A Socio-Technical Survey of Micro Hydro Power Projects in District Shangla, Pakistan

Rural electrification requires to be designed in a sustainable way to improve the quality of life of rural communities. Pakistan is facing an acute energy crisis for years now. Pakistan’s energy mix mainly depends on indigenous natural gas and oil. Due to imports of oil and rapid decrease in gas reserves, there is a significant burden on the economy of Pakistan, which has forced the planners and policy makers to look for renewable energy sources. Micro Hydro Power (MHP) is an example of renewable energy which can be sustainable economically, environmentally and socially as Pakistan is rich in micro-hydro power especially the northern side. This paper analyses the outcomes from a field survey which is conducted in district Shangla, KPK Pakistan, where different agencies have implemented different MHP Projects (MHPPs). The quantitative and qualitative analyses have been used for comparing two MHPPs based on electricity tariff, community involvement, effect on the society and other factors. Quite a few issues were found due to lack of knowledge or unskilful operators in maintenance and operation in these MHPPs which are barriers to sustainable development. This research work concludes that these MHPPs requires proper management, quality work and skilful operators to have a sustainable and reliable system for the community. The MHPPs area already contributing significantly in the development of local communities