Practical Action recognised for its contribution to Nepalese micro hydropower sector

Practical Action has received an award for its work in implementing micro hydro systems in Nepal. The award was presented to the charity’s Head of Energy, Pooja Sharma during the 25th annual general meeting of the Nepal Micro Hydropower Development Association (NMHDA) and was presented by the minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Barsha Man Pun.

Around 3,300 micro hydro power plants have been installed in the mountainous regions of Nepal to date and are providing essential electricity to remote villages without a grid connection.

These micro hydro plants are the main source of energy for many remote communities and allow communities to light and heat their homes and schools, meaning children can study after dark. They power medical centres providing essential healthcare and enable people to start and run their own businesses, providing an income for themselves and their families.

Practical Action, began working in Nepal supporting the Rural Electrification Programme of the United Mission to Nepal. NMHDA is an umbrella organisation of private companies involved actively in the development of micro hydro power in the country.

Sharma said: “Being acknowledged by the private sector is testament to our successful collaboration with them.

“Our partnership has helped us stimulate energy demand and strengthen livelihoods in rural communities and we are hoping to further expand and strengthen synergies with them to achieve our ambitions through market activation.”