Bhutan Embraces Green Cryptocurrency to Energize Its Economy
New Delhi, April 17, 2025 – Bhutan is taking significant steps toward establishing itself as a leader in the realm of green cryptocurrency, utilizing its abundant hydropower resources to bolster the economy and mitigate issues linked to brain drain. This initiative is spearheaded by Ujjwal Deep Dahal, the Chief Executive Officer of Druk Holding and Investments Ltd., which oversees the country’s sovereign wealth fund.
The Green Cryptocurrency Initiative
Green cryptocurrencies are defined as digital currencies mined through renewable energy sources such as wind, hydro, or solar power, contrasting sharply with traditional cryptocurrencies which often rely on fossil fuels. According to Dahal, Bhutan operates on a robust 100% hydropower model, enabling the mining of cryptocurrency in a manner that is environmentally responsible. "Every digital coin we mine using hydropower offsets that coin which gets mined using fossil fuels. So a coin mined in Bhutan will contribute to the green economy," Dahal stated in a recent interview.
Bhutan has ventured into cryptocurrency markets since 2019, viewing such investments as a tactical move to diversify the nation’s economic portfolio. The returns from cryptocurrency investments have already significantly contributed to the country’s finances; officials revealed that Bhutan has funded government salaries for two years using profits from these investments.
Addressing Youth Displacement with Job Creation
The Himalayan kingdom, nestled between major economies India and China, has been facing a troubling exodus of educated youth seeking opportunities abroad. Government estimates suggest that over 10% of young people left Bhutan between 2022 and 2023, raising unemployment in that demographic to 16.5% in 2024. Dahal emphasized the necessity of training the youth in blockchain and artificial intelligence to create new job opportunities within the country.
"We believe that by training our young people in blockchain and AI techniques, we can fuel jobs that retain our talented youth," he remarked.
Future Aspirations for Hydropower Expansion
To realize its ambitions in the green cryptocurrency arena, Bhutan aims to expand its hydropower capacity dramatically from the current 3.5 gigawatts to 33 gigawatts in the future. Dahal outlined plans to generate 15 gigawatts of additional capacity over the next decade, which he argues would not only stabilize economic growth but also solidify Bhutan’s reputation as a hub for green digital currencies.
Enhancing Global Economic Participation
Officials are also exploring potential partnerships with large conglomerates that may invest in Bhutan’s green cryptocurrencies to meet their environmental, social, and governance targets. Dahal indicated that the initiative has enhanced Bhutan’s liquidity in foreign currency, presenting significant financial opportunities for the nation.
As Bhutan navigates its cryptocurrency journey, the focus remains on enhancing economic stability, fostering job creation, and ensuring sustainable environmental practices. Through leveraging its unique hydropower capabilities, Bhutan aims to set a global example in the cryptocurrency landscape while addressing domestic socio-economic challenges.
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