to significantly accelerate solar energy deployment and strengthen national energy security. The strategy outlines an ambitious goal to add 5,000MW of solar capacity by 2040, which is projected to save USD 42.6 million in energy imports, reduce 677 kilolitres of fossil fuel imports, cut 0.7 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions, and create 3,460 jobs.

Towards Energy Security and Diversification

Bhutan, while rich in hydropower resources, faces seasonal challenges, particularly during winter months when declining river flows necessitate electricity imports. The establishment of STAR-C and the broader collaboration with ISA are critical components of Bhutan's strategy to diversify its energy mix and enhance energy security. The center will play a vital role in enabling Bhutan and other ISA Member Countries to develop skills, create opportunities, and accelerate their transition to solar energy, aligning with ISA's global mission to mobilize USD 1 trillion in solar investments by 2030 for a carbon-neutral future.