MICRO-HYDRO POWER ELECTRICITY

COST:
$25,000.00

#BENEFICIARIES:
500 Villagers

TRAINING:
Yes

OJBECTIVE:
To bring light to the homes and communal buildings of the village with the installation of a clean energy source.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
A small energy firm in Nicaragua implements a micro hydroelectric project using flow from the village water source that then runs through two turbines, generating electricity running into individual wiring of 110 homes and 10 communal buildings. Access to power will dramatically change life in the village. Evening electricity will allow children to study, families to work at home after dark, a refrigerator to hold vaccines in the clinic, and a community television to show films for education and entertainment.

PARTNERS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Energy Firm: Installation of turbines and training of villagers to maintain the fixtures. Training of community members to maintain and repair the system.
Villagers: Wiring of homes and communal buildings, responsible use of electricity. Maintain the equipment and wiring.
Operation USA: Funding for the project.

RESULTS:
Planned: Electricity will provide a working refrigerator for vaccines and medications; adults can participate in income generating activities after dark; children can study their lessons after school; computers can be placed in the village library; the village television set can provide information, entertainment and news, and family funds will not have to be spent on batteries or candles.
Unplanned: Despite implementing the micro hydroelectric project and thinking it would be adequate, it was necessary to run a line to the nearest power grid, 3 miles away, to ensure adequate power to run the new computer system and refrigeration system for the village cafeteria and communal kitchen.