TECHNO-ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF THE MICRO HYDRO ELECTRIC PROJECTS DEVELOPED BY NEDA

Abstract

Small hydro is the most viable amongst all the renewable energy alternatives for the remote areas of I-limalyan region. In the interior area of Himalayan region, the density of population is very low. The peaking load demand seldom exceeds 10 to 25 KW for normal sized villages as there is no industrial activity. The total consumption of electricity is very low and the load factor is poor. The evacuation of power by long transmission lines to these remote areas has several constraints. The cost of the transmission lines is very high. The maintenance of transmission network is not only expensive but very erratic due to both natural and human factors. Large hydro schemes require huge capital investments, long gestation periods and rehabilitation of the affected population. It causes submergence of scarce fertile/forest land and many associated environmental and ecological problems. Small hydro provides the solution for the Himalayan region being a renewable, indigenous and perennial source of energy. From the very begining U.P. State Electricity Board was looking after all the power projects in Uttar Pradesh. In 1983 Non-conventional Energy Development Agency (NEDA) was established and was entrusted with promotion and implementation of renewable energy programme alongwith micro-hydel projects in the state of Uttar Pradesh. NEDA has thus become the nodal agency for development of small hydro power upto 3 MW. Mini Hydro Electric Corporation Ltd. was also formed by Government in the year 1984-85 for the work of project formulation and implementation of mini hydro electric projects in the range of 3 to 15 MW capacity...