Making low-cost micro-hydro schemes a sustainable reality

Low-cost run-of-river or ‘micro-hydro’ schemes are delivering real social benefits to communities in remote rural areas, which are otherwise unable to get electricity. Limited access to capital, infrastructure and skilled labour means normal design and construction standards do not apply, but the ingenuity of civil engineers working with international development charities ensures such schemes continue to be built and improved. This paper reports on recent research for the charity Practical Action on its micro-hydro systems in Peru, which led to improved designs for intake structures incorporating gabions and drainage features. It also explains how sharing such design options and techniques with local communities helps to ensure continued delivery of their safe, efficient and sustainable energy supply.