The 400KV Malbase Substation is a critical infrastructure designed for the reception, transformation, and transmission of electricity in southern Bhutan. In this report, we will provide an overview of the Malbase Substation, highlighting its key equipment, including two Bus and different equipment used. We will also discuss the safety precautions taken during our visit to the substation.
The 400KV Malbase Substation is strategically located in southern Bhutan in Phuentsholing to receive and transmit electricity from different hydro powers in western Bhutan. It comprises a control building, a substation yard, and a switching station. The control building houses the monitoring and control equipment, while the substation yard houses the main electrical equipment, including transformers, circuit breakers, switchgear, and other equipment. The switching station connects the substation to various transmission lines and power systems in Bhutan as well as to India.
The Malbase Substation is equipped with two Buses, Bus A and Bus B.
Bus B for Domestic Transmission Line: The Malbase Substation is equipped with Bus B for domestic transmission line, which is designed to receive and transmit power within the country to places like Samtse, Chukha and industries in Pasakha.
Bus A for International Transmission Line: Bus A is used for transmission of power to international in particularly to India. 400KV is transmitted to Shriguri from Malbase substation and it is transmitted using Bus A.
Zimdra Food Pvt. Ltd, founded by Dasho Ugyen Tshechap, is a Bhutanese company that specializes in producing high-quality, healthy, and natural fruit juices and milk. During the visit to their production facility in Phuentsholing, students observed the various stages of the production process, including sourcing and washing of fruits, blending and processing, and packaging and labelling. Their products include apple, mango, orange, mixed fruit juice, and milk, all made with natural ingredients without any artificial flavours or preservatives.

Following aspects were covered in this workshop:

Students had the first-hand understanding of critical infrastructure for the reception, transformation, and transmission of electricity in southern Bhutan, including key equipment such as two buses, transformers, and transmission lines.

Students were able to understand the safety precautions taken during the visit and well-designed and maintained substation infrastructures in the efficient functioning of the power grid, which generates income for the country.

Students were able to understand the control systems and the process control requirements for a food processing plants and the the use of electrical power as a key components in the production process.

Impact of the event on awareness rising, sustainability

• The technical visit to 400 kV Malbase Substation raised awareness about the critical infrastructure and its important role in the power transmission network. It provided a firsthand experience for participants to witness key equipment and safety precautions, promoting understanding and awareness about reliable and safe power infrastructure.

• The visit to Malbase Substation highlights the importance of sustainable power infrastructure for safe and efficient power system operation. The equipment, layout, and design emphasize the need for investing in reliable and sustainable power infrastructure for the long-term benefit of the country.

• Economic benefits to the local community: Zimdra Food Pvt. Ltd’s success in the food and beverage industry has generated economic benefits for the local community, providing employment opportunities and contributing to the growth of the local economy through the use of the modern production processes.