micro hydropower, renewable energy, rural electrification, hydropower policy, Nepal energy, sustainable development, AEPC

Micro Hydropower Plant

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1.1 Introduction, scope and application

Micro hydropower plant:

  • It is a small-scale hydropower that typically produce upto 100 KW of electricity using natural flow of water.

Scope:

  • Generates from 5 KW to 100 KW of power.
  • Can be used in remote and rural parts.
  • Suitable for area which have reliable source of water.
  • Can be used in place with limited grid access.
  • Cost effective energy solution.

Application:

  • Generating electricity for domestic, commercial and industrial use.
  • Use for irrigation and water supply system.
  • Tourism.
  • Water purification.

1.2 Introduction to policy of Micro Hydropower Plant development in Nepal

  • Alternative Energy Promotion Centre (AEPC) is a government institution established on November 3, 1996 under Ministry of Science and Technology with objective of developing and promoting renewable/ alternative energy technologies in Nepal.

Various policies of government regarding Micro Hydro Development in Nepal:

  • Hydropower Development Policy 2001
  • Renewable Energy Subsidy Policy 2000/2006
  • Subsidy Delivery Mechanism 2000/2006
  • Rural Energy Policy 2006

Highlights of different hydropower development policies:

  • To generate electricity at low cost.
  • To extend reliable and qualitative electric service.
  • To tie up electrification with economic activities.
  • Participation of local bodies.
  • To render support to the development of rural economy.
  • Make electric service available to as many people as possible.

1.3 Advantage and relevance of Micro Hydropower in Nepal

  • Provide a reliable and cost-effective source of renewable energy in Nepal helping to reduce the country’s dependence on fossil fuel.
  • Provide energy for household, business and industries helping to increase the economic development of Nepal.
  • Helps to reduce deforestation and emission of carbon dioxide providing environmental benefit.
  • Relatively easy to install and maintain, making an ideal solution for rural area that lack access to electricity.
  • Helps to develop local infrastructure, such as road and transmission line.
  • Can create jobs for local in operation, maintenance and construction work.
  • Takes short period to construct.

References:

  • Dandekar, M. M., & Sharma, K. N. (2010). Water Power Engineering. Vikas Publishing House.
  • Punmia, B. C., Pande, B. B. L., Jain, A. K., & Jain, A. K. (2016). Irrigation and Water Power Engineering. Laxmi Publications.
  • Singh, Bharat (2018). Fundamentals of Hydrology and Hydropower Engineering. Nem Chand & Bros.
  • Central Water Commission, Government of India (2019). Handbook on Hydroelectric Engineering.
  • International Energy Agency (IEA) (2021). Hydropower Status Report. Retrieved from www.iea.org
  • Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) (2022). Annual Report on Hydropower Projects in Nepal. Retrieved from www.nea.org.np
  • United States Bureau of Reclamation (2020). Design of Small Dams. U.S. Government Printing Office.

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