Project

Micro Hydro System for Sustainable Rural Electrification

Thematic Area: Water & Sanitation

Project Guides: Dr. S. Ravishankar, Dr. Ilango K., Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, and Prof. Balaji Hariharan, Center for Wireless Networks & Applications

Amrita Partners: Amrita Self Reliant Villages (ASeRVe), Center for Wireless Networks and Applicaitons, Center for International Programs, Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Department of Civil Engineering, Center for Nanosciences – Nano Solar Division, and the Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences (for other technical guidance)

Village: Komalikudi, Idduki

Project Duration: 8 months

Identified Challenge & Aim:

Many villages in India do not have access to electricity. Villages that do receive power intermittently and with frequent disruption, making the supply of electricity unreliable. While government projects and initiatives have come a long way to address the massive challenge of complete rural electrification, a more localized and sustainable solution is warranted.

The Study/Innovation:

The multidisciplinary team conducted field surveys to shortlist potential naturally available resources and several group discussions with villagers to determine the best method of generating electricity in a sustainable manner. After assessing the requirements of the village and identifying required resources, the team developed a plan to provide electricity via the village’s large, perennial stream.

Clocking over 8,500 field hours, the team co-designed and installed a distribution and transmission network which included a check dam, a network of pipes, a 5KW micro hydro generator, an underground transmission line, and a power house. The micro hydro generator currently provides 24/7 electricity to 35 homes, 2 street lights, the multi-grade learning center, the village’s Anganwadi (pre-school), and the youth center. Furthermore, each home has 4 connection points with 3 lighting points and a plug point. As a result of an energy conservation awareness program, villagers switched to using energy efficient 7 watt LED bulbs.

Addresses Sustainable Development Goals:

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