Decentralized Micro-hydro Energy Systems in Nepal: En Route to Sustainable Energy Development

Abstract

At present, 85 percent of Nepalese people live in remote areas with limited access to energy except fuel wood and other biomass for their energy source. This article examines the sustainable energy projects, considering socioeconomic conditions of the country. In this study, it is revealed that micro-hydro operations in remote/isolated areas are considered to be one of the most feasible options for energy development. It is demonstrated that micro-hydropower can bring energy services to the rural areas of the country as well as social changes through decentralization and community participation. This research also analyzed the sustainability of the micro-hydro project. It is found that the micro-hydro projects fulfil the technological, environmental, economic, and social sustainability criteria.

Keywords:

• micro-hydro
• rural energy
• sustainability

Notes

^a Considering 6 h of lighting in case of kerosene wick lamp and consumption of kerosene per wick lamp is about 0.041 L/h (e.g., Broek et al., 1997). For electricity, 25-watt bulb is considered for 6 h of lighting. But while calculating CO₂ emission it is considered that the electric lamp lights a whole year, as CO₂/kWh emission of MHP is based on life cycle.

^b CO₂ emission of MHP life cycle is 0.0025 kg/kWh; kerosene is 0.0723 T/GJ.