Training Program on Micro hydro Investment – Nepal (1997)

Clients: the Water and Energy Commission Secretariat (WECS) of Nepal and Acres International Consultants.

SGA developed a training program for existing and potential small hydro (up to 100 kW) entrepreneurs in rural areas. It was written in a series of modules for the person who owns or is thinking about owning a micro hydro installation and who wants to make sure they get an adequate return from their investment. The program helps identify some of the necessary steps that the micro hydro investor can take to assist development. This program helps develop the tools for investors, either individuals or a community group, to make sure they obtain a profit on their investment. It directs investors in successfully planning, managing and operating micro hydro.

The training program has been organized in a series of modules. The Planning section deals with the following topics:

Design considerations for civil, mechanical and electrical works;

• Ensuring proper flow estimation and water rights;
• Estimating costs;
• Identifying sources of financing;
• Ensuring proper load demand estimation;
• Planning tariffs and income estimation;
• Estimating your return on investment;
• Assessing the risks of investment.

The Management section deals with the following topics:

• Ensuring sound management procedures;
• Increasing income through load promotion.