Project Summary:

The construction of a 15kW micro-hydro power station in the isolated Mozambiquan village of Ndiriri to directly provide for approximately 80 families.  The power has been used to replace dry batteries and candles, increase evening activities, improve health services (through, for example, vaccine refrigeration), and improved education facilities, as well as improving access to energy, such as providing power for grinding maize and reducing the need to travel long distances to charge batteries, as well as setting up small businesses.

Country Profile:

 (Source: UNDP Human Index Report)

Background:

People in this area are generally reliant on candles and dry batteries to meet their lighting needs.  They often have to travel up to 20kms to charge batteries and grind maize, and even further for other basic services.  The village of Ndiriri had a very poor level of community services, and the population had a very low level of income, education and health facilities.

The community provided all local materials and labour as well as the overall management of the project, which helps to develop a sense of ownership of the micro-hydro scheme and all its benefits.  The local capacity of the community was developed through technical training, as well as addressing the issues which restrict poor people’s access to energy.

Renewable World's input into this programme intervention is through providing social investment and financing to programme partner Practical Action.

Project Development:

The access of a clean and sustainable form of energy has opened up new opportunities in the village of Ndiriri, encouraging the creation of small enterprises such as sewing, food-processing, welding and hair salons.  This will guarantee local demand for the electricity and increase families’ ability to pay for the service, and reduce people’s dependence on farming to earn an income.

The People:

“At last our dream has come true; after many years of struggling, we have achieved what seemed to be impossible”.  Quote from a mother who participated in the construction of a new micro-hydro scheme in Mozambique.