Abstract:
Electricity performs an integral part and act as a stimulator for socio-economic development of a country. In present days the matter of balancing electricity supply demand of Pakistan has been an unresolved issue. In Pakistan natural resources in the form of water is in excess which can be tapped to produce electricity. About 60 Giga Watt (GW) hydro potential has been estimated to be available in Pakistan. Energy obtained from hydro resources is clean, environmentally friendly, sustainable, indigenous and best exiting option but it remains underutilized. The best way to harness electricity from hydro resources is installation of small, mini and micro hydel plants (MHPs). For mini/micro hydro plants (MHPs) with capacities 100 to 500 kW, an estimated potential of more than 400 Mega-Watt (MW) exists in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), out of which only 2% of total hydro potential has been tapped so far. To encounter energy needs of the region Government departments, Non-Governmental organizations (NGOs) and International Organizations took part in development of MHPs in the region with community involvement and beneficiary communities are operating them at their own.
It has been found that from past three (3) decades the development of MHPs in the region starts declining. Although in terms of financial viability the implementation of MHPs in the region is well thought to be carried out. Moreover, the locally manufactured MHP turbines in the operational sites are not working up to the standards. The efficiency of MHP turbines in the region lies in the range of 40-60%. As a result of installation of MHPs in the remote areas of GB region better health and educational facilities are available. Locals have developed small business getting benefited from MHPs electrification.
