EVALUATING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF COMMUNITY BASED MICRO HYDROPOWER

Abstract

Pakistan is one of the world‟s under developed countries. One of its most important environmental concerns is its need for stable, community-managed power. Because extending the national grid would be expensive and problematic, micro hydro projects have proved to be an economical and efficient alternative to electrify remote villages deep in the mountains. Rural Areas rich in water resources regard community-based micro hydro projects as among the best sources of renewable energy. This report employs a case study methodology, with data collection taking the forms of interviews, surveys and documental reviews to investigate the efficiency of Communitybased micro hydro power as well as the role of public participation in program effectiveness. The results of this research support the literature that Micro Hydro Projects are temporary solutions at best.