Evaluating the effectiveness of micro-hydropower projects in Nepal

Nepal is one of the world's poorest countries. One of its most pressing environmental concerns is its need for stable, community-managed power. Because extending the Nepalese national power grid would be expensive and problematic, micro-hydro projects have proven to be an economical and efficient alternative in the effort to power remote villages deep in the mountains. However, the efficiency of many of these projects is debatable. This study investigates the efficacy of community-based micro-hydro projects in two remote villages, Luwang Ghalel and Ghandruk, as well as the role of public participation in these projects.;This report employs a case study methodology, with data collection taking the form of interviews, surveys, and document reviews. The results of this study show that micro-hydro projects are a temporary solution at best. Based on internationally accepted criteria, both the technical performance and the level of public participation at both projects were found to be very low. Gender, caste, ethnic group, and socio-economic stratification have also seen an unequal distribution of the project benefits. Our findings indicate that both the Nepalese government and associated non-governmental organizations must make significant policy changes if they hope to achieve success in future development work with community-based micro-hydro projects.