The residential energy futures of Bhutan

Abstract

It is expected that with the increase in

population and modernization of any country, ener- gy consumption would increase. Bhutan is a carbon- negative country and committed to remaining car- bon-neutral. Thus, identifying energy-saving poten- tial will increase energy efficiency and contribute to

continue fulfilling this pledge for years to come. This study aims to find the energy-saving potential of Bhutan by analyzing future energy demand from the residential building sector using a scenario-based

modeling tool called Long-range Energy Alterna- tives Planning (LEAP). The research was an integra- tion of primary and secondary data calculations.

Final energy-savings from Bhutan in 2040 by attaining the efficient scenario is estimated at 830 GWh. Overall, the result suggests that 53% final energy-savings can be achieved in 2040 from all

end-uses and energy sources compared to the refer- ence scenario. Cumulatively, 19 TWh final energy- savings can be achieved in the study period (2018–

2040) from the efficient scenario while all basic energy needs are fully met in 2040. This result obtained would provide a reference for Bhutan’s

future energy planning and guidelines for policy- making. It would also provide policy recommenda- tions about the scope of shifting to energy-efficient

end-uses.