Bhutan may soon become South Asia's hydroelectric powerhouse and can export energy to the tune of nearly 5,000 MW to India over the next decade.

"By 2016 we hope to export about 5,000 MW of power to India with our government giving topmost priority to the energy sector," a senior Bhutanese government official told the agency by telephone from the capital Thimphu, requesting anonymity.

At present Bhutan exports about 500 MW of power to India and the supply is expected to reach 2,500 MW by October this year with a massive hydroelectric power plant in the Himalayan kingdom scheduled to become operational soon.

The Himalayan countries of Bhutan and Nepal have the highest share of hydroelectric power in South Asia. Bhutan's hydropower potential is estimated at 30,000 MW and is the primary source of the country's commercial energy.

"Proceeds of hydroelectricity exports to India account for about 45 percent of our government's revenue and is the mainstay of our economic growth," the official said.