Understanding and Contextualizing Micro-Hydro Plant Sustainability in Nepal

Abstract

Since 1996, the Alternative Energy Promotion Center (AEPC) of the Government of Nepal installed over 1,000 micro-hydro plants (MHPs) ranging from 10 to 100 kW to support off-grid electrification of rural Nepal. As of 2019, one-third of Nepal’s existing MHP infrastructure is untenable, with an additional third at risk of faltering in the coming years. The Master’s Project team conducted in-country data collection, site visits, literature reviews, and technical analysis to understand the current situation and propose recommendations to AEPC for future operational success of the existing and new micro-hydro plants.