Micro-Hydropower in Nepal: Analysing the Project Process to Understand Drivers that Strengthen and Weaken Sustainability

Evaluating the sustainable operation of community-owned and community-operated renewable energy projects is complex. The development a project often depends on actions diverse stakeholders, including government, industry communities. Throughout cycle, these interrelated impact sustainability project. In this paper, typical cycle micro-hydropower plant in Nepal used to demonstrate that key events throughout affect plant’s ability operate sustainably. Through critical analysis available literature, policy documentation interviews with manufacturers, drivers plants are found. Examples include weak specification civil components during tendering, quality control issues manufacture, poor construction trained operators leaving their position. Opportunities minimise both occurrence severity threats identified. For Nepal, recommendations made for specific by relevant stakeholders at appropriate moments cycle. More broadly, findings complex nature developing community requires holistic consideration complete process.